1.1This practice2 covers procedures for visible penetrant examination utilizing the solvent-removable process. It is a nondestructive testing method for detecting discontinuities that are open to the surface such as cracks, seams, laps, cold shuts, laminations, isolated porosity, through leaks, or lack of fusion and is applicable to in-process, final, and maintenance examination. It can be effectively used in the examination of nonporous, metallic materials, both ferrous and nonferrous, and of nonmetallic materials such as glazed or fully densified ceramics and certain nonporous plastics and glass.

1.2This practice also provides a reference:

1.3This practice does not indicate or suggest standards for evaluation of the indications obtained. It should be noted, however, that after indications have been produced, they must be interpreted or classified and then evaluated. For this purpose there must be a separate code, specification, or a specific agreement to define the type, size, location, and direction of indications considered acceptable, and those considered unacceptable.

1.4All areas of this practice may be open to agreement between the cognizant engineering organization and the supplier, or specific direction from the cognizant engineering organization.

1.5The values stated in inch-pound units are regarded as standard. SI units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.6This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.