PT Level-I Questions

B. vapor degreasing.
1. Which one of the following conditions will
C. washing with water.
affect the rate and the extent a liquid penetrant will
D. all of the above. .
enter cracks, fissures, and other small openings?
A. The hardness of the specimen being tested 9. The most common type of contaminant in
B. The surface condition of the specimen being tested fluorescent penetrant fluid is:
C. The color of the penetrant A. metal filings.
D. The conductivity of the specimen being tested B. oil.
C. detergents (from cleaning).
2. Which of the following is a commonly used
D. water.
classification for penetrant?
A. Post-emulsifiable penetrant 10. Black light with a proper functioning filter
B. Nonferrous penetrant in place used for fluorescent penetrant inspection
C. Chemical etch penetrant can cause permanent damage to:
D. Nonaqueous penetrant A. human tissues.
B. human eyes.
3. A generally accepted method for removing
C. human blood cells.
excess nonwater-washable penetrant is:
D. none of the above.
A. repeatedly dipping the test specimen in a cleaner.
B. soaking the test specimen in hot detergent water. 11. Which of the following is not a basic
C. blowing the excess penetrant off the surface of the inspection principle that applies to all penetrant
part with compressed air. methods?
D. wiping and cautiously cleaning the test specimen A. The penetrant must enter the discontinuity in
with a cleaner-dampened cloth. order to form an indication.
B. Indications glow when illuminated with a black
4. Which of the following parts could not be
light.
tested by the liquid penetrant method?
C. A longer penetration time is required for smaller
A. An iron casting discontinuities.
B. An aluminum forging D. If the penetrant is washed out of the discontinuity,
C. A part made from a porous material an indication will not be formed by that
D. A part made from a non-porous material discontinuity.
5. Which of the following discontinuities can be 12. Subsurface discontinuiteis can be best
found by the penetrant test method? detected by:
A. A surface crack A. the post-emulsification penetrant method.
B. A subsurface crack B. the visible dye penetrant method.
C. An internal inclusion C. the fluorescent, water-washable penetrant method.
D. None of the above D. none of the above will detect subsurface
6. Which of the following is generally the more discontinuities.
acceptable method for cleaning parts prior to 13. Visible penetrant may be applied by:
penetrant testing?
A. brushing.
A. Sand blasting B. spraying.
B. Wire brushing C. dipping.
C. Grinding D. all of the above.
D. Vapor degreasing
14. The first step in conducting a liquid
7. Which of the following is not a generally penetrant test on a surface that has been painted
accepted method for cleaning parts prior to is to:
penetrant testing?
A. carefully apply the penetrant over the surface.
A. Vapor degreasing B. completely remove the paint.
B. Liquid solvent C. thoroughly wash the surface with a detergent.
C. Wire brushing D. wire brush the surface to roughen the smooth
D. Alkaline cleaner surface coating of paint.
8. Cutting oils may be effectively removed from 15. When using a post-emulsification
parts before penetrant testing by: penetrant, it is necessary to apply the emulsifier:
A. pre-heating.
 PT Level-I Questions
A. before applying the penetrant. A. This method can accurately measure the depth of
B. after the water wash operation. a crack or discontinuity.
C. after the dwell time has elapsed. B. This method can be used for on-site testing of
D. after the development time has elapsed. large parts.
C. This method can be used to find shallow surface
16. When conducting a water-washable liquid
discontinuities.
penetrant test, the wet developer is applied:
D. This method can be made more or less sensitive
A. immediately after the penetrant has been applied. by using different penetrant materials?
B. immediately before the penetrant is applied.
C. after removal of the penetrant. 23. Which of the following discontinuities is
D. after removal of the emulsifier. most likely to be missed due to improper rinse
techniques?
17. The term used to describe the action of a
A. Forging lap
particular developer in soaking up the penetrant in a
B. Deep pitting
discontinuity, so as to cause the maximum bleed-out
C. Shallow and broad discontinuities
of the liquid penetrant for increased contrast and
D. The rinse technique will not affect the detection of
sensitivity, is known as:
discontinuities.
A. blotting.
B. capillary action. 24. When conducting a fluorescent penetrant
C. concentration. test, a commonly used technique for assuring that
D. attraction. the excess penetrant has been removed prior to
the application of a developer is to:
18. A black light lamp should not be used with a
A. blow compressed air over the surface.
cracked filter or without the filter in place because of
B. chemically etch the surface.
the harmful effects to the human eyes caused by the
C. blot the surface with absorbent paper.
lamp’s emission of:
D. scan the surface with a black light.
A. black light.
B. ultraviolet light. 25. Which of the following surface conditions
C. infrared light. could have a detrimental effect on a liquid
D. none of the above. penetrant test?
A. A wet surface
19. The term used to define the period of time in
B. A rough weld
which the test part is covered with penetrant is:
C. An oily surface
A. waiting time. D. All of the above could have a detrimental effect.
B. soak time (drain time).
C. penetration time (dwell time). 26. Liquid penetrant testing is capable of
D. bleed-in-time. detecting:
A. intergranular discontinuities.
20. Usually, the most desirable method of
B. discontinuities open to the surface.
removing excess water-washable penetrant after the
C. subsurface discontinuities.
dwell time is by:
D. all of the above.
A. a low pressure coarse water spray.
B. water and brush. 27. Black light equipment is required when
C. a solid stream of water. penetrant testing by the:
D. water and clean rags. A. fluorescent penetrant method.
B. visible dye penetrant method.
21. When conducting a liquid penetrant test using
C. non-fluorescent penetrant method.
a post-emulsifiable visiable dye penetrant, the
D. all of the above.
generally accepted method for applying the wet
developer is by: 28. The term used to define the tendency of
A. brushing. certain liquids to penetrate into small openings
B. swabbing. such as cracks or fissures is:
C. dipping. A. saturation.
D. spraying. B. capillary action.
C. blotting.
22. Which of the following is not a characteristic
D. wetting agent.
that applies to liquid penetrant testing?
 PT Level-I Questions
29. Excess penetrant (all penetrant except that
which is in discontinuities) is removed from the
specimen:
A. after the required penetrant dwell time has elapsed.
B. before the application of an emulsifier if post-
emulsifier penetrant is used.
