ASTM E1220-21
(Practice)Standard Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable Process
Standard Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable Process
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Liquid penetrant examination methods indicate the presence, location, and, to a limited extent, the nature and magnitude of the detected discontinuities. This practice is intended primarily for portability and for localized areas of examination, utilizing minimal equipment. Surface roughness may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternate process, such as water-wash visible or post-emulsified penetrant should be considered when grinding or machining is not practical.
SCOPE
1.1 This 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.
1.2 This practice also provides a reference:
1.2.1 By which a visible penetrant examination method using the solvent-removable process recommended or required by individual organizations can be reviewed to ascertain its applicability and completeness.
1.2.2 For use in the preparation of process specifications dealing with the visible, solvent-removable liquid penetrant examination of materials and parts. Agreement by the purchaser and the manufacturer regarding specific techniques is strongly recommended.
1.2.3 For use in the organization of the facilities and personnel concerned with the liquid penetrant examination.
1.3 This 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.
1.3.1 The user is encouraged to use materials and processing parameters necessary to detect conditions of a type or severity which could affect the evaluation of the product.
1.4 All 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.
1.5 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.6 This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Jun-2021
- Technical Committee
- E07 - Nondestructive Testing
- Drafting Committee
- E07.03 - Liquid Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Methods
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2018
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2015
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2013
Overview
ASTM E1220-21: Standard Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable Process defines the procedures for performing visible penetrant examinations utilizing a solvent-removable method. Developed by ASTM International, this standard outlines a nondestructive testing (NDT) method for detecting discontinuities open to the surface, such as cracks, seams, laps, cold shuts, laminations, isolated porosity, through leaks, or lack of fusion.
This practice is especially valuable for localized inspections and field applications due to its portability and minimal equipment requirements. The standard is applicable to a variety of nonporous, metallic materials (both ferrous and nonferrous) as well as specific nonmetallic materials like glazed ceramics, certain plastics, and glass.
Key Topics
- Nondestructive Testing (NDT): This visible penetrant testing procedure is designed for surface discontinuity detection without damaging the tested component.
- Solvent-Removable Process: The method uses solvent to remove excess penetrant after application, making it suitable for component surfaces where water-wash methods are not practical.
- Inspection Materials: Penetrant materials conform to industry standards and are selected to minimize staining or swelling of sensitive substrates. Developers create contrast to enhance visibility of defects.
- Surface Preparation: Success depends on removing contaminants such as rust, oil, or paint. Precleaning protocols are emphasized to maximize detection sensitivity.
- Process Steps: The core steps include precleaning, penetrant application, removal of excess penetrant, drying, developer application, and visual examination under adequate lighting.
- Limitations: The surface roughness of the test area may impact effectiveness. Alternate processes like water-wash or post-emulsified penetrant may be recommended for very rough surfaces.
- Personnel Qualification: It is required that personnel performing this testing be qualified and certified per national or international NDT standards.
Applications
ASTM E1220-21 is broadly used in the following areas:
- Manufacturing: For in-process inspections of welded joints, cast parts, and machined surfaces to ensure component integrity.
- Maintenance and Quality Control: Ideal for routine or maintenance inspections in aerospace, transportation, petrochemical, marine, and construction industries.
- Nonmetallic Materials: Used on glazed ceramics, certain plastics, and glass where conventional methods might be unsuitable.
- Field and Localized Testing: Its minimal equipment needs and portability make it suitable for on-site examinations, including difficult-to-reach or restricted areas.
- Specification and Procedure Development: Serves as a reference for drafting process specifications and reviewing the completeness of penetrant examination methods within organizations.
Related Standards
The practice references several complementary standards and documents, including:
- ASTM E165/E165M: Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for General Industry
- ASTM E433: Reference Photographs for Liquid Penetrant Inspection
- ASTM E543: Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing
- ASTM E1316: Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
- ASNT SNT-TC-1A / ANSI/ASNT-CP-189: Guidelines for qualification and certification of NDT personnel
- ISO 9712: International standard for qualification and certification of NDT personnel
- AMS 2644: Specification for inspection penetrant materials
- NAS 410: Certification and qualification of nondestructive test personnel
Practical Value
By following ASTM E1220-21, organizations can improve detection of surface discontinuities, ensure product reliability, and maintain safety standards without destructive testing. This standard supports both manufacturers and maintenance teams in meeting industry requirements for quality assurance and regulatory compliance, making it a foundation of NDT practices in diverse sectors.
