Magnetic Particle Inspection

We, Constellation Marine Services LLC as independent ship and marine surveyors, get nominations from our principals to carry out Magnetic Particle testing. Recently we got a nomination from one of our clients to carry out Magnetic Particle testing onboard the semi-submersible to test the welded joints/weld bevel of sea fastening. Our Naval Architect/Marine Surveyor upon in receipt of instruction, arranged to attend an inspection onboard the subject vessel at Anchorage.

BACKGROUND

1- 3 no's of dumb barges were loaded onto the semi-submersible. Supports, brackets & stoppers were welded in order to arrest the sliding movements during the voyage.

2- Welding of sea fastening was performed by both repair company & vessel staff.

3- 25 % of the total weld area has inspected. Weld surface has been cleaned by the repair team in order to conduct the proper MPI test.

PURPOSE OF MPI TESTING

Magnetic particle testing is a Non-destructive testing performed on the welded joints to find out the linear & rounded defects in the welded surface.

EQUIPMENT USED & PERSONAL QUALIFICATION:

1- Constellation inspector has conducted Wet particle testing so following equipmen's were used.

* Permanent magnetic York with adjustable pole.

* Aerosol spray (contrast & black).

2- The attended inspector was qualified with ASNT LEVEL II.

INSPECTION ONBOARD:

1- Constellation inspector performed the MPI test in the presence of Superintendent & MWS.

2- Welded surface has been cleaned before conducting MPI.

3- Concerns during testing were rectified by the repair team at the same time.

4- MPI testing was performed as per standard AWS D1.1.

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA & REFERENCES:

1- AWS D1.1,

2- ASME B31.1,

3- ASME CODE SECTION I, V

4- ASTM E709.

Conclusion: Inspection was carried out in accordance with AWS D1.1 and inspected weld joints were found satisfactory at the time of inspection.