C. by means of a steam cleaner.
D. only when water-washable penetrants are used.
30. When using a post-emulisfiable penetrant, the
emulsifier time should be:
A. as long as the penetrant dwell time.
B. One-half the penetrant dwell time.
C. the same as the developer time.
D. only as long as necessary to effect removal of
interfering background.
31. When an inspector is working in a darkened
area, he should become adjusted to the dark before
inspecting. The generally accepted time period for
becoming accustomed to the dark is:
A. one minute.
B. five to ten minutes.
C. ten to fifteen minutes.
D. No waiting period is necessary.
32. When applying penetrant by dipping, heating
the penetrant prior to dipping:
A. will increase the sensitivity of the test.
B. will increase the capillary action of the penetrant.
C. will increase the stability of the penetrant.
D. is not generally recommended.
33. A penetrant inspection cannot find:
A. surface porosity.
B. surface cracks.
C. an internal cavity.
D. a surface forging lap.
34. Which of the following materials cannot be
tested by the usual liquid penetrant tests?
A. Unglazed porous ceramic
B. Titanium
C. High alloy steel
D. Cast iron
35. Liquid penetrant testing can be used to detect:
A. discontinuities 1/16” below the surface.
B. internal discontinuities.
C. discontinuities open to the surface.
D. all discontinuities.
36. Which of the following are commonly accepted
methods for applying penetrant”
A. Dipping the part in penetrant (dipping)
B. Pouring the penetrant over the test specimen
(flowing)
C. Spraying the penetrant on the test specimen
(spraying)
D. All of the above
37. Which of the following is not a requirement
for a cleaning solvent used to clean the surface of
a test specimen prior to penetrant testing?
A. The cleaner must be capable of dissolving oils and
greases commonly found on the surface.
B. The cleaner must not be flammable.
C. The cleaner must be free of contaminents.
D. The cleaner must leave a minimal residue on the
surface.
38. Which of the statements below best states
the danger of sandblasting (without subsequent
chemical etching) for cleaning surfaces to be
penetrant tested?
A. The discontinuities may be peened over and
closed.
B. Oil contaminants might be sealed in the
discontinuities.
C. The sand used in the sandblasting operation may
be forced into the discontinuity.
D. The sandblasting operation may introduce
discontinuities.
39. The penetrant applied to the surface of a
test specimen:
A. seeps into discontinuities.
B. is absorbed by discontinuities.
C. is drawn into discontinuities by capillary action.
D. is drawn into discontinuities by gravity.
40. Which of the following statements concerning
liquid penetrant testing is correct?
A. Fluorescent penetrants will produce red against
white discontinuity indications.
B. Nonfluorescent penetrants require the use of
black lights.
C. Fluorescent indications will be seen when
exposed to black light.
D. Nonfluorescent discontinuities glow in the dark
for easy viewing and interpretation.
41. When removing excess penetrant from the
surface of a test specimen:
A. the penetrant removal operation must not remove
the penetrant from discontinuities.
B. sufficient excess penetrant must be removed to
eliminate an interfering background.
C. the use of a solvent-dampened cloth is a common
method of penetrant removal.
D. all of the above.
 PT Level-I Questions
42. The most widely accepted method for removing 48. Which of the following is the most commonly
excessive water-washable penetrant from the surface used method for removing non-water-washable
of a test specimen is: visible dye penetrant from the surface of a test
A. by means of a wet rag. specimen?
B. by means of a water spray rinse. A. Dipping in a solvent
C. by washing the part directly under water running B. Spraying
from a tap. C. Hand wiping
D. by immersing the part in water. D. Blowing
43. The inspection of a test specimen for 49. Which of the following is an acceptable
discontinuities should take place: method for applying wet developers?
A. immediately after the developer has been applied. A. Application with a soft brush
B. anytime after the developer has been applied. B. Application with a hand powder bulb
C. after the developer has been on the test specimen for C. Rubbing with a saturated cloth
the proper development time.
D. Spraying or dipping
D. immediately after the rinse operation.
44. Which of the following is an advantage of visible 50. When using solvent-removable penetrants,
dye penetrants over fluorescent penetrants? the excess penetrant may be removed by:
A. Visible dye penetrants do not require black light. A. dipping the part in solvent.
B. Visible dye penetrants are more sensitive than B. spraying the part with water and a solvent.
fluorescent penetrants. C. rubbing the part with a wet rag.
C. Visible dye penetrants are s:lperior in penetrating D. wiping the part with a rag or cloth that has been
characteristics. dampened with solvent.
D. Visible dye penetrants are not toxic while 51. When conducting a penetrant test, which of
fluorescent penetrants are toxic. the following health precautions is not applicable?
45. The terms “dry,” “aqueous wet,” and A. Keep the work area clean.
“nonaqueous wet” are used to describe three B. Wash any penetrant from skin with soap and
different types of: water as soon as possible.
A. emulsifiers. C. Keep penetrant off clothes.
B. cleaners. D. Wash any excess penetrant from skin using
C. developers. gasoline.
D. penetrants. 52. Which of the following surface contaminants
46. Wllich of the following is a true statement cannot be removed by cleaning parts in a vapor
concerning the application of a standard temperature degreaser?
penetrant to a test specimen while the specimen is A. Grease
hot? B. Rust
A. The penetrant is likely to become entrapped in the C. Heavy oil
specimen as it cools. D. Soluble oil
B. The test will be less sensitive than when the 53. Before conducting a liquid penetrant test, it
penetrant is applied on a cool specimen. is important to ensure the surface of the part is
C. There is no difference in applying penetrant to a free of:
heated specimen and a cool specimen.
A. oil or grease.
D. The penetrant may be heated to the point where
some of the penetrant’s constituents are driven off, B. acids or chromates.
causing volatile fumes and leaving a residue on the C. traces of water.
D. all of the above.
surface.
