ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East Enhances Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection Capability
ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East has upgraded its fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) capabilities by investing in state-of-the-art equipment, which has been installed in a dedicated area for non-destructive testing (NDT).
Nick Weber, Regional Vice President for the Middle East at ExecuJet MRO Services, based at Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport, commented: “The new equipment and dedicated work area enhance our NDT capacity and increase throughput speed, all while ensuring we continue to meet the highest standards of quality and safety.”
Fluorescent penetrant inspection is an NDT method used to detect surface breaking irregularities in metal parts, including fine cracks, corrosion, and other defects. The process involves applying the substance to the metal part, which will enter any surface breaking channel through capillary action. The excess is then washed off, the part is dried, and a developer applied, which draws any trapped penetrant to the surface, where it will be visible when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light.
“While some business aviation MRO providers rely on external suppliers for NDT services such as fluorescent penetrant inspection, we have developed our own in-house NDT capability,” said Weber. “This allows us to offer faster and more efficient service, ultimately providing our customers with quicker turnaround times for airframe heavy maintenance inspections.”
The new FPI line at ExecuJet Middle East has been designed to meet the stringent standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM E1417), which are widely recognized in the aviation MRO industry. The facility’s FPI line consists of six key stations:
Station 1: Penetrant dip with timers and pneumatically operated lift
Station 2: Wash station with pneumatically operated lift, air/water wash gun, blackout curtain, and integrated UV black and white lighting
Station 3: Oven with timers and pneumatically operated doors
Station 4: Transfer station
Station 5: Storm developer with timers and pneumatically operated doors
Station 6: Viewing/interpretation station with blackout curtain and built-in UV black and white lighting
With these advancements, ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East is better equipped to perform high-quality and efficient fluorescent penetrant inspections, reinforcing its commitment to safety and operational excellence in the MRO industry.
