Document No.

: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 1 of 11

PROJECT INFORMATION
Project Number: S-0010 Owner: ENAP
Project Name: PIAM Project Client: Sea Trucks Group (STG)

REVISION STATUS

DATE OF
REVISION LEVEL DESCRIPTION OF REVISION
REVISION
00 Initial Issue 21JUL2016

DOCUMENT APPROVAL

RESPONSIBILITY NAME / POSITION SIGNATURE DATE

Robert Lake
PREPARED 21JUL2016
ASNT Level III #76283

Michael Cook
REVIEWED 21JUL2016
Technical Manager

Robert Lake
APPROVED 21JUL2016
ASNT Level III #76283

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 2 of 11

Table of Contents:
1.  Purpose ............................................................................................................................................................. 3 
2.  Scope ................................................................................................................................................................. 3 
3.  Validity ............................................................................................................................................................... 3 
4.  Definitions .......................................................................................................................................................... 3 
5.  References ........................................................................................................................................................ 3 
6.  Personnel and Qualifications ............................................................................................................................. 3 
7.  Health/Safety ..................................................................................................................................................... 4 
8.  Quality Assurance/Compliance ......................................................................................................................... 4 
9.  Records ............................................................................................................................................................. 4 
10.  Equipment ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 
11.  Testing Requirements.................................................................................................................................... 6 
12.  Techniques .................................................................................................................................................... 7 
13.  Evaluation of Discontinuities ........................................................................................................................ 10 
14.  Reporting ..................................................................................................................................................... 10 
15.  Report Template .......................................................................................................................................... 11 

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 3 of 11

1. Purpose
This procedure outlines the process for magnetic particle (MPI) examinations of ferrous materials. This is a non-
destructive examination used for detecting discontinuities that are open or near to the surface such as cracks,
seams, laps, cold shuts, laminations, through leaks or lack of fusion.

2. Scope
This procedure is applicable for utilizing a hand held AC electromagnetic yoke and magnetic particles that can be
seen in the visible spectrum and is applicable to in-process, final and in-service inspections.

Inspections may be carried out on forgings, castings, welds on vessels, piping, fittings valves and any related
components.

3. Validity
This procedure is to be used in conjunction with the applicable code of construction as well as any client
specifications and/or requirements. In the case where there is a discrepancy between this procedure and the
applicable code of construction or client specifications the more stringent criteria shall be applicable.

4. Definitions
ABBREVIATION DESCRIPTION
AC Alternating Current
ASNT American Society for Nondestructive Testing
DNV Det Norske Veritas AS
ISO International Organization for Standardization
MPI Magnetic Particle Inspection
SDS Safety Data Sheet

5. References

5.1. Codes and standards

NAME TITLE
DNV-OS-F101 Offshore Standard for Submarine Pipeline Systems, 2013 ed.
ISO 17638 International Standard for NDT of welds - Magnetic Particle Testing
RP No. SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing

6. Personnel and Qualifications

All field personnel shall be trained and qualified to perform their required duties in accordance with the STANLEY
Inspection written practice.

The MPI Inspection and interpretation of indications shall be performed by MPI technicians certified to a minimum
of level II in accordance to ASNT SNT-TC-1A or equivalent.

Qualification and certification documentation of inspection personnel shall be provided to the client for review and
approval prior to production testing.

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 4 of 11

7. Health/Safety
STANLEY Inspection (SI) personnel involved in Magnetic Particle Inspection shall ensure their safety and the
safety of their co-workers. Employees and sub-contractors working for SI shall perform their job in a safe and
professional manner at all times while adhering to site and Project specific safety requirements. All employees
and sub-contractors working for STANLEY Inspection shall take all necessary site safety inductions prior to
commencing any work.