47. Which of the following is not a generally 54. When performing a penetrant test using a
c:.ccepted method for applying penetrants? post-emulsification penetrant which of the
following is the most critical with respect to
A. Rubbing the penetrant over the surface proper timing?
B. Brushing the penetrant on the part
C. Spraying the penetrant on the part A. Dwell time
B. Developing time
D. Dipping the part in the penetrant.
C. Emulsification time
 PT Level-I Questions
D. Drying time
55. Which of the following is the most likely result
of an excessive emulsification time when penetrant
testing with post-emulsification penetrants?
A. A large number of non-relevant indications could
appear on the part.
B. Shallow discontinuity indications could be lost.
C. Excess penetrant could remain after the wash
operation.
D. The emulsifier could harden, preventing the
developer from blotting the penetrant in
discontinuities.
56. Which of the following is not a function of
developers used in penetrant testing?
A. To blot penetrant from discontinuities
B. To aid in providing an image of a discontinuity
C. To add fluorescence to penetrants
D. To help control bleedout
57. Which of the following is the primary limitation
of liquid penetrant testing?
A. Penetrant testing cannot be used on ferromagnetic
material.
B. Penetrant testing cannot locate shallow surface
discontinuities.
C. Penetrant testing cannot be used on non-metallic
surfaces.
D. Penetrant testing cannot lOCate subsurface
discontinuities.
58. In penetrant testing, the time period from
developer application to inspections is often refer.ed
to as:
A. emulsification time.
B. development time.
C. dwell time.
D. none of the above.
59. Liquid penetrant testing is a nondestructive test
which can be used for:
A. locating and evaluating all types of discontinuities in
a test specimen.
B. locating and determining the length, width, and
depth of discontinuities in a test specimen.
C. determining the tensile strength of a test specimen.
D. locating discontinuities open to the surface.
60. When conducting a penetrant test using
fluorescent penetrant, black light equipment is
required to:
A. cause the penetrant to fluoresce.
B. aid the normal capillary action characteristics of a
penetrant.
C. neutralize excess penetrant on the surface.
D. decrease the surface tension of the part.
61. The method used to remove excess visible
dye penetrant from a test specimen is primarily
determined by the:
A. surface roughness of the specimen.
B. type of material being tested.
C. length of penetration time.
D. all of the above.
62. Which of the following is a type of developer
used in penetrant inspection?
A. Dry
B. Aqueous particulate
C. Non-aqueous particulate
D. Water soluble
E. All ofthe above
63. When penetrant testing parts, the
temperature of the parts should be near room
temperature. If the part is at a low temperature
when tested:
A. the penetrant may become viscous.
B. the penetrant may evaporate very rapidly.
C. the color intensity of the penetrant will decrease.
D. the penetrant will tend to adhere to the surface of
the part.
64. If a part to be penetrant tested is first heated
to a high temperature:
A. the penetrant may become viscous.
B. the penetrant may “flash” or evaporate very
rapidly.
C. the penetrant may lose some of its color
brilliance.
D. the penetrant will better show discontinuities.
65. Penetrants may be classified or subdivided
by the method used to remove excess penetrant.
Which of the following is a proper classification in
accordance with this statement?
A. Non-solvent-removable
B. Vapor degreased
C. Brush removable
D. Water washable
66. The problem with retesting a test specimen
which has been previously tested using liquid
penetrant is that:
A. the penetrant may form beads on the surface.
B. the dried penetarnt residue left in discontinuities
may not readily dissolve and the retest may be
misleading.
C. the penetrant will lose a great deal of its color
brilliance.
D. None of the above are correct statements.
67. Which of the following conditions will
decrease the life of a black light bulb?
 PT Level-I Questions
A. Line voltage fluctuations
B. Dust on the face of the bulb
C. Changes in room temperature
D. All of the above
68. When a penetrant is applied to a part by
submerging the part in a penetrant bath:
A. the part must remain in the penetrant bath during the
entire penetration time.
B. the part must remain in the penetrant bath for at
least one-half the penetration time.
C. the part must remain in the penetrant bath only long
enough to ensure the surface is covered with
penetrant.
D. the part must not remain in the penetrant bath for a
period in excess of five minutes.
69. Which of the following statements do not apply
to developers used during penetrant testing?
A. Developers are normally higWy fluorescent.
B. Developers often furnish a contrasting background
during inspection.
C. Developers absorb or blot the penetrant that remains
in discontinuities after the rinse operation has been
completed.
D. Developers may be either wet or dry.
70. Which of the following statements is true?
A. Sandblasting is a generally accepted method for
cleaning a surface that is to be penetrant tested.
B. Parts should be heated prior to the application
of a penetrant. . be reproduced as needed.
C. If the dryer is too high, the heat may degrade
the effectiveness of the penetrant.
D. Development time should be at least twice the
penetration time.
71. When using a wet developer:
A. a thick layer of developer is better than a thin layer
for showing very fine cracks.
B. compressed air should be used to remove excess
developer.
C. a black developer will show better contrast than will
a white developer.
D. Ii thin layer of developer is better than a thick layer
for showing very fine cracks.
72. Which of the following statements is not true?
A. Sandblasting is not a recommended method for
preparing for a penetrant test.
B. It is not necessary to remove a film of oil from a
part prior to penetrant testing because the penetrant
is basically an oil.
C. Vapor degreasing is a very good method for
removing oil from the surface of the part to be
penetrant tested.
D. A voltage regulator should be used with a black
light if the line voltage fluctuates.
73. A red against white background
discontinuity image is most likely to be seen when:
A. dry developers are used.
B. visible dye penetrants are used.
C. fluorescent post-emulisfication penetrants are
used.
D. wet developers are used.
74. Which of the following can be removed from
the surface of a test specimen by vapor
degreasing?
A. Oil
B. Paint
C. Phosphate coatings
D. Oxides
75. The purpose for using a developer on a test
specimen is to:
A. promote penetration of the penetrant.
B. absorb emulsifier residues.
C. absorb penetrant from discontinuities and to
provide a contrasting background.
D. contribute to drying the surface for better
observation.
76. Which one of the following statements is an
incorrect use of crack panels (blocks)?
A. To establish a standard size of crack which can
B. To determine the relative sensitivities of two
different penetrants.
C. To determine if a penetrant has lost or has
reduced brilliance on fluorescent penetrants
because of contamination.
