Archives March 2026

Every day, thousands of industrial structures, equipment, and components operate under severe conditions of pressure, temperature, and mechanical stress.

During manufacturing or throughout the lifespan of these materials, discontinuities can arise and, if not identified in time, can evolve into critical failures, directly impacting safety, operation, and industrial costs.

It is in this scenario that the Non-Destructive Testing (END) Inspector assumes an essential role.

Celebrated on March 27th, Non-Destructive Testing Inspector Day recognizes the importance of this professional who works on the front lines of failure prevention and industrial reliability.

What are Non-Destructive Tests (END)?

Non-Destructive Testing (END) methods are inspection methods used to evaluate materials, components, and structures without causing damage to the parts being analyzed.

These techniques allow for the identification of surface and subsurface discontinuities that can compromise structural integrity, directly contributing to the operational safety and reliability of industrial processes.

They are widely used in activities such as:

• Manufacturing of industrial components
• Weld inspection
• Preventive and predictive maintenance
• Quality control
• Structural integrity assessment

By enabling the early detection of discontinuities, END prevents unexpected failures, reduces operating costs, and increases the safety of operations.

The role of the END Inspector in industrial reliability

The END inspector is the professional responsible for performing, evaluating, and recording the results of inspections carried out using these methods.

Their role requires technical knowledge, mastery of applicable standards, and an understanding of inspection procedures.

Among their main responsibilities are:

• Evaluate the condition of materials and components
• Identify relevant discontinuities
• Interpret indications obtained during inspection
• Record results with technical accuracy
• Ensure compliance with standards and specifications

More than just performing tests, the inspector is responsible for ensuring the reliability of the results, a crucial factor for industrial safety.

Main Non-Destructive Testing methods used in industry

Several methods comprise Non-Destructive Testing. Among the most widely used are Liquid Penetrant Testing (LP) and Magnetic Particle Testing (MP).

Penetrant Testing (PT)

Liquid penetrant testing is used to identify surface discontinuities in non-porous materials.

The method consists of applying a highly penetrating liquid to the surface of the part. After an appropriate interval, the excess is removed and a developer is applied, allowing the indications to be visualized.

It is widely used in the inspection of:

• welding
• machined parts
• cast components
• metallic and non-metallic surfaces

Magnetic Particle Testing (MPT)

Magnetic particle testing is applied to ferromagnetic materials and allows the identification of surface or near-surface discontinuities.

During the test, the part is magnetized and particles are applied. In the presence of discontinuities, magnetic flux leakage occurs, forming visible indications.

It is used in the inspection of:

• welds
• shafts
• gears
• structural components
• parts subjected to mechanical stress

A fast, efficient method that is widely used in the industry.

Qualification and technical responsibility in END testing

Non-destructive testing (END) is not limited to the execution of the method; it also involves the correct interpretation of the observed indications.

Therefore, inspections must follow specific technical standards and procedures defined for each application.

The acceptance criteria, parameters, and procedures are established according to applicable standards and internal procedures of each company, under the responsibility of professionals qualified in the method.

The reliability of the results depends directly on three factors:

• Qualification of professionals
• Correct application of methods
• Proper use of materials and equipment

The role of Non-Destructive Testing in industrial maintenance

Non-destructive testing plays a strategic role in preventive and predictive maintenance, allowing the monitoring of component condition throughout their service life.

With this, it is possible to:

• Plan interventions in advance
• Avoid unexpected failures
• Reduce operating costs
• Increase equipment reliability

Applications of Non-Destructive Testing in major industrial sectors

Non-destructive testing is fundamental in various industrial sectors, especially where structural integrity is critical.

Among the main sectors are:

• Oil and gas industry
• Aeronautical sector
• Automotive industry
• Power generation
• Metal construction
• Industrial maintenance

In these environments, inspection directly contributes to ensuring the integrity of equipment, structures, and operational systems.

The importance of Non-Destructive Testing for industrial safety

Non-destructive testing is an essential part of modern industry, contributing to process reliability and operational safety.

By identifying discontinuities before they develop into critical failures, these methods ensure greater control over the integrity of equipment and structures.

On this Non-Destructive Testing Inspector Day, we reinforce the importance of the professionals who work on the front lines of inspection, ensuring that technical standards and quality criteria are met in every evaluation performed.

