–OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS– BULLETIN 245-3

MODEL B100 and B100S SEPT 2013

CONTOUR PROBES

The B100 and B100S Contour Probes are rugged high performance instruments for Magnetic
Particle inspection to accepted Nondestructive testing standards. Certain operating procedures
and safety precautions should be observed.

INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION: Basically, the Contour Probe is an electromagnet producing a

strong magnetic field. Placement of the two poles (legs) upon ferrous metal provides a path for the
intense magnetic field to pass from one pole to the other. The part completes the flux path and
becomes highly magnetized. Models B100 and B100S produce strong constant AC fields. All
Parker Contour Probes are designed with flexible legs that allow the field to be “focused” at a
precise area of inspection. The maximum leg spacing is 12 in. (304.8mm). All 100 series Contour
Probes come equipped with a 10’ (3.048 m) power cord.

The B100 is for use on 115VAC 50-60 Hz, single phase grounded power source. Using an
approved GFCI is recommended.

The B100S is for use on 230VAC 50-60 Hz, single phase grounded power source. The B100S is
sold without a power cord plug. Only locally approved plugs should be used and installed by
certified personnel. Using an approved GFCI is recommended.

SPECIFICATIONS

POWER
MODEL FIELD WEIGHT
REQUIREMENTS
115 VAC
7 lbs.
B100 50-60 Hz AC
(3.18 kg)
6 AMPS

230 VAC
7 lbs.
B100S 50-60 Hz AC
(3.18 kg)
3 AMPS

FIG. 1
 -2-

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

Please read all instructions. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in injury. If the
equipment is used in a manner other than as specified in these operating instructions, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. Always wear eye protection.

DO NOT OPERATE unit from a DC power source.

Do not abuse the power cords. Never carry the instrument by the cord or attempt to unplug the
instrument using the cord. Always operate the instrument with the standard installed cord.
Changing or using a damaged cord can increase the risk of electrical shock. The cord should be
checked periodically for any damage.

Do not position the instrument such that it would be difficult to operate the disconnect device (plug)
on the end of the power cord.

The outside housing should remain intact and solid. Any damage, chipping, or separating exposing
internal wires is a hazard. Instruments should not be used in this condition. The outside housing
should be periodically checked for damage.

Duty Cycle: The 100 series are designed for a 50% duty cycle, or approximately two minutes on
and two minutes off. Continuous operation may cause overheating and damage the Contour
Probe.

Operating Environment: Temperature: 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C). Relative humidity: 10% to 95%,
non-condensing.

Shipping and Storage Environment: Temperature: 40° to 140°F (4.44° to 60°C). Relative
humidity: 5% to 95%. Vibration and shock: As encountered in normal shipping and handling with
no degradation.

General Cleaning
The outside surface of the instrument can be periodically wiped clean with a clean cloth and a mild
general purpose cleaner. Avoid using cleaners such as lacquer thinner, or mineral spirits that could
damage the outside housing.

Never attempt field service. All 100 series Contour

Probes should be returned to the factory for repairs.

OPERATION: Connect the instrument plug into a

Grounded power outlet of proper voltage. Place the
Contour Probe legs upon the work surface with the
suspected defect at right angles to the legs (Good
contact will produce the best results). Push the test
switch to energize the instrument. Lightly dust or
float dry magnetic inspection powder over the area
being inspected. Defect indications will be revealed
in a direction shown on figure 2. Turn the Probe 90
degrees from the first test and repeat the process.
This method may also be utilized when applying a
wet medium. Check all procedures and standards for
further details involving inspection specifics.
FIG. 2
 -3-

DEMAGNETIZATION: Small pieces, which have become residually magnetized, may be easily
demagnetized by the following procedure: Energize the Probe and pass small parts through the
area between the leg ends “feet” and withdraw to a distance of approximately two feet. On large
pieces, place the Probe in the same position as inspection, energize the Probe and lift from the
work surface to a distance of approximately two feet. This procedure may need to be performed
more than once to remove the residual field.

AC MAGNETIZATION: An AC magnetic field induced into a part is a “skin” or surface field and
does not penetrate the cross section of the material. A by-product of AC is in the form of eddy
currents. These eddy currents tend to guide or direct the magnetic field in a narrow pattern
between the poles. Another by-product is a vibratory action, which adds mobility to the inspection
particles to form a more highly defined powder build-up at the defect. For these reasons, an AC
magnetic field is the most desirable for the detection of surface breaking defects.

CAUTION: Small parts may become magnetically saturated due to excessive field application. This
may cause a masking effect to the point where it is impossible to define a defect.

WARRANTY: The Parker 100 series are warranted against malfunction due to defective material
and or workmanship. The defective unit will be repaired or replaced (less incoming freight charges)
for a period of one year from the date of sale. This repair warranty does not apply to altered units.
Repair or replacement of the defective unit will be made at the discretion of Parker Research
Corporation. Repaired or replacement unit(s) will be returned to the original customer prepaid.

The obligation of Parker Research Corporation is limited to the repair or replacement of the
defective unit. No other obligation is expressed or implied. Parker Research Corporation assumes
no liability from any claims arising from the use of this equipment.

CAUTION: For the correct and safe use of this equipment, training of operating personnel is
required. Use of proper inspection procedures, standards compliance and safety requirements is
the obligation of the user.

ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN USING THIS EQUIPMENT

PARKER RESEARCH CORP.

2642 ENTERPRISE ROAD WEST
CLEARWATER, FL 33763