D. To determine the degree or method of cleaning
necessary to remove penetrant on the surface
without removing it from the cracks.
77. Which of the following is generally accepted
as the most important precaution when using
water washable penetrants?
A. Be sure that the part is washed thoroughly during
the rinse operation.
B. Be sure the recommended dwell time is not
exceeded.
C. Avoid over-rinsing the part.
D. Avoid over-application of emulsifier.
78. Which of the following is generally accepted
as the most important precaution when using
solvent-removable penetrants?
A. Do not apply an excessive amount of emulsifier.
B. Do not apply an excessive amount of solvent.
C. Do not use an insufficient rinse pressure.
 PT Level-I Questions
D. Be sure to use a black light to determine if the
excess penetrant has been rinsed away.
79. Insufficient rinsing of fluorescent penetrants
will result in:
A. subsequent corrosion of the surface.
B. difficulty in the application of developer.
C. excessive bleed-out.
D. excessive background fluorescence.
80. Which of the following is not a safety precaution
that applies when handling penetrant materials?
A. Prolonged contact of penetrant with skin should be
avoided because the oil or solvent base may cause
skin irritation.
B. Excessive amounts of developer powders should not
be inhaled.
C. Air-line respirators and complete protective clothing
must be worn at all times.
D. Because the solvents used with the visible penetrant
process are flammable, this material should be kept
away from open flames.
81. How long must a part be kept wet with
penetrant before the removal process is started?
A. It varies depending on the type of penetrant used,
the type of material to be tested, the sensitivity
desired, and the type of discontinuities to be
detected.
B. Since the penetrant will penetrate a discontinuity of
any size in a matter of seconds, the removal process
should start as soon as possible after the penetrant
has been applied.
C. 3 minutes.
D. 10 minutes.
82. Which of the following factors will affect
resolution of penetrant indications?
A. The sensitivity of the penetrant materials used.
B. The surface condition of the part.
C. The temperature of the part and / or penetrant.
D. All of the above.
83. A serious loss of water in a wet developer mix or
an excessive over-concentration of developer powder
can cause:
A. a loss of fluorescence during the inspection
operation.
B. non-relevant indications.
C. cracking of the developer coating during the drying
operation.
D. none of the above.
84. Why is it not advisable to look directly into a
black light?
A. It will cause permanent damage to the eyes.
B. It will possibly cloud the vision of the person
looking into the light for a short period of time.
C. It will cause temporary total blindness.
D. None of the above.
85. When using dry developer, the drying
operation is performed:
A. immediately after removal of excess penetrant.
B. before the inspection step.
C. thorougWy.
D. all of the above.
86. The failure to completely remove acid
materials from a part before fluorescent penetrant
is applied will result in:
A. a decrease in the fluorescence of the penetrant.
B. a need to double the penetrating time.
C. a permanent stain on the part.
D. all of the above.
87. Penetrant is applied to a part by dipping.
The part is then placed on a rack while the
penetrant seeps into discontinuities. If the
penetration time is too long, it will be difficult to
rinse the penetrant from the part. If this happens,
the normal rinsing properties can be restored by:
A. chilling the part to a temperature of 40°F.
B. heating the part to a temperature of 130°F.
C. redipping the part.
D. applying a wet developer before attempting to
rinse the part.
88. When drying parts during a penetrant test,
A. the parts are normally dried at room temperature.
B. the parts are normally dried by a circulating hot-
air dryer.
C. the parts should be dried in an oven set at a
temperature of 500°F.
D. the parts should be dried by cool forced air.
89. The contamination of a water-washable
penetrant with an excessive amount of water will:
A. reduce the penetrating quality of the penetrant.
B. adversely affect the washability of the penetrant.
C. both a and b are correct answers.
D. neither a nor b are correct answers.
90. Which of the following penetrant methods
does not normally require a source of electricity to
properly conduct a test?
A. Water-washable fluorescent penetrant method.
B. Post-emulsification fluorescent penetrant
method.
C. Visible dye penetrant method.
D. None of the above require a source of electricity.
91. When using a fluorescent penetrant, the
actual inspection must be performed:
 PT Level-I Questions
A. in a brightly lighted room.
B. with the part at a temperature between 125°F and
175°F.
C. immediately after the developer has been applied.
D. in a darkened area under a black light.
92. Which of the following penetrants can be used
when inspection must take place under ordinary
lighting conditions?
A. Visible dye penetrant
B. Water-washable fluorescent penetrant
C. Post-emulsification fluorescent penetrant
D. Any of the above
93. On which of the following materials would a
liquid penetrant test method not be effective?
A. Aluminum
B. Unglazed ceramics
C. Glass
D. Magnesium
94. Which of the following is not an advantage of
the liquid penetrant test method?
A. The liquid penetrant test method is adaptable to
production inspection of small parts.
B. Liquid penetrant testing can locate fine cracks.
C. The liquid penetrant test method is a relatively
simple test method.
D. The liquid penetrant test method is effective at any
temperature.
95. A good penetrant must do all of the following,
except:
A. be able to readily penetrate very fine openings.
B. evaporate very rapidly.
C. be able to remain in relatively coarse openings.
D. be easily removed from the surface after testing.
96. Which of the following is not a property of a
developer used in liquid penetrant dye testing?
A. The material must be absorbent.
B. The material must form a thin and uniform coating
over a surface.
C. The material must be fluorescent if used with
fluorescent penetrants.
D. The material must not contain ingredients harmful
or toxic to the operator.
97. Developers, improperly used:
A. may obscure indications.
B. may be difficult to remove.
C. may become contaminated.
D. all ofthe above.
98. Color-contrast penetrants are commercially
available in which of the following variations?
A. Normal solvent clean type
B. Water-wash type
C. Post-emulsification type
D. All ofthe above
99. Which of the following could be a source of
false indications on a test specimen?
A. Penetrant on the test table.
B. Penetrant on the hands of the inspector.
C. Contamination of dry or wet developer with
penetrant.
D. All of the above.
100. Cleaning of the part prior to penetrant
inspection is:
A. not required.
B. important because if the part is not clean. the
developer cannot be improperly applied.
