What is done after removing the penetrant in a dye penetrant inspection?

After removing the penetrant in a dye penetrant inspection, the next step is to apply the developer. The role of the developer is crucial as it draws the penetrant out from any surface defects that may be present. This process enhances the visibility of flaws by providing a contrasting background that highlights any penetrant that has seeped into cracks or voids. The developer works by absorbing the penetrant and creating a detectable indication, which can then be inspected and evaluated for size and significance.

This step is vital for ensuring that any defects are clearly marked and can be identified during inspection, which would not be possible without applying the developer after the penetrant removal. The process emphasizes the importance of proper sequencing in non-destructive testing procedures to ensure effective detection and assessment of material integrity.