Keywords: ASTM E1220-21, visible penetrant testing, solvent-removable method, nondestructive testing, NDT, surface cracks, liquid penetrant examination, quality control, materials inspection, certification standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E1220-21 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Practice for Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable Process". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Liquid penetrant examination methods indicate the presence, location, and, to a limited extent, the nature and magnitude of the detected discontinuities. This practice is intended primarily for portability and for localized areas of examination, utilizing minimal equipment. Surface roughness may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternate process, such as water-wash visible or post-emulsified penetrant should be considered when grinding or machining is not practical. SCOPE 1.1 This 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. 1.2 This practice also provides a reference: 1.2.1 By which a visible penetrant examination method using the solvent-removable process recommended or required by individual organizations can be reviewed to ascertain its applicability and completeness. 1.2.2 For use in the preparation of process specifications dealing with the visible, solvent-removable liquid penetrant examination of materials and parts. Agreement by the purchaser and the manufacturer regarding specific techniques is strongly recommended. 1.2.3 For use in the organization of the facilities and personnel concerned with the liquid penetrant examination. 1.3 This 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. 1.3.1 The user is encouraged to use materials and processing parameters necessary to detect conditions of a type or severity which could affect the evaluation of the product. 1.4 All 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. 1.5 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.6 This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Liquid penetrant examination methods indicate the presence, location, and, to a limited extent, the nature and magnitude of the detected discontinuities. This practice is intended primarily for portability and for localized areas of examination, utilizing minimal equipment. Surface roughness may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternate process, such as water-wash visible or post-emulsified penetrant should be considered when grinding or machining is not practical. SCOPE 1.1 This 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. 1.2 This practice also provides a reference: 1.2.1 By which a visible penetrant examination method using the solvent-removable process recommended or required by individual organizations can be reviewed to ascertain its applicability and completeness. 1.2.2 For use in the preparation of process specifications dealing with the visible, solvent-removable liquid penetrant examination of materials and parts. Agreement by the purchaser and the manufacturer regarding specific techniques is strongly recommended. 1.2.3 For use in the organization of the facilities and personnel concerned with the liquid penetrant examination. 1.3 This 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. 1.3.1 The user is encouraged to use materials and processing parameters necessary to detect conditions of a type or severity which could affect the evaluation of the product. 1.4 All 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. 1.5 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.6 This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM E1220-21 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 19.100 - Non-destructive testing. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E1220-21 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E1316-24, ASTM E1316-19b, ASTM E1316-19, ASTM E1316-18, ASTM E1316-17a, ASTM E1316-17, ASTM E1316-16a, ASTM D1552-16, ASTM E1316-16, ASTM E1316-15a, ASTM E1316-15, ASTM D1552-08(2014), ASTM E1316-14, ASTM E1316-14e1, ASTM E1316-13d. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM E1220-21 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E1220 − 21
Standard Practice for
Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable
Process
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1220; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.4 All areas of this practice may be open to agreement
2 between the cognizant engineering organization and the
1.1 This practice covers procedures for visible penetrant
supplier, or specific direction from the cognizant engineering
examination utilizing the solvent-removable process. It is a
organization.
nondestructive testing method for detecting discontinuities that
are open to the surface such as cracks, seams, laps, cold shuts, 1.5 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be
laminations, isolated porosity, through leaks, or lack of fusion regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
and is applicable to in-process, final, and maintenance exami- mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
nation. It can be effectively used in the examination of information only and are not considered standard.
nonporous, metallic materials, both ferrous and nonferrous,
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
and of nonmetallic materials such as glazed or fully densified
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
ceramics and certain nonporous plastics and glass.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
1.2 This practice also provides a reference:
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.2.1 By which a visible penetrant examination method
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
using the solvent-removable process recommended or required
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
by individual organizations can be reviewed to ascertain its
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
applicability and completeness.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.2.2 For use in the preparation of process specifications
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
dealing with the visible, solvent-removable liquid penetrant
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
examination of materials and parts. Agreement by the pur-
chaser and the manufacturer regarding specific techniques is
2. Referenced Documents
strongly recommended.
