What method is generally accepted for removing excess nonwater-washable penetrant?

Removing excess nonwater-washable penetrant typically requires a method that is gentle yet effective in ensuring that the penetrant is adequately cleaned without damaging the surface of the specimen. Wiping and cautiously cleaning with a cleaner-dampened cloth is widely accepted because it allows for control over the process, minimizing the risk of pushing the penetrant further into the material or causing surface damage.

This approach facilitates the removal of excess penetrant by allowing the operator to focus on specific areas while using just enough cleaning agent to dissolve the excess material. It is important to use a cloth that is dampened with a suitable cleaner to avoid introducing excessive moisture, which could interfere with subsequent inspection processes, particularly in nonwater-washable systems.

Alternative methods like blowing air may not sufficiently remove all excess penetrant, while high-pressure washing could actually force the penetrant deeper into the surface, and soaking in solvent could potentially damage the material being inspected or alter the penetrant's characteristics. Thus, using a cleaner-dampened cloth strikes the right balance between effectiveness and caution.