What is Penetrant Testing?

Penetrant testing involves applying a visible or fluorescent dye to the surface. The dye enters the discontinuities via capillary action. The method can be applied to any non-absorbent material with uncoated surfaces.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Penetrant Level 1?

An individual certified to Penetrant Level 1 has to demonstrate competence to carry out NDT according to written instructions and under the supervision of Level 2 or Level 3 personnel. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Penetrant Level 1 personnel may be authorised by the employer to perform the following in accordance with NDT instructions:

  • Set up Penetrant Testing equipment;
  • Perform the Penetrant Inspection tests;
  • Record and classify the results of the tests according to written criteria;
  • Report the results

Level 1 certified personnel shall neither be responsible for the choice of test method or technique to be used, nor for the interpretation of test results.

Penetrant Level 1 training at Lavender International covers the following:

General Theory:

  • Introduction
  • Principles of penetrant inspection
  • Equipment
  • Preparation for testing
  • Testing techniques
  • Post test procedures
  • Safety precautions
  • Processing

Specific Theory:

Application of the Method and use of Codes, Specifications and Procedures, applicable to the Company, including the relevant control checks.

We can provide Penetrant training suitable for PCN GEN  BS EN ISO 9712 Levels 1, 2, and 3, ASNT Level 3. Alternatively we can provide training suitable for candidates working to an employer written practice based on SNT-TC-1A; EN4179 and NAS410.

We provide examinations for Penetrant Testing, including PCN personal certification examinations to Levels 1, 2 and 3, plus examinations for employer based schemes such as SNT-TC-1A, NAS410 and EN4179.

The Penetrant Level 1 examination includes a general theory paper, specific paper, and a practical exam.

The PCN requirements for Penetrant Level 1 are: 16 hours training, previous to the exam, and 1 month supervised work experience, to be obtained either before the examination, or within 24 months after passing the exam.

Once the training has been obtained, the examination passed, and 1 month supervised work experience obtained within 24 months of passing the exam, PCN will issue certification.

The options for Penetrant Level 1 examinations are:

Initial Candidate
Resit (Theory)
Resit (Practical)
Recertification

Please Note: PCN require that an exam levy is paid at an appropriate rate.

To be eligible for the PCN Level 1 examination, an eye test must be passed (near vision and colour).

The PCN requirements for Penetrant Level 1 are: 1 month supervised work experience. Which is to be obtained either before the examination, or within 24 months after passing the exam.

Once the training has been obtained, the examination passed, and 1 month supervised work experience obtained within 24 months of passing the exam, PCN will issue certification.

For employer based schemes the expected amount of work experience should be determined in the written practice.

We offer Penetrant Testing Level 1 training and examination courses around the world at our approved training centres:

Level 1 courses have the same start dates as level 2 and run for 4 days.

Initial:

UK office – Penistone On-site locations
Click here for available dates Enquire

Recertification:

UK office – Penistone
Weekly

If you would like further information about this course, please contact us.

Safety Boots
Overalls/Lab Coat

PCN CERTIFICATION:
Candidates MUST bring their PCN Wallet Card.
If you do not have a wallet card bring some other form of identification showing a photograph, i.e. Passport or Photo Driving Licence.

All other equipment and training materials (with the exception of Level 3 Text Books) are provided by Lavender International.
Protective gloves, protective eye glasses and plastic aprons are also available for the use of students.

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