1.2.3 For use in the organization of the facilities and
2.1 ASTM Standards:
personnel concerned with the liquid penetrant examination.
D129 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (Gen-
eral High Pressure Decomposition Device Method)
1.3 This practice does not indicate or suggest standards for
D516 Test Method for Sulfate Ion in Water
evaluation of the indications obtained. It should be noted,
D808 Test Method for Chlorine in New and Used Petroleum
however, that after indications have been produced, they must
Products (High Pressure Decomposition Device Method)
beinterpretedorclassifiedandthenevaluated.Forthispurpose
D1552 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
there must be a separate code, specification, or a specific
High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detec-
agreement to define the type, size, location, and direction of
tion or Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD)
indications considered acceptable, and those considered unac-
E165/E165M Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for Gen-
ceptable.
eral Industry
1.3.1 Theuserisencouragedtousematerialsandprocessing
E433 Reference Photographs for Liquid Penetrant Inspec-
parameters necessary to detect conditions of a type or severity
tion
which could affect the evaluation of the product.
E543 Specification forAgencies Performing Nondestructive
Testing
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nonde-
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
structive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.03 on Liquid
Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Methods.
Current edition approved July 1, 2021. Published August 2021. Originally
approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as E1220 – 16. DOI: For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
10.1520/E1220-21. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Test Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Method SE-1220 in Section II of that Code. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1220 − 21
2.2 ASNT Documents: water-wash visible or post-emulsified penetrant should be
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Personnel Qualifi- considered when grinding or machining is not practical.
cation and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 Standard for Qualification and Certi- 6. Reagents and Materials
fication of NDT Personnel
6.1 Visible, Solvent-Removable Liquid Penetrant Testing
2.3 Other Standards:
Materials, (see Note 1) consist of a family of applicable visible
AMS 2644 Inspection Material, Penetrant
penetrant, solvent remover, as recommended by the
ISO 9712 Nondestructive Testing—Qualification and Certi-
manufacturer, and are classified as Type II Visible, Method
fication of NDT Personnel—General Principles
C—Solvent-Removable. Penetrant materials shall conform to
2.4 AIA Standard:
AMS 2644 unless approved by the contract or Level III.
NAS410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive
Intermixing of materials from various manufacturers is not
Test Personnel
recommended. (Warning—While approved penetrant materi-
2.5 DoD Contracts—Unless otherwise specified, the issues
als will not adversely affect common metallic materials, some
of the documents that are DoD adopted are those listed in the
plastics or rubber may be swollen or stained by certain
issue of the DoDISS (Department of Defense Index of Speci-
penetrants.)
fications and Standards) cited in the solicitation.
NOTE 1—Refer to 8.1 for special requirements for sulfur, halogen, and
alkali metal content.
2.6 Order of Precedence—In the event of conflict between
6.2 Visible, Solvent-Removable Penetrants are designed so
the text of this practice and the references cited herein, the text
that excess surface penetrant can be removed by wiping with
of this practice takes precedence.
dry, clean, lint-free material, and repeating the operation until
most of the penetrant has been removed. The remaining traces
shall be removed by wiping the surface with clean, lint-free
3. Terminology
material lightly moistened with the solvent remover. To mini-
3.1 Definitions—Definitions relating to liquid penetrant
mize removal of penetrant from discontinuities, care should be
examination, which appear in Terminology E1316, shall apply
taken to avoid the use of excess solvent. Flushing the surface
to the terms used in this practice.
with solvent to remove the excess penetrant is prohibited.
