🕒 Updated November 2, 2025
In the world of heavy equipment, what you can’t see is often what matters most.
Cracks, stress fractures, or micro-defects in metal components can compromise forklift performance and — more critically — operator safety. That’s where Magnaflux testing comes in.
What Is Magnaflux Testing?
Magnaflux testing — also known as magnetic particle inspection (MPI) — is a non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and near-surface cracks or flaws in ferromagnetic metals like steel and iron.
Here’s how it works:
- The part is magnetized using an electric current.
- Fine magnetic particles (often fluorescent) are applied to the surface.
- If there’s a crack or discontinuity, it disrupts the magnetic field — causing particles to cluster and reveal the flaw under UV or visible light.
The result? You can identify damage invisible to the naked eye — before it leads to costly failures or safety hazards.
Why Magnaflux Testing Matters for Forklifts
Forklifts experience constant mechanical stress — lifting heavy loads, operating on uneven floors, and enduring frequent directional changes. Over time, that stress can cause microscopic cracks in critical components such as:
- Fork tines and hooks
- Mast rails
- Carriages and tilt cylinders
- Welded joints and attachments
Even small fractures can grow quickly under repeated strain, leading to fork failure, load drops, or serious injuries.
Regular Magnaflux testing (every 2,000 hours) is the industry’s most reliable way to catch these problems early — keeping your equipment safe, compliant, and in service longer.
When Magnaflux Testing Is Required
According to CSA B335-15 standards, forks and attachments must be inspected regularly — and any suspected or repaired component must undergo non-destructive testing before being returned to service.
MOL inspectors often ask for documentation proving that these safety-critical parts have been inspected by certified technicians. Without it, you risk:
- Non-compliance citations
- Equipment downtime
- Increased liability in the event of an incident
That’s why more companies are proactively requesting Magnaflux testing as part of their preventive maintenance or reconditioning programs.
Find out more about what MOL inspectors look for here.
How Premier Lift Equipment Can Help
At Premier Lift Equipment, we offer Magnaflux testing and certification for forklift forks, attachments, and critical structural components — whether you’re servicing an existing truck or certifying equipment before resale.
Here’s how we support you:
✅ Certified Testing & Documentation
All Magnaflux inspections are performed by trained technicians, with full reports that meet CSA and MOL compliance requirements.
✅ Reconditioning & Recertification
If a defect is found, our team can repair, replace, or recondition the part — then re-test it to confirm certification before it returns to service.
✅ Fleet-Wide Safety Audits
We can inspect and document entire fleets, providing a clear record of compliance for audits and insurance requirements.
✅ Mobile Service Options
For local customers, we can bring testing equipment onsite to minimize downtime and keep your operations running smoothly.
The Bottom Line
Magnaflux testing isn’t just about compliance — it’s about confidence.
Knowing your forklifts are free from hidden defects means safer operators, fewer breakdowns, and a stronger safety record.
Whether you’re certifying a single unit or managing an entire fleet, Premier Lift Equipment provides the expertise, documentation, and service you need to stay inspection-ready all year long.
👉 Need Magnaflux testing or fork recertification?
Contact Premier Lift Equipment to schedule your inspection or add testing to your next maintenance service.