Which method is regarded as most suitable for removing excess penetrant from the surface of a part in liquid penetrant testing?

The most suitable method for removing excess penetrant from the surface of a part in liquid penetrant testing is to first wipe with dry paper wipes followed by a solvent dampened cloth. This process effectively removes excess penetrant while minimizing the risk of contaminating the surface or leading to the spread of the penetrant to areas where it is not needed.

Using dry wipes first helps to remove a significant portion of the excess penetrant without introducing extra liquid that could interfere with the testing process or impact the results. After the initial dry wipe, using a cloth dampened with solvent provides a thorough removal of any remaining penetrant while also ensuring that the surface is cleaned adequately before inspection begins. This method balances both the removal efficiency and the preservation of the part's integrity.

Other methods, while they may remove excess penetrant in different ways, can introduce complications. For example, soaking in a solvent can cause issues with the part's surface, potentially leading to damage or undesirable alterations. Brushing with a stiff brush might not only fail to effectively remove all penetrant but could also scratch or mar sensitive surfaces. Using a high-pressure air blower risks blowing the penetrant into other areas or creating an uneven removal, which could affect the reliability of the testing results. Therefore,