C. essential because surface contaminants may
prevent penetrant from gaining access to
discontinuities.
D. required to eliminate possibility of showing non-
relevant indications.
101. When using fluorescent water-washable
penetrant, adequate rinsing of the part is assured
by:
A. timing of rinse cyle.
B. scrubbing of part surface.
C. rinsing under black light.
D. using high pressure air with water.
102. A part processed by visible dye penetrant
inspection should not normally be reprocessed by
fluorescent penetrant because;
A. developer may remain on the surface causing
background.
B. most visible dyes kill fluorescence.
C. penetrants are not compatible.
D. interpretation will be difficult.
103. A suitable filter must be used at all times
over a black light bulb because:
A. too much white light will be present if the filter
is not in place.
B. the human eye may be damaged without it.
C. the filter filters out undesired wave lengths.
D. all of the above.
104. A good commercial penetrant should have a:
A. low flash point
B. high flash point.
C. medium flash point.
D. flash point is not a factor to be considered.
105. A material which, applied over the film of
the penetrant on the surface of a part, mixes with
the penetrant, and enables it to be washed off the
surface is:
 PT Level-I Questions
A. an emulsifier 113. What is the most universally used black
B. a penetrant. light?
C. a developer. A. Incandescent lamps
D. an isomer. B. Metallic carbon arcs
106. The time allowed for the penetrant to enter C. Tubular “BL” fluorescent lamps
discontinuities which may be present is the: D. Enclosed mercury-vapor arc lamps
A. emulsification time. 114. Which of the following processes would be
B. application time. most sensitive to detecting very fine defects?
C. penetration time. A. Oil-and-Whiting process
D. drain time. B. Water-washable fluorescent process
107. Which of the following penetrant systems is C. Post-€mulsification process
generally considered least sensitive? . D. Water-emulsifiable visible dye penetrant process
A. Water-washable - visible dye. 115. Which of the following methods should not
B. Solvent removable - visible dye. be used to apply emulsifer when using the post-
C. Water-washable - fluorescent dye. emulsification fluorescent process?
D. Post-emulsification - visible dye. A. Dipping the part in the emulsifier
108. In penetrant examinations. the phase of the B. Spraying the part with emulsifier
process requiring the greatest skill and most C. Pouring emulsifier over the part
experience of the operator is: D. Brushing emulsifier on the part
A. precleaning. 116. Which of the following would be the most
B. establishing the emulsification time. desirable center wavelength for the output of the
C. interpretation of results. light source used in fluorescent processes?
D. penetrant removal. A. 3200 A (320 nm)
109. The best choice of a developer for use on a very B. 3650 A (365 nm)
smooth surface when using a fluorescent penetrant C. 5200 A (520 nm)
would be: D. 5650 A (565 nm)
A. dry - fluffy. 117. Bleed-out of penetrant from a cold shut is an
B. dry - regular. example of a:
C. wet. A. false indication.
D. None of the above. B. non-relevant indication.
110. The purpose of an emulsifier is to: C. true indication.
D. none of the above.
A. combine with the penetrant to make the resultant
mixture removable by a water rinse. 118. Which of the following actions is likely to
B. assist the blotting action of the developer. result in a loss of sensitivity in the liquid penetrant
C. increase the penetration of the penetrant into fine examination?
discontinuities. A. Pre-cleaning test specimen with a vapor
D. eliminate false indications. degreaser.
111. Developer assists in the detection of liquid B. Applying penetrant by immersion rather than
penetrant indications by: spraying.
C. Reprocessing a specimen which has already been
A. providing a clean surface.
examined by liquid penetrant examination
B. providing a contrasting background.
method.
C. providing a dry surface.
D. Using a post-emulsifiable penetrant rather than a
D. emulsifying the penetrant.
solvent removable penetrant.
112. Which of the following types of discontinuities
119. Liquid penetrants become sluggish and lose
would not be detectable by liquid penetrant
sensitivity at temperatures:
examination?
A. above 100°F.
A. Forging lap
B. between 50°F and 100°F.
B. Seam
C. below 50°F.
C. Surface crack
D. below 70°F.
D. Subsurface porosity
 PT Level-I Questions
120. Why is it possible to flush a surface with a
coarse water spray to which a water-washable
penetrant was applied, remove the excessive
penetrant, and not remove the penetrant which is in
the defects?
A. The liquid will not wash the penetrant from the
defects, because the penetrant has to be drawn out
by the developer.
B. The nature of a water-washable penetrant is such
that water will not dissolve the penetrant. It has
to push the penetrant off the surface, which is
why a spray is used.
C. The water droplets are relatively large and will
not enter most defect openings.
D. A water spray should not be used. The penetrant
should be removed by a cloth dampened with
water.

Level-I Answers
1. B 19. C 37. B 55. B 73. B 91. D 109. C
2. A 20. A 38. A 56. C 74. A 92. A 110. A
3. D 21. D 39. C 57. D 75. C 93. B 111. B
4. C 22. A 40. C 58. B 76. A 94. D 112. D
5. A 23. C 41. D 59. D 77. C 95. B 113. D
6. D 24. D 42. B 60. A 78. B 96. C 114. C
7. C 25. D 43. C 61. A 79. D 97. D 115. D
8. B 26. B 44. A 62. E 80. C 98. D 116. B
9. D 27. A 45. C 63. A 81. A 99. D 117. C
10. D 28. B 46. D 64. B 82. D 100. C 118. C
11. B 29. A 47. A 65. D 83. C 101. C 119. C
12. D 30. D 48. C 66. B 84. B 102. B 120. C
13. D 31. B 49. D 67. A 85. D 103. D
14. B 32. D 50. D 68. C 86. A 104. B
15. C 33. C 51. D 69. A 87. C 105. A
16. C 34. A 52. B 70. C 88. B 106. C
17. A 35. C 53. D 71. D 89. C 107. A
18. B 36. D 54. C 72. B 90. C 108. C
 PT Level II Questions
1. Which of the following physical properties, more than any other, determines what makes a material a
good penetrant?
