Uploaded on Nov 3, 2025
There are different ways to detect metal cracks, and among them several methods are great. The first one is visual inspection, which will help you to see if there are any noticeable flaws on the surface. The second method, which is the Liquid Penetrant Testing (LPT), is the one that uses a colored dye to show the fine surface cracks. When it comes to ferromagnetic metals, Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI) is the most efficient method which applies magnetic fields to detect not only surface but also near-surface defects. On the other hand, Ultrasonic Testing (UT) uses high-frequency sound waves to detect deeper, internal flaws while X-rays give the detailed internal images. The most suitable technique will be determined by the material, defect type, and required sensitivity.
Best Defect for Metal Parts - NDT
Best Methods to Detect Cracks in Metal
Introduction:-These hidden cracks in metal components are one of the safety measures in industries
such as automotive and aerospace. Advanced methods utilizing modern machines are the so-called
magnetic particle inspection (MPI) and eddy current testing techniques, which have enabled
identification of even the tiniest defects. These techniques are applicable without damaging the parts
while ensuring that they are safe and reliable. From simple visual checks to complex multidirectional
testing, choosing an appropriate detection method helps prevent failures, extends equipment life, and
protects people and investments in metal-dependent sectors.
How Important is Crack Detection
There are different reasons under which the cracks are formed in a metal component; it can be either
manufacturing defects or due to fatigue, corrosion, or operational stress. Left undetected, these cracks
lead to propagation, resulting in either failure of the equipment, the downtime of cranking up expensive
machinery, or even accidents. Non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques are emerging as the gold
standard to identify such flaws without damaging the component. Among them, Magnetic Particle
Inspection (MPI) and Eddy Current Testing are indeed considered to be the most effective and reliable
techniques.
The names of crack detection machines are given below
1. MPI Machine
2. Magnaflux Machine
3. Multi-Directional Testing Machine
4. Eddy Current Testing Machine
5. Multi-Frequency Eddy Current Testing Machine
6. MPI Machine for Aerospace Parts
7. Black UV Lights
Few Important methods and machines for
crack detection
1. MPI Machine:- MPI Machine is most important method for detecting surface and near-
surface cracks in ferromagnetic materials such as steel and iron. The technique consists of
magnetizing the component and applying magnetic particles that will cluster at the crack sites,
making them visible. The method is highly sensitive, cost-effective, and provides immediate
results.
Key Features
Digital ,step less current control.
Stainless Steel liquid storage tank
Reverse agitation bath system
Continuously movable tailstock with cam lock
V Blocks for job placement
Integrated decaying-AC demagnetization with automatic control
Feedback loop-based current control with current failure indicator
Very few electronic parts. easily serviceable
2. Magnaflux Machine:- The Magnaflux Machine is an advanced MPI Machine specialized for
better precision. It can detect hairline cracks and near-surface cracks, as well as fatigue cracks
and fine fractures, by means of high-quality Black UV Lights and advanced magnetic particles. It
will detect even the smallest defects with the use of ultraviolet light.
Key Features
PLC- Based Control. Automatic Cycle for faster testing
7 Inch Touch Screen for control & display
Operator controlled an automatic double shot
Independent current control for Circular and longitudinal magnetization
Digital, step less current control
Heavy-duty transformers , No need to wait between two shots
Both sides have Pneumatic clamping
Reverse agitation bath system
3. Multi-Directional Testing Machine:- This advanced MPI machine magnetizes
components in multiple directions simultaneously, allowing it to inspect complex geometries.
It guarantees complete coverage, so no defects are ever missed because of orientation. This
process will detect surface and near-surface cracks, including hairline, fatigue, and fine
fractures, so that no defect is missed.
Key Features
PLC- based control automatic cycle for faster testing.
