We’ve been trying out a new inspection process during the overhaul of a client’s MTU 16V396 engine…
Usually, there are 3 main processes we would consider for crack detection:
- Dye Penetrant – Use of penetrant, cleaner and developer sprays, which is a simple and cheap option to identify any surface crack.
- Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) – A more thorough process which uses a magnetic current to attract metal particles to any cracks in the material.
- X-Ray – Well known process, particularly in medical applications. This is a more detailed option, which can be expensive, though not as expensive as a failed critical component!
The most common inspection process we use is MPI, but we’ve discovered a different version in conjunction with specialists Gammax Independent Inspection Services, which is working well for us so far.
Instead of the normal use of ultra-violet light to detect the cracks, we’re now using fluorescent light which makes identification a lot easier, especially any smaller discrepancies. It’s also a lot cleaner as it doesn’t need the same magnetic particle powder spray.
We’re really impressed with this method, and we’ll be using it more often. Here’s a photo of Jason in action, you can also click here to watch a very short clip.
Bartech Marine: Using UV to identify cracks on MTU 16V396 engine.
