Uses of a Magnaflux Power Pack

Author : Greg Falk | Published On : 10 Jun 2026

Testing of ferromagnetic surfaces is an essential part of non-destructive testing (NDT)  performed by skilled inspectors who may test the surfaces either on-site or off-site as required. Using a specific type of ultraviolet light is a necessity for such inspections, which cannot be ignored at any cost. Such inspectors usually source a high-quality NDT inspection light, which becomes an important piece of equipment during all types of NDT inspections.

It is interesting to know how such lights work to inspect the surfaces closely and accurately. Inspectors and manufacturers of the NDT inspection lights are happy to note the following:

  • UV-A Illumination- The inspection light emits its own ultraviolet light, popularly known as black light. The UV light is emitted at a peak wavelength of 365 nm.
  • Fluorescence- When the invisible UV light hits the penetrants or magnetic inks applied on the surface, it causes fluorescence, allowing the inspector to view the cracks, hairline fissures, and leaks accurately.

There are different types of testing procedures when it comes to an NDT inspection, which include the following: -

  • Fluorescent Penetrant Testing (FPI)- The defects on non-porous surfaces are tested by this method. The common surfaces that require FPI include aluminum and ceramics.

 

  • Magnetic Particle Testing (MPI)- This procedure is the only way to identify defects on ferromagnetic materials such as iron and steel or any of their alloys. Both the flaws on the surface and at the subsurface levels come to light during MPI.

Some of the specific features associated with such NDT inspection light include the following:

  • Strict Wavelength- The NDT lights are expected to be emitted within the range of 360–370 nm wavelength. This is essential to prevent other types of stray lights or incorrect wavelengths that may affect the inspection results.
  • Safety & Standards-The lights are designed to block out the hazardous UV-B and UV-C rays, and other lights. This confirms with the regulatory standards of the industries.
  • White Light Integration- A few of the handheld inspection lights also feature an integrated white light. This allows the inspector to switch focus between examining the fluorescent glow and reading the part serial numbers in the low light or in the dark.

True, the NDT lights may not be used in every instance or by all industries. Instead, the inspectors are engaged to perform an NDT procedure to identify the defects in the materials used by them for specialized purposes. The following industries find the NDT procedures to be indispensable for their safety and to ensure maintenance: -

  • Aerospace- NDT is used to ensure the accuracy of materials used in turbine blades, landing gear, and wing components.
  • Automotive- NDT is used to examine the engine blocks and braking system components.
  • Oil & Gas- For identifying stress cracks and corrosion of pipes.
  • Manufacturing- The inspection is used to check the weld integrity and structural steel

People engaged in Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) find the Magnaflux power pack to be an important tool to supply low voltage and high amperage electric currents to generate localized magnetic fields.