78 FR 73457 - Airworthiness Directives; the Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-06

... frequency eddy current inspections for cracking of the tension tie at BS 760 or 780, as applicable, and do... ties, including doing an open-hole high frequency eddy current inspection for cracks, as applicable...) and paragraph (i) of this AD, but not as AMOCs for the high frequency eddy current inspections...

76 FR 58416 - Airworthiness Directives; Lockheed Martin Corporation/Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Model L...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-21

... specifies a bolt hole eddy current inspection to verify the cracking. The corrective actions for cracking... specified in paragraph (k) of this AD, do eddy current non-destructive inspections (NDI) and detailed... secondary eddy current inspection to detect cracking of fastener holes with suspected crack indications; in...

77 FR 18963 - Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc.

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-29

...) Model MD900 helicopters. The existing AD requires a visual inspection, and if necessary, an eddy current... with an airworthy lower hub. If there is no crack as a result of the visual inspection, eddy current... nondestructive eddy current inspection of the lower hub. That AD was prompted by cracks found on four lower hubs...

Eddy current inspection of graphite fiber components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, G. L.; Bryson, C. C.

1990-01-01

The recognition of defects in materials properties still presents a number of problems for nondestructive testing in aerospace systems. This project attempts to utilize current capabilities in eddy current instrumentation, artificial intelligence, and robotics in order to provide insight into defining geometrical aspects of flaws in composite materials which are capable of being evaluated using eddy current inspection techniques. The unique capabilities of E-probes and horseshoe probes for inspecting probes for inspecting graphite fiber materials were evaluated and appear to hold great promise once the technology development matures. The initial results are described of modeling eddy current interactions with certain flaws in graphite fiber samples.

76 FR 52901 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 757-200, -200PF, and -200CB Series Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-24

... if necessary. This proposed AD would also add an option for the high frequency eddy current... also adds an optional ultrasonic inspection for the high frequency eddy current inspection to detect... proposed AD would also add an option for the high frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of the...

77 FR 21395 - Airworthiness Directives; Fokker Services B.V. Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-10

... would require performing a low frequency eddy current inspection for cracks of the lap joint of the rear...-frequency eddy current inspection of the lap joint for cracks and, depending on findings, repair of the lap... AD: Do a low frequency eddy current (LFEC) inspection for cracks of the lap joint of the rear...

76 FR 9495 - Airworthiness Directives; Air Tractor, Inc. Models AT-802 and AT-802A Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-18

...-18, which requires you to repetitively inspect (using the eddy current method) the two outboard... through 0101 and AT-802A-0092 through 0101: To perform, using the eddy current method, two inspections at... through 0178 and AT-802A-0102 through 0178 to perform using the eddy current method, two inspections at 5...

76 FR 2281 - Airworthiness Directives; BAE SYSTEMS (OPERATIONS) LIMITED Model BAe 146 Airplanes, and Model...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-13

... this AD, perform an external eddy current inspection of the forward fuselage skin to detect cracking... paragraphs (j)(1), (j)(2), and (j)(3) of this AD, do an external eddy current inspection of the forward... this AD, do an external eddy current inspection of the forward fuselage skin to detect cracking, in...

76 FR 47056 - Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney (PW) Models PW4074 and PW4077 Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-04

... AD using a drawdown plan that includes a borescope inspection (BSI) or eddy current inspection (ECI... inspection (BSI) or eddy current inspection (ECI) of the disk rim according to the following schedule: (i...

75 FR 35611 - Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Corporation Model DC-10-10, DC-10-10F, and MD-10-10F...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-23

... one-time high frequency eddy current inspection of fastener holes for cracks at the left and right... frequency eddy current inspection of fastener holes for cracks at the left and right side wing rear spar... frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of fastener holes at the left and right side wing rear spar...

75 FR 2831 - Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Corporation Model DC-10-10, DC-10-10F, and MD-10-10F...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-01-19

... proposed AD would require a one-time high frequency eddy current inspection of fastener holes for cracks at... high frequency eddy current inspection of fastener holes for cracking at the left and right side wing... of this AD, do a one-time high frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of fastener holes at...

75 FR 16683 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 777-200LR and -300ER Series Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-02

... eddy current inspection for cracking of the keyway of the fuel tank access door cutout on the left and... frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking at the keyway of the fuel tank access door cutout on... frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of the keyway of the fuel tank access door cutout on...

76 FR 1990 - Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-6, PC-6-H1, PC-6-H2, PC-6/350, PC-6/350...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-12

... eddy current and visual inspections of the upper wing strut fitting for evidence of cracks, wear and/or... permitted extending the intervals for the repetitive eddy current and visual inspections from 100 Flight... the applicability and to require repetitive eddy current and visual inspections of the upper wing...

77 FR 26993 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-08

... high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracking in holes common to the splice strap and... tasks required by this paragraph: Before further flight, do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC... approval must specifically refer to this AD. (h) Detailed and High Frequency Eddy Current Inspections...

77 FR 68050 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-15

... repetitive [high frequency eddy current] inspections [for cracks] of certain crossbeams including those... actions have already been done. (g) Repetitive High Frequency Eddy Current Inspections (1) For airplanes... AD, whichever occurs first. FedEx stated that the current repetitive inspection interval is ten times...

Inspection of cup-shaped steel parts from the I.D. side using eddy current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Griffiths, Erick W.; Pearson, Lee H.

2018-04-01

An eddy current method was developed to inspect cup-shaped steel parts from the I.D. side. During the manufacturing process of these parts, a thin Al tape foil is applied to the I.D. side of the part. One of the critical process parameters is that only one foil layer can be applied. An eddy current inspection system was developed to reject parts with more than one foil layer. The Al tape foil is cut to length to fit the inner diameter, however, after application of the foil there is a gap created between the beginning and end of the foil. It was found that this gap interfered with the eddy current inspection causing a false positive indication. To solve this problem a sensor design and data analysis process were developed to overcome the effects of these gaps. The developed system incorporates simultaneous measurements from multiple eddy current sensors and signal processing to achieve a reliable inspection.

76 FR 66620 - Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-215-1A10, CL-215-6B11 (CL-215T Variant), and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-27

... effective date of this AD: Perform an in situ eddy current inspection for cracks on the forward lug of the...-6B11 (CL-415 Variant) airplanes). Thereafter, repeat the in situ eddy current inspection at intervals not to exceed 165 land landings. (2) If no crack is found: Repeat the in situ eddy current inspection...

75 FR 38404 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-100B, 747-200B, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-02

... airplanes. This AD requires repetitive detailed and high frequency eddy current inspections of the forward... high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections of the forward and aft sides of the strut front spar... date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Perform a detailed inspection and a high frequency eddy...

