What is Eddy Current Tube Testing (ECT)?
Eddy Current testing (ECT) is being used to successfully inspect non-ferromagnetic tubing such as Brass, Stainless steel, and others. This technology offers good sensitivity when detecting metal discontinuities such as corrosion, erosion, pitting, baffle fretting, wall loss, and cracks.
Method of Inspection | Applications
When a coil excited by an alternating current is brought near a conducting material, eddy currents are generated in the material by the process of electromagnetic induction. The magnetic field associated with the eddy currents gives rise to an impedance change in the coil. The introduction of a defect into the conducting material results in a reduction and redistribution of the eddy current field and hence a further change in coil impedance. It is these changes in coil impedance, which are measured, and form the basis for defect analysis in eddy current inspection
Materials Suitable
- Copper alloys
- Stainless steel
- Ferrous and non‑ferrous tubes
Inspection Capabilities
- In the region of 600 tubes inspected per 12-hour shift.
- Flexible probes for inspection past bends.
- Capable of detecting generalized and localized wastage, both internal and external.
- Through-wall holes as small as 1mm in diameter are detectable depending on tube diameter, wall thickness and composition.
- The eddy current technique can measure variations in generalized wall thickness as well as localized defects (pits) as small as 1mm can be detected and sized to an accuracy of ±10% of the wall thickness.
- Generally, a range of 8mm to 50mm ID can be inspected.
- Depending on tube variables extended ranges is available upon request.
Process Overview
- Tube cleaning
- Probe insertion
- Signal analysis
- Defect evaluation
Industries We Serve
Power Generation, Refineries, Petrochemical
Key Benefits
- High sensitivity
- Rapid tube inspection
- Proven reliability
Reporting & Deliverables
- Defect listings
- Tube condition grading
An online reporting system is available to our customers, allowing 24/7 access to reports.
Why Choose Us?
- Qualified ECT technicians
- Advanced equipment
- Accurate defect sizing