Eddy Current Testing
Eddy Current Testing
Eddy Current Testing (ECT) is a highly sensitive non-destructive testing method used to detect surface and near-surface defects in electrically conductive materials. At Assessfie, our ECT services provide fast, accurate, and repeatable inspection results for detecting cracks, corrosion, material degradation, and conductivity variations. This non-contact technique is ideal for complex geometries and critical components where precision and speed are essential.
How Eddy Current Testing Works
- An alternating current is passed through a probe, generating an electromagnetic field.
- When the probe is placed near a conductive material, eddy currents are induced in the test object.
- Discontinuities or material changes disturb the flow of eddy currents.
- These disturbances are detected by the probe and analyzed by certified ECT inspectors to identify defect type, size, and location.
Technologies & Techniques We Use
- Conventional Eddy Current Testing
- Surface Crack Detection Probes
- Absolute and Differential Probes
- Tube Eddy Current Testing
- Array Eddy Current Testing
- Portable ECT equipment for field and offshore inspections
Eddy Current Testing Applications in the Oil & Gas Industry
Eddy Current Testing is widely applied where rapid inspection and surface sensitivity are critical. Common applications include:
Heat Exchangers & Condenser Tubes — Detection of surface cracks, pitting, and corrosion
Aircraft & Aerospace Components — Surface fatigue crack detection (where applicable)
Valves, Flanges & Fittings — Inspection of non-ferrous and conductive components
Pipeline Components — Detection of surface-breaking flaws in welds and fittings
Fasteners & Bolts — Crack detection in high-stress components
Railway Components — Surface flaw detection in rails and wheel assemblies
Manufacturing Quality Control — Sorting materials based on conductivity and alloy variations
Standards & Regulations
Our Eddy Current Testing services comply with internationally recognized standards to ensure accuracy, consistency, and global acceptance.
International Standards
- ISO 15548-1 — Eddy current equipment characteristics and verification
- ISO 17643 — Eddy current testing of welds
- ISO 9934 — Eddy current testing principles (where applicable)
ASTM Standards
- ASTM E309 — Eddy current examination of steel tubular products
- ASTM E376 — Measurement of coating thickness using eddy current methods
- ASTM E1004 — Eddy current testing of stainless steel and alloy tubing
Industry-Specific Standards
- API 1104 — Weld inspection for pipelines
- API 650 — Storage tank inspection
- API 570 — In-service piping inspection
- ASME Section V — NDT requirements for pressure equipment
Personnel Qualification Standard
- SNT-TC-1A — Qualification and certification of NDT personnel
