Eddy Current

Critical mistakes in eddy current include not having an appropriate calibration block and not post calibrating after the inspection. If you do not post calibrate you have no way to ensure that the inspection was performed properly. Advance eddy current applications include coating thickness verification, pipe underground utility location, voltage drop, and part magnetization verification.

Remember that when we are talking about missing a crack we are referencing the possibility of an inspector missing a crack on a critical part that could lead to loss of life. This is why NDT eddy current technicians should be properly qualified and certified to a Level II when performing examinations. Qualification is referencing classroom training and experience hours. Certification is referencing that the individual has passed a program by testing and demonstration of their capabilities in accordance with a code such as SNT-TC-1A or NAS-410 and has been reviewed by a Level III. Facilities are supposed to have a primary Level III on file for code conformance. If you do not have a Level III on file we can provide that service for you (shameless plug # 2) and keep you code compliant.

If you are a quality assurance manager or a company outsourcing NDT, we strongly recommend you ensure that the facility providing your services has not reduced code requirements. You can ensure this by requesting the personnel records of the technician doing the work and verifying them with the applicable standard. This is a normal practice and on request the contractor should provide you with the information within an hour. If they do not, you should question their services and perhaps hire a third party ASNT Level III to provide an onsite audit of their facility. Common mistakes found on certification paperwork include lack of expiration date, not enough training or experience hours, training facility and person that provided the training not listed, and method or technique not listed.

Is eddy current or electromagnetic testing the answer for your specific method? It depends on many variables. Keep in mind that nondestructive testing includes many different methods. In conclusion, thank you for taking the time to read our article. Feel free to e-mail or call me directly with any questions.

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