Some of the hazards identified with Magnetic Particle Testing include, but are not limited to:
 Electric Shock and burns
 Airborne Particles
 Fire
 Compressed Air
 Materials and concentrates (Safe handling shall be performed according to the SDS)

8. Quality Assurance/Compliance
STANLEY Inspection should ensure that MPI technicians mobilizing to a jobsite have the relevant project
material. This material may include, but is not limited to:

 Safety/PPE Equipment
 Back up equipment
 Valid Certifications
 Current and valid eye examination results
 Copies of any project specific Client specifications and/or requirements
 Applicable code of construction either hard or electronic copy

STANLEY Inspection’s quality management team shall perform random spot quality checks on field activities and
finalized MPI reports. These quality checks are to ensure that SI technicians are performing and reporting the
inspection as per the applicable code and project specific requirements.

9. Records
All results of MPI performed by STANLEY Inspection technicians will be documented and recorded on the applicable
forms and daily NDE sheets. All inspection results shall be communicated to the client site representative following
that day’s production.

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 5 of 11

10. Equipment

10.1. Required MPI Equipment

All equipment shall be calibrated, tested and in good working condition. Any equipment that is deemed out of
calibration or in poor working condition shall be tagged and marked as “Do not Use” or similar. The MPI
technician shall have at a minimum the following equipment:

Equipment Required Calibration Interval

AC Electromagnetic Yolk Lift Test at start of every shift
Lift Test Weight 6 Months
Magnetic Particles, either wet or dry N/A (Manufacturer cert + expiry date)
Particle Applicator N/A
Contrast Paint and Cleaner N/A (Manufacturer cert + expiry date)
Visible Light Source N/A
Photometer 12 Months
Digital Thermometer & Thermocouple 12 Months
Magnetic Field Indicator (Pie Gage or Castrol Burma Strips) N/A (Manufacturer cert + replace if damaged)
SDS Sheets for all solvents and MPI consumables N/A

10.2. Magnetic Particles

There are two methods applicable to this procedure; 1) wet and 2) dry particle. Wet particle inspection is more
sensitive than dry particle inspection and is therefore preferable to STANLEY Inspection. However, the choice
of the method as well as the choice of a specific particle type to be used for inspection will depend on the part
or component to be inspected, the required sensitivity and customer requirements and/or specifications.

10.2.1. Dry Magnetic Particles

Dry particles are the preferred method to inspect excavations and shall be utilized unless otherwise
specified or restrictions exist that prevent the use of dry particles.

Dry Magnetic Particles shall not be applied on a wet surface as this reduces the mobility of the particles. It
is also recommended practice to avoid the use of dry particles during periods of high winds.

10.2.2. Wet Magnetic Particles

Wet particles are the preferred method to be used to inspect arc burns, laminations, and weld caps. Wet
particles shall be utilized in these applications unless otherwise specified or restrictions exist that prevent
the use of wet particles

Wet magnetic particles are designed to be suspended in a fluid for application to the test surface by spraying
or pouring while the test piece is magnetized. It is important to shake the can well before applying the
product.

The following make and type of magnetic particles shall be utilized:

 Black Magnetic Particles: Magnaflux - 7HF (or equivalent) 

 White Contrast Paint: Magnaflux - WCP-2 (or equivalent)

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 6 of 11

10.3. Electromagnetic (AC) Yoke Lift Test

The lift test of the electromagnetic yoke shall be done at the beginning of every shift or whenever the equipment
has been subject to damage or dropping. AC yokes shall have a minimum lifting power of 4.5 kg (10.0 lbs.).

The distance between the poles (legs) during the lift test shall be set to a minimum of 152.4mm (6”) and shall
not be increased beyond this during the inspection. Each lift test shall have the results documented and
recorded. Each yoke should have a certificate of compliance accompany it.

11. Testing Requirements

11.1. Surface Preparation and Cleaning

The surface of the part to be examined and all adjacent areas within at least 50.8mm (2”) shall be clean, dry
and free of contaminants such as dirt, oil, grease, loose rust, loose mill scale, lint, thick paint, welding flux/slag,
weld spatter, and any other extraneous matter that might restrict magnetic particle movement. Cleaning may
be accomplished by detergents, organic solvents, vapor degreasing, sand or grit blasting.

