Process Control of Temperature

The temperature of the penetrant materials and the part being inspected can have
an effect on the results. Temperatures from 27 to 49oC (80 to 120oF) are reported in the
literature to produce optimal results. Many specification allow testing in the range of 4 to
52oC (40 to 125oF). A tip to remember is that surfaces that can be touched for an extended
period of time without burning the skin are generally below 52oC (125oF).
Since the surface tension of most materials decrease as the temperature increases, raising
the temperature of the penetrant will increase the wetting of the surface and the capillary
forces. Of course, the converse is also true and lowing the temperature will have a
negative effect on the flow characteristics. Raising the temperature will also raise the
speed of evaporation of penetrants, which can have a positive or negative effect on
sensitivity. The impact will be positive if the evaporation serves to increase the dye
concentration of the penetrant trapped in a flaw up to the concentration quenching point
and not beyond. Higher temperatures and more rapid evaporation will have a negative
effect if the dye concentration is caused to exceed the concentration quenching point or
the flow characteristics are changed to the point where the penetrant does not readily
flow.
The method of processing a hot part was once commonly employed. Parts were either
heated or processed hot off the production line. In its day, this served to increase
inspection sensitivity by increasing the viscosity of the penetrant. However, the penetrant
materials used today have 1/2 to 1/3 the viscosity of the penetrants on the market in the
1960's and 1970's. Heating the part prior to inspection is no longer necessary and no
longer recommended.