Visible penetrant examination makes use of a penetrant that is
4. Summary of Practice
visible under normal lighting conditions. The penetrant is
4.1 A liquid penetrant is applied evenly over the surface
usually red in color so that the indications produce a definite
being tested and allowed to enter open discontinuities. After a
contrast with the visible background of the developer. Visible
suitable dwell time, the excess surface penetrant is removed by
penetrant indications must be viewed under adequate visible
wiping and the surface is dried. If an aqueous developer is to
light (see 7.1.8.1).
be employed, the developer is applied prior to the drying step.
6.3 Solvent Removers function by dissolving the penetrant,
A developer is then applied, drawing the entrapped penetrant
makingitpossibletowipethesurfacecleanandfreeofresidual
outofthediscontinuity,stainingthedeveloper.Thetestsurface
penetrant as described in 7.1.5.
is then examined visually to determine the presence or absence
of indications.
6.4 Developers—Development of penetrant indications is
the process of bringing the penetrant out of open discontinui-
4.2 Processing parameters, such as precleaning, penetration
ties through blotting action of the applied developer, thus
time, etc., are determined by the specific materials used, the
increasing the visibility of the penetrant indications. The
nature of the part under examination (that is, size, shape,
developer used shall provide a contrasting white background.
surface condition, alloy), and type of discontinuities expected.
Nonaqueous, wet developers and aqueous developers are the
5. Significance and Use
most commonly used developers in the visible, solvent-
removable penetrant process. Liquid film developers also are
5.1 Liquid penetrant examination methods indicate the
used for special applications.
presence, location, and, to a limited extent, the nature and
6.4.1 Nonaqueous, Wet Developersarenormallysuppliedas
magnitude of the detected discontinuities. This practice is
suspensions of developer particles in a volatile solvent carrier
intended primarily for portability and for localized areas of
and are ready for use as supplied. They are applied to the
examination, utilizing minimal equipment. Surface roughness
surface by spraying after the excess penetrant has been
may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternate process, such as
removed and the surface has dried. Nonaqueous, wet develop-
ers form a white coating on the surface of the part when dried
Available fromTheAmerican Society for NondestructiveTesting (ASNT), P.O.
and serve as a contrasting background for visible penetrants
Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228-0518.
(see7.1.7.1(a)).(Warning—Thistypeofdeveloperisintended
Available from SAE International (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Dr.,Warrendale,
for application by spray only.)
PA 15096, http://www.sae.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
6.4.2 Aqueous Developers are normally supplied as dry
Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier,
powder particles to be either suspended or dissolved (soluble)
Geneva, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
in water. The concentration, use and maintenance shall be in
Available from the Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc., 1250
Eye Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20005. accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations (see
E1220 − 21
7.1.7.1(b)). (Warning—Aqueous developers may cause strip- fere with the effectiveness of the examination. For metals,
ping of indications, if not properly applied and controlled. The unless otherwise specified, etching shall be performed when
procedure should be qualified in accordance with 9.2.)
evidence exists that previous cleaning, surface treatments or
service usage have produced a surface condition that degrades
7. Procedure
the effectiveness of the examination. (See Annex on Cleaning
7.1 The following general procedure applies to the solvent-
Parts and Materials in Practice E165/E165M for general
removable, visible penetrant examination method (see Fig. 1).
precautions relative to surface preparation.)
7.1.1 Temperature Limits—The temperature of the penetrant
NOTE 2—When agreed between purchaser and supplier, grit blasting
materials and the surface of the part to be processed should be
without subsequent etching may be an acceptable cleaning method.
from 40 to 125 °F (4 to 52 °C). Where it is not practical to
(Warning—Sand or shot blasting may possibly close indications and
comply with these temperature limitations, the procedure must
extreme care should be used with grinding and machining operations.)
be qualified at the temperature of intended use as described in
NOTE 3—For structural or electronic ceramics, surface preparation by
9.2.
grinding, sand blasting and etching for penetrant examination is not
7.1.2 Surface Conditioning Prior to Penetrant Inspection—
recommended because of the potential for damage.
