Repair work related to the engine is one of the services provided by the craftsmen at the workshop. For this, they are equipped with everything you need. Often among the malfunctions there are breakdowns, the repair of which requires non-standard approaches. Among them are cracks in the engine housing. Therefore, it is recommended to assign the solution of this problem only to experienced specialists.
There are several factors contributing to the formation of cracks. First of all, this is mechanical damage resulting from an accident or impact (for example: unsuccessful dismantling, engine fall). In addition, temperature differences lead to the appearance of defects. This happens when the engine overheats or the coolant freezes. It happens that cracks form over time, from metal wear.
Considering the problem of cracks, it must be borne in mind that they can be both visually detectable and invisible (microcracks). The former is not difficult to detect, and there are a number of ways to identify the latter, this is done using special equipment.
The first way is with a sound tester. His work is based on the principle of the difference in the speed of reflection of a sound wave from surfaces of different structure and thickness. This makes it possible to assess the dimensions of the cylinder walls and the integrity of the walls of the "jacket".
The next way is with a magnetic tester. In this case, a metal powder is applied to the part to be checked, after which it is magnetized. From the pattern formed by the powder, it is possible to determine if there is any damage on the tested surface.
Another way to detect microcracks is with ultraviolet radiation. For this, the investigated surface is covered with a special solution, after which it is magnetized. Then, in the dark, an ultraviolet light turns on. As a result, microcracks will be defined by contrasting lines.
Another method is a photochemical process in which microcracks are detected by means of penetrating paint. It includes three stages of processing the part under test: solvent, special paint and developer. After that, the cracks become visible to the naked eye. The search for microcracks at some service stations, the craftsmen carry out on special stands, using air injection under high pressure.
Well, the easiest way is to grind the slate powder on the surface under study, and any crack will immediately appear.
Depending on the structure of the surface to be inspected and the accessibility to it, professional mechanics choose the best method for detecting microcracks.