Excellence in products for those seeking reliable results

Metal-Chek provides complete solutions for Non-Destructive Testing: penetrant liquids, removers, developers, lighting fixtures and accessories, developed according to the main ASTM, ISO, ASME, NM and PETROBRAS standards , guaranteeing quality, safety and technical compliance in every inspection.

Speak with our  technical consultants  and find the ideal solution for your process.

Visit our  blog  and check out other technical content.

Discover our  complete product line .

Follow Metal-Chek on  Instagram ,  Facebook  , and  LinkedIn.

In Magnetic Particle Testing (MPT) , the efficiency of the inspection depends on the correct application of the magnetic field to the part being tested.

The intensity and direction of this field are determining factors for the detection of surface or near-surface discontinuities.

To verify that the magnetization conditions are adequate, control devices are used, such as the PM N-1598 Circular Standard , employed to evaluate the intensity and direction of the magnetic field applied during the test.

This feature allows the inspector to confirm whether the applied magnetization is adequate for testing.

What is the PM N-1598 Circular Standard?

The PM N-1598 Circular Standard is a device used to verify the intensity and direction of the magnetic field applied to the part during magnetic particle testing.

Its use helps confirm that the applied magnetic field has suitable conditions to reveal discontinuities in different orientations.

Application in Magnetic Particle Testing

The circular pattern is used to ensure that the applied magnetic field is suitable for multi-directional testing , and can be employed with wet or dry magnetic particles .

During the verification process, the standard is positioned over the area to be tested, and the magnetic field is applied along with the magnetic particles.

When the magnetization is adequate, a circular indication forms on the surface of the pattern, allowing the orientation and intensity of the applied magnetic field to be evaluated.

Construction of the Circular Pattern

The circular pattern is manufactured from low-carbon steel , coated with non-ferrous material , a characteristic that enhances its performance during the verification of the applied magnetization.

This construction allows for the clear formation of indications produced by magnetic particles during the evaluation of the applied field.

Usage Procedure

Verification using the circular standard follows a simple procedure:

1. Position the standard over the area of ​​the part to be tested.
2. Apply the magnetic field and simultaneously apply the magnetic particles.
3. When using dry magnetic particles, remove the excess with a light blow.
4. Observe the regions of the circle perpendicular to the direction of the applied field, which should show indications.
5. When the field strength is adequate, the magnetic particles form visible indications on the surface of the pattern.
6. After verification, demagnetize the standard.

This procedure allows us to confirm whether the magnetization conditions are suitable for performing the test.

Applicable Standards and Specifications

The PM N-1598 Circular Standard meets the following specifications: • ABNT NBR NM 342

This standard establishes requirements related to the execution of magnetic particle tests and the devices used to verify magnetization conditions.

Storage and Care Instructions

The circular pattern should be used and stored carefully to avoid damage that could compromise its performance.
It is recommended to:
• clean with a soft cloth before storage;
• avoid impacts or deformation;

When used and stored correctly, the device has an indefinite shelf life .

Importance of Magnetization Control

The correct application of the magnetic field is fundamental to the reliability of magnetic particle testing.

If the applied field is insufficient or improperly oriented in relation to the discontinuities, the sensitivity of the test may be reduced, making detection more difficult.

The use of verification devices, such as the PM N-1598 Circular Standard , helps to ensure that magnetization conditions are adequate during inspection.

The PM N-1598 Circular Standard is an important tool for verifying the intensity and direction of the magnetic field in magnetic particle testing.

Its use helps confirm the applied magnetization conditions, contributing to the reliability of inspections and the correct detection of discontinuities.

Excellence in products for those seeking reliable results

Metal-Chek provides complete solutions for Non-Destructive Testing, including magnetic particles, penetrant liquids, yoke, lighting fixtures and accessories, developed according to the main ASTM, ASME, NM and PETROBRAS standards, guaranteeing safety, precision and technical compliance in every inspection.

Speak with our  technical consultants  and find the ideal solution for your process.

Visit our  blog  and check out other technical content.

Discover our  complete product line .

Follow Metal-Chek on  Instagram ,  Facebook  , and  LinkedIn .

Aviation is one of the most stringent industrial sectors when it comes to operational safety. Aircraft are designed to operate under severe conditions of load, vibration, pressure variations, and continuous cycles of structural fatigue over thousands of flight hours.

