3 Ways Magnaflux Improved Power Pack MPI Application

MPI Power Pack

Mobile power packs like the P-70 and P-1500 are ideal equipment for on-site magnetic particle inspection. They are convenient and economical for MPI applications that only require a moderate amount of magnetizing power. Using 4/0 cables and various accessories to complete the circuit, a power pack can be a very versatile NDT tool.

Our power packs are equipped to supply both half wave direct current and alternating current. By wrapping a 4/0 cable around a part or using prods with the supplemental NDT materials, inspectors can find surface or sub-surface indications on parts.

As current moves around or through a part an electromagnetic field is induced. Any slight discontinuity in the part, such as a hairline fracture, will cause that perfectly symmetrical field to be disturbed. This disturbance in the field will cause our NDT material to cluster, due to the iron particles in the mixture. The inspector need only look for the clustered materials, whether they be visible dye, dry powder, or fluorescent.

Next Generation

Magnaflux understands the physics behind magnetic particle inspection and has been working to make the process easier on the operator, as well as more efficient for the equipment. Here are the top ways to do that:

1. Maximize ergonomics of cable connectors for quick and secure circuit completion
2. Improve life and durability of the power pack by reducing overall resistance in the system
3. Maximize robustness of connectors to extend the life of the cable and reduce maintenance

All three of these have been accomplished by replacing the either end connectors shown in Figure 1 with the new Quick Connector terminals in Figure 2. They are easier to lock by hand and provide a much more durable connection with half the resistance.

Our data shows that the change was not merely cosmetic. After testing and inspection trials, Magnaflux has validated the following benefits of the change to the end user.

• More amperage from your equipment moves through cables with 50% less resistance than either ends. This is proven by the lower heat rise in the Quick Connects at higher amperage.
• Increased operator safety with lower heat rise at full duty cycle

• ​Secure twist-lock connection, with superior consistency and quality
• Quick-Connectors will out-last the 4/0 cable they are being used with
• Faster application with hand tightening and loosing

Using Quick Connects with Other Equipment

If you currently have a P-unit with either ends and need new cables you can use the Retro-fit kit and follow the installation guide found on the Magnaflux website to quickly change the either end terminals to lugs. We cannot go straight from either ends to quick connect terminals due to the buss bars orientation, but with the Lug to Quick Connect Adapter Kit you will be well on your way to faster and more efficient testing.

Do you have a power pack with lug terminals? You can either choose to stick with the Lug to Lug 4/0 cables or similarly get the Lug to QC Adapter Kit to make life easier and increase the efficiency of your unit. The concept is the same as the P-unit Retro-fit kit, without the terminal replacement steps.

If you have 4/0 cables with the either end connectors attached, we want to help you salvage your cables. Check out the Quick Disconnect Installation Guide to get a look at how easy and fast this change really is.

For more information on power packs and quick connect cords/adapters follow the below links or send us an email or call us at [email protected] or 1-800-221-1116

• Power packs & current generators
• Cables & connectors

Source:

Burns, Wyatt. "3 Ways Magnaflux Improved Power Pack MPI Application". Magnaflux Blog, 8 January 2019. https://www.magnaflux.com/Magnaflux/Resources/Blog/Improved-Power-Pack