Surface temperature of the specimen(s) to be inspected shall not exceed 300°C (572°F) while performing
magnetic particle examinations with dry powder. Surface temperature of the specimen(s) to be inspected shall
not exceed 60°C (140°F) while performing magnetic particle examinations with wet particles. Care must be
taken when using dry particles on surfaces above 60°C (140°F) due to the potential for burns to the technician.

11.2. Contrast Paint

When the inspection method requires contrast paint it should be applied following the preparation and
cleaning of the part surface. This involves spraying a thin, even layer of white contrast paint (approximately
<0.05mm (0.002”)) on the surface to be inspected. Once the contrast paint has fully dried, MPI can
commence.

The manufacturer’s instructions should be followed for the best results.

11.3. Coverage
The inspection shall be conducted at the required sensitivity and coverage shall exceed 100% of the total
area of interest. The test piece shall be magnetized in such a way that discontinuities in all directions should
be detected.

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 7 of 11

12. Techniques

12.1. Magnetization Methods

The adequacy and direction of the magnetic field for the techniques shall be verified using a magnetic field
indicator. Suitable types are the pie gage or a Castrol Burma brass type strip.

When using the pie gage, it shall be positioned on the surface to be examined in such a way 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 across the copper front of the gage when the magnetic particles are
applied simultaneously with the magnetizing force.

When using the Castrol Burma type strip, it shall be attached to the surface to be examined, such that the
artificial flaw side of the shim is toward the inspected surface. A suitable field strength is indicated when a
clearly defined line or several lines of magnetic particles appear on the shim face when particles are applied
simultaneously with the magnetizing force.

12.1.1. Magnetizing Technique (Dry Method)

While maintaining the yoke in the operation mode, apply the dry powder in such a manner that a light
uniform dust like coating settles upon the surface of the test piece while it is being magnetized. Two
examinations are required in directions 90 degrees from each other to ensure optimum sensitivity in
detecting discontinuities regardless of orientation. Figure 1 shows pole/leg placement for a linear
inspection of the examination area and figure 2 shows pole/leg placement for a circular inspection. The
magnetic field shall be maintained for a minimum of 5 seconds to allow particle migration and formation of
indications. Excess powder may be removed with a gentle air stream. The yoke shall be placed directly
on the test surface with a minimum leg spacing of 50mm (2”) and a maximum of 150mm (6”).

Figure 1 – Examination area and yoke legs placement for linear inspection

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 8 of 11

MINIMUM LEG SPACING =
50.8mm (2.0")
MAXIMUM LEG SPACING =
3 x WALL THICKNESS

30mm Minimum

Figure 2 - Examination area and yoke legs placement for circular inspection

12.1.2. Magnetizing Technique (Wet Method)

While maintaining the yoke in operating mode, a thin and even layer of particles (<0.05mm (0.002”)) shall
be sprayed over the area of interest. Two examinations are required in directions 90 degrees apart from
each other to ensure optimum sensitivity in detecting discontinuities regardless of orientation.

See Figure 1 – Examination area and yoke legs placement for linear inspection .
See Figure 2 - Examination area and yoke legs placement for circular inspection.

The magnetic field shall be maintained for a minimum of 5 seconds to allow particle migration and
formation of indications. The yoke shall be placed directly on the test piece with a minimum leg spacing
of 50mm (2”) and a maximum spacing of 150mm (6”).

12.2. Demagnetization
When residual magnetism in the part could interfere with subsequent processing or usage, the part shall be
demagnetized any time after completion of the exam. Demagnetization is accomplished by subjecting the part
to a field that is equal to or greater than the initial magnetization and then continuously reversing the field
direction while gradually decreasing it to zero.

Alternating Current yokes may be used for local demagnetization by placing the poles on the surface, then
moving them around the area, and slowly withdrawing the yoke while it is still energized.

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 9 of 11

12.3. Interpretation

12.3.1. Visible Light Requirements for Interpretation

Indications found using MPI must be examined under visible light. The intensity of the visible light at the
surface of the part/test piece undergoing examination shall be at a minimum of 100 ft candles (1000 Lux).
Additional light shall be provided if the light level at the inspection site is less than this.

12.3.2. Indications
All indications formed by magnetic particle examination are valid and are the result of magnetic flux
leakage fields. Indications are classified as: relevant, non-relevant or false.

12.3.2.1. Relevant Indications

Relevant indications are produced by leakage fields that are the result of discontinuities. Relevant
indications require documentation and evaluation with regard to the applicable acceptance criteria.

12.3.2.2. Irrelevant Indications

Irrelevant indications can occur slightly or in patterns as a result of flux leakage fields created by
conditions that require no evaluation. These conditions may be attributed to changes in section (like
keyways and drilled holes), inherent material properties (like the edge of a bimetallic weld), magnetic
writing, etc. This type of indication does not need to be documented.

12.3.2.3. False Indications

False indications are not the result of the magnetic forces. Examples are particles held mechanically
or by gravity in shallow depressions or particles held by rust or scale on the surface.

12.4. Post Examination Cleaning

12.4.1. Particle Removal

Post examination cleaning is necessary where magnetic particle materials could interfere with
subsequent processing or with service requirements. The client should specify when post-examination
cleaning is needed and the extent of cleaning that is required.

Typical post-examination cleaning techniques employed are:

 The use of compressed air to gently blow off unwanted dry magnetic particles.
 Drying of wet particles and subsequent removal by brushing or with compressed air.
 Other suitable post-examination cleaning techniques that will not interfere with subsequent
requirements including solvent based cleaning.

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 10 of 11

13. Evaluation of Discontinuities

Upon completion of examination, the parts, components and/or assemblies shall be evaluated for accept reject
disposition in accordance with the applicable code or as directed by the client.

For each recordable indication, the following at a minimum shall be documented:

 Length
 Location
 Type of discontinuity

All indications shall be investigated but are not necessarily relevant due to the weld contour, weld cap geometry,
and/or surface contour. Weld caps may be dressed smooth to verify if the indications present are relevant. All
cap flushing shall be pre-approved by the client.

All repaired arc burns shall be evaluated to the applicable client specifications and/or requirements.

14. Reporting
All magnetic particle inspection testing carried out shall be recorded on an MPI report. In addition to the results,
the report shall include as a minimum the following information:

 Client Name and Project Number

 Applicable procedure number
 Material specification and dimensions
 MPI Technicians Name, Certification credentials and signature
 Component identification
 Surface condition
 Type of magnetization
 Type of equipment
 Wet or dry method
 Magnetizing current
 Make and type of magnetic particles and contrast paint
 Weld number
 Yoke/Test Weight serial number
 Defect Location, length, and type
 All relevant indications shall be documented on a report with a to-scale drawing (as close as possible) of
the discontinuity. Photographs are acceptable as documentation when a rule scale is included in the
picture. Covering the indications with a transparent adhesive backed tape and removing the tape with the
magnetic particle indications adhering to it, and placing it on paper or other appropriate background
material is acceptable.
 Results of the test
 Date that the test was performed

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER 
 Document No.: S-0010-MPI-10001
Magnetic Particle Inspection Procedure Revision No.: 00
AC Yoke and Color Contrast Date: 21JUL2016
Page: 11 of 11

15. Report Template

MPI Report Template
Example Only

THIS DOCUMENT AND THE INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN ARE PROPRIETARY TO STANLEY INSPECTION AND MUST, ALONG WITH ANY COPIES, BE RETURNED UPON REQUEST.  REPRODUCTION, 
TRANSMITTING IN ANY FORM, OR USE OF ANY INFORMATION DISCLOSED HEREIN IS PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. 
ONCE PRINTED, THIS DOCUMENT BECOMES UNCONTROLLED UNLESS OTHERWISE STAMPED WITH A “CONTROLLED COPY” NUMBER