Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Practice Test

Which component of the magnetic particle test bench is responsible for creating both longitudinal and circular magnetic fields?

1. Central core

2. Head and Tail contacts

3. Magnetic plate

4. Control panel

The correct answer is: Head and Tail contacts

The component responsible for creating both longitudinal and circular magnetic fields in a magnetic particle test bench is the head and tail contacts. These contacts play a crucial role in the magnetic particle testing process by energizing the specimen to generate the required magnetic fields. Head and tail contacts establish the electrical connection to the specimen and facilitate the flow of current, which in turn induces the magnetic field. By positioning the contacts differently or altering the electrical connection, testers can manipulate the magnetic field created around the specimen to either be longitudinal or circular. This versatility is essential for detecting surface and near-surface discontinuities effectively in different orientations of the material being tested. The other components listed, such as the central core, magnetic plate, and control panel, support various functions in the testing setup but do not generate the magnetic fields themselves. The central core may help in assembling the equipment, the magnetic plate provides a surface for the specimen to rest on, and the control panel is used for managing the testing parameters and operations. However, the actual generation of the magnetic fields is distinctly managed by the head and tail contacts.