What is a "false indication" in the context of Liquid Penetrant Testing?

A "false indication" in the context of Liquid Penetrant Testing refers to an indication that does not represent a real defect. This situation can occur due to a variety of factors, such as surface contaminants, improper application of the penetrant, or environmental conditions that can mislead the inspector into believing a flaw exists when, in fact, it does not. Understanding the nature of false indications is crucial for accurate interpretation of testing results, ensuring that resources are not wasted pursuing non-existent issues. Thus, differentiating between real defects and false indications is essential for reliable and effective inspection processes in liquid penetrant testing.