Why is it crucial to adhere to manufacturer specifications when selecting penetrants?

Adhering to manufacturer specifications when selecting penetrants is crucial to avoid losing effectiveness in defect detection. Each type of penetrant is formulated with specific properties designed to optimize its ability to reveal surface discontinuities. If a penetrant that is not compatible with the material or is outside the manufacturer's guidelines is used, it may not seep into defects properly, resulting in missed indications of flaws.

Furthermore, using the appropriate penetrant ensures that the sensitivity and visibility needed for accurate defect detection are maintained. These specifications often include guidelines on the required dwell time, the temperature ranges for application, and the environmental conditions necessary for optimal performance. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to inadequate testing results, which may compromise the integrity of the components being examined.

In contrast, considerations like compatibility with all materials, aesthetic appearance, and minimizing costs, while important, do not directly correlate to maintaining the effectiveness of defect detection in the context of liquid penetrant testing.