76 FR 26962 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2-1C, A300 B2-203, A300 B2K-3C, A300-B4-103, A300 B4...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-10

... repetitive detailed inspections for disbonding and cracking of the fuselage inner doubler; eddy current and... detailed inspections for disbonding and cracking of the fuselage inner doubler; eddy current and ultrasonic... or Modification if Necessary (g) For airplanes on which an eddy current inspection of the ``special...

77 FR 37332 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-21

... the high frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of the critical fastener holes, and repair if... of the bulkhead, and repair if necessary; and proposed an option to the high frequency eddy current...-15152 (72 FR 44753, August 9, 2007)), do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of...

77 FR 43178 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-24

... eddy current high frequency (ETHF) inspections for cracking on the aft side of the left and right wing... NPRM proposed to require repetitive eddy current high frequency (ETHF) inspections for cracking on the...,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, do an eddy current high...

76 FR 14349 - Airworthiness Directives; British Aerospace Regional Aircraft Model HP.137 Jetstream Mk.1...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-16

... (FC). For the reasons described above, this AD requires initial and repetitive eddy current... requires initial and repetitive eddy current inspections, and depending on findings, accomplishment of... (landings) on the MLG after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, eddy current inspect all...

Eddy current technique for predicting burst pressure

DOEpatents

Petri, Mark C.; Kupperman, David S.; Morman, James A.; Reifman, Jaques; Wei, Thomas Y. C.

2003-01-01

A signal processing technique which correlates eddy current inspection data from a tube having a critical tubing defect with a range of predicted burst pressures for the tube is provided. The method can directly correlate the raw eddy current inspection data representing the critical tubing defect with the range of burst pressures using a regression technique, preferably an artificial neural network. Alternatively, the technique deconvolves the raw eddy current inspection data into a set of undistorted signals, each of which represents a separate defect of the tube. The undistorted defect signal which represents the critical tubing defect is related to a range of burst pressures utilizing a regression technique.

77 FR 11017 - Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney (PW) Models PW4074 and PW4077 Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-24

... (BSI) or eddy current inspection (ECI) of the disk outer rim front rail for cracks prior to... date of this AD. (ii) Perform a borescope inspection (BSI) or eddy current inspection (ECI) of the...

Robotic NDE inspection of advanced solid rocket motor casings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcneelege, Glenn E.; Sarantos, Chris

1994-01-01

The Advanced Solid Rocket Motor program determined the need to inspect ASRM forgings and segments for potentially catastrophic defects. To minimize costs, an automated eddy current inspection system was designed and manufactured for inspection of ASRM forgings in the initial phases of production. This system utilizes custom manipulators and motion control algorithms and integrated six channel eddy current data acquisition and analysis hardware and software. Total system integration is through a personal computer based workcell controller. Segment inspection demands the use of a gantry robot for the EMAT/ET inspection system. The EMAT/ET system utilized similar mechanical compliancy and software logic to accommodate complex part geometries. EMAT provides volumetric inspection capability while eddy current is limited to surface and near surface inspection. Each aspect of the systems are applicable to other industries, such as, inspection of pressure vessels, weld inspection, and traditional ultrasonic inspection applications.

77 FR 63264 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-16

... manufacturer cannot be identified, do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of the... a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) method and, depending on findings, accomplishment of the... inspection of the rods to determine the manufacturer; and for affected parts, an inspection for any cracking...

75 FR 5692 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-200C and -200F Series Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-04

... all Model 747-200C and -200F series airplanes. This AD requires a high frequency eddy current (HFEC... on July 6, 2009 (74 FR 31894). That NPRM proposed to require a high frequency eddy current inspection..., whichever occurs later: Do an open-hole high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of all the fastener...

Process Specification for Eddy Current Inspection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshti, Ajay

2011-01-01

This process specification establishes the minimum requirements for eddy current inspection of flat surfaces, fastener holes, threaded fasteners and seamless and welded tubular products made from nonmagnetic alloys such as aluminum and stainless steel.

78 FR 22215 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-15

... necessary; a one-time eddy current inspection of certain fastener holes for cracking, and repair if... realignment if necessary; a one-time eddy current inspection of certain fastener holes for cracking, and...

78 FR 21079 - Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-09

... accomplished. The initial inspection may be either a detailed inspection or a bolt- hole eddy current (BHEC... inspection or a bolt-hole eddy current (BHEC) test for cracking of each nacelle lower longeron, in accordance...-39, Revision A, dated August 2, 2012, specify to contact the manufacturer for instructions to repair...

49 CFR 180.209 - Requirements for requalification of specification cylinders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Requalification period (years) Eddy current examination combined with visual inspection Eddy current—In accordance... performing eddy current must be familiar with the eddy current equipment and must standardize (calibrate) the system in accordance with the requirements provided in Appendix C to this part. 2 The eddy current must...

49 CFR 180.209 - Requirements for requalification of specification cylinders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Requalification period (years) Eddy current examination combined with visual inspection Eddy current—In accordance... performing eddy current must be familiar with the eddy current equipment and must standardize (calibrate) the system in accordance with the requirements provided in Appendix C to this part. 2 The eddy current must...

49 CFR 180.209 - Requirements for requalification of specification cylinders.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Requalification period (years) Eddy current examination combined with visual inspection Eddy current—In accordance... performing eddy current must be familiar with the eddy current equipment and must standardize (calibrate) the system in accordance with the requirements provided in Appendix C to this part. 2 The eddy current must...

75 FR 62005 - Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-6, PC-6-H1, PC-6-H2, PC-6/350, PC-6/350...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-07

... the applicability and to require repetitive eddy current and visual inspections of the upper wing... the applicability and to require repetitive eddy current and visual inspections of the upper wing... Emergency AD 2007-0241-E to extend the applicability and to require repetitive eddy current and visual...

Automated eddy current analysis of materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.

1991-01-01

The use of eddy current techniques for characterizing flaws in graphite-based filament-wound cylindrical structures is described. A major emphasis was also placed upon incorporating artificial intelligence techniques into the signal analysis portion of the inspection process. Developing an eddy current scanning system using a commercial robot for inspecting graphite structures (and others) was a goal in the overall concept and is essential for the final implementation for the expert systems interpretation. Manual scans, as performed in the preliminary work here, do not provide sufficiently reproducible eddy current signatures to be easily built into a real time expert system. The expert systems approach to eddy current signal analysis requires that a suitable knowledge base exist in which correct decisions as to the nature of a flaw can be performed. A robotic workcell using eddy current transducers for the inspection of carbon filament materials with improved sensitivity was developed. Improved coupling efficiencies achieved with the E-probes and horseshoe probes are exceptional for graphite fibers. The eddy current supervisory system and expert system was partially developed on a MacIvory system. Continued utilization of finite element models for predetermining eddy current signals was shown to be useful in this work, both for understanding how electromagnetic fields interact with graphite fibers, and also for use in determining how to develop the knowledge base. Sufficient data was taken to indicate that the E-probe and the horseshoe probe can be useful eddy current transducers for inspecting graphite fiber components. The lacking component at this time is a large enough probe to have sensitivity in both the far and near field of a thick graphite epoxy component.

