ASTM E1219-21

Standard Practice for Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the 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, when a higher level of sensitivity than can be achieved using visible process is required. Surface roughness may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternative process such as post-emulsified penetrant should be considered, when grinding or machining is not practical.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice2 covers procedures for fluorescent 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 fluorescent penetrant examination 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 fluorescent 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 pointed out, however, that indications must be interpreted or classified and then evaluated. For this purpose there must be a separate code or 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 document 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
• ICS: 19.100 - Non-destructive testing
• Technical Committee: E07 - Nondestructive Testing
• Drafting Committee: E07.03 - Liquid Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Methods

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E1316-24 - Standard Terminology for <?Pub Dtl?>Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM E1316-19b - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1316-19 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1316-18 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018
• Refers: ASTM E1316-17a - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2017
• Refers: ASTM E1316-17 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2017
• Refers: ASTM E1316-16a - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2016
• Refers: ASTM D1552-16 - Standard Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detection or Thermal Conducitivity Detection (TCD)
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2016
• Refers: ASTM E1316-16 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2016
• Refers: ASTM E1316-15a - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2015
• Refers: ASTM E3022-15 - Standard Practice for Measurement of Emission Characteristics and Requirements for LED UV-A Lamps Used in Fluorescent Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM E1316-15 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM D1552-08(2014) - Standard Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products &#40;High-Temperature Method&#41;
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2014
• Refers: ASTM E1316-14 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2014
• Refers: ASTM E1316-14e1 - Standard Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2014

Overview

ASTM E1219-21 is the internationally recognized standard practice for fluorescent liquid penetrant testing using the solvent-removable process. Developed by ASTM International, this non-destructive testing (NDT) method is used to detect surface-breaking discontinuities such as cracks, seams, laps, cold shuts, laminations, porosity, through leaks, or lack of fusion in both metallic (ferrous and nonferrous) and select nonmetallic materials. The process is suitable for a variety of stages including in-process inspections, final examinations, and maintenance checks.

This standard is tailored for situations where portability and localized examination are needed, and where higher sensitivity than visible penetrant testing is required. It is particularly valued for its effectiveness on nonporous materials, including glazed ceramics and certain plastics and glass, using minimal equipment and process steps optimized for field or shop use.

Key Topics

• Scope of Testing

  • Detection of surface-connected flaws in nonporous metals, ceramics, some plastics, and glass
  • Applies to in-process, final, and maintenance inspections

• Testing Procedure

  • Application of a fluorescent penetrant to the test surface
  • Removal of excess penetrant with a solvent-based process
  • Application of a developer to draw out the penetrant entrapped in flaws
  • Visual inspection under UV-A irradiation for fluorescent indications

• Portability and Sensitivity

  • Designed for use where portability is crucial and equipment must be kept to a minimum
  • Higher sensitivity compared to visible dye methods

• Limitations and Considerations

  • Surface roughness may affect test accuracy; alternate penetrant methods or surface conditioning may be required when roughness or contamination is present
  • Interpretation and evaluation of indications require a separate code, specification, or purchaser/manufacturer agreement

• Process Control

  • Emphasizes correct precleaning, application, and removal procedures for accurate indication development
  • Special consideration for impurity control, especially when testing high-temperature alloys or sensitive materials

• Personnel Qualification

  • Stipulates that NDT personnel must be qualified according to nationally or internationally recognized certification practices (e.g., SNT-TC-1A, NAS410, ISO 9712)

Applications

• Aerospace and Defense

  • Inspection of aircraft engine components, turbine blades, airframe structures, and maintenance items for surface-connected flaws

• Manufacturing and Fabrication

  • Production quality control for castings, forgings, welds, and machined parts in automotive, power generation, and heavy industry

• Maintenance and In-Service Inspection

  • Field inspections of critical equipment, pressure vessels, pipelines, and structural components where portability and rapid results are essential

• Materials Testing

  • Evaluation of nonmetallic items such as ceramic insulators, glass components, and high-performance plastics in electronics and industrial assemblies

• Process Validation

  • Development of customized process specifications for penetrant examination specific to materials and application requirements

Related Standards

• ASTM E165/E165M: General industrial practice for liquid penetrant testing
• ASTM E433: Reference photographs for liquid penetrant inspection
• ASTM E543: Specification for agencies performing nondestructive testing
• ASTM E1316: Standard terminology for nondestructive examinations
• ASTM E2297/E3022: Use and measurement of UV-A and visible light sources for penetrant and magnetic particle testing
• ASNT SNT-TC-1A / ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 / NAS410 / ISO 9712: Personnel qualification and certification standards for NDT
• ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section II, SE-1219: Incorporates penetrant testing in pressure vessel regulations

By following ASTM E1219-21, organizations ensure reliable, standardized fluorescent liquid penetrant testing, supporting product safety, regulatory compliance, and consistent quality in critical industries.

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: E1219 − 21
Standard Practice for
Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the Solvent-
Removable Process
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1219; 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 document may be open to agreement
2 between the cognizant engineering organization and the
1.1 This practice covers procedures for fluorescent pen-
supplier, or specific direction from the cognizant engineering
etrant examination utilizing the solvent-removable process. It
organization.
is a nondestructive testing method for detecting discontinuities
that are open to the surface, such as cracks, seams, laps, cold 1.5 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be
shuts, laminations, isolated porosity, through leaks, or lack of regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
fusion and is applicable to in-process, final, and maintenance mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
examination. 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 Bywhichafluorescentpenetrantexaminationsolvent-
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
removable process recommended or required by individual
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
organizations can be reviewed to ascertain its applicability and
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
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
dealingwiththefluorescentsolvent-removableliquidpenetrant
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
evaluationoftheindicationsobtained.Itshouldbepointedout,
D808 Test Method for Chlorine in New and Used Petroleum
however, that indications must be interpreted or classified and
Products (High Pressure Decomposition Device Method)
then evaluated. For this purpose there must be a separate code
D1552 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by
or specification or a specific agreement to define the type, size,
High Temperature Combustion and Infrared (IR) Detec-
location, and direction of indications considered acceptable,
tion or Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD)
and those considered unacceptable.
E165/E165M Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing for Gen-
1.3.1 Theuserisencouragedtousematerialsandprocessing
eral Industry
parameters necessary to detect conditions of a type or severity
E433 Reference Photographs for Liquid Penetrant Inspec-
which could affect the evaluation of the product.
tion
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 E1219 – 16. DOI: For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
10.1520/E1219-21. contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. 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-1219 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
E1219 − 21
E3022 Practice for Measurement of Emission Characteris- 4.2 Processing parameters, such as precleaning, penetration
tics and Requirements for LED UV-A Lamps Used in time, etc., are determined by the specific materials used, the
Fluorescent Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Testing nature of the part under examination (that is, size, shape,
2.2 ASNT Documents: surface condition, alloy), type of discontinuities expected, etc.
Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualifica-
tion and Certification in Nondestructive Testing 5. Significance and Use
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 QualificationandCertificationofNDT
5.1 Liquid penetrant examination methods indicate the
Personnel
presence, location, and, to a limited extent, the nature and
2.3 ISO Standard:
magnitude of the detected discontinuities. This practice is
ISO 9712 Nondestructive Testing—Qualification and Certi-
intended primarily for portability and for localized areas of
fication of NDT Personnel—General Principles
examination, utilizing minimal equipment, when a higher level
2.4 AIA Standard:
of sensitivity than can be achieved using visible process is
NAS410 Certification and Qualification of Nondestructive
required. Surface roughness may be a limiting factor. If so, an
Test Personnel
alternative process such as post-emulsified penetrant should be
2.5 Department of Defense (DoD) Contracts—Unless oth-
considered, when grinding or machining is not practical.
erwise specified, the issue of the documents that are DoD
adopted are those listed in the issue of the DoDISS (Depart-
6. Reagents and Materials
ment of Defense Index of Specifications and Standards) cited
6.1 Fluorescent Solvent-Removable Liquid Penetrant Test-
in the solicitation.
ing Materials, (see Note 3) consist of a family of applicable
fluorescent penetrants, solvent removers, as recommended by
2.6 Order of Precedence—In the event of conflict between
the manufacturer, and are classified as Type I Fluorescent,
the text of this practice and the references cited herein, the text
Method C—Solvent-Removable. Intermixing of materials
of this practice takes precedence.
from various manufacturers is not recommended. (Warning—
While approved penetrant materials will not adversely affect
common metallic materials, some plastics or rubbers may be
3. Terminology
swollen or stained by certain penetrants.)
3.1 Definitions—Definitions relating to liquid penetrant
examination, which appear in Terminology E1316, shall apply
NOTE 3—Refer to 8.1 for special requirements for sulfur, halogen, and
to the terms used in this practice. alkali metal content.
6.2 Fluorescent Solvent-Removable Penetrants, are de-
NOTE 1—Throughout this practice, the term “blacklight” has been
changed to “UV-A” to conform with the latest terminology in E1316.
signed so that excess surface penetrant can be removed by
“Blacklight” can mean a broad range of ultraviolet radiation; fluorescent
wiping with clean, lint-free material, and repeating the opera-
penetrant inspection only uses the “UV-A” range.
tion until most traces of penetrant have been removed. The
remaining traces shall be removed by wiping the surface with
4. Summary of Practice
clean, lint-free material lightly moistened with the solvent
4.1 Aliquid,fluorescentpenetrantisappliedevenlyoverthe
remover. To minimize removal of penetrant from
surface being tested and allowed to enter open discontinuities.
discontinuities, care shall be taken to avoid the use of excess
After a suitable dwell time, the excess surface penetrant is
solvent. Flushing the surface with solvent to remove the excess
removed and the surface is dried prior to the application of a
penetrant is prohibited.
dry, nonaqueous, wet, or liquid film developer. If an aqueous
6.3 Solvent Removers function by dissolving the penetrant,
developer is to be employed, the developer is applied prior to
makingitpossibletowipethesurfacecleanandfreeofresidual
the drying step. The developer draws the entrapped penetrant
fluorescent penetrant as described in 7.1.5.
out of the discontinuity, staining the developer. The surface is
thenexaminedvisuallyunderblacklighttodeterminepresence
6.4 Developers—Development of penetrant indications is
or absence of indications. (Warning—Fluorescent penetrant
the process of bringing the penetrant out of discontinuities
examination shall not follow a visible penetrant examination
through blotting action of the applied developer, thus increas-
unless the procedure has been qualified in accordance with 9.2,
ing the visibility of the penetrant indications. Nonaqueous, wet
because visible dyes may cause deterioration or quenching of
developers, and aqueous developers are most commonly used
fluorescent dyes.)
in solvent-removable processes.
NOTE 2—The developer may be omitted by agreement between 6.4.1 Aqueous Developers are normally supplied as dry
purchaser and supplier.
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
Available fromTheAmerican Society for NondestructiveTesting (ASNT), P.O.
7.1.7.2).
Box 28518, 1711 Arlingate Lane, Columbus, OH 43228-0518.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
6.4.2 Nonaqueous, Wet Developers are supplied as suspen-
Central Secretariat, BIBC II, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier,
sionsofdeveloperparticlesinanonaqueoussolventcarrierand
Geneva, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
arereadyforuseassupplied.Theyareappliedtothesurfaceby
Available from the Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc., 1000
Wilson Blvd, Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928. spraying after the excess penetrant has been removed and the
E1219 − 21
surface has dried. Nonaqueous, wet developers form a trans- metals to remove processing residuals such as oil, graphite,
lucent or white coating on the surface when dried, and serve as scale, insulating materials, coatings, and so forth, should be