Satisfactory results can usually be obtained on surfaces in the
7.1.3 Removal of Surface Contaminants:
as-welded, as-rolled, as-cast, or as-forged conditions or for
7.1.3.1 Precleaning—The success of any penetrant exami-
ceramic in the densified condition. When only loose surface
nation procedure is greatly dependent upon the surface and
residuals are present, these may be removed by wiping the
discontinuitybeingfreeofanycontaminantthatmightinterfere
surface with clean lint-free cloths. However, precleaning of
with the penetrant process. All parts or areas of parts to be
metals to remove processing residuals such as oil, graphite,
inspectedmustbecleananddrybeforethepenetrantisapplied.
scale, insulating materials, coatings, and so forth, should be
If only a section of a part, such as a weld, including the
done using cleaning solvents, vapor degreasing or chemical
heat-affected zone is to be examined, all contaminants shall be
removing processes. Surface conditioning by grinding,
removed from the area being examined as defined by the
machining, polishing or etching shall follow shot, sand, grit
contracting parties. “Clean” is intended to mean that the
and vapor blasting to remove the peened skin and when
penetrant entrapment in surface irregularities might mask the surface must be free of any rust, scale, welding flux, spatter,
indications of unacceptable discontinuities or otherwise inter- grease, paint, oily films, dirt, etc., that might interfere with
Incoming Parts
Alkaline Steam Vapor Solvent Acid
PRECLEAN Degrease Wash Etch
(See 7.1.3.1)
Mechanical Paint Stripper Ultrasonic Detergent
DRY
(See 7.1.3.2)Dry
PENETRANT Apply Solvent
APPLICATION Removable,
(See 7.1.4) Visible
Penetrant
REMOVE Solvent
(See 7.1.5) Wipe-Off
DRY
(See 7.1.6)Dry
DEVELOP Nonaqueous
(See 7.1.7) Wet Aqueous
Developer
DRY
(See 7.1.6)Dry
EXAMINE
(See 7.1.8) Examine
Mechanical
Detergent Wash
POST CLEAN
(See 7.1.10 and Practice
E165/E165M, Annex on Post Dry
Cleaning)
Vapor Degrease Solvent Soak Ultrasonic
Clean
Outgoing Parts
FIG. 1 Solvent
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E1220 − 16 E1220 − 21
Standard Practice for
Visible Penetrant Testing Using Solvent-Removable
Process
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1220; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice 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.
1.2 This practice also provides a reference:
1.2.1 By which a visible penetrant examination method using the solvent-removable process recommended or required by
individual organizations can be reviewed to ascertain its applicability and completeness.
1.2.2 For use in the preparation of process specifications dealing with the visible, solvent-removable liquid penetrant examination
of materials and parts. Agreement by the purchaser and the manufacturer regarding specific techniques is strongly recommended.
1.2.3 For use in the organization of the facilities and personnel concerned with the liquid penetrant examination.
1.3 This 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.
1.3.1 The user is encouraged to use materials and processing parameters necessary to detect conditions of a type or severity which
could affect the evaluation of the product.
1.4 All 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.
1.5 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. SI unitsThe values given in parentheses are for
information only.mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nondestructive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.03 on Liquid Penetrant
and Magnetic Particle Methods.
Current edition approved July 1, 2016July 1, 2021. Published July 2016August 2021. Originally approved in 1987. Last previous edition approved in 20102016 as
E1220 - 10.E1220 – 16. DOI: 10.1520/E1220-16.10.1520/E1220-21.
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Test Method SE-1220 in Section II of that Code.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1220 − 21
1.6 This 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D129 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products (General High Pressure Decomposition Device Method)
D516 Test Method for Sulfate Ion in Water
D808 Test Method for Chlorine in New and Used Petroleum Products (High Pressure Decomposition Device Method)
D1552 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detection or Thermal
Conductivity Detection (TCD)
E165/E165M Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for General Industry
E433 Reference Photographs for Liquid Penetrant Inspection
E543 Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestructive Testing
E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
2.2 ASNT Documents:
SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 Standard for Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel
2.3 Other Standards:
AMS 2644 Inspection Material, Penetrant
ISO 9712 Nondestructive Testing—Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel—General Principles
2.4 AIA Standard:
NAS 410NAS410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive Test Personnel
2.5 DoD Contracts-Contracts—Unless otherwise specified, the issues of the documents that are DoD adopted are those listed
in the issue of the DoDISS (Department of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards) cited in the solicitation.
2.6 Order of Precedence-Precedence—In the event of conflict between the text of this practice and the references cited herein,
the text of this practice takes precedence.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—definitions—Definitions relating to liquid penetrant examination, which appear in Terminology E1316, shall
apply to the terms used in this practice.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 A liquid penetrant is applied evenly over the surface being tested and allowed to enter open discontinuities. After a suitable
dwell time, the excess surface penetrant is removed by wiping and the surface is dried. If an aqueous developer is to be employed,
the developer is applied prior to the drying step. A developer is then applied, drawing the entrapped penetrant out of the
discontinuity, staining the developer. The test surface is then examined visually to determine the presence or absence of indications.
4.2 Processing parameters, such as precleaning, penetration time, etc., are determined by the specific materials used, the nature
of the part under examination (that is, size, shape, surface condition, alloy), and type of discontinuities expected.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Liquid penetrant examination methods indicate the presence, location, and, to a limited extent, the nature and magnitude of
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), P.O. Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228-0518.
Available from SAE International (SAE), 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096, http://www.sae.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva,
Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
Available from the Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc., 1250 Eye Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20005.
E1220 − 21
the detected discontinuities. This practice is intended primarily for portability and for localized areas of examination, utilizing
minimal equipment. Surface roughness may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternate process, such as water-wash visible or
post-emulsified penetrant should be considered when grinding or machining is not practical.
6. Reagents and Materials
6.1 Visible, Solvent-Removable Liquid Penetrant Testing Materials, (see Note 1) consist of a family of applicable visible penetrant,
solvent remover, as recommended by the manufacturer, and are classified as Type II Visible, Method C—Solvent-Removable.
Penetrant materials shall conform to AMS 2644 unless approved by the contract or Level III. Intermixing of materials from various
manufacturers is not recommended. (Warning—While approved penetrant materials will not adversely affect common metallic
materials, some plastics or rubber may be swollen or stained by certain penetrants.)
NOTE 1—Refer to 8.1 for special requirements for sulfur, halogen, and alkali metal content.
6.2 Visible, Solvent-Removable Penetrants are designed so that excess surface penetrant can be removed by wiping with dry, clean,
lint-free material, and repeating the operation until most of the penetrant has been removed. The remaining traces shall be removed
by wiping the surface with clean, lint-free material lightly moistened with the solvent remover. To minimize removal of penetrant
from discontinuities, care should be taken to avoid the use of excess solvent. Flushing the surface with solvent to remove the excess
penetrant is prohibited. Visible penetrant examination makes use of a penetrant that is visible under normal lighting conditions.
The penetrant is usually red in color so that the indications produce a definite contrast with the visible background of the developer.
Visible penetrant indications must be viewed under adequate visible light (see 7.1.8.1).
6.3 Solvent Removers function by dissolving the penetrant, making it possible to wipe the surface clean and free of residual
penetrant as described in 7.1.5.
6.4 Developers—Development of penetrant indications is the process of bringing the penetrant out of open discontinuities through
blotting action of the applied developer, thus increasing the visibility of the penetrant indications. The developer used shall provide
a contrasting white background. Nonaqueous, wet developers and aqueous developers are the most commonly used developers in
the visible, solvent-removable penetrant process. Liquid film developers also are used for special applications.
6.4.1 Nonaqueous, Wet Developers are normally supplied as suspensions of developer particles in a volatile solvent carrier and
are ready for use as supplied. They are applied to the surface by spraying after the excess penetrant has been removed and the
surface has dried. Nonaqueous, wet developers form a white coating on the surface of the part when dried and serve as a contrasting
background for visible penetrants (see 7.1.7.1(a)). (Warning—This type of developer is intended for application by spray only.)