Motion-induced eddy current thermography for high-speed inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jianbo; Li, Kongjing; Tian, Guiyun; Zhu, Junzhen; Gao, Yunlai; Tang, Chaoqing; Chen, Xiaotian

2017-08-01

This letter proposes a novel motion-induced eddy current based thermography (MIECT) for high-speed inspection. In contrast to conventional eddy current thermography (ECT) based on a time-varying magnetic field created by an AC coil, the motion-induced eddy current is induced by the relative motion between magnetic field and inspected objects. A rotating magnetic field created by three-phase windings is used to investigate the heating principle and feasibility of the proposed method. Firstly, based on Faraday's law the distribution of MIEC is investigated, which is then validated by numerical simulation. Further, experimental studies are conducted to validate the proposed method by creating rotating magnetic fields at different speeds from 600 rpm to 6000 rpm, and it is verified that rotating speed will increase MIEC intensity and thereafter improve the heating efficiency. The conclusion can be preliminarily drawn that the proposed MIECT is a platform suitable for high-speed inspection.

Non-destructive testing of composite materials used in military applications by eddy current thermography method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swiderski, Waldemar

2016-10-01

Eddy current thermography is a new NDT-technique for the detection of cracks in electro conductive materials. It combines the well-established inspection techniques of eddy current testing and thermography. The technique uses induced eddy currents to heat the sample being tested and defect detection is based on the changes of induced eddy currents flows revealed by thermal visualization captured by an infrared camera. The advantage of this method is to use the high performance of eddy current testing that eliminates the known problem of the edge effect. Especially for components of complex geometry this is an important factor which may overcome the increased expense for inspection set-up. The paper presents the possibility of applying eddy current thermography method for detecting defects in ballistic covers made of carbon fiber reinforced composites used in the construction of military vehicles.

Method for removal of random noise in eddy-current testing system

DOEpatents

Levy, Arthur J.

1995-01-01

Eddy-current response voltages, generated during inspection of metallic structures for anomalies, are often replete with noise. Therefore, analysis of the inspection data and results is difficult or near impossible, resulting in inconsistent or unreliable evaluation of the structure. This invention processes the eddy-current response voltage, removing the effect of random noise, to allow proper identification of anomalies within and associated with the structure.

Numerical modelling as a cost-reduction tool for probability of detection of bolt hole eddy current testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mandache, C.; Khan, M.; Fahr, A.; Yanishevsky, M.

2011-03-01

Probability of detection (PoD) studies are broadly used to determine the reliability of specific nondestructive inspection procedures, as well as to provide data for damage tolerance life estimations and calculation of inspection intervals for critical components. They require inspections on a large set of samples, a fact that makes these statistical assessments time- and cost-consuming. Physics-based numerical simulations of nondestructive testing inspections could be used as a cost-effective alternative to empirical investigations. They realistically predict the inspection outputs as functions of the input characteristics related to the test piece, transducer and instrument settings, which are subsequently used to partially substitute and/or complement inspection data in PoD analysis. This work focuses on the numerical modelling aspects of eddy current testing for the bolt hole inspections of wing box structures typical of the Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules and P-3 Orion aircraft, found in the air force inventory of many countries. Boundary element-based numerical modelling software was employed to predict the eddy current signal responses when varying inspection parameters related to probe characteristics, crack geometry and test piece properties. Two demonstrator exercises were used for eddy current signal prediction when lowering the driver probe frequency and changing the material's electrical conductivity, followed by subsequent discussions and examination of the implications on using simulated data in the PoD analysis. Despite some simplifying assumptions, the modelled eddy current signals were found to provide similar results to the actual inspections. It is concluded that physics-based numerical simulations have the potential to partially substitute or complement inspection data required for PoD studies, reducing the cost, time, effort and resources necessary for a full empirical PoD assessment.

Recent and Future Enhancements in NDI for Aircraft Structures

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-30

accomplish NDI of aircraft structure. This includes improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other...Aircraft Structures,” which is currently in Revision C [8]. The document divides various inspection methods, such as eddy current and fluorescent...efforts at AFRL to address technology shortfalls include improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other

Recent and Future Enhancements in NDI for Aircraft Structures (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-30

accomplish NDI of aircraft structure. This includes improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other...Aircraft Structures,” which is currently in Revision C [8]. The document divides various inspection methods, such as eddy current and fluorescent...efforts at AFRL to address technology shortfalls include improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other

Recent and Future Enhancements in NDI for Aircraft Structures (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-01

accomplish NDI of aircraft structure. This includes improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other...Aircraft Structures,” which is currently in Revision C [8]. The document divides various inspection methods, such as eddy current and fluorescent...efforts at AFRL to address technology shortfalls include improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other

Recent and Future Enhancements in NDI for Aircraft Structures (POSTPRINT)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-16

accomplish NDI of aircraft structure. This includes improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other...Aircraft Structures,” which is currently in Revision C [8]. The document divides various inspection methods, such as eddy current and fluorescent...efforts at AFRL to address technology shortfalls include improved eddy current probes, improved eddy current instrumentation, as well as other

Automated Eddy Current Inspection on Space Shuttle Hardware

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartmann, John; Felker, Jeremy

2007-01-01

Over the life time of the Space Shuttle program, metal parts used for the Reusable Solid Rocket Motors (RSRMs) have been nondestructively inspected for cracks and surface breaking discontinuities using magnetic particle (steel) and penetrant methods. Although these inspections adequately screened for critical sized cracks in most regions of the hardware, it became apparent after detection of several sub-critical flaws that the processes were very dependent on operator attentiveness and training. Throughout the 1990's, eddy current inspections were added to areas that had either limited visual access or were more fracture critical. In the late 1990's. a project was initiated to upgrade NDE inspections with the overall objective of improving inspection reliability and control. An automated eddy current inspection system was installed in 2001. A figure shows one of the inspection bays with the robotic axis of the system highlighted. The system was programmed to inspect the various case, nozzle, and igniter metal components that make up an RSRM. both steel and aluminum. For the past few years, the automated inspection system has been a part of the baseline inspection process for steel components. Although the majority of the RSRM metal part inventory ts free of detectable surface flaws, a few small, sub-critical manufacturing defects have been detected with the automated system. This paper will summarize the benefits that have been realized with the current automated eddy current system, as well as the flaws that have been detected.

A Steel Ball Surface Quality Inspection Method Based on a Circumferential Eddy Current Array Sensor.

