African NDT Centre

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Penetrant Testing Level 1 & 2 Vaal – Special

Original price was: R22 500,00.Current price is: R11 250,00.

Penetrant Testing (PT) is a cornerstone NDT method used to identify surface-breaking defects in a wide range of non-porous materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics.

SKU: PT1_2VA_special Category: Tag:

Qualification requirements

Training Days
Level 1 & 2 combined: 7 days
Level 3: 4 days

Experience
Level 1 & 2 combined: 60 days
Level 3: 240 days
Note: Experience may be acquired either prior to (for Level 1 and 2 entry only) or following success in the qualification examination. However, the chances of success in a PCN examination may be significantly reduced if candidates have little or no current experience in the application of the NDT method in the sector concerned.

What is Penetrant Testing?

Penetrant Testing (PT), also known as Liquid Penetrant Inspection or LPI, or Dye Penetrant Testing, is a widely used non-destructive testing (NDT) method to detect surface-breaking defects in non-porous materials.

How It Works (Step-by-Step)

  • Preclean
  • Apply Penetrant
  • Excess Penetrant Removal
  • Developer Application
  • Inspection
  • Post-Cleaning

Advantages

  • Detects very small surface defects.
  • Works on non-ferrous and ferrous metals, ceramics, glass, plastics, etc.
  • Low cost, portable, and fast.
  • No need for complex equipment (except UV lamp for fluorescent).

Limitations

  • Only detects surface-breaking defects (cannot find subsurface flaws).
  • Requires clean, smooth surfaces.
  • Not suitable for porous materials (e.g., wood, untreated castings).
  • Operator skill affects reliability.

Applications

  • Aerospace: Turbine blades, welds, landing gear.
  • Automotive: Engine blocks, crankshafts.
  • Oil & Gas: Pipelines, valves.
  • Manufacturing: Weld inspection, castings, forgings.
Course Dates

12-20 Jan 2026, 2-10 Feb 2026, 2-10 March 2026, 7-15 April 2026, 4-12 May 2026, 1-9 June 2026, 6-14 Julie 2026, 3-12 Aug 2026, 31 Aug-8 Sept 2026, 5-13 Oct 2026, 2-10 Nov 2026, 30 Nov-8 Dec 2026

About the course

PCN Level 1 & 2

This course equips participants with a solid grasp of penetrant testing theory and its practical application on welds, castings & forgings (multi-sector). It trains and qualifies them to achieve PCN Level I or II certification in penetrant testing.

PCN Level 3

This preparatory course aligns with PCN Level 3 requirements for penetrant testing practitioners. Its primary goal is to familiarise candidates with the exam scope and required knowledge depth, helping them pinpoint areas of weakness. It also provides tailored advice on any additional study or training needed.

Expected outcomes

PCN Level 1 & 2

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamental principles of liquid penetrant testing (PT), including capillary action, penetrant types, and defect detection mechanisms.
  • Perform all stages of penetrant inspection on welds in accordance with approved procedures (cleaning, application, dwell time, removal, development, and inspection).
  • Identify and classify surface-breaking defects such as cracks, porosity, lack of fusion, and laps with high accuracy.
  • Interpret indications correctly under both visible and fluorescent lighting conditions.
  • Comply with relevant codes and standards.
  • Achieve PCN Level I or II certification through structured training, practical assessments, and written examinations.

PCN Level 3

Upon completion of the guidance course, candidates will be able to:

  • Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of penetrant testing theory, techniques, limitations and applications across industries.
  • Develop, review, and approve penetrant testing procedures and techniques in line with international standards.
  • Evaluate and interpret test results critically, distinguishing relevant from non-relevant indications.
  • Assess the competence of Level 1 and 2 personnel and oversee NDT operations.
  • Identify personal knowledge gaps and prepare effectively for the PCN Level 3 examination (Basic, Main
  • Method, and Procedure Writing modules).
  • Apply advanced concepts in quality control, process optimisation and audit requirements for PT programs.
  • Qualify to sit and pass the PCN Level 3 Penetrant Testing certification exam with confidence.

Documentation required

  • ID
  • PSL 57-A Initial Examination application
  • PSL 30- Log of Experience
  • PSL 44-Vision Requirements
  • CP-27 code of ethics
  • PCN ID (wallet or e-certificate) -only for existing PCN certificate holders
  • Proof of either holding PCN certification or successful completion of BINDT PCN Online Product Technology- cert with QR code

Note: Blank PSL and CP forms can be collected from ANDTC offices during course or downloaded from BINDT website.

Curriculum

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