In this test, Magnaflux SKL-SP2 and two equivalent visible penetrants were compared on color, consistency and coverage. To perform this test, equal amounts of aerosol NDT visible liquid penetrants were emptied of their contents onto several 4 ft x 6 ft of non-perforated, layered metal and polyethylene EcoFoil. Each product was sprayed at the same rate and distance from the substrate. The objective was to examine the differences and report the results.
What We Saw
Color differences
Magnaflux SKL-SP2 had a bright red color that does not fade and does not blend in with dark substrates.
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Magnaflux
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Competitor A
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Competitor B
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Dewetting
Liquid penetrants can drip away from the substrate when positioned upright. In fact, one competitive product completely dripped, dewetted, from the EcoFoil substrate leaving an uncoated raw material behind. Be aware of the high rate of dewetting for some liquid penetrants and select the best option for the testing environment. The penetrant will not be able meet the required dwell time (10-30 minutes) if it does not stay on the inspection surface.
Spray Pattern
Spray patterns amongst aerosols vary greatly. The Magnaflux SKL-SP2 features a nozzle that applies a fine mist spray pattern to help ensure full coverage without over spray or wasted material.
Coverage
The net weight stated on the side of the can does not correlate to the amount of coverage each can sprayed. The contents of an aerosol can must be displayed in Net Weight (oz/g) and not Fluid Volume (fl. oz/mL) because of aerosol regulations. The net weight tells you how much of an active ingredient is in the can without the addition of propellant, which is used to expel the active ingredients from the can. In many product descriptions, the Gross Weight of the aerosol is used to describe the contents. This method is misleading because Gross Weight is the combination of active ingredients plus the propellent.
Furthermore, the test has proved that the net weight is not directly linked to the amount of coverage per can. The results showed that competitor A covered 28 sq ft, competitor B covered 37.5 sq ft and Magnalfux covered 90 sq ft.
Conclusion
Not all aerosol liquid penetrants are the same. Magnaflux SKL-SP2 gives NDT technicians up to 3.2x more coverage per can, a more consistent spray pattern and no dewetting helping to ensure no indications are missed. These benefits give NDT technicians less variables to worry about when testing so they can focus on the job and be more efficient, saving time and money.
For more information about Magnaflux Aerosols, check out our Aerosol Camparison Chart.
Published July 31, 2018
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