PubMed

Zhang, Huayu; Xie, Fengqin; Cao, Maoyong; Zhong, Mingming

2017-07-01

To efficiently inspect surface defects on steel ball bearings, a new method based on a circumferential eddy current array (CECA) sensor was proposed here. The best probe configuration, in terms of the coil quality factor (Q-factor), magnetic field intensity, and induced eddy current density on the surface of a sample steel ball, was determined using 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-coil probes, for analysis and comparison. The optimal lift-off from the measured steel ball, the number of probe coils, and the frequency of excitation current suitable for steel ball inspection were obtained. Using the resulting CECA sensor to inspect 46,126 steel balls showed a miss rate of ~0.02%. The sensor was inspected for surface defects as small as 0.05 mm in width and 0.1 mm in depth.

Use of eddy current mixes to solve a weld examination application

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ward, R.C.; LaBoissonniere, A.

1995-12-31

The augmentation of typical nondestructive (i.e., ultrasound) weld inspection techniques by the use of eddy current tools may significantly enhance the quality and reliability of weld inspections. One recent example is the development of an eddy current technique for use in the examination of BWR core shroud welds, where multi-frequency mixes are used to eliminate signals coming from the weld material so that the examination of the heat affected zone is enhanced. An analysis tool most commonly associated with ultrasound examinations, the C-Scan based on gated information, may be implemented with eddy current data to enhance analysis.

Apparatus For Eddy-Current Inspection Of Bolts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amos, Jay M.

1994-01-01

Eddy-current apparatus for inspection of bolts, studs, and other threaded fasteners detects flaws in threads, shanks, and head fillets. With help of apparatus, technician quickly inspects fasteners of various dimensions. Accommodates fasteners with diameters from 0.190 in. to 1 in. and with lengths up to 5 in. Basic design modified to accommodate fasteners of other sizes.

Multifrequency Eddy Current Inspection of Corrosion in Clad Aluminum Riveted Lap Joints and Its Effect on Fatigue Life

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okafor, A. C.; Natarajan, S.

2007-03-01

Aging aircraft are prone to corrosion damage and fatigue cracks in riveted lap joints of fuselage skin panels. This can cause catastrophic failure if not detected and repaired. Hence detection of corrosion damage and monitoring its effect on structural integrity are essential. This paper presents multifrequency eddy current (EC) inspection of corrosion damage and machined material loss defect in clad A1 2024-T3 riveted lap joints and its effect on fatigue life. Results of eddy current inspection, corrosion product removal and fatigue testing are presented.

49 CFR Appendix C to Part 180 - Eddy Current Examination With Visual Inspection for DOT 3AL Cylinders Manufactured of Aluminum...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... for DOT 3AL Cylinders Manufactured of Aluminum Alloy 6351-T6 C Appendix C to Part 180 Transportation... Pt. 180, App. C Appendix C to Part 180—Eddy Current Examination With Visual Inspection for DOT 3AL... with CGA pamphlet C-6.1 (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter). 3. Eddy Current Equipment. A reference...

78 FR 60807 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-02

... frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of the bear strap; External detailed and HFEC inspections of the... 737-53A1329, dated June 4, 2013, specifies contacting the manufacturer for inspection instructions... an internal detailed inspection of the skin assembly and bear strap, an internal high frequency eddy...

75 FR 35609 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 777-200LR and -300ER Series Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-23

... frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of the keyway of the fuel tank access door cutout on the left... NPRM proposed to require doing a high frequency eddy current inspection for [[Page 35610

76 FR 63172 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 767 Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-12

... repetitive detailed and high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections of the station (STA) 1809.5 bulkhead... detailed and high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracking as specified in Parts 1, 2, 3, and... rule to provide the applicable, current SRMs; we have re-identified subsequent tables accordingly. We...

Development of and Improved Magneto-Optic/Eddy-Current Imager

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-04-01

Magneto-optic/eddy-current imaging technology has been developed and approved for inspection of cracks in aging aircraft. This relatively new nondestructive test method gives the inspector the ability to quickly generate real-time eddy-current images...

Procedure for Automated Eddy Current Crack Detection in Thin Titanium Plates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A.

2012-01-01

This procedure provides the detailed instructions for conducting Eddy Current (EC) inspections of thin (5-30 mils) titanium membranes with thickness and material properties typical of the development of Ultra-Lightweight diaphragm Tanks Technology (ULTT). The inspection focuses on the detection of part-through, surface breaking fatigue cracks with depths between approximately 0.002" and 0.007" and aspect ratios (a/c) of 0.2-1.0 using an automated eddy current scanning and image processing technique.

Detecting defects in marine structures by using eddy current infrared thermography.

PubMed

Swiderski, W

2016-12-01

Eddy current infrared (IR) thermography is a new nondestructive testing (NDT) technique used for the detection of cracks in electroconductive materials. By combining the well-established inspection methods of eddy current NDT and IR thermography, this technique uses induced eddy currents to heat test samples. In this way, IR thermography allows the visualization of eddy current distribution that is distorted in defect sites. This paper discusses the results of numerical modeling of eddy current IR thermography procedures in application to marine structures.

77 FR 31762 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-30

..., Steel Part Surface Inspection (Impedance Plane Display), of Part 6, Eddy Current, of the Boeing 707, 720... Subject 51-00-00 Figure 24, Steel Part Surface Inspection (Impedance Plane Display), of Part 6, Eddy...

Correlation of eddy current responses between fatigue cracks and electrical-discharge-machining notches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seo, Sukho; Choi, Gyudong; Eom, Tae Jhoun; Lee, Bokwon; Lee, Soo Yeol

2017-07-01

The eddy current responses of Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) notches and fatigue cracks are directly compared to verify the reliability of eddy current inspection. The fatigue crack growth tests using a constant load range control mode were conducted to obtain a variety of edge crack sizes, ranging from 0.9 to 6.6 mm for Al alloy and from 0.1 to 3 mm for Ti alloy. EDM notch specimens of Al and Ti alloys were accordingly prepared in lengths similar to that of the fatigued specimen. The crack length was determined by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. The eddy current responses between the EDM and fatigued specimens with varying notch/crack length were examined using probe sensors at (100-500) kHz and (1-2) MHz for Al and Ti alloys, respectively. The results show a significant difference in the eddy current signal between the two specimens, based on the correlation between the eddy current response and notch/crack length. This suggests that eddy current inspection using the EDM reference specimen is inaccurate in determining the precise crack size, unless the eddy current response data base is obtained from a fatigue-cracked specimen.

75 FR 74668 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER Series...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-01

... investigative actions include a surface high- frequency eddy current inspection for cracking of the inner.... The related investigative actions include a surface high-frequency eddy current inspection for... total flight hours and 5,335 total flight cycles. Analysis by the manufacturer revealed that the broken...

