Water Washable Penetrants

Magnaflux Zyglo water washable penetrants offer excellent controlled washability across multiple sensitivity levels (Level 1-4) for comprehensive nondestructive testing (NDT) applications. These fluorescent penetrants detect open surface flaws including cracks, porosity, seams, laps, cold shuts, and laminations on castings, forgings, and extrusions. Key features include stable fluorescent indications under normal drying conditions and excellent performance over wide temperature ranges and dwell times. Available in QPL SAE AMS 2644 approved formulations, these Type 1, Method A penetrants provide reliable surface discontinuity detection for critical aerospace, manufacturing, and industrial inspection requirements.

Magnaflux Water Washable Penetrants - Types and Uses

ZL-15B - Level 1/2 water washable fluorescent penetrant for Type 1, Method A and Method C liquid penetrant testing, QPL SAE AMS 2644

ZL-150 - Level 2 water washable fluorescent penetrant for Type 1, Method A and Method C penetrant testing, listed on the QPL SAE AMS 2644 Qualified Products List.

ZL-19 - Level 1 water washable fluorescent penetrant for Type 1, Method A and Method C liquid penetrant testing, QPL SAE AMS 2644 approved

ZL-56 - Level 4 water washable fluorescent penetrant for Type 1, Method A and Method C liquid penetrant testing, QPL SAE AMS 2644

ZL-60D - Level 2 water washable fluorescent penetrant for Type 1, Method A and Method C penetrant testing, QPL SAE AMS 2644 and Pratt & Whitney approved

ZL-67 - Level 3 water washable fluorescent penetrant for Type 1, Method A and Method C penetrant testing, QPL SAE AMS 2644 and Pratt & Whitney approved

Key Uses and Applications

Method A Testing

Water washable penetrants are specifically designed for Method A liquid penetrant testing, which is the simplest removal method where excess penetrant is removed directly with water without requiring emulsifiers or solvents.

Sensitivity Levels

The water washable penetrants are available in different sensitivity levels:

  • Level 1/2: Lowest sensitivity, suitable for detecting larger discontinuities
  • Level 1: Intermediate sensitivity
  • Level 2: Medium sensitivity, most commonly used
  • Level 3: High sensitivity for critical applications
  • Level 4: Ultra-high sensitivity for aerospace and critical applications

Industry Applications

  • Aerospace: Products like ZL-67 and ZL-60D are Pratt & Whitney approved for critical aerospace applications
  • General Manufacturing: Various sensitivity levels accommodate different inspection requirements
  • Weld Inspection: Water washable penetrants are commonly used for inspecting welds and fabricated parts

Testing Standards Compliance

All water washable penetrants comply with:

  • SAE AMS 2644: Aerospace Material Specification for liquid penetrant inspection
  • ASTM E1417: Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Testing
  • Many products are QPL (Qualified Products List) approved

Advantages of Water Washable Penetrants

  • Simplified removal process using only water
  • No need for emulsifiers or solvents for excess penetrant removal
  • Reduced chemical handling requirements
  • More environmentally friendly, especially water-based formulations
  • Cost-effective for many applications
  • Suitable for both automated and manual inspection processes

Summary

The water washable penetrant line provides comprehensive coverage for Method A and Method C testing requirements across various sensitivity levels, making them suitable for a wide range of nondestructive testing applications.