During the years since this book was first published in 1993 there have very few developments in the technology of magnetic particle inspection apart from improvements in instrumentation which has made the measurement of peak values of time varying currents practicable. The major changes have arisen from health and safety and environmental concerns. These involve chemicals and exposure of personnel to air-borne electromagnetic fields and long wave ultraviolet (UY.A). The changes in the acceptability of certain volatile halogenated hydrocar bons which led to the banning of 1, 1, 1 thichloroethane in 1995 were evident in 1993. The present discussions concerning the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in general was also current and has now reached a stage where the effects of these deliberations will become evident over the next few years. Concerns over the exposure of personnel to airborne electromagnetic fields has been current for some years as has discussions to the effects of long wave ultraviolet (UY.A) on human skin. Recommendations as to maximum permit ted exposures over periods of time to both of these phenomena have been put forward and will doubtless form the basis of future legislation on the matter. A number of new specifications have appeared notably EN (European) and ISO specifications and some of these are still in preparation. Generally their impact will be minimal since these specifications are largely derived from existing documentation."

The main aim of this book is to provide a concise guide to the penetrant inspection method of non-destructive testing. The emphasis is practical and is aimed at indicating how the various processes can be applied. The book begins with a survey of the history of the technology and the introduction of non-destructive testing. It goes on to discuss the penetrant process itself, its development, principles of the processes, techniques, choice of methods and the equipment that can be used. It also examines the quality control of penetrant materials and processes. The final chapters deal with health and safety and the management of penetrant waste.