Contoured Surface Eddy Current Inspection System

DOEpatents

Batzinger, Thomas James; Fulton, James Paul; Rose, Curtis Wayne; Perocchi, Lee Cranford

2003-04-08

Eddy current inspection of a contoured surface of a workpiece is performed by forming a backing piece of flexible, resiliently yieldable material with a contoured exterior surface conforming in shape to the workpiece contoured surface. The backing piece is preferably cast in place so as to conform to the workpiece contoured surface. A flexible eddy current array probe is attached to the contoured exterior surface of the backing piece such that the probe faces the contoured surface of the workpiece to be inspected when the backing piece is disposed adjacent to the workpiece. The backing piece is then expanded volumetrically by inserting at least one shim into a slot in the backing piece to provide sufficient contact pressure between the probe and the workpiece contoured surface to enable the inspection of the workpiece contoured surface to be performed.

Study of eddy current probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.; Wang, Morgan

1992-01-01

The recognition of materials properties still presents a number of problems for nondestructive testing in aerospace systems. This project attempts to utilize current capabilities in eddy current instrumentation, artificial intelligence, and robotics in order to provide insight into defining geometrical aspects of flaws in composite materials which are capable of being evaluated using eddy current inspection techniques.

Eddy Current System and Method for Crack Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A. (Inventor); Simpson, John W. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

An eddy current system and method enables detection of sub-surface damage in a cylindrical object. The invention incorporates a dual frequency, orthogonally wound eddy current probe mounted on a stepper motor-controlled scanning system. The system is designed to inspect for outer surface damage from the interior of the cylindrical object.

Eddy-Current Inspection of Ball Bearings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bankston, B.

1985-01-01

Custom eddy-current probe locates surface anomalies. Low friction air cushion within cone allows ball to roll easily. Eddy current probe reliably detects surface and near-surface cracks, voids, and material anomalies in bearing balls or other spherical objects. Defects in ball surface detected by probe displayed on CRT and recorded on strip-chart recorder.

Revolving Eddy-Current Probe Detects Cracks Near Rivets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Namkung, Min; Wincheski, Buzz; Fulton, James P.; Nath, Shridhar; Simpson, John

1995-01-01

Scanning eddy-current probe in circular pattern increases sensitivity with which probe indicates fatigue cracks and other defects in metal surfaces in vicinity of rivets. Technique devised to facilitate inspection of riveted joints in aircraft. Eddy-current probe in question described in "Electro-magnetic Flaw Detector Is Easier To Use" (LAR-15046).

Eddy-Current Probes For Inspecting Graphite-Fiber Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.; Wang, Morgan

1992-01-01

Eddy-current probes with E-shaped and U-shaped magnetic cores developed to detect flaws in graphite-fiber/epoxy and other composites. Magnetic fields more concentrated, yielding better coupling with specimens.

Eddy Current System for Material Inspection and Flaw Visualization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bachnak, R.; King, S.; Maeger, W.; Nguyen, T.

2007-01-01

Eddy current methods have been successfully used in a variety of non-destructive evaluation applications including detection of cracks, measurements of material thickness, determining metal thinning due to corrosion, measurements of coating thickness, determining electrical conductivity, identification of materials, and detection of corrosion in heat exchanger tubes. This paper describes the development of an eddy current prototype that combines positional and eddy-current data to produce a C-scan of tested material. The preliminary system consists of an eddy current probe, a position tracking mechanism, and basic data visualization capability. Initial test results of the prototype are presented in this paper.

Eddy-Current Detection of Cracks in Tubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parent, R.; Kettering, D.

1987-01-01

Nondestructive device tests narrow, sharply-bent metal tubes. Eddycurrent probe detects incipient cracks inside small metal tubes. Tube-centering device consisting of pair of opposed bars ensures tube centered on eddy-current coil. Probe moves along length of bent tube to inspect repeatably for cracks. Compatible with tubes of different cross sections, oval, flattened, square, rectangular,or irregular. Adapts for inspecting formed tubes in petrochemical, automotive, nuclear, and medical equipment.

76 FR 78574 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-19

... box and failure of the wing. This proposed AD would require repetitive high frequency eddy current..., dated August 12, 2011: Do a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection to detect cracking of the...

In-service inspection methods for graphite-epoxy structures on commercial transport aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Phelps, M. L.

1981-01-01

In-service inspection methods for graphite-epoxy composite structures on commercial transport aircraft are determined. Graphite/epoxy structures, service incurred defects, current inspection practices and concerns of the airline and manufacturers, and other related information were determind by survey. Based on this information, applicable inspection nondestructive inspection methods are evaluated and inspection techniques determined. Technology is developed primarily in eddy current inspection.

Eddy current signal comparison for tube identification

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Glass, S. W., E-mail: Bill.Glass@areva.com, E-mail: Ratko.Vojvodic@areva.com; Vojvodic, R., E-mail: Bill.Glass@areva.com, E-mail: Ratko.Vojvodic@areva.com

2015-03-31

Inspection of nuclear power plant steam generator tubes is required to justify continued safe plant operation. The steam generators consist of thousands of tubes with nominal diameters of 15 to 22mm, approximately 1mm wall thickness, and 20 to 30m in length. The tubes are inspected by passing an eddy current probe through the tubes from tube end to tube end. It is critical to know exactly which tube identification (row and column) is associated with each tube's data. This is controlled by a precision manipulator that provides the tube ID to the eddy current system. Historically there have been somemore » instances where the manipulator incorrectly reported the tube ID. This can have serious consequences including lack of inspection of a tube, or if a pluggable indication is detected, the tube is likely to be mis-plugged thereby risking a primary to secondary leak.« less

75 FR 38061 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B4-600 Series Airplanes; Model A300 B4-600R Series...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-01

... dimensional measurement of the holes, and doing corrective actions if necessary; doing an eddy current... dimensional measurement of the holes, doing an eddy current inspection of the holes for cracking, doing a cold... the effective date of this AD, prior to doing any cold working process, determine if an eddy current...

Eddy current system for inspection of train hollow axles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chady, Tomasz; Psuj, Grzegorz; Sikora, Ryszard

2014-02-18

The structural integrity of wheelsets used in rolling stock is of great importance to the safety. In this paper, electromagnetic system with an eddy current transducer suitable for the inspection of hollow axles have been presented. The transducer was developed to detect surface braking defects having depth not smaller than 0.5 mm. Ultrasound technique can be utilized to inspect the whole axle, but it is not sufficiently sensitive to shallow defects located close to the surface. Therefore, the electromagnetic technique is proposed to detect surface breaking cracks that cannot be detected by ultrasonic technique.