6.4.2 Aqueous Developers are normally supplied as dry powder particles to be either suspended or dissolved (soluble) in water.
The concentration, use and maintenance shall be in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations (see 7.1.7.1(b)).
(Warning—Aqueous developers may cause stripping of indications, if not properly applied and controlled. The procedure should
be qualified in accordance with 9.2.)
6.4.3 Liquid Film Developers are solutions or colloidal suspensions of resins/polymer in a suitable carrier. These developers will
form a transparent or translucent coating on the surface of the part. Certain types of film developer will fix indications and may
be stripped from the surface and retained for record purposes (see 7.1.7.1(c)).
7. Procedure
7.1 The following general procedure applies to the solvent-removable, visible penetrant examination method (see Fig. 1).
7.1.1 Temperature Limits—The temperature of the penetrant materials and the surface of the part to be processed should be from
40 to 125°F125 °F (4 to 52°C).52 °C). Where it is not practical to comply with these temperature limitations, the procedure must
be qualified at the temperature of intended use as described in 9.2.
7.1.2 Surface Conditioning Prior to Penetrant Inspection—Satisfactory results can usually be obtained on surfaces in the
as-welded, as-rolled, as-cast, or as-forged conditions or for ceramic in the densified condition. When only loose surface residuals
are present, these may be removed by wiping the surface with clean lint-free cloths. However, precleaning of metals to remove
processing residuals such as oil, graphite, scale, insulating materials, coatings, and so forth, should be done using cleaning solvents,
vapor degreasing or chemical removing processes. Surface conditioning by grinding, machining, polishing or etching shall follow
E1220 − 21
Incoming Parts
Alkaline Steam Vapor Solvent Acid
PRECLEAN Degrease Wash Etch
(See 7.1.3.1)
Mechanical Paint Stripper Ultrasonic Detergent
DRY
(See 7.1.3.2) Dry
PENETRANT Apply Solvent
APPLICATION Removable,
(See 7.1.4) Visible
Penetrant
REMOVE Solvent
(See 7.1.5) Wipe-Off
DRY
(See 7.1.6) Dry
DEVELOP Nonaqueous
(See 7.1.7) DEVELOP Wet or Liquid Nonaqueous
(See 7.1.7) Film Developer Wet
Aqueous
Developer
DRY
(See 7.1.6) Dry
EXAMINE
(See 7.1.8) Examine
Mechanical
Detergent Wash
POST CLEAN
(See 7.1.10 and Practice
E165/E165M, Annex on Post Dry
Cleaning)
Vapor Degrease Solvent Soak Ultrasonic
Clean
Outgoing Parts
FIG. 1 Solvent-Removable Visible Penetrant Examination General Procedure Flowsheet
shot, sand, grit and vapor blasting to remove the peened skin and when penetrant entrapment in surface irregularities might mask
the indications of unacceptable discontinuities or otherwise interfere with the effectiveness of the examination. For metals, unless
otherwise specified, etching shall be performed when evidence exists that previous cleaning, surface treatments or service usage
have produced a surface condition that degrades the effectiveness of the examination. (See Annex on Cleaning Parts and Materials
in Practice E165/E165M for general precautions relative to surface preparation.)
NOTE 2—When agreed between purchaser and supplier, grit blasting without subsequent etching may be an acceptable cleaning method. (Warning—Sand
or shot blasting may possibly close indications and extreme care should be used with grinding and machining operations.)
NOTE 3—For structural or electronic ceramics, surface preparation by grinding, sand blasting and etching for penetrant examination is not recommended
because of the potential for damage.
7.1.3 Removal of Surface Contaminants:
7.1.3.1 Precleaning—The success of any penetrant examination procedure is greatly dependent upon the surface and discontinuity
being free of any contaminant that might interfere with the penetrant process. All parts or areas of parts to be inspected must be
clean and dry before the penetrant is applied. If only a section of a part, such as a weld, including the heat-affected z
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