The LAB's experienced technicians and comprehensive quality control program ensure complete, reproducible, accurate results every time. The LAB’s clients have come to expect exceptional customer service, quick turn around and competitive pricing for all their mechanical testing requirements.

Definitions/Supplementary Information on Nondestructive Testing Types

• Magnetic Particle Testing

  Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) is a very sensitive nondestructive testing process used to identify defects on the surface and slightly subsurface of ferromagnetic materials.

  Both fluorescent wet and visible dry MT is performed by placing fine oxide particles with high magnetic permeability over the surface of the testing material while it is being magnetized. This creates “poles” of opposite sign on either side of the defects. The discontinuities in the material distort the surrounding magnetic field, causing the particles to pool in these areas creating indications. Trained and experienced technicians at The LAB interpret any observed indications to determine what it could be, what could have caused it, and what action, if any, should be taken. Certified test results accompany each order. After MT testing is completed, the testing sample is demagnetized and cleaned.

• Penetrant Testing

  The LAB – Materials Testing is accredited for Penetrant Testing (PT). Materials with a non-porous surface (metals, plastics, glass and ceramics) can undergo liquid penetrant testing to reveal surface-breaking defects. This method is used to detect imperfections such as hairline cracks, laps, seams, fractures, porosity, and fatigue cracks on in-service components.

  First, the test component must be prepared by thoroughly cleaning and drying it to remove any possible contaminants that might prevent the penetrant from seeping into the discontinuities. Next, a fluorescent dye penetrant is applied to the test material. After a sufficient amount of time, the penetrant will seep into the flaws to form a surface indication. Excess penetrant is removed, and a developer is applied to draw penetrant out of the flaw, so the indication becomes visible. Qualified The LAB inspectors can then evaluate the indications under special lighting. Certified test results accompany each order. After PT testing is completed, the testing sample is thoroughly cleaned.

• Visual Testing (SNT-TC-1A Certified)

  Visual Testing (VT) is pertinent in all evaluations. A thorough visual inspection is a simple, rapid and low cost testing necessity. Inspectors can find a multitude of infractions by visually analyzing a test sample. The visual test provides vital information regarding workmanship, mechanical serviceability, and material decline. Visual inspection is also performed to check for weld quality and identify cracks, dimensional accuracy, size, length, indications of surface defects, contamination, corrosion, color change, weathering, staining, lack of uniformity, etc.. The initial information gathered from a visual test may help diagnose, or at least provide insight into, the root cause of a flaw. It also helps technicians determine what further testing is needed, if any.