Development of Eddy Current Techniques for the Detection of Cracking in Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control Thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz A.; Simpson, John W.; Koshti, Ajay

2007-01-01

A recent identification of cracking in the Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control System (PRCS) thrusters triggered an extensive nondestructive evaluation effort to develop techniques capable of identifying such damage on installed shuttle hardware. As a part of this effort, specially designed eddy current probes inserted into the acoustic cavity were explored for the detection of such flaws and for evaluation of the remaining material between the crack tip and acoustic cavity. The technique utilizes two orthogonal eddy current probes which are scanned under stepper motor control in the acoustic cavity to identify cracks hidden with as much as 0.060 remaining wall thickness to the cavity. As crack growth rates in this area have been determined to be very slow, such an inspection provides a large safety margin for continued operation of the critical shuttle hardware. Testing has been performed on thruster components with both actual and fabricated defects. This paper will review the design and performance of the developed eddy current inspection system. Detection of flaws as a function of remaining wall thickness will be presented along with the proposed system configuration for depot level or on-vehicle inspection capabilities.

Development of Eddy Current Technique for the Detection of Stress Corrosion Cracking in Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control Thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Simpson, John; Koshti, Ajay

2006-01-01

A recent identification of stress corrosion cracking in the Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control System (PRCS) thrusters triggered an extensive nondestructive evaluation effort to develop techniques capable of identifying such damage on installed shuttle hardware. As a part of this effort, specially designed eddy current probes inserted into the acoustic cavity were explored for the detection of such flaws and for evaluation of the remaining material between the crack tip and acoustic cavity. The technique utilizes two orthogonal eddy current probes which are scanned under stepper motor control in the acoustic cavity to identify cracks hidden with as much as 0.060 remaining wall thickness to the cavity. As crack growth rates in this area have been determined to be very slow, such an inspection provides a large safety margin for continued operation of the critical shuttle hardware. Testing has been performed on thruster components with both actual and fabricated defects. This paper will review the design and performance of the developed eddy current inspection system. Detection of flaws as a function of remaining wall thickness will be presented along with the proposed system configuration for depot level or on-vehicle inspection capabilities.

Eddy current inspection tool. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Petrini, R.R.; Van Lue, D.F.

1980-10-29

A miniaturized inspection tool, for testing and inspection of metal objects in locations with difficult accessibility, which comprises eddy current sensing equipment with a probe coil, and associated coaxial coil cable, oil energizing means, and circuit means responsive to impedance changes in the coil as effected by induced eddy currents in a test object to produce a data output signal proportional to such changes. The coil and cable are slideably received in the utility channel of the flexible insertion tube of a fiberoptic scope. The scope is provided with light transmitting and receiving fiberoptics for viewing through the flexible tube, and articulation means for articulating the distal end of the tube and permitting close control of coil placement relative to a test object. The eddy current sensing equipment includes a tone generator for generating audible signals responsive to the data output signal. In one selected mode of operation, the tone generator responsive to the output signal above a selected level generates a constant single frequency tone for signalling detection of a discontinuity and, in a second selected mode, generates a tone whose frequency is proportional to the difference between the output signal and a predetermined selected threshold level.

A Tool Measuring Remaining Thickness of Notched Acoustic Cavities in Primary Reaction Control Thruster NDI Standards

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sun, Yushi; Sun, Changhong; Zhu, Harry; Wincheski, Buzz

2006-01-01

Stress corrosion cracking in the relief radius area of a space shuttle primary reaction control thruster is an issue of concern. The current approach for monitoring of potential crack growth is nondestructive inspection (NDI) of remaining thickness (RT) to the acoustic cavities using an eddy current or remote field eddy current probe. EDM manufacturers have difficulty in providing accurate RT calibration standards. Significant error in the RT values of NDI calibration standards could lead to a mistaken judgment of cracking condition of a thruster under inspection. A tool based on eddy current principle has been developed to measure the RT at each acoustic cavity of a calibration standard in order to validate that the standard meets the sample design criteria.

Non-destructive inspection using HTS SQUID on aluminum liner covered by CFRP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatsukade, Y.; Yotsugi, K.; Sakaguchi, Y.; Tanaka, S.

2007-10-01

An eddy-current-based SQUID non-destructive inspection (NDI) system to detect deep-lying cracks in multi-layer composite-Al vessels was developed taking advantage of the uncontested sensitivity of HTS-SQUID in low-frequency range. An HTS-SQUID gradiometer was mounted in a pulse tube cryocooler. A pair of differential coils with C-shaped ferrite cores was employed to induce an enhanced eddy current in an Al vessel wrapped in a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) cover. Ellipsoidal dome-shaped Al liners containing through cracks, which were made by pressure cycle tests, in the CFRP covers with total thickness of 6 mm (CFPR 3 mm, and Al 3 mm) were inspected by the system. While inducing eddy currents in the vessels with excitation fields at 100 Hz or 7 kHz, the vessels were rotated under the HTS-SQUID. Above the cracks, anomalous signals due to the cracks were clearly detected at both frequencies. These results suggested the SQUID-NDI technique would be a possible candidate for inspection of high-pressure multi-layer composite-Al vessels.

Characterization and optimization of spiral eddy current coils for in-situ crack detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mandache, Catalin

2018-03-01

In-situ condition-based maintenance is making strides in the aerospace industry and it is seen as an alternative to scheduled, time-based maintenance. With fatigue cracks originating from fastener holes as the main reason for structural failures, embedded eddy current coils are a viable non-invasive solution for their timely detection. The development and potential broad use of these coils are motivated by a few consistent arguments: (i) inspection of structures of complicated geometries and hard to access areas, that often require disassembly, (ii) alternative to regular inspection actions that could introduce inadvertent damage, (iii) for structures that have short inspection intervals, and (iv) for repaired structures where fastener holes contain bushings and prevent further bolt-hole inspections. Since the spiral coils are aiming at detecting radial cracks emanating from the fastener holes, their design parameters should allow for high inductance, low ohmic losses and power requirements, as well as optimal size and high sensitivity to discontinuities. In this study, flexible, surface conformable, spiral eddy current coils are empirically investigated on mock-up specimens, while numerical analysis is performed for their optimization and design improvement.

Improved multi-directional eddy current inspection test apparatus for detecting flaws in metal articles

DOEpatents

Nance, Roy A.; Hartley, William H.; Caffarel, Alfred J.

1984-01-01

Apparatus is described for detecting flaws in a tubular workpiece in a single scan. The coils of a dual coil bobbin eddy current inspection probe are wound at a 45.degree. angle to the transverse axis of the probe, one coil having an angular position about the axis about 90.degree. relative to the angular position of the other coil, and the angle of intersection of the planes containing the coils being about 60.degree..

78 FR 21576 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-11

... with Inspection Condition 5: Repeat the high frequency eddy current or magnetic particle inspection to... latch pins for discrepancies; and an HFEC or magnetic particle inspection of cam latch 1 and cam latch 2...

Validation Test Results for Orthogonal Probe Eddy Current Thruster Inspection System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A.

