Q&A: Magnaflux ZL-56
What is ZL-56?
Q: What type of penetrant is ZL-56?
A: ZL-56 is a water-washable fluorescent penetrant, Type 1, with ultra-high sensitivity (Level 4). It uses Method A or Method C removal.
Q: What is meant by “ultra-high sensitivity”?
A: It means ZL-56 can detect very fine, surface-open defects on critical parts — for example micro-cracks, fine scratches, or small surface flaws — especially where very tight inspection criteria are needed.
Applications & What It’s Good For
Q: What surfaces or components is ZL-56 intended for?
A: ZL-56 is designed for non-porous, highly machined components, safety- or mission-critical parts, and smooth finish surfaces. It works well with aerospace alloys like aluminum, steel, nickel, and titanium.
Q: What kinds of defects can it reveal?
A: Finished surface cracks, scratches, and other surface-open flaws. It is not intended for detecting subsurface or internal defects.
Key Properties & Performance
Q: What specifications / standards does ZL-56 comply with?
A: ZL-56 is on the QPL SAE AMS 2644 Qualified Product List. It also complies with AMS 2644, ASME BPVC, ASTM E1417, ASTM E165, MIL-STD-2132, MIL-STD-271, Boeing BAC 5423 PSD 6-46 or 8-4, Boeing PS-21202, and NAVSEA T9074-AS-GIB-010/271.
Benefits & Limitations
Q: What are the advantages of using ZL-56?
A:
- Very bright, high-contrast indications under UV light, helping to find small/critical flaws.
- Ideal for critical part inspection where defects must be detected at the highest sensitivity.
- Well-suited for smooth surfaces and non-porous materials where background interference is low.
Q: What are potential drawbacks or what to watch out for?
A:
- High sensitivity can increase risk of “false positives” or picking up benign surface marks.
- Excess penetrant removal must be carefully controlled; over-washing may remove shallow defect indications.
- Health hazards: may irritate skin/eyes or cause inhalation issues, so PPE is required.
Safety, Handling, & Environmental
Q: What are the hazard classifications of ZL-56?
A:
- Acute toxicity (dermal and inhalation) — harmful in contact with skin or if inhaled.
- Skin irritation — Category 2.
- Serious eye damage — Category 1.
- May cause respiratory irritation.
Q: What PPE and safe handling practices are recommended?
A:
- Wear protective gloves and protective clothing.
- Use eye/face protection (goggles or face shield).
- Avoid breathing vapors, mist, or spray; ensure good ventilation.
- Wash hands and arms after handling; clean contaminated clothing before reuse.
Disposal & Environmental Info
Q: What are the environmental hazards or toxicity concerns?
A:
- May cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.
- Bioaccumulative or persistence data not fully established.
Q: How should spills and waste be handled?
A:
- Contain and absorb spills; avoid release to water systems.
- Dispose of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
