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

Which situation is likely to cause false indications during penetrant testing?

1. Poorly prepared test surfaces

2. High-quality penetrant material

3. Appropriate developer application

4. Controlled testing environment

The correct answer is: Poorly prepared test surfaces

In penetrant testing, the condition and preparation of the test surface play a crucial role in obtaining accurate results. Poorly prepared test surfaces can lead to contamination such as grease, oil, dirt, or oxidation, which might trap the penetrant and cause it to remain on the surface rather than penetrating into any flaws. This can result in false indications—where the test appears to suggest the presence of defects that are not actually there. Moreover, a surface that is not adequately cleaned can also affect the way the penetrant interacts with the surface, causing issues such as inadequate penetration, especially in finer cracks. To achieve reliable test results, surfaces must be properly cleaned and prepared to ensure that any penetrant can adequately enter actual discontinuities, thus minimizing the chances of erroneous indications. The other options refer to elements that would typically enhance the testing process rather than induce false indications. High-quality penetrant materials are designed to provide clear and accurate indications of defects, an appropriate developer application helps reveal the penetrant that has gathered in flaws, and a controlled testing environment limits variables that could impact the test results, contributing to overall accuracy.