Liquid penetrant inspection (PT) reveals surface flaws by the “bleed-out” of a penetrating medium against a contrasting background. This is done by applying penetrant to the pre-cleaned surface and flaw of the item being inspected. The penetrant is applied to the surface and allowed to remain on the surface for a prescribed time (dwell time); the penetrant 4 liquid will be drawn into any surface opening by capillary action. Following removal of excess penetrant an application of a developer reverses the capillary action and draws penetrant from the flaw. The resultant indications reveal the presence of the flaw so that it can be visually inspected and evaluated.