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Eddy Current Technology — Faster inspections with fewer probes.
Eddy current testing (ECT) is based on inducing electron flow (eddy currents) in electrically conductive material. Any defect in the material such as cracks, pitting, wall loss, or other discontinuities, disrupts the flow of the eddy currents. Higher frequency signals are used to
detect near-surface flaws. Lower frequencies are used for deeper, subsurface flaw detection.
Benefits of ECT Array inspection:
- Faster inspections
- Simpler, faster inspection of complex shapes
- Simpler scan patterns and lower cost scanners
- Various types, shapes, and sizes of coils are available
- Computer-based data records and reports
ECT array probes use a number of individual coils grouped together in one assembly. Array probes are configured with flat or circular coils, or have coils shaped to match the inspection surface. The coils work together to scan a wider inspection area than conventional coil probes. New flexible, liquid-filled probes continuously adapt to the shape of the part being inspected.
Data from ECT array probes is transmitted directly from the probe to computer memory for record keeping and graphic, color-coded reports.
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ECT array probes eliminate one axis of motion by using multiple coils to cover a wider area and increase the inspection rate. In many cases a simpler, lower-cost, one-axis manual scanner can replace two-axis scanners. ECT arrays can be built in the exact shape of a particular part for simplified, one-pass inspection.
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Array probes are made with a wide variety of coil sizes and types. Coil technology includes impedance, transmit-receive, and self-compensating configurations.
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Zetec's PC-based software displays real-time inspection information generated by hundreds of eddy current coils. A color-coded plan view of the inspection area is developed using signal amplitude and off-axis rotation.
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Coils are mounted on flexible substrates that adapt to irregular surfaces. In many applications, ECT array testing can replace liquid dye penetrant or magnetic particle testing and eliminate the time and effort of surface preparation.
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