A. Viscosity
B. Surface tension
C. Wetting ability
D. No one single property determines if a material will or will not be a good penetrant.
2. The speed with which a penetrant penetrates a surface flaw is influenced to the greatest extent by which
of the following properties?
A. Density
B. Surface tension and wetting ability
C. Viscosity
D. Relative weight
3. Which of the statements below concerning the operation of the black light bulbs of the mercury arc type
is Not true?
A. It takes about 5 minutes for the bulb to warm up to its full output when first turned on.
B. The lamp may go out if the line voltage drops below 90 volts.
C. Line voltage variations above 120 volts will have little or no effect on the bulb.
D. If for any reason the arc is extinguished, the bulb will not immediately respond if the lamp is turned on
right after it has been turned off.
4. Which of the items listed below is Not an advantage of the liquid penetrant test method?
A. The method can find all types of discontinuities.
B. The method is simple in principle and relatively easy to understand.
C. The method is essentially simple in application.
D. There are few limitations on the size and shape of the article that can be treated by this method.
5. Which of the statements below apply to the liquid penetrant method of testing?
A. The penetrant test method is less flexible than the eddy current test method.
B. The penetrant test method is less reliable than the magnetic particle method for finding surface defects in
ferromagnetic materials.
C. The penetrant test method will not detect fatigue cracks.
D. The penetrant test method is more reliable than radiographic testing when attempting to detect minute
surface discontinuities.
6. Which of the following types of discontinuities will Not be detected by the liquid penetrant test method?
A. Surface laminations
B. Internal forging bursts
C. Surface cracks
D. Surface laps
7. Which of the following discontinuities could be classified as a primary processing discontinuity often
found in cast material?
A. Fatigue crack
B. Stress-corrosion crack
C. Porosity
D. Lack of penetration
8. Which of the following discontinuities could be classified as a finishing processing discontinuity?
A. Fatigue crack
B. Stress-corrosion crack
C. Lamination
D. Heat-treat crack
9. Which of the following discontinuities could be classified as a service induced discontinuity?
A. Fatigue crack
 PT Level II Questions
B. Porosity
C. Machining tear
D. Lap
10. Which of the test part characteristics listed below are normally considered before the specific liquid
penetrant test method is selected?
A. The kind and size of discontinuities most likely to occur.
B. The intended application for the part.
C. The surface finish of the part.
D. All of the above.
11. Aluminum alloy test specimens that have been tested by the liquid penetrant method should be
thoroughly cleaned after testing because:
A. the acid in the penetrant may cause severe corrosion.
B. the alkaline content of wet developers and most emulsifiers could result in surface pitting, particularly in
moist atmospheres.
C. the toxic residue from the test will severely inhibit the application of paint on aluminum alloys.
D. a chemical reaction between the penetrant and aluminum could cause a fire because of internal combustion.
12. Which of the following are typical of foreign matter which might block the openings of discontinuities if
the surface of a test specimen is not properly cleaned?
A. Paint
B. Scale
C. Core and mold material
D. All of the above
13. Which of the following is not a recommended method of removing grease from a surface of a part to be
penetrant tested?
A. Vapor degreasing
B. Alkaline cleaner
C. Cleaning with solvent-type material
D. Hot water rinse
14. The penetrant indication for a cold shut on the surface of a casting will be:
A. a Notted or smooth continuous line.
B. a cluster of small indications.
C. a rough deep indication.
D. a large bulbous indication.
15. The penetrant indication of a forging lap will normally be:
A. a round or nearly round indication.
B. a cluster of indications.
C. a continuous line.
D. a Notted line.
16. When conducting a penetrant test, spherical indications on the surface of a part could be indicative of:
A. fatigue cracks.
B. porosity.
C. weld laps.
D. hot tears.
17. Which of the following is not a form in which penetrant developer is commonly available?
A. Dry developer
B. Non-aqueous developer
C. Wet developer
D. High viscosity developer
18. Which of the following is a possible cause for false penetrant indications?
 PT Level II Questions
A. Excessive washing
B. Inadequate application of developers
C. Penetrant or part too cold during penetration time
D. Lint or dirt
19. Penetrant residues may become entrapped under splines, fasteners, rivets, etc. Which of the following is
the most likely reaction caused by such a residue?
A. Corrosion caused by the moisture attracted by such residues
B. Paint stripping
C. Fatigue cracking
D. Lattice structure breakdown
20. Developer assists in the detection of penetrants retained in discontinuities by aiding the:
A. post-cleaning process.
B. emulsification process.
C. bleed-out process.
D. drying process.
21. Developer assists in the detection of the visible dye penetrant test indications by:
A. providing a clean surface.
B. providing a contrasting background.
C. providing a dry surface.
D. emulsifying the penetrant bleed-out.
22. When using post-emulsification penetrants, difficulties incurred during the washing operation can be
overcome by:
A. reapplying a coating of emulsifier.
B. increasing the water pressure used during the washing operation.
C. completely reprocessing the part from surface preparation on and by using a longer emulsifier time.
D. dipping the part in boiling water.
23. Which of the following methods for applying non-aqueous developer is normally considered most
effective?
A. Spraying.
B. Swabbing.
C. Brushing.
D. Dipping.
24. Of the methods listed below, the most effective means of precleaning a test item prior to a penetrant test
is:
A. vapor degreasing.
B. detergent cleaning.
C. steam cleaning.
D. solvent wiping.
25. Fluorescent materials used in fluorescent penetrants respond most actively to radiant energy, of a
wavelength of approximately:
A. 7,000 Angstroms.
B. 250 KV.
C. 3,650 Angstroms.
D. 100 foot candles.
26. When performing a liquid penetrant test using solvent removable visible dye penetrant, there are several
ways to remove excess penetrant from the surface of the part. Which of the methods listed below is
generally regarded as most suitable for giving accurate test results?
A. Squirting solvent over the surface with no more than 40 psi pressure.
B. Wiping with a soaking wet cloth, then wiping with a dry cloth.
C. Wiping with a solvent dampened cloth, then wiping with dry cloths.
 PT Level II Questions
D. Wiping with dry paper wipes, then wiping with a solvent dampened cloth, and finally wiping with dry
cloth.
