Magnetic Particle Testing
Reliable Magnetic Particle Inspection for Ferromagnetic Materials. Get fast, cost-effective Magnetic Particle Testing for small or large parts, performed in our lab or on-site by certified NDT professionals.
What Is Magnetic Particle Testing?
Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) is a non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and near-surface flaws in ferromagnetic materials by applying a magnetic field and observing the accumulation of iron particles at points of disruption.
Advantages of Magnetic Particle Testing
- High Sensitivity to Surface Flaws: Detects fine cracks, laps, seams, and other discontinuities at or just below the surface.
- Fast, Real-Time Results: Produces immediate visual indications under visible or UV light for rapid decision-making.
- Cost-Effective for Routine Inspection: A low-cost method ideal for batch testing or frequently inspected components.
- Versatile Across Geometries: Effective on flat, round, threaded, and irregular surfaces without losing accuracy.
- Field-Deployable Equipment: Lightweight systems allow on-site testing without removing or disassembling parts.
- Safe and Non-Destructive: Does not harm parts, equipment, or nearby personnel during inspection.
- Applicable Across Industries: Used in aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing on ferromagnetic materials.
Limitations of Magnetic Particle Testing
While magnetic particle testing offers sensitivity and speed, it does have a few limitations:
- Only applicable to ferromagnetic materials
- Limited depth penetration for detecting deeply embedded flaws
- Surface must be accessible for particle application and observation
- Surface coatings or roughness may reduce sensitivity or visibility
- Experienced operators are required for accurate flaw interpretation
- A Ketos ring or AS 5282 ring is used as the verification standard to confirm proper magnetization of the part being inspected
Basic Principles of Magnetic Particle Testing
Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) is one of the most commonly used non-destructive testing methods for detecting surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials. At Mitchell Laboratories, MT is used to inspect forgings, castings, welds, round bars, fasteners, and machined components to determine if parts are suitable for continued service. Our experienced technicians, cost-effective pricing, and commitment to on-time delivery ensure reliable results that meet your inspection requirements. MT can be performed on parts of various sizes and quantities, both in our state-of-the-art laboratory and in the field using portable equipment.
Common Applications
- Welds & Forgings
- Castings
- Fasteners & Pins
- Round Bars & Shafts
- Heavy Machinery Parts
- In-Service Equipment
Quality Assurance & Compliance
- ISO 9001 & AS9100D Certified
Our procedures meet the latest ISO 9001 quality-management standards and AS9100D aerospace requirements. - ITAR Registered
Full compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations for defense and government work. - NADCAP Accreditation
Nadcap-approved processes at our Pico Rivera, Fontana, and South Gate facilities, ensuring industry-recognized special-process controls. - 100% Dimensional Traceability
Batch-lot tracking from raw material to final inspection report, with documented tolerances down to ±0.001″. - In-House Chemical & Metrology Labs
Real-time bath titration controls and precision measuring tools (CMM, optical comparator, micrometer) to verify every feature. - Qualified, Certified Personnel
Technicians trained per SNT-TC-1A and NAS 410 standards for magnetic particle testing, ensuring every inspection is performed by experts. - Continual Improvement Program
Regular internal audits and customer-driven process reviews to optimize quality and delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Magnetic Particle Testing is a non-destructive method for detecting surface and near-surface flaws in ferromagnetic materials. A magnetic field is applied to the part, and fine iron particles are used to visually indicate discontinuities where the field is disrupted.
MT is only effective on ferromagnetic materials such as iron, steel, and nickel-based alloys. Non-ferromagnetic materials (like aluminum or copper) require other NDT methods such as Eddy Current or Liquid Penetrant Testing.
Yes. Our facilities are equipped for large and complex geometries, and our portable MT equipment allows for field inspections on parts that cannot be transported.
Absolutely. Mitchell Laboratories provides both in-lab and on-site MT services, allowing for flexible inspection of in-service equipment or parts that remain installed.
Lead times are quoted on a job-by-job basis to ensure accuracy, and we’re happy to accommodate emergency or rush requests. Backed by decades of refining our expedited process under strict deadlines, we minimize turnaround without ever sacrificing quality, returning your parts quickly and reliably.