2007-01-01

Recent nondestructive evaluation efforts within NASA have focused on an inspection system for the detection of intergranular cracking originating in the relief radius of Primary Reaction Control System (PCRS) Thrusters. Of particular concern is deep cracking in this area which could lead to combustion leakage in the event of through wall cracking from the relief radius into an acoustic cavity of the combustion chamber. In order to reliably detect such defects while ensuring minimal false positives during inspection, the Orthogonal Probe Eddy Current (OPEC) system has been developed and an extensive validation study performed. This report describes the validation procedure, sample set, and inspection results as well as comparing validation flaws with the response from naturally occuring damage.

Eddy current inspection tool which is selectively operable in a discontinuity detection mode and a discontinuity magnitude mode

DOEpatents

Petrini, Richard R.; Van Lue, Dorin F.

1983-01-01

A miniaturized inspection tool, for testing and inspection of metal objects in locations with difficult accessibility, which comprises eddy current sensing equipment (12) with a probe coil (11), and associated coaxial coil cable (13), coil energizing means (21), and circuit means (21, 12) responsive to impedance changes in the coil as effected by induced eddy currents in a test object to produce a data output signal proportional to such changes. The coil and cable are slideably received in the utility channel of the flexible insertion tube 17 of fiberoptic scope 10. The scope 10 is provided with light transmitting and receiving fiberoptics for viewing through the flexible tube, and articulation means (19, 20) for articulating the distal end of the tube and permitting close control of coil placement relative to a test object. The eddy current sensing equipment includes a tone generator 30 for generating audibly signals responsive to the data output signal. In one selected mode of operation, the tone generator responsive to the output signal above a selected level generates a constant single frequency tone for signalling detection of a discontinuity and, in a second selected mode, generates a tone whose frequency is proportional to the difference between the output signal and a predetermined selected threshold level.

Eddy current inspection tool which is selectively operable in a discontinuity detection mode and a discontinuity magnitude mode

DOEpatents

Petrini, R.R.; Van Lue, D.F.

1983-10-25

A miniaturized inspection tool, for testing and inspection of metal objects in locations with difficult accessibility, which comprises eddy current sensing equipment with a probe coil, and associated coaxial coil cable, coil energizing means, and circuit means responsive to impedance changes in the coil as effected by induced eddy currents in a test object to produce a data output signal proportional to such changes. The coil and cable are slideably received in the utility channel of the flexible insertion tube of fiberoptic scope. The scope is provided with light transmitting and receiving fiberoptics for viewing through the flexible tube, and articulation means for articulating the distal end of the tube and permitting close control of coil placement relative to a test object. The eddy current sensing equipment includes a tone generator 30 for generating audibly signals responsive to the data output signal. In one selected mode of operation, the tone generator responsive to the output signal above a selected level generates a constant single frequency tone for signaling detection of a discontinuity and, in a second selected mode, generates a tone whose frequency is proportional to the difference between the output signal and a predetermined selected threshold level. 5 figs.

System for evaluating weld quality using eddy currents

DOEpatents

Todorov, Evgueni I.; Hay, Jacob

2017-12-12

Electromagnetic and eddy current techniques for fast automated real-time and near real-time inspection and monitoring systems for high production rate joining processes. An eddy current system, array and method for the fast examination of welds to detect anomalies such as missed seam (MS) and lack of penetration (LOP) the system, array and methods capable of detecting and sizing surface and slightly subsurface flaws at various orientations in connection with at least the first and second weld pass.

77 FR 36143 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-18

... this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Eddy Current High... the Federal Register on January 19, 2012 (77 FR 2664). That NPRM proposed to require repetitive eddy current high frequency (ETHF) inspections for cracks on the aft face on the left and right rib hinge...

Improved NDI techniques for aircraft inspections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagemaier, Donald J.; Wilson, Dwight

1996-11-01

Through the use of an 'integrated product team' approach and new inspection techniques incorporating the latest in imaging capabilities and automation, the costs of some man- power intensive tasks can now be drastically reduced. Also, through the use of advanced eddy current techniques, the detectable size of cracks under flush-head fasteners can be reduced while maintaining a reliable inspection. Early in this decade, the FAA Technical Center and NASA LaRC formulated an aging aircraft research plan. The unique aspect about the research is that it is driven by the aircraft manufacturers and airlines in order to center only on those areas in which help is needed and to keep it focused. Once developed, the manufacturer works with the FAA Validation Center at Sandia National Labs., the airline, and the researcher to transfer technology to the field. This article describes the evaluation and results obtained using eddy current technology to determine the minimum detectable crack size under installed flush-head fasteners. Secondly, it describes the integrated efforts of engineers at McDonnell Douglas Aerospace and Northwest Airlines in the successful application of MAUS eddy current C-scanning of the DC-10 circumferential and axial crown splices. The eddy current C-scanning greatly reduced the man-hour effort required for the existing radiographic inspection. Thirdly, it describes the use of a novel ultrasonic technique coupled to a scanner and graphics for the detection and quantification of corrosion thinning and stress corrosion cracking of the DC-9 lower wing tee cap. This successful effort resulted from a rather large integrated task team. It also results in a vast man-hour savings over the existing internal visual inspection.

Eddy-current inspection of shuttle heat exchanger tube welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dodd, Casius V.; Scott, G. W.; Chitwood, L. D.

1990-01-01

The goal of this project was to develop the system necessary to demonstrate in the laboratory that an eddy current system can inspect the tubes and welds described, screening for the existence of flaws equal in size to, or larger than, the target flaw. The laboratory system was to include the probe necessary to traverse the tubing, the electronics to drive (i.e., electrically excite) the probe and receive and process signals from it, a data display, data recording, and playback devices, and microprocessor software or firmware necessary to operate the system.

Detection and Sizing of Fatigue Cracks in Steel Welds with Advanced Eddy Current Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todorov, E. I.; Mohr, W. C.; Lozev, M. G.

2008-02-01

Butt-welded specimens were fatigued to produce cracks in the weld heat-affected zone. Advanced eddy current (AEC) techniques were used to detect and size the cracks through a coating. AEC results were compared with magnetic particle and phased-array ultrasonic techniques. Validation through destructive crack measurements was also conducted. Factors such as geometry, surface treatment, and crack tightness interfered with depth sizing. AEC inspection techniques have the potential of providing more accurate and complete sizing flaw data for manufacturing and in-service inspections.

Role of varying interface conditions on the eddy current response from cracks in multilayer structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherry, Aaron; Knopp, Jeremy; Aldrin, John C.; Sabbagh, Harold A.; Boehnlein, Thomas; Mooers, Ryan

2013-01-01

There is a need to improve the understanding of the role of interface conditions on eddy current inspections for cracks in multilayer aircraft structures. This paper presents initial experimental and simulated results studying the influence of gaps and contact conditions between two plates with a notch in the second layer. Simulations show an amplification of the eddy current signal for a subsurface notch adjacent to an air gap as opposed to a submerged notch in a solid plate.

