Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev.

PROCEDURE
PROCEDURE FOR MAGNETIC PARTICLE
TESTING

Page 1 of 14
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

CONTENT

1. SCOPE...................................................................................................................................................................3
2. ABBREVATIONS & DEFINITIONS..................................................................................................................3
3. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS...............................................................................................................................3
4. RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................................................4
5. QUALIFICATION OF NDT PERSONNEL.........................................................................................................5
6. LIMITATIONS & EXTENT OF EXAMINATION.............................................................................................5
7. EXAMINATION TECHNIQUE & EXAMINATION MEDIUM........................................................................5
8. SURFACE PREPARATION AND EXAMINATION TEMPERATURE............................................................6
9. EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION............................................................................................................................7
10. APPLICATION OF MAGNETIC PARTICLE TEST..........................................................................................7
11. EVALUATION OF INDICATIONS.....................................................................................................................9
12. ACCEPTANCE STANDARDS............................................................................................................................9
13. DEMAGNETIZATION.......................................................................................................................................11
14. REPORTING.......................................................................................................................................................11
15. SAFETY..............................................................................................................................................................12
Annexure I.......................................................................................................................................................................13
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

 SCOPE

This procedure defines the approach methods to be used by ARD AL-WAHRAN to carry out
magnetic particle inspection of welds and materials in ferritic steels in accordance with the
requirements of API 1104 and IQWQ-SA-LSPDS-OE-0900-C50T074-Rev.O. The scope of
this procedure includes Welding procedure qualification tests, Welder / Welding Operator
performance tests and Production welds. It shall be applied in conjunction with applicable
drawings, specifications, codes and standards.

 ABBREVATIONS & DEFINITIONS

QA : Quality Assurance

MT : Magnetic Particle Testing

API : American Petroleum Institute

SNT-TC-1A : ASNT Recommended Practice for NDT

Personnel
Qualification and Certification

NDT / NDE : Non destructive Testing I Non destructive

Examination AC : Alternating Current

DC : Direct Current

 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

ASME Section V Article 7 Magnetic Particle Examination

ASNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification in Non-destructive
Testing
(2006)
API 1104 Welding of Pipelines and Related Facilities (2010)
ASTM E709 Standard guide for MPT examination
API 5L Specification for Line pipe (suitable for use in conveying gas,
water, and oil in both the oil and natural gas industries)
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

 RESPONSIBILITIES

NDT Coordinator

The ARD AL-WAHRAN NDT Coordinator shall report directly to the client QA/QC
Manager; shall be based at the project worksite and responsible for the day to day
management of both manpower and equipment resources.
The duties of the ARD AL-WAHRAN NDT Coordinator shall include, but not limited to:

 The day to day liaison with the client's site management to ensure the proper channels of
communication are maintained and that work is addressed in a safe, timely and proper
manner.
 Coordination and direction of both equipment and manpower resources to ensure the
provision of an effective and efficient service.
 Ensuring that all ARD AL-WAHRAN personnel are fully conversant with the level of
service to be provided including familiarity with and the promotion of all safety practices
and routines dictated by ARD AL-WAHRAN and Company .
 Where technicians report that testing procedures or techniques are not suitable or do not
produce the required test data, the NDT Coordinator shall investigate and implement the
required non- conformance and corrective action routines.

MT Technicians

MT Technicians shall be responsible to and shall report directly to the ARD AL-WAHRAN
NDT Coordinator.
The responsibilities of the MT operator shall be:

 To ensure that all safety routines, regulations and requirements are fully implemented and
observed prior to the commencement of any MT operations.
 To ensure that all MT is carried out in accordance with this procedure and with the
requirements of the related specifications as applicable to the project concerned.
 To ensure that all equipment, techniques and consumables employed for MT are suitable for
and are capable of producing the required inspection data.
 On-site interpretation of indications produced in accordance with this procedure and to
sentence the weld in accordance with the acceptance criteria of the applicable code of the
section being examined.
 Testing of job, interpretation and evaluation of examination results in accordance with this
procedure, instructions, references, codes and/or standards shall be done by Level II
qualified Technicians.
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

 QUALIFICATION OF NDT PERSONNEL

Magnet Particle Testing, application of particles, interpretation and evaluation of criteria shall
only be performed by qualified personnel who have demonstrated their abilities to meet the
requirements.

ARD AL-WAHRAN recognizes the following approval bodies and accepts as competent
technicians who have one of the following approvals:

ASNT SNT-TC-1A, & ISO 9712 Recommended Practice for Qualification & Certification of
NDT Personnel.

The personnel who are performing Magnetic Particle examination shall be level II

 LIMITATIONS & EXTENT OF EXAMINATION

Magnetic particle examination shall be applied to ferromagnetic materials only. It can be used
for welds and parent metals of components on all shapes and sizes in the scope of
manufacturer.

The extent of examination shall be indicated on the Quality Control Plan, drawing or by other
applicable instructions. MPI test coverage shall be weld and HAZ + 50 mm and parent metal
when applicable.

 EXAMINATION TECHNIQUE & EXAMINATION

MEDIUM Yoke Technique

Electromagnetic A.C, DC or permanent magnet yoke are to be used for magnetic particle testing.
Yoke technique shall be applied to detect only surface discontinuities of the part and prod
method is not allowed.

Method of Examination
The examination shall be done by the continuous method; that is, the magnetizing current
remains on while the examination medium is being applied and while excess of the
examination medium is being removed.

Each area shall be checked by applying minimum two magnetizing force, where the second
magnetizing lines of force are approximately perpendicular to the first. For weld inspection,
magnetizing is done both parallel and transverse to the weld orientation in order to detect
parallel and transverse discontinuities to the weld.

All examination surfaces shall be scanned with sufficient overlap to assure 100% coverage of
test area.
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

Before start of the examination, the MPI testing system shall be calibrated with ASTM Pie
indicator. The indicator shall be positioned on the surface to be examined, such that the
copper- plated side is away from the inspected surface. A suitable field strength is
indicated when a clearly defined line (or lines) of magnetic particles form(s) across the
copper face of the indicator when the magnetic particles are applied simultaneously with
the magnetizing force. When a clearly defined line of particles is not formed, the
magnetizing technique shall be changed as needed. Pie type indicators are best used with
dry particle procedures.

Magnetic Particles

The ferromagnetic particles to be used as an examination medium shall be either wet or

dry, and may be either fluorescent or non-fluorescent. In case of fluorescent particles, a
filtered UV light with wave length 320 to 400 nm (nominal 365 nm) shall be used.

The non-fluorescent and fluorescent particle shall be suspended in a suitable liquid

medium in the concentration recommended in ASME SE-709.

Fluorescent and non-fluorescent suspension shall be prepared in accordance with the

manufacturer's recommendation.
Black color particles with white contrast back ground and red color particles with yellow
contrast back ground shall be used in case of wet method.

 SURFACE PREPARATION AND EXAMINATION

TEMPERATURE Surface Preparation

In general, as welded, as cast, as forged, as rolled surfaces are satisfactory.

Surface preparation by grinding, machining or other method may be necessary where

surface irregularities could mask indications of unacceptable discontinuities.

Prior to magnetic particle examination, the surface to be examined and all adjacent areas
within at least 25 mm shall be dry and free of all dirt, grease, lint, welding flux, weld
spatter, oil, irregularities and other extraneous matters. Cleaning may be accomplished
using detergents, organic solvents, de-scaling solutions, sand or grit blasting, wire/power
brushing, paint removers, vapor degreasing cleaning methods. However, the removal of
paint or coating and grinding of surface for weld spatters and irregularities are not in the
scope of ARD AL-WAHRAN.

If the examination area contains coating, it shall be demonstrated that the unacceptable
discontinuities can be detected through the maximum coating thickness applied. The
demonstration shall be in accordance with ASME Section V, Article-7 Appendix I and
shall be approved by Level III personnel prior to use. The coating shall be removed from
the testingarea.
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0
Enhancement of Background

The ability to see magnetic particle indications depends on contrast between the color of
the ink and the background. To improve the efficiency of testing process the test specimen
shall be given a preliminary coat of white paint, when using color contrast wet
particles.
Nonmagnetic surface
contrasts may be applied by the examiner to uncoated surfaces, only in amounts sufficient
to enhance particle contrast. When nonmagnetic surface contrast enhancement is used, it
shall be demonstrated that indications can be detected through the enhancement. Quick
drying white paint shall be applied to give a thin and even coating over the surface.

Examination Temperature

Magnetic particles shall be used within the temperature range limitations set by the
manufacturer. Alternatively, particles may be used outside manufacturer's
recommendations providing the procedure is qualified in accordance with ASME V,
Article 7.

 EQUIPMENT CALIBRATION

The magnetizing force of yokes shall be checked once in a month, and calibration shall
be done once in a year or whenever a yoke is being damaged.

AC electromagnetic yoke shall have a lifting power of at least 4.5 kg at maximum pole
spacing that will be used. Normally a pole space of 2 to 4 inches is used.

DC electromagnetic yoke and permanent magnets shall have a lifting power of at least
13.5 kg at maximum pole spacing 2 to 4 inches and 22.5 kg at maximum pole spacing 4
to 6 inches that will be used.

Each weight shall be weighed with a scale from a reputed manufacturer and stenciled
with the applicable nominal weight prior to use. A weight need only be verified again if
in a manner that could have caused potential loss of material.

UV light to be warmed up for 5 minutes and readings shall be taken in a darkened room
maximum visible light intensity in the darkened area 20 lux. Minimum allowable output
1000µW/cm². The black light intensity shall be measured at least once in every 8 hr, and
whenever the work station is changed. Light meters shall be calibrated at least once in 6
months or whenever meter has been repaired.
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0
 APPLICATION OF MAGNETIC PARTICLE TEST

Type of equipment: AC, DC or permanent electromagnetic yoke shall be used for testing.
Typical equipment: Magnaflux, Johnson & Allen, EEC, Gammatec yokes or their
equivalent to be used.

Surface preparation: The surface to be tested shall be prepared as stated in section 8 of this
document.

Type of particles
Dry Particles- Magnaflux 8A Red, 2 Yellow, 3A Black, Ardrox, Red, Gray, Yellow or their
equivalent to be used.
Color Contrast Wet Particles- Johnson & Allen Black Magnetic Ink (Aerosols),
Magnaflux 7HF (Aerosols), Beta Ferromagna (Aerosols) or their equivalent to be used.
Color of the dry particles will be selected to provide adequate contrast with the item
being examined.

Magnetic Particle Wet Fluorescent- Magnaflux 14HF (Aerosols), Ardrox SY800A-1

(Aerosols), Beta Magnaflux (Aerosols) or their equivalent to be used.

Type of white paint: Magnaflux WCP-2, Johnson & Allen, Beta white paint contrast or
their equivalent to be used.

Magnetization current: Prod magnetization will not be used for testing, if not specified
specifically by customer.

Direction of Magnetization: Check direction of magnetic field using Berthold

Penetrameter or pie gauge.

Demagnetization: When necessary see section 12 of this document.

Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0
Examination of Surfaces:

 Clean the test surface as described in section 7.1 of this procedure.

 In order to construct a background apply a thin coat of white paint when using
visible particles. White paint contrast shall not be used for fluorescent and dry
particles.

 Let the paint to dry for a while before application of particles, in order to avoid
removal of the paint.

 Each area shall be checked by applying two magnetizing force, where the second
magnetizing lines of force are approximately perpendicular to the first.

 All examination surfaces shall be checked with sufficient overlap to assure 100%
coverage of test area.

 When positioning a yoke longitudinally along a weld, a minimum overlap of 25

mm will be maintained between subsequent positions.

 When positioning yoke transversely along the weld, the spacing between
subsequent positions will not be greater than the pole spacing.

 EVALUATION OF INDICATIONS

All indications shall be evaluated in terms of the acceptance standards of the referencing
code section.

With non-fluorescent particles, the examination is performed using a minimum light

intensity of 100 fc (1076 lux) visible light.

Fluorescent Particles

The examination with fluorescent particle shall be performed under the black light as

follows: Test shall be performed in a darkened area.

The examiner shall be in the darkened area for at least 5 minutes prior to performing the
examination to enable his eyes to adapt darkened area. The operator shall not wear
photosensitive glasses or lenses during examination.

The black light shall be allowed to warm up for a minimum of 5 minutes prior to use or
measurement of the intensity of the ultraviolet light emitted.

The black light intensity shall be measured with a black light meter. A minimum of 1000
tW/cm2 on the surface of the part being examined shall be required.
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0
 ACCEPTANCE STANDARDS

All indications shall be evaluated in accordance with the requirements of the relevant
acceptance criteria. This may include company's specification for IQWQ-SA-LSPDS-0E-
0900-C50T074- Rev.0 - Welding and Inspection for Carbon Steel Water Pipelines and API
1104 Welding of Pipelines and related facilities.

A linear indication: Indication which is having a length greater than three times its width.
A rounded indication: Indication, which has a circular or elliptical shape that with length
equal to or less than three times the width.

Relevant indications: those, which are result due to discontinuities.

Non-relevant indications: those, which are not from the discontinuities. The cause of non-
relevant indications is numerous. They may be by abrupt variations in the article shape or
changing in permeability causing a leakage field; or may be caused by rough surfaces or
variety of other reasons.

Any indication which is doubtful or believed to be false shall be re-examined to determine

whether it is relevant or not.

Acceptance Criteria
The relevant indication will be interpreted in accordance with the requirements of the
referencing specification. Following are some references.
As per API 1104

Classification of Indications
Indications produced by magnetic particle testing are not necessarily imperfections.
Magnetic and metallurgical variations may produce indications that are similar to those
produced by imperfections but that are not relevant to acceptability. The criteria given
below apply when indications are evaluated.

Any indication with a maximum dimension of 1/16 in. (1.6 mm) or less shall be classified
as non- relevant. Any larger indication believed to be non-relevant shall be regarded as
relevant until re- examined by magnetic particle or another nondestructive testing method
to determine whether or not an actual imperfection exists. The surface may be ground or
otherwise conditioned before re- examination. After an indication is determined to be non-
relevant, other non-relevant indications of the same type need not be re-examined.
Relevant indications are those caused by imperfections.

Linear indications are those in which the length is more than three times the width.
Rounded indications are those in which the length is three times the width or less.

Acceptance Standards
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0
Relevant indications shall be considered defects should any of the following conditions exist:

a. Linear indications evaluated as crater cracks or star cracks exceed 5/32 in. (4 mm) in length.

b. Linear indications are evaluated as cracks other than crater cracks or star cracks.
c. Linear indications are evaluated as IF and exceed 1 in. (25 mm) in total length in a continuous

12 in. (300 mm) length of weld or 8% of the we ld length.

Rounded indications shall be evaluated according to the criteria given below, as applicable. For
evaluation purposes, the maximum dimension of a rounded indication shall be considered
its size. Cluster porosity (CP) that occurs in the finish pass shall be considered a defect
should any of the following conditions exist.

a. The diameter of the cluster exceeds 1/2 in. (13 mm).

b. The aggregate length of CP in any continuous 12 in. (300 mm) length of weld
exceeds 1/2 in (13 mm).

Hollow-bead porosity (HB) is defined as elongated linear porosity that occurs in the root pass. HB

Shall be considered a defect should any of the following conditions exist:

a. The length of an individual indication of HB exceeds 1/2 in. (13 mm).

b. The aggregate length of indications of HB in any continuous 12 in. (300 mm)

length of weld exceeds 2 in. (50 mm).

c. Individual indications of HB, each greater than 1/4 in. (6 mm) in length, are
separated by less than 2 in. (50 mm).

d. The aggregate length of all indications of HB exceeds 8% of the weld length

Note: When doubt exists about the type of imperfection being disclosed by an indication,
verification may be obtained by using other nondestructive testing methods.

Pipe or Fitting Imperfections

Imperfections in the pipe or fittings detected by magnetic particle testing shall be reported
to the company. Their disposition shall be as directed by the company.
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

 DEMAGNETIZATION

Normally, testing with yoke doesn't require any demagnetization. When residual
magnetism in the part could interfere with subsequent processing or usage, the part shall
be demagnetized we ld or component will be demagnetized after completion of
examination in accordance with ASTM E- 709 and demagnetization verified with a
magnetic field strength meter.

 REPORTING

The NOT Personnel who performs the examination shall be responsible for preparation of
Magnetic Particle Examination Report (Annexure 1: Magnetic Particle Examination
Report).

Completed reports shall be signed by Level II and submitted to the client.

 SAFETY

15.1 MPI should be carried out in a properly ventilated work place.

15.2 They shall use all PPE like goggles, hand gloves, face mask, coverall etc. during the
application of the chemicals.
15.3 If working in a confined space such as a vessel, a person should be posted outside for
monitoring the safety of the Inspector. The vessel shall be properly fitted with an exhaust
fan to ventilate the fumes. A face mask and safety goggles must be worn during the test
and the cans must be sprayed by keeping them away from one’s body to avoid contact
and inhalation of the fumes.
15.4 Aerosol cans shall be stored at below 54°C temperature and away from direct sunlight.
15.5 Empty aerosol cans shall be disposed off at a suitable location ensuring depressurization.
15.6 All MSDS shall be readily available at site and to be presented to client as and when required
 Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0

Annexure I

Client Name
Project name
PROJECT NO:
XXXX
MAGNETIC PARTICLE TESTING REPORT
Client: Equipment : Report No:
Location: Sl No: Date of Test:
Project: Type of Current: Pipe Thickness:
Procedure ref: Field Indicator Pipe Diameter:
Test Standard: Method: Surface Condition:
Accept Criteria: Color of Particle: Material:
Reference No.
SL No. Line Joint NO. Welder ID Observations Acc / Rej Remarks
No.

ARD
AL-
WAHRA
Name: N
Date:
Signature:
Doc. No. AW-NDT-2406 Rev. 0