Since its origin in the late 19th century when a magnetic compass was used to detect defects in magnetized cannon barrels, the selection of the right magnetic particle inspection system could be challenging. With the implementation of magnetic particles in the 1920s, the means to locate discontinuities greatly improved.
This article will give you the criteria to use in choosing the right system for your inspection. First, the part has to have magnetic properties (ferromagnetic) to be tested by magnetic particle inspection.