Model based Inverse Methods for Sizing Cracks of Varying Shape and Location in Bolt hole Eddy Current (BHEC) Inspections (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-10

using bolt hole eddy current (BHEC) techniques. Data was acquired for a wide range of crack sizes and shapes, including mid- bore , corner and through...to select the most appropriate VIC-3D surrogate model for subsequent crack sizing inversion step. Inversion results for select mid- bore , through and...the flaw. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Bolt hole eddy current (BHEC); mid- bore , corner and through-thickness crack types; VIC-3D generated surrogate models

Eddy Current Probe for Surface and Sub-Surface Inspection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A. (Inventor); Simpson, John W. (Inventor)

2014-01-01

An eddy current probe includes an excitation coil for coupling to a low-frequency alternating current (AC) source. A magneto-resistive sensor is centrally disposed within and at one end of the excitation coil to thereby define a sensing end of the probe. A tubular flux-focusing lens is disposed between the excitation coil and the magneto-resistive sensor. An excitation wire is spaced apart from the magneto-resistive sensor in a plane that is perpendicular to the sensor's axis of sensitivity and such that, when the sensing end of the eddy current probe is positioned adjacent to the surface of a structure, the excitation wire is disposed between the magneto-resistive sensor and the surface of the structure. The excitation wire is coupled to a high-frequency AC source. The excitation coil and flux-focusing lens can be omitted when only surface inspection is required.

NonDestructive Evaluation for Industrial & Development Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hunter, James F.

2016-10-12

Provide overview of weld inspection for Non-Destructive Testing at LANL. This includes radiography (RT/DR/CR/CT for x-ray & neutron sources), ultrasonic testing (UT/PAUT), dye penetrant inspection (PT), eddy current inspection (ET) and magnetic particle testing (MT). Facilities and capabilities for weld inspection will be summarized with examples.

Application of Remote-Field Eddy Current Testing to Inspection of Unpiggable Pipelines

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-07-02

Corrosion of buried pipelines can lead to catastrophic failure. Many pipelines are successfully inspected by magnetic flux leakage (MFL) pigs to detect corrosion. However, there is a subset of pipelines for which MFL is not feasible. To inspect those...

Nondestructive Crack Detection in a Fuel System Component

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koshti, Ajay; Ruffino, Norman; Wincheski, Russell; Prosser, William; Winfree, William; Russell, Richard; Bryson, Craig; Devries, Robert; Engel, James; Landy, James

2010-01-01

The presentation examines the background and objective of nondestructive crack detection, flow control valve assembly and poppet post flight evaluation, poppet properties. magnetic property characterization of lab data, NDE, eddy current inspection, simulation, eddy current criteria, poppet cycle testing and NDE criteria, and the use of ultrasonic surface wave for crack detection.

Advances in transient (pulsed) eddy current for inspection of multi-layer aluminum structures in the presence of ferrous fasteners

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desjardins, D. R.; Vallières, G.; Whalen, P. P.; Krause, T. W.

2012-05-01

An experimental investigation of the electromagnetic processes underlying transient (pulsed) eddy current inspection of aircraft wing structures in the vicinity of ferrous fasteners is performed. The separate effects of transient excitation of ferrous fastener and eddy currents induced in the surrounding aluminum structure are explored using a transmit-receive configuration with transient excitation of a steel rod, an aluminum plate with a bore hole and a steel rod through the bore hole. Observations are used to interpret results from a coupled driving and differential coil sensing unit applied to detect fatigue cracks emanating from bolt holes in aluminum structures with ferrous fasteners present. In particular, it is noted that abrupt magnetization of the fastener, by the probe's central driving unit, can transfer flux and consequently, induce strong eddy current responses deep within the aluminum structure in the vicinity of the bore hole. Rotation of the probe, centered over the fastener, permits detection of subsurface discontinuities, such as cracks, by the pair of differentially connected pickup coils.

Application of Eddy Current Techniques for Orbiter Reinforced Carbon-Carbon Structural Health Monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Simpson, John

2005-01-01

The development and application of advanced nondestructive evaluation techniques for the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) components of the Space Shuttle Orbiter Leading Edge Structural Subsystem (LESS) was identified as a crucial step toward returning the shuttle fleet to service. In order to help meet this requirement, eddy current techniques have been developed for application to RCC components. Eddy current technology has been found to be particularly useful for measuring the protective coating thickness over the reinforced carbon-carbon and for the identification of near surface cracking and voids in the RCC matrix. Testing has been performed on as manufactured and flown RCC components with both actual and fabricated defects representing impact and oxidation damage. Encouraging initial results have led to the development of two separate eddy current systems for in-situ RCC inspections in the orbiter processing facility. Each of these systems has undergone blind validation testing on a full scale leading edge panel, and recently transitioned to Kennedy Space Center to be applied as a part of a comprehensive RCC inspection strategy to be performed in the orbiter processing facility after each shuttle flight.

Automated eddy current analysis of materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.

1990-01-01

This research effort focused on the use of eddy current techniques for characterizing flaws in graphite-based filament-wound cylindrical structures. A major emphasis was on incorporating artificial intelligence techniques into the signal analysis portion of the inspection process. Developing an eddy current scanning system using a commercial robot for inspecting graphite structures (and others) has been a goal in the overall concept and is essential for the final implementation for expert system interpretation. Manual scans, as performed in the preliminary work here, do not provide sufficiently reproducible eddy current signatures to be easily built into a real time expert system. The expert systems approach to eddy current signal analysis requires that a suitable knowledge base exist in which correct decisions as to the nature of the flaw can be performed. In eddy current or any other expert systems used to analyze signals in real time in a production environment, it is important to simplify computational procedures as much as possible. For that reason, we have chosen to use the measured resistance and reactance values for the preliminary aspects of this work. A simple computation, such as phase angle of the signal, is certainly within the real time processing capability of the computer system. In the work described here, there is a balance between physical measurements and finite element calculations of those measurements. The goal is to evolve into the most cost effective procedures for maintaining the correctness of the knowledge base.

Development of Eddy Current Techniques for Detection of Deep Fatigue Cracks in Multi-Layer Airframe Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A.

2008-01-01

Thick, multi-layer aluminum structure has been widely used in aircraft design in critical wing splice areas. The multi-layer structure generally consists of three or four aluminum layers with different geometry and varying thickness, which are held together with fasteners. The detection of cracks under fasteners with ultrasonic techniques in subsurface layers away from the skin is impeded primarily by interlayer bonds and faying sealant condition. Further, assessment of such sealant condition is extremely challenging in terms of complexity of structure, limited access, and inspection cost. Although Eddy current techniques can be applied on in-service aircraft from the exterior of the skin without knowing sealant condition, the current eