Overview
EN ISO 17638:2016 - Non‑destructive testing of welds: Magnetic particle testing defines techniques for detecting surface imperfections in welds and heat‑affected zones of ferromagnetic materials using magnetic particle testing (MPT / MT). The standard applies to most welding processes and joint configurations and describes basic and variable techniques that affect test sensitivity (see Annex A). It does not set acceptance criteria for indications; users should refer to ISO 23278 or relevant product/application standards for acceptance levels.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: Detection of surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic welded joints and adjacent zones.
- Safety: Precautions for toxic/flammable materials, electrical safety, UV exposure and magnetic fields.
- Pre‑test information: Test procedure, personnel certification, extent of coverage, state of manufacture, testing techniques, demagnetization, and actions for unacceptable indications.
- Personnel qualification: Recommends qualification in accordance with ISO 9712 or an equivalent scheme.
- Surface preparation: Surfaces should be dry (or use wet‑surface media) and cleaned without damaging the material or finish.
- Magnetizing methods: Use of electromagnetic yokes, current flow with prods, adjacent/threading conductors or coils; DC electromagnets/permanent magnets only by agreement. Conformance to ISO 9934‑3 for equipment.
- Verification of magnetization: Methods include use of representative test pieces, Hall‑effect probes, current calculations and flux indicators. For structural steels a tangential field of 2–6 kA/m (r.m.s.) is recommended.
- Detection media and viewing: Performance verification of detection media (see ISO 9934‑2), correct lighting/viewing conditions (see ISO 3059) and procedures for applying wet or dry media.
- Additional procedures: Overall performance testing, recording of indications, demagnetization and test reporting.
- Sensitivity variables: Annex A describes factors that increase or reduce test sensitivity.
Applications
EN ISO 17638:2016 is used to plan and perform magnetic particle inspection of welded components across industries requiring weld integrity checks, including:
- Construction and structural steelwork
- Oil & gas and pipeline welding inspection
- Pressure vessels and power plant fabrication
- Heavy manufacturing, machinery and transportation components
This standard is intended where rapid, reliable detection of surface and near‑surface weld defects in ferromagnetic materials is required.
Who should use this standard
- NDT technicians and inspectors
- Welding engineers and quality assurance managers
- Fabricators and maintenance teams
- Certification bodies and inspection authorities
Related standards
- ISO 9934‑1, ‑2, ‑3 (Magnetic particle testing parts: principles, detection media, equipment)
- ISO 3059 (Viewing conditions)
- ISO 9712 (Personnel qualification)
- ISO 23278 (Acceptance levels for indications)
- ISO 17635 / ISO 12707 (Terminology and additional NDT guidance)
Keywords: EN ISO 17638:2016, magnetic particle testing, weld inspection, non‑destructive testing, NDT, ferromagnetic materials, magnetizing, detection media, ISO 9934, ISO 23278.
