The principles behind eddy current testing were developed in the early nineteenth century. Applying those principles to materials testing gained traction during World War II.
Today, an eddy current tester is essential to inspections in various industries. Eddy current testing is reliable, accurate, and produces results quickly.
Learn more about this method of inspection and the benefits of using an eddy current tester.
What Are Eddy Current Tests?
Eddy current testing is a type of non-destructive testing inspection. An eddy current tester uses electromagnetism to find defects in conductive materials.
Eddy current testing passes an alternating current through a coil. A magnetic field forms around the coil. When the coil is placed near a conductive material, it generates eddy currents opposed to the ones in the coil.
Measuring the changing current flowing through the coil allows the technician to analyze the sample. Eddy current testing is well-suited for several types of inspections and measurements, such as:
- Detecting cracks and corrosion
- Detecting heat damage
- Measuring the thickness of coatings and materials
- Identifying materials
Eddy current testing has many applications for industrial parts and equipment. It’s a good option for inspections in challenging environments, like wind turbines and cranes.
Advantages of Using an Eddy Current Tester
Eddy current testing has advantages for a variety of applications. It reliably detects defects that can impact health and safety.
Accurate Test Results
Eddy current testing is very sensitive. It can detect surface and near-surface cracks as small as 0.5mm in the right conditions.
An eddy current tester can detect through multiple layers. It can detect through non-conductive surface coatings of 5mm or more. It’s effective on components with complex geometries.
Eddy current testing is non-destructive and doesn’t contact the test surface. It’s well-suited for applications with high surface temperatures or underwater surfaces.
It provides accurate electrical conductivity measurements.
Streamlined Testing Process
The preparation and testing process is straightforward for most applications. A portable eddy current tester is small and light. Test surfaces require minimal cleaning.
An eddy current tester is a good choice for testing and inspections in the field.
Automated or semi-automated equipment can inspect relatively uniform components. Wheels and boiler tubes are good candidates for automation.
Additional Considerations with Eddy Current Testing
Manufacturers need to consider several considerations when using an eddy current tester. This will help ensure the most accurate test results.
Eddy current testing only works on conductive material. It’s very susceptible to changes in magnetic permeability. For example, testing welds in ferromagnetic material can be challenging.
A trained technician is necessary to interpret the test results. Distinguishing between relevant and irrelevant indications requires a specialist in most cases.
Improve Quality with Eddy Current Testing
An eddy current tester is a reliable and effective device for detecting faults in conductive materials. Eddy current testing improves the quality of manufactured components. It can be used in the field to help ensure the performance of essential equipment.
Kor-Pak guarantees the quality of our parts in various ways, including eddy current testing. Our reputation has made us a leading distributor of industrial supplies and equipment. We offer OEM and aftermarket products to keep our customers’ operations moving.
Contact Kor-Pak today to find the equipment solution you need.