Overview
ISO 9934-3:2015 is the equipment-focused part of the ISO series on magnetic particle testing (MPT) for non-destructive testing (NDT). It specifies the types of equipment used for MPT (portable/transportable devices, fixed installations and continuous-process specialized systems) and defines the properties, minimum performance requirements, measurement methods, calibration and in‑service checks that equipment suppliers and users should provide and follow.
Key topics and requirements
- Types of equipment covered
- Portable electromagnets (yokes)
- Current generators for magnetizing
- Magnetic benches and fixed installations
- Specialized continuous testing systems (process lines)
- Supporting equipment: UV-A sources, detection media systems, inspection booths, demagnetization units, measurement and monitoring instruments
- Supplier information and technical data (examples required to be provided):
- Recommended pole spacing, pole dimensions, electrical supply, duty cycle, current waveforms, overall dimensions, equipment mass, IP rating (IEC 60529)
- For current generators: open-circuit voltage (U0), short‑circuit current (Ik), rated current (Ir), duty cycle, working range, control method, meter type and accuracy
- Performance and safety minimums
- Portable electromagnet requirements at 30 °C and maximum output: duty cycle ≥ 10%, current “ON” time ≥ 5 s, handle surface temperature ≤ 40 °C, tangential field strength Ht ≥ 2 kA/m (RMS) at specified pole spacing, lifting force ≥ 44 N
- Magnetization is measured as the tangential magnetic field strength at the centre line of pole faces; a standard test plate (500 ±25 mm × 250 ±13 mm × 10 ±0.5 mm, steel C22 / 1.0402) is used for functional checks
- Measurement, verification and calibration
- Methods for determining generator load characteristics (load line technique), current and magnetic field measurement requirements, verification and in‑service checks for continued compliance
Practical applications & users
ISO 9934-3 is practical for:
- NDT technicians and inspectors performing magnetic particle testing
- NDT equipment manufacturers and suppliers preparing technical data and compliance documentation
- Quality, maintenance and procurement teams specifying or purchasing MPT equipment
- Industries relying on surface crack detection: aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, forging and heavy fabrication, welding inspection
Using ISO 9934-3 helps ensure consistent equipment performance, reliable defect detection and compliance with recognized NDT practice.
Related standards
- ISO 9934-1 - Magnetic particle testing: general rules
- ISO 9934-2 - Magnetic particle testing: detection media
- ISO 3059 - Viewing conditions for penetrant and magnetic particle testing
- IEC 60529 - Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code)
- EN 10250-2 - Steel forgings reference for test plates
Keywords: ISO 9934-3:2015, magnetic particle testing, non-destructive testing, MPT equipment, portable electromagnets, current generators, magnetic benches, calibration, UV-A sources.
