How NDT Methods Are Critical to Automotive Industry

Nondestructive testing or aka, NDT, is critical to the automotive industry. Its applications include quality control and product design and engineering. The nondestructive tests include a variety of non-invasive inspection techniques used to evaluate material properties, components, and look for any damage of the material such as corrosion or cracks. Metallurgical Supply Company has been a supplier of NDT equipment to the automotive industry for over 30 years. In that extensive experience, we have had contact with product designers, engineers, lab techs etc. We have learned how NDT methods are critical to the automotive industry and some of the methods that are applied.

NDT Methods in Automotive Industry.

Ultrasound Methods

Ultrasonic Hardness Testing is also known as Ultrasonic Contact Impedance and has been around for over 50 years. Ultrasonic inspection using an ultrasonic hardness tester is based on the transmission characteristics of ultrasound waves in different materials, looking for internal defects in the material and the location of those defects. With the use of electromagnetic waves or a laser, the material can produce ultrasonic waves. This is an evolution from the ultrasonic inspection method used in the past, this method does not require coupling material to complete the inspection work. Specific uses including inspecting crankshafts, bonded joints, non-metallic materials, and in-service parts.

Liquid Penetration Testing

Liquid penetrant inspection (LPI), also called fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) or penetrant testing (PT) use supplies like the Spotcheck® Penetrant Kits to inspect surface-breaking defects in non-porous materials. These defects include hairline cracks, porosity, leaks, and fatigue cracks on in-service components. This is done by the application of fluorescent permeation fluid or coloring permeation fluid. The liquid penetrates into the defects existing on the surface of the material. Specific automotive applications include steering spindles, aluminum suspension parts and aluminum rims. Fluorescent dye is used in locating leaks in air conditioning systems.

Magnetic Particle Inspection

Magnetic particle Inspection (MPI) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) process for detecting surface and slightly subsurface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials. Using supplies like Magnaflux Y-7 AC / DC AC Magnetic Yoke Kit , the ferromagnetic material is magnetized and there is a certain cracking on the surface of the component, a certain leakage magnetic field is formed on the surface of the component. That magnetic field is detected by a magnet-sensitive element, obtaining the location and the characteristics of the defects. Because there is no need to clean the components MPI has a relatively high inspection efficiency and can effectively detect cracks, rust and other defects existing on the surface of the material.

Eddy Current Detection Methods

Eddy current testing uses electromagnetic induction to detect and characterize surface and sub-surface flaws and defects in metallic materials. The eddy current inspection method can detect not only ferromagnetic materials, but also non-ferromagnetic materials. Also, the material is not required to have a certain electrical conductivity. The Eddy current detection method uses a device where a coil of conductive wire is excited with an alternating electrical current. This wire coil produces an alternating magnetic field around itself. The magnetic field generated oscillates at the same frequency as the current running through the coil. When the coil approaches a conductive material, currents opposed to the ones in the coil are induced in the material according to Lenz’s Law known as eddy currents. In specific automotive applications, it is mostly used in detector valves, ring seats, and ball pins and other components.

NDT technology is used in many aspects such as research and development, manufacturing, and maintenance of automobiles. Field uses such as magnetic particle inspection of crankshafts, connecting rods, and ball joints, and ultrasonic testing of haft-shafts and crankshaft help further along automobile technology advancement and safety. With the increased use of electronic technology and computer technology, NDT technology is also constantly changing and evolving its testing procedures and methods. Yet one thing is constant, the absolute need for nondestructive testing in the automobile industry.

Metallurgical Supply Company has served the automotive, aviation, energy, oilfield services, industrial manufacturing, and testing industry for over 30 years. Based in Houston, TX, METSUCO understands the importance of partnering with the automotive industry, enabling it to run as smoothly as possible. For most orders, we can provide a quote in less than 24 hours and even offer samples on many of our products. Please call 713-827-0700 or email sales@metsuco.com.