27. Emulsifier time:
A. is important but not normally critical.
B. is the time needed to rinse the emulsifier and excess penetrant from the surface.
C. is extremely important and will greatly affect test results.
D. should be as long as economically practical.
28. Prior to penetrant testing of a previously machined soft metal part, which of the cleaning methods listed
below would best remove any smeared metal that could mask discontinuties?
A. Etching
B. Shot peening
C. Alkaline cleaning
D. Water cleaning with detergents
29. Which of the following is a purpose of the drying process used in penetrant testing?
A. The drying process is used to assure that all excess penetrant will evaporate.
B. The drying process assures the uniform drying of dry developer applied over a wet emulsifier.
C. The drying process reduces penetration time.
D. After the application of a wet developer, the drying process aids in securing a uniform developer coating.
30. Which of the following is the best reason why excessive drying of a part is not desired?
A. The extra time required is wasted.
B. The developer may lose its blotting ability.
C. A reduction in resolution may result.
D. The excess developer may be difficult to remove.
31. Which of the following is the best reason why the application of emulsifier by a brush is not
recommended?
A. The brushing action mixes the emulsifier with the penetrant prematurely and irregularly, making accurate
control of the emulsification time impossible.
B. Brushing does not always completely coat the part, thereby leaving a portion of the part difficult to wash.
C. Brushing in itself is not harmful, but many types of brush materials combine with the emulsifier agents
resulting in penetrant and part contamination.
D. Brushing results in a streaking appearance during inspection.
32. Developing time depends on the:
A. type of penetrant used.
B. type of developer used and type of discontinuity to be detected.
C. temperature of the material being tested.
D. all of the above.
33. When using a fluorescent, post-emulsifiable penetrant, the length of time the emulsifier is allowed to
remain on the part is critical when detecting shallow scratch-like discontinuities. The best length of time
should be:
A. 10 seconds.
B. 5 seconds.
C. 2 to 3 seconds.
D. determined by experimentation.
34. Which of the following statements concerning contaminating materials on the surface of a part to be
penetrant test is not true?
A. The contaminant may be of a composition that attacks the penetrant and reduces the fluorescence or color
of the penetrant.
B. The contaminants may be of such a nature that they reduce or even prevent capillary action by the
penetrant.
C. The contaminant may retain the penetrant and thus increase the sensitivity of the inspection.
 PT Level II Questions
D. The contaminant may completely fill the crack and thus prevent the entry of penetrant.
35. Water-washable liquid penetrants differ from post-emulsification penetrants in that water-washable
penetrants :
A. can only be used on aluminum test specimens.
B. need not be removed from surfaces prior to development.
C. have a soapy base.
D. do not need the application of an emulsifier before rinsing.
36. The function of the emulsifier in the post-emulsification penetrant method is to:
A. more rapidly drive the penetrant into deep, tight cracks.
B. react with the surface penetrant to make the penetrant water-washable.
C. add fluorescent dye or pigment to the penetrant.
D. provide a coating to which dry powder developer can adhere. F-25
37. When penetrant testing for shallow discontinuities using a post-emulsification penetrant, the
emulsification time should be long enough to:
A. mix the emulsifier with the excess surface penetrant only.
B. mix the emulsifier with all the penetrant on the surface and in discontinuities.
C. mix the emulsifier with penetrant in the discontinuities.
D. allow the emulsifier to dry out to a white powder.
38. Which of the following is not good practice when penetrant testing?
A. Applying emulsifier by dipping the part in emulsifier.
B. Applying developer by spraying the part with developer.
C. Removal of water-washable penetrant with a water spray.
D. Applying emulsifier with a brush.
39. A commonly-used method of checking on the overall performance of a penetrant material system is by:
A. determining the viscosity of the penetrant.
B. measuring the wettability of the penetrant.
C. comparing two sections of artificially cracked specimens.
D. all of the above.
40. An important difference between non-water-washable penetrants and water-washable penetrants is that:
A. water-washable penetrants contain an emulsifier, while non-water-washable penetrants do not.
B. the viscosity of the two penetrants is different.
C. the color of the two penetrants is different.
D. non-water-washable penetrants are more easily removed than are water-washable penetrants.
41. Which of the following characteristics are normally considered when selecting the type of penetrant to be
used in a penetrant test?
A. Removal characteristics of the penetrant.
B. The flash point of the penetrant.
C. The cost of the penetrant.
D. All of the above.
42. When penetrant testing titanium alloys, the materials used in the penetrant system should not contain
any constituent quantities of:
