The Magnaflux® TAM Panel is one type of Known Defect Standard that can be used for the daily System Performance Check as specified in ASTM E1417 and AMS 2647. It is manufactured to UTC / Pratt & Whitney TAM 146040 Rev N and is provided with certification which includes indication sizes and an image of the processed panel. The TAM Panel is a tool for monitoring a penetrant system for sudden changes. It is not used to evaluate penetrant sensitivity.

The TAM Panel is constructed of 0.085-inch thick stainless steel, 4 inches by 6 inches. A strip of heavy chrome plating is deposited on one side of the panel. The plated area contains five evenly spaced ‘‘starburst’’ crack patterns, which are progressively smaller in size, progressing from the top. The sizes of the five starbursts are tightly controlled and factory certified to TAM 146040 specifications. The remaining front surface is grit-blasted to a uniformly roughened surface finish. This area is suitable for evaluating residual penetrant background characteristics.

No two panels have identical crack patterns. Chrome plating thickness variations and random residual plating stresses prevent exact duplication of manufactured panels.