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

Which of the following is normally considered acceptable practice?

1. Sand blasting a soft aluminium part during pre-cleaning

2. Performing a fluorescent penetrant test following a visible penetrant test

3. Performing a re-test on a part tested with a water washable penetrant process

4. Removing excess penetrant with a water spray

The correct answer is: Removing excess penetrant with a water spray

The practice of removing excess penetrant with a water spray is considered acceptable because it aligns with the standard procedures outlined in liquid penetrant testing (PT). This method is effective for rinsing away the excess penetrant from the surface of the part, ensuring that only the penetrant residing in any surface defects remains. This step is crucial in preparing the part for proper inspection, as it allows for a clear view of any indications that may be present. Using water spray minimizes the potential for additional damage to the part compared to mechanical methods or solvents that might be harsher or inappropriate for certain materials. This method is particularly important because it upholds the integrity of the part while also adhering to best practices for producing accurate test results. In the context of the other options, their practices do not meet acceptable testing standards. For example, sand blasting a soft aluminum part could potentially damage the delicate surface, while performing a fluorescent penetrant test after a visible penetrant test could lead to confusion regarding the results. Additionally, conducting a re-test on a part that has already been subjected to the water washable penetrant process is generally not standard practice due to potential contamination or residual materials affecting the results of the new test.