To ensure that all components maintain their structural integrity over time, the aeronautical industry relies heavily on Non-Destructive Testing (END) .

More than just a verification step, ENDs (Non-Destructive Tests) are part of aviation safety culture. From the manufacturing of structures and components to maintenance programs throughout the aircraft’s lifespan, thousands of inspections are carried out to identify potential discontinuities before they evolve into critical failures.

Every safe flight depends on a series of technical inspections that ensure the structural reliability of the aircraft.

Non-Destructive Testing in the Aeronautical Industry

Non-destructive testing methods are used to evaluate the integrity of materials and components without compromising their future use.

In the aeronautical industry, different methods are applied as required by the aircraft manufacturer’s manual. Among the methods used are:
ultrasound
, radiography
, eddy currents
, liquid penetrant testing
, and magnetic particles.

Each method has a specific function within the inspection programs applied in the manufacturing and maintenance of aircraft.

Among these methods, fluorescent penetrant testing and fluorescent magnetic particle testing are widely used for the detection of discontinuities.

Technical rigor and materials control in aviation

The aeronautical sector adopts extremely rigorous criteria for the products used in inspection processes.

For example, the penetrating materials used in these processes must be qualified in the QPL — Qualified Products List .

Only listed materials may be used in certain aircraft inspection processes, ensuring standardization, traceability, and reliability in the results obtained .

Fluorescent penetrant liquid in aircraft inspection

Fluorescent liquid penetrant testing is widely used in the aeronautical industry to identify extremely fine surface discontinuities.

The method is based on the phenomenon of capillarity , allowing the penetrant to penetrate cracks or discontinuities open to the surface. After removing the excess and applying the developer, the retained penetrant returns to the surface, forming indications observed under ultraviolet illumination.

For aeronautical applications, the penetrants, removers, emulsifiers, and developers used must be properly qualified according to the applicable QPL list .

Metal-Chek offers the Sherwin Dubl-Chek line in Brazil , consisting of penetrant testing systems developed to meet the technical requirements of the aeronautical sector.

Fluorescent magnetic particles in ferromagnetic components

Magnetic particle testing is used to inspect components made from ferromagnetic materials.

The method involves magnetizing the component. When there is a surface discontinuity or a discontinuity near the surface, a distortion occurs in the magnetic field, forming a leakage field that attracts the magnetic particles applied to the part.

In the aeronautical industry, the test is typically performed using fluorescent magnetic particles in an oil-based liquid suspension , which provides greater sensitivity in the formation of indications.

In the context of the Metal-Chek line, fluorescent magnetic particles can be used in the aeronautical sector when applied in oil-based suspension , using the Supermagna OMC 10 MMS vehicle .

This combination allows for the proper formation of the suspension for application of the method, in accordance with the technical requirements adopted in aeronautical inspections.

Inspections throughout the aircraft’s lifespan

Non-destructive testing inspections are not limited to aircraft manufacturing.
These methods are part of ongoing maintenance and structural monitoring programs. Throughout the aircraft’s lifespan, components are periodically inspected to identify potential discontinuities caused by:
• structural fatigue
• repetitive load cycles
• vibration
• thermal variations
• severe operating conditions

This continuous monitoring allows for the identification of potentially critical conditions before they evolve into structural failures.

Air safety built into every inspection

Modern aviation safety is the result of a combination of advanced engineering, rigorous procedures, and reliable inspections .

Non-destructive testing is an essential part of this system, allowing the structural integrity of components to be evaluated without compromising their use.

Each inspection performed represents another level of assurance in the integrity of the aircraft, directly contributing to the safety of passengers, crews, and air operations worldwide.

Excellence in products for those seeking reliable results

Metal-Chek provides complete solutions for Non-Destructive Testing , with products developed according to the main ASTM, ISO, ASME, NM and PETROBRAS standards .

Among its solutions are systems for liquid penetrant testing , magnetic particles , and various consumables used in industrial inspections, contributing to consistent results, operational safety, and technical reliability.

Speak with our  technical consultants  and find the ideal solution for your process.

Visit our  blog  and check out other technical content.

Discover our  complete product line .

Follow Metal-Chek on  Instagram ,  Facebook  , and  LinkedIn.