Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): Protecting The Quality of Anchor Chains
The key role of anchor chains and mooring chains in marine engineering
In the field of marine engineering, anchor chains and mooring chains are crucial castings and the cornerstone of ensuring the safety and stability of ships and offshore platforms. The quality of anchor chains and mooring chains directly affects the performance, safety, stability and reliability of the entire marine system. Any quality defects may have far-reaching consequences, so they are an indispensable link in industrial production.
The anchor chain process is complicated and surface defect detection
The manufacturing process of anchor chains and mooring chains is relatively complicated, including cutting, heating, ring weaving, welding, packaging, shot peening and heat treatment. At each stage, there is a possibility of surface cracks. In addition, the raw materials used may also be the source of defects. If the metal material contains impurities or the composition is unevenly distributed, it will cause surface defects. For example, excessive sulfur and phosphorus content in molten iron will seriously reduce the plasticity and toughness of the metal and increase the probability of cracks. These defects are like hidden "time bombs" that may cause failures and safety accidents of ships or offshore platforms, resulting in significant economic losses and casualties.
Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): A "Weapon" for Surface Inspection of Anchor Chains
Magnetic particle testing (MT), also known as magnetic particle flaw inspection (MPI), is an efficient non-destructive testing (NDT) method for detecting the surface quality of anchor and mooring chains. Its working principle is based on the interaction between magnetic fields and ferromagnetic materials. By magnetizing the chain and applying ferromagnetic particles, magnetic particle testing can detect surface defects as small as 0.1 - 6 mm. The choice of magnetization method, such as DC method, center conductor method or coil method, depends on the shape, size and inspection requirements of the chain.
Working principle of magnetic particle testing
The process first magnetizes the anchor or mooring chain to generate a uniform magnetic field inside it. Then ferromagnetic particles, dried or suspended in a liquid, are applied to the surface. When defects such as cracks or gaps appear, the magnetic lines of force are distorted, forming a "leakage field" that attracts ferromagnetic particles. The aggregation of these particles forms a visible defect indication, allowing inspectors to easily identify surface problems. The sensitivity of magnetic particle testing is affected by factors such as magnetic particle size, magnetic suspension concentration and application method.
Magnetic Particle Testing: Advantages and Efficiency
Magnetic particle testing has several significant advantages in surface testing of anchor and mooring chains. It can identify surface and near-surface defects efficiently and accurately, and can even detect tiny defects that other methods may miss. In addition, magnetic particle testing is simple to operate, low-cost, and the results are intuitive. It does not damage the surface of the chain and can be reused after testing. These characteristics make magnetic particle testing the preferred method in the marine engineering industry.
Sionstar Marine: Magnetic particle testing is a must for chains
At Sionstar Marine, magnetic particle testing is the cornerstone of our product quality control process for anchor and mooring chains. With professional technical knowledge and rich practical experience, we ensure that we are meticulous in the magnetic particle testing process. Our inspectors receive continuous professional training and have mastered the knowledge and skills required to provide high-quality magnetic particle testing services. We are equipped with a range of magnetic particle testing equipment from fixed workshop equipment to handheld equipment to meet the inspection needs of different types of anchor chains. We are committed to technological innovation and service quality improvement to ensure that we are always at the forefront of the industry and provide customers with reliable and efficient magnetic particle testing services.