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Magna-flux as mentioned, x-rays and eddy current detection. Eddy current is about like magna-flux, except they use an electrical current and look for magnetic variences. Usually it's based on hours of usage, or number of uses, and/or number of days since the last inspection.catherine96821:ughhhh...nice thought, thanks.
so how do they check planes for these cracks? Or is it number of years/ hours?
Old Diver:There is a process called magna-fluxing, where a solution containing magnetic iron particles is painted on the suspect area. The particles congregate in any cracks in larger numbers than on the smooth surface. Then you pass a magnetic wand over the area and the cracks give a stronger reading than the surface. This has been in use in aircraft since the 1940's. There are many more ways now, but this is still very portable and does not require dissassembly of most parts.
catherine96821:I was wondering if you would have anything to say about this. Are most masts Aluminum? I know I have had a few people say that my Al Vitus road bike can fail catastrophically....
catherine96821:oh..yes, that is what everyone tells me. I cannot decide if it is a real danger or they want me to buy a new bike....
they keep saying "catostrophic failure" on hills.
I did see a Titanium Merlin the other day that left me coveting....
but I could get a facelift for that. Specialized seem nice too, I see them around.
I don't know enough to buy an expensive bike. I am just "queer for gear".
I did ask if they could check the joints and they said no, not really.
Wildcard:Think I need to look into my old mast too.