7 Inch Touch Screen for control & display
Operator controlled an automatic double shot
1000 Program memory to store settings for different parts
Independent current control for Circular and longitudinal magnetization
Automatic Parts Counter
Both sides have Pneumatic clamping
4. Eddy Current Testing Machine :- An Eddy Current Testing Machine can use
electromagnetic induction to detect cracks in metals such as aluminum and copper. Its main
purpose is to find hairline cracks, stress cracks, and fatigue cracks that need repairing, all of
which are very useful for making fast inspections that do not require contact in production lines.
Key Features
Advanced Eddy Current Technology
User-Friendly Interface
Flexible Integration
Customizable Configurations
50 Program Memory to store test parameters for different parts
Reference part data storage
Complete data log
5. Multi-Frequency Eddy Current Testing Machine:- Our Multi-Frequency Eddy
Current Testing Machine uses advanced eddy current technology to detect surface and near-
surface crack, such as hairline cracks, fatigue cracks, and stress cracks. It also identifies material
hardness and properties, helping guide repair of affected areas.
Key Features
Advanced Eddy Current Technology
Flexible Integration
User-Friendly Interface
Customizable Configurations
6. MPI Machine for Aerospace Parts: This is an MPI machine for aerospace parts. It can
detect surface and subsurface cracks in such important components. It is used for magnetization
crack detection, magnetic flux leakage, and longitudinal cracks such as hairline cracks, fatigue
cracks, and stress cracks. Engineers will then repair the parts and use the MPI machine to check
the safety and reliability of the parts of the aerospace component.
Key Features
PLC -Based Control. Automatic Cycle for faster testing
Inch Touch Screen for control & display
Operator controlled an automatic double shot
Stainless Steel liquid storage tank
Stainless Steel collection tray
Reverse agitation bath system
7. Magnetic Crack Detector Machine:- This Magnetic Crack Detector is a wet, horizontal,
bench-type unidirectional machine designed to inspect both bright and black rolled steel round
bars. It generates circular magnetization by clamping the bar between the headstock and
tailstock and passing current through it. The machine is specifically used to detect longitudinal
cracks in metal parts.
Key Features
Automatic loading from infeed bench
Automatic unloading from outfeed rollers to separate OK/Reject stacks
Magnetization, spraying & inspection all on one station
PLC-based control fully automatic cycle for faster testing
Large Digital Ammeter with Retention
Reverse agitation bath system
Integrated decaying-AC demagnetization with automatic control
8. Black UV Lights :-The UV LED Lights emit bright, focused ultraviolet light, making flaw detection
quick and precise. The Magkraft design makes it easy to handle and perfect for inspections,
quality checks, and non-destructive tests in all industries. These lights are used to detect surface
and near-surface cracks, including hairline cracks, fatigue cracks, and stress cracks, helping
technicians detect defects for repair in metal components and industrial parts.
Key Features
Light Weight
Robust Construction
No risk of UV-B radiation
Negligible Heat Generation
Very little Power consumption
Light output concentrated at 365nm
Reaches Full Intensity With in a Second
Sensor based ON/OFF (Increases LED life)
Environment friendly, doesn't contain any Mercury
Material Type
Ferrous metals: MPI systems
Non-ferrous metals: Eddy current testers
All materials: Penetrant testing
Characteristics of Defect
Surface crack: MPI or eddy current
Subsurface flaws: ultrasound
Fine cracks: fluorescent methods using ultraviolet lights
Best Practices for Effective Crack Detection
Proper Surface Preparation: Clean, dry surfaces ensure accurate results
Correct Technique Selection: Match the method to material and defect type
Periodic Calibration: Ensure that equipment is not faulty.
Trained Operators: Accurately interpret the results
Conclusion:- Detection of cracks is an essential method for ensuring the
safety, strength, and reliability of metal components. Methods such as MPI, Eddy
Current testing, and UV inspection are used to identify possible hidden defects
before they cause major damage. An example of improved quality, prevention of
failure, and long-lasting performance across industries is the selection of the
proper technique.
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