MAGNETIC FIELD INDICATOR (BURMAH-CASTROL TYPE) – FULL DESCRIPTION

A Magnetic Field Indicator (Burmah-Castrol Type) is a compact, handheld device used in Magnetic Particle Testing (MT/MPI) to assess the strength, direction, and adequacy of magnetic fields produced during inspection.

It is one of the earliest and most widely accepted field-indicating tools in MPI.

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✔ Purpose of Burmah-Castrol Magnetic Field Indicator

This indicator is used to:

• Verify the presence of a magnetic field

• Estimate the strength of magnetization

• Confirm direction of the magnetic field

• Ensure proper magnetization before applying particles

• Check yoke, coil, or current flow magnetization

• Detect flux leakage from cracks or part geometry

It is ideal for quick qualitative checks before performing particle application.

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✔ Construction

A Burmah-Castrol Magnetic Field Indicator typically includes:

1. A Metal Disk / Plate

• Made of ferromagnetic steel

• Houses fine magnetic particles sealed inside

2. Transparent Window

• Allows viewing of the particle movement pattern inside

3. Internal Ferromagnetic Particles

• Extremely fine iron particles

• Move freely inside the sealed cavity

• Align according to magnetic flux lines

4. Reference Markings

• Indicate orientation

• Help interpret field direction

5. Encased Plastic or Metal Body

• Durable

• Lightweight and portable

• Resistant to oil and chemicals used in MPI

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✔ Working Principle

• When the indicator is placed on a magnetized surface or within an active magnetic field zone:

  • The internal magnetic particles align with the magnetic flux.

  • A visible pattern forms inside the window.

  • Stronger fields produce dense, sharp patterns.

  • Weak fields show light or no alignment.

This allows an inspector to evaluate magnetic field presence and direction instantly.

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✔ How to Use (Step-by-Step)

1. Place the indicator flat on the surface of the component.

2. Apply the magnetic field (yoke, coil, or head shot).

3. Observe the particle alignment:
   ✔ Dense, well-defined lines = Strong field
   ✔ Faint or no alignment = Weak/insufficient field
   ✔ Orientation of lines = Field direction

4. Adjust magnetizing technique if necessary.

5. Proceed with MPI once the field is confirmed.

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✔ Applications

• Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI/MT)

• Verification of yoke field direction and strength

• Checking coil magnetization zones

• Identifying magnetic flux leakage around welds

• Training and demonstration of magnetic field principles

• Quick pre-check before Gauss Meter measurement

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✔ Advantages

• Instant visual indication

• No batteries required

• Easy to use in field and workshop

• Durable and long-lasting

• Useful for both AC and DC magnetization

• Helps optimize technique before inspection

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✔ Limitations

• Qualitative only – does not show numeric Gauss values

• Cannot replace Gauss Meter for precise measurements

• Sensitive to tilt angle and surface roughness

• Must be kept clean for best visibility

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If you want, I can also provide:

📌 ALT image description for Magnetic Field Indicator
📌 Difference between Burmah-Castrol Indicator, Strip Card, Pie Gauge, and QQI Strip
📌 Short text for catalog / brochure
📌 Technical specification sheet

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