A. carbon or oil.
B. halogenated solvents.
C. emulsifier or oil.
D. fluorescent agent.
43. Which of the following is a discontinuity which might be found in sand castings?
A. Incomplete penetration.
B. Undercut
C. Pipe
 PT Level II Questions
D. Shrinkage
44. Which of the following discontinuities might be found in a welded fabrication?
A. Shrinkage
B. Lack of fusion
C. Seams
D. Laps
45. Which of the following discontinuities might be found in rolled bar stock?
A. Shrinkage
B. Bleed-out
C. Laps
D. Undercut
46. Which of the following discontinuities might be found in rolled plate?
A. Laminations
B. Shrinkage
C. Lack of fusion
D. Undercut
47. Which of the following contaminants could affect the sensitivity of a penetrant?
A. Acid
B. Water
C. Salts
D. All of the above
48. Which of the following is a discontinuity that might be found in a forging?
A. Shrinkage cracks
B. Laps
C. Cold shuts
D. Insufficient penetration
49. Which of the following is a discontinuity that might be found in rolled bar stock?
A. Blow holes
B. Shrinkage laps
C. Cracks or seams
D. Insufficient penetration
50. Which of the following is a discontinuity that might be found in rolled plate stock?
A. Shrinkage cracks
B. Inclusions
C. Forging laps
D. Blow holes
51. Which of the following is an advantage of fluorescent penetrants over visible type penetrants?
A. The inspection can be carried out in a well lighted area.
B. Small indications are more easily seen.
C. They can be used where contact with water is objectionable.
D. Less sensitive to contamination of discontinuities.
52. Which of the following is an advantage of visible dye penetrants over fluorescent penetrants?
A. Small indications are more easily seen.
B. They can be used on anodized and chromate surfaces.
C. They make less background on rough surfaces.
D. No special lighting is required.
53. Which of the following is an advantage of solvent wipe methods over water washing?
A. No special lighting is necessary during inspection.
 PT Level II Questions
B. They provide a quicker penetration of small openings.
C. Small indications are more easily seen.
D. They can easily be carried out in the field and to remote areas.
54. The tendency of a liquid penetrant to enter a discontinuity is primarily related to:
A. the viscosity of the penetrant.
B. the capillary forces.
C. the chemical inertness of the penetrant.
D. the specific gravity of the penetrant.
55. The emulsifier is used:
A. to wash the penetrant out of discontinuities.
B. as an aid in washing off the surface of parts when using either the water or oil soluble penetrants.
C. to emulsify the oil-soluble penetrant, thereby making it water washable.
D. to preclean parts before applying penetrant.
56. The prime purpose of the black light for fluorescent penetrant inspection is:
A. to magnify indications.
B. to make the indications visible.
C. to develop indications.
D. to speed up inspection.
57. Why is it advisable to have a black light installed at the wash station?
A. So that inspection can be done without drying parts.
B. To speed the bleeding of penetrant out of defects.
C. To check the effectiveness of the wash cycle.
D. To determine if parts have been covered with penetrant.
58. Developing powder should always be:
A. highly fluorescent.
B. applied wet.
C. colorless.
D. evenly applied
59. When viewing parts, fluorescent background may indicate:
A. poor washing.
B. insufficient emulsifying time (Post-Emulsification Method).
C. porous material and coating.
D. improper cleaning before penetrant cycle.
E. all of the above. .
60. Rejection or acceptance of parts should be based on which of the following, in absence of written
acceptance criteria?
A. The inspector’s education.
B. The design of the part and its intended application.
C. The appropriate penetrant standard.
D. The selection of the penetrant.
61. When improper processing causes inspection difficulties, what should the inspector do?
A. Swab parts with a solvent.
B. Use a correct bleed-back procedure.
C. Erase non-relevant fluorescence.
D. Reprocess the part.
62. Which of the following is most apt to render the post-emulsification test ineffective?
A. Too long of a penetrant time.
B. Too long of a developing time.
C. Too long of an emulsifying time.
 PT Level II Questions
D. None of the above.
63. Dry developer should be applied:
A. so that a heavy coat of developer covers all surfaces.
B. so that a light dusting covers all surfaces to be inspected.
C. with a dry paint brush.
D. by dipping.
64. Which factor would apply in determining the dwell time required for the penetrant to be effective?
A. Type of discontinuity sought.
B. Shape of part.
C. Size of part.
D. Surface roughness.
65. The part is an aluminum forging. Description - the indication is sharp, half-moon shape. not deep, and is
called a:
A. lap.
B. center line porosity.
C. heat-treat crack-
D. false indication.
66. The part is a lJ2’ thick aluminum plate with a Vee weld. Description - the indication appears in an area
that is somewhat dish-shaped. The indication extends out from the center in a spoke formation. The
indication is:
A. shrinkage.
B. non-relevant.
C. a quench crack.
D. a crater crack.
67. The part is an aluminum casting. Description - the casting has a very complex design. In one section there
is a flat area having a thickness of 1/8”. In the center of this area is a round section, 2” thick and 1” in
diameter. There are linear indications about one-half the distance around the base where it joins into the
thin section. The indication is termed:
A. dross.
B. hot tear.
C. microshrinkage.
D. porosity.
68. Shrinkage cracks are usually found in what areas of a casting?
A. Thin sections only.
B. Heavy sections only.
C. Abrupt changes in thickness.
D. No longer a problem.
69. Which of the following is a discontinuity that might be found in a forging?
A. Shrinkage crack
B. Lap
C. Hot tear
D. Lamination
70. Which of the following is a discontinuity that might be found in rolled bar stock?
A. Blow hole
B. Shrinkage lap
C. Crack or seam
D. Lack of penetration
71. The term “non-relevant indication” is used to describe certain types of penetrant testing indications.
Which of the following would be a typical “non-relevant indication”?
 PT Level II Questions
A. Indications due to part geometry or part design configurations.
B. Nonmagnetic indications.
C. Multiple indications.
D. Non-linear indications.
72. Which of the statements below best states the danger of using sandblasting for cleaning surfaces to be
penetrant tested?
A. The discontinuities may be closed.
B. Oil contaminants might be sealed in the discontinuities.
C. The sand used in the sandblasting operation may be forced into the discontinuity.
D. The sandblasting operation may introduce discontinuities in the part
73. A continuous linear indication can be caused by which of the following discontinuities?
A. Porosity
B. Slag inclusions
C. Pitting
D. Cracks
74. Which of the following could be a source of false indications on a test specimen?
A. Penetrant on the test table,
B. Penetrant on the hands of the inspector.
C. Contamination of dry or wet developer with penetrant.
D. All of the above.
75. A crack type discontinuity will generally appear as:
A. a round indication.
B. a continuous line, either straight or jagged.
C. a straight, single solid line.
D. random round or elongated holes.
76. Which of the following discontinuities would be impossible to detect using a liquid penetrant test?
A. Forging lap
B. Crater crack
C. Grinding cracks
D. Non-metallic internal inclusions

Level II Answers
1.D 14. A 27. C 40. A 53. D 66. D
2. C 15. C 28. A 41. D 54. B 67. B
3. C 16. B 29. D 42. B 55. C 68. C
4. A 17. D 30. C 43. D 56. B 69. B
5. D 18. D 31. A 44. B 57. C 70. C
6. B 19. A 32. B 45. C 58. D 71. A
7. C 20. C 33. D 46. A 59. E 72. A
8. D 21. B 34. C 47. D 60. B 73. D
9. A 22. C 35. D 48. B 61. D 74. D
10. D 23. A 36. B 49. C 62. C 75. B
11. B 24. A 37. A 50. B 63. B 76. D
12. D 25. C 38. D 51. B 64. A
13. D 26. D 39. C 52. D 65. A