BQCIS

Maximum Sensitivity for Detecting Flaws in Magnetic Materials

Wet Fluorescent Magnetic Particle Testing (WFMT) is the most sensitive variation of the Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) method, used to detect very fine surface and near-surface cracks in ferromagnetic materials such as steel, nickel, and cobalt alloys.

The component is magnetized while a suspension of fine fluorescent magnetic particles in a liquid carrier is applied. Any flaw that disturbs the magnetic field causes the particles to gather, forming a bright yellow-green indication when viewed under UV-A (black) light in a darkened inspection area.

Due to its superior sensitivity and clarity, WFMT is widely used in industries such as aerospace, power generation, rail, and automotive manufacturing where failure-critical parts must be thoroughly examined. BQCIS performs WFMT in accordance with international standards like ASTM E1444/E709, using certified equipment and personnel.

Key WFMT Activities

Magnetization & Particle Application

Magnetizing the test piece (circular or longitudinal field) and applying the wet fluorescent suspension for uniform coverage and sensitivity.

UV-A Inspection & Interpretation

Viewing under calibrated UV-A lighting to detect and interpret bright fluorescent indications representing cracks, laps, seams, or inclusions.

Key Benefits of WFMT

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Highest Sensitivity

Capable of detecting minute cracks and discontinuities missed by visible or dry-powder MT methods.

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Superior Visual Contrast

Bright fluorescent response under UV-A light produces crisp, unmistakable flaw indications.

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Fast & Reliable Inspections

Once setup is complete, WFMT allows rapid scanning and evaluation of numerous components efficiently.

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Surface & Near-Surface Detection

Detects flaws both on the surface and just below, ensuring thorough quality verification of ferromagnetic materials.

Success Story

WFMT Prevents Failure of Critical Automotive Gear

The Challenge:

An automotive OEM needed to verify that hardened transmission gears were free of micro-cracks caused by grinding stress prior to assembly.

Our Solution:

BQCIS performed Wet Fluorescent MT using a bench unit and UV-A darkroom inspection, magnetizing gears and immersing them in a controlled fluorescent particle bath.

The Result:

Fine, branched cracks were clearly revealed on tooth edges, allowing the manufacturer to reject defective gears and avoid costly field failures and recalls.

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