a contrasting background for fluorescent penetrants (see done using cleaning solvents, vapor degreasing or chemical
7.1.7.3). (Warning—This type of developer is intended for removing processes. Surface conditioning by grinding,
application by spray only.) machining, polishing or etching shall follow shot, sand, grit
6.4.3 Dry Developer—Dry developer shall be applied in and vapor blasting to remove the peened skin and when
such a manner as to allow contact of all surfaces to be penetrant entrapment in surface irregularities might mask the
inspected. Excess dry developer may be removed after the indications of unacceptable discontinuities or otherwise inter-
development time by light tapping or light air blow off not fere with the effectiveness of the examination. For metals,
exceeding 5 psig. Minimum and maximum developer dwell unless otherwise specified, etching shall be performed when
times shall be 10 min to 4 h respectively. 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 (see Fig. 1) applies to Parts and Materials in Practice E165/E165M for general
precautions relative to surface preparation.)
the solvent-removable fluorescent penetrant examination
method.
NOTE 4—When agreed between purchaser and supplier, grit blasting
7.1.1 Temperature Limits—The temperature of the penetrant
without subsequent etching may be an acceptable cleaning method.
materials and the surface of the part to be processed should be
(Warning—Sand or shot blasting may possibly close indications and
extreme care should be used with grinding and machining operations.)
from 40 and 125 °F (4 and 52 °C). Where it is not practical to
NOTE 5—For structural or electronic ceramics, surface preparation by
comply with these temperature limitations, the procedure must
grinding, sand blasting and etching for penetrant examination is not
be qualified at the temperature of intended use as described in
recommended because of the potential for damage.
9.2.
7.1.3 Removal of Surface Contamination:
7.1.2 Surface Conditioning Prior to Penetrant Inspection—
Satisfactory results can usually be obtained on surfaces in the 7.1.3.1 Precleaning—The success of any penetrant exami-
as-welded, as-rolled, as-cast, or as-forged conditions or for nation procedure is greatly dependent upon the surface and
ceramics in the densified condition. When only loose surface discontinuity being free of any contaminant (solid or liquid)
residuals are present, these may be removed by wiping the
that might interfere with the penetrant process. All parts or
surface with clean lint-free cloths. However, precleaning of areas of parts to be inspected must be clean and dry before the
Incoming Parts
PRECLEAN Alkaline Steam Vapor Degrease Solvent Wash Acid Etch
(See 7.1.3.1)
Mechanical Paint Stripper Ultrasonic Detergent
DRY
(See 7.1.3.2)Dry
PENETRANT Apply
APPLICATION Solvent-
(See 7.1.4) Removable
Fluorescent
Penetrant
REMOVE EXCESS
PENETRANT Solvent
(See 7.1.5) Wipe-Off
DRY
(See 7.1.6)Dry
DEVELOP Nonaqueous Aqueous
(See 7.1.7) Wet Developer
DRY
(see 7.1.6) Dry
EXAMINE
(See 7.1.8) Examine
Mechanical
Water Rinse Detergent Wash
POST CLEAN
(See 7.1.10 and Prac-
tice E165/E165M, An-
nex on
Post Cleaning Dry
Vapor Degrease Solvent Soak Ultrasonic Clean
Outgoing Parts
FIG. 1 Solvent-Removable Fluorescent Penetrant Examination General Procedure Flowsheet
E1219 − 21
penetrant is applied. If only a section of a part, such as a weld prevent pools of penetrant on the part), while allowing for
including the heat-affected zone, is to be examined, remove all proper penetrant dwell time (see Table 1). The length of time
contaminants from the area being examined as defined by the
the penetrant must remain on the part to allow proper penetra-
contracting parties. “Clean” is intended to mean that the tion should be as recommended by the penetrant manufacturer.
surface must be free of any rust, scale, welding flux, spatter,
Table 1, however, provides a guide for selection of penetrant
grease, paint, oily films, dirt, etc., that might interfere with
dwell times for a variety of materials, forms, and types of
penetration. All of these contaminants can prevent the pen-
discontinuity. Unless otherwise specified, however, the dwell
etrant from entering discontinuities. (Warning—Residues
time shall not exceed the maximum recommended by the
from cleaning processes, such as strong alkalies, pickling
manufact
...

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: E1219 − 16 E1219 − 21
Standard Practice for
Fluorescent Liquid Penetrant Testing Using the Solvent-
Removable Process
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1219; 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 fluorescent 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 fluorescent penetrant examination 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 fluorescent 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 pointed out,
however, that indications must be interpreted or classified and then evaluated. For this purpose there must be a separate code or
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 document 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
E1219E1219 – 16. -10. DOI: 10.1520/E1219-16.10.1520/E1219-21.
For ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code applications, see related Test Method SE-1219 in Section II of that Code.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E1219 − 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
E2297 Guide for Use of UV-A and Visible Light Sources and Meters used in the Liquid Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Methods
E3022 Practice for Measurement of Emission Characteristics and Requirements for LED UV-A Lamps Used in Fluorescent
Penetrant and Magnetic Particle Testing
2.2 ASNT Documents:
Recommended Practice SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing
ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 Qualification and Certification of NDT Personnel
2.3 ISO Standard:
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 Department of Defense (DoD) Contracts—Unless otherwise specified, the issue 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—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.
NOTE 1—Throughout this practice, the term “blacklight” has been changed to “UV-A” to conform with the latest terminology in E1316. “Blacklight” can
mean a broad range of ultraviolet radiation; fluorescent penetrant inspection only uses the “UV-A” range.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 A liquid, fluorescent 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 and the surface is dried prior to the application of a dry, nonaqueous,
wet, or liquid film developer. If an aqueous developer is to be employed, the developer is applied prior to the drying step. The
developer draws the entrapped penetrant out of the discontinuity, staining the developer. The surface is then examined visually
under black light to determine presence or absence of indications. (Warning—Fluorescent penetrant examination shall not follow
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. 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 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., 1000 Wilson Blvd, Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928.
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a visible penetrant examination unless the procedure has been qualified in accordance with 9.2, because visible dyes may cause
deterioration or quenching of fluorescent dyes.)
NOTE 2—The developer may be omitted by agreement between purchaser and supplier.
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), type of discontinuities expected, etc.
5. 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, when a higher level of sensitivity than can be achieved using visible process is required. Surface roughness
may be a limiting factor. If so, an alternative process such as post-emulsified penetrant should be considered, when grinding or
machining is not practical.
6. Reagents and Materials
6.1 Fluorescent Solvent-Removable Liquid Penetrant Testing Materials, (see Note 3) consist of a family of applicable fluorescent
penetrants, solvent removers, as recommended by the manufacturer, and are classified as Type I Fluorescent, Method
C—Solvent-Removable. Intermixing of materials from various manufacturers is not recommended. (Warning—While approved
penetrant materials will not adversely affect common metallic materials, some plastics or rubbers may be swollen or stained by
certain penetrants.)
NOTE 3—Refer to 8.1 for special requirements for sulfur, halogen, and alkali metal content.
6.2 Fluorescent Solvent-Removable Penetrants, are designed so that excess surface penetrant can be removed by wiping with
clean, lint-free material, and repeating the operation until most traces of penetrant have 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 shall be taken to avoid the use of excess solvent. Flushing the surface with solvent to remove
the excess penetrant is prohibited.
6.3 Solvent Removers function by dissolving the penetrant, making it possible to wipe the surface clean and free of residual
fluorescent penetrant as described in 7.1.5.
6.4 Developers—Development of penetrant indications is the process of bringing the penetrant out of discontinuities through
blotting action of the applied developer, thus increasing the visibility of the penetrant indications. Nonaqueous, wet developers,
and aqueous developers are most commonly used in solvent-removable processes. Liquid film developers also are used for special
applications.
6.4.1 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 7.1.7.2).
6.4.2 Nonaqueous, Wet Developers are supplied as suspensions of developer particles in a nonaqueous 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 translucent or white coating on the surface when dried, and serve as a contrasting
background for fluorescent penetrants (see 7.1.7.3). (Warning—This type of developer is intended for application by spray only.)
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 may be stripped from the part
and retained for record purposes (see 7.1.7.4).
6.4.3 Dry Developer—Dry developer shall be applied in such a manner as to allow contact of all surfaces to be inspected. Excess
dry developer may be removed after the development time by light tapping or light air blow off not exceeding 5 psig. Minimum
and maximum developer dwell times shall be 10 min to 4 h respectively.
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7. Procedure
7.1 The following general procedure (see Fig. 1) applies to the solvent-removable fluorescent penetrant examination method.
7.1.1 Temperature Limits—The temperature of the penetrant materials and the surface of the part to be processed should be from
40 and 125°F125 °F (4 and 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 ceramics 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
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 4—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 5—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.
Incoming Parts
PRECLEAN Alkaline Steam Vapor Degrease Solvent Wash Acid Etch
(See 7.1.3.1)
Mechanical Paint Stripper Ultrasonic Detergent
DRY
(See 7.1.3.2) Dry
PENETRANT Apply
APPLICATION Solvent-
(See 7.1.4) Removable
Fluorescent
Penetrant
REMOVE EXCESS
PENETRANT Solvent
(See 7.1.5) Wipe-Off
DRY
(See 7.1.6) Dry
DEVELOP Nonaqueous
Aqueous
(See 7.1.7) Wet, Liquid Film
Developer
Developer
DEVELOP Nonaqueous Aqueous
(See 7.1.7) Wet Developer
DRY
(see 7.1.6) Dry
EXAMINE
(See 7.1.8) Examine
Mechanical
Water Rinse Detergent Wash
POST CLEAN
(See 7.1.10 and Prac-
tice E165/E165M, An-
nex on
Post Cleaning Dry
Vapor Degrease Solvent Soak Ultrasonic Clean
Outgoing Parts
FIG. 1 Solvent-Removable Fluorescent Penetrant Examination General Procedure Flowsheet
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7.1.3 Removal of Surface Contamination:
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 (solid or liquid) 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
zone, is to be examined, remove all contaminants from the area being examined as defined by the contracting parties. “Clean” is
intended to mean that the surface must be free of any rust, scale, welding flux, spatter, grease, paint, oily films, dirt, etc., that might
interfere with penetration. All of these contaminants can prevent the penetrant from entering discontinuities. (Warning—Residues
from cleaning processes, such as strong alkalies, pickling solutions and chromates in particular, may adversely react with the
penetrant and reduce its sensitivity and performance.)
7.1.3.2 Drying After Cleaning—It is essential that the surfaces be thoroughly dry after cleaning, since any liquid residue will
hinder the entrance of the penetrant. Drying
...