1.1 This test method covers a procedure for magnetic particle examination of steel forgings. The procedure will produce consistent results upon which acceptance standards can be based. This standard does not contain acceptance standards or recommended quality levels.

1.2 Only direct current or rectified alternating (full or half wave) current shall be used as the electric power source for any of the magnetizing methods. Alternating current is not permitted because its capability to detect subsurface discontinuities is very limited and therefore unsuitable.

Note 1—Guide E 709 may be utilized for magnetic particle examination in the field for machinery components originally manufactured from steel forgings.

1.3 The minimum requirements for magnetic particle examination shall conform to practice standards of Practice E 1444. If the requirements of this test method are in conflict with the requirements of Practice E 1444, the requirements of this test method shall prevail.

1.4 This specification and the applicable material specifications are expressed in both inch-pound units and SI units. However, unless the order specifies the applicable "M" specification designation [SI units], the material shall be furnished to inch-pound units.

1.5 The values stated in either inch-pound or SI units are to be regarded as standard. Within the text, the SI units are shown in brackets. The values stated in each system are not exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the specification.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.