What is typically the first step in the liquid penetrant testing process?

In the liquid penetrant testing process, the initial step involves cleaning the part. This is crucial because any dirt, grease, or residue on the surface of the material can obscure the penetrant's ability to effectively enter any surface defects. A clean surface ensures accurate detection of flaws, as contaminants can prevent the penetrant from spreading evenly and infiltrating cracks and voids that are intended to be tested. Proper cleaning establishes a baseline for inspection by maximizing the quality of the test results. After this critical step, the process continues with applying the penetrant, followed by allowing it to dwell for a certain period, and so forth.