Which is the first step in performing a dye penetrant inspection?

Dye penetrant inspection is a non-destructive testing method used to identify surface defects in materials. The first step in this process is to thoroughly clean the metal surface. This is crucial because any contaminants such as dirt, grease, or oxidation can obscure the defects that the dye penetrant is meant to reveal.

Cleaning the surface ensures that the dye can properly penetrate any cracks or openings, making it possible to accurately identify flaws. If the surface is not adequately cleaned, the penetrant may not be able to enter the defects, resulting in missed indications and unreliable test results.

Once the surface is clean, the other steps in the process, such as applying the penetrant and then the developer, can be performed effectively, leading to a successful and reliable inspection.