Reference Test Blocks for Determining the Sensitivity Levels of Penetrant Product Families

Abstract Reference test blocks with 5 to 20 artificial defects each have been developed. The geometric characteristics of all defects are fully certified within the following ranges: opening width 0.5–5 μm, depth 40–640 μm, and length 1–17 μm. The blocks allow for microscope measurements of both the opening width and length of surface defects, as well as their depth, while simultaneously ensuring that defect cavities do not extend onto the block’s side surfaces. Comparative evaluations of the sensitivity classes of penetrants manufactured by Helling U 88, Rot 3000, Magnaflux Bycotest FP42, and Russian-made PF-01, Klever and PS-42 have been performed. A series of comparative photos of penetrant testing results and experimental data on the dependence of defect indications areas on their geometric characteristics are presented.