Liquid Penetrant Testing Level 2 (PT-2) Practice Exam

When applying a fluorescent penetrant, the most important parameter to monitor is:

1. Temperature of the penetrant

2. Application time

3. Wavelength of light used

4. Type of surface preparation

The correct answer is: Wavelength of light used

When applying a fluorescent penetrant, it's crucial to monitor the wavelength of light used because the effectiveness of a fluorescent penetrant relies heavily on the interaction between the penetrant and the ultraviolet (UV) light. Fluorescent penetrants emit visible light when exposed to UV light of a specific wavelength, typically around 365 nm (UVA). Monitoring the wavelength ensures that the light used will adequately excite the penetrant, causing it to fluoresce brightly and allow for better visibility of any discontinuities present on the test surface. If the wavelength is not appropriate, the penetrant may not fluoresce properly or at all, making it difficult or impossible to detect defects. As a result, ensuring that you use the correct type of UV light is critical for reliable results in Liquid Penetrant Testing. Temperature of the penetrant, application time, and type of surface preparation are also important factors in ensuring the overall effectiveness of the penetrant test. However, these factors do not directly affect the visibility of the fluorescent indication as significantly as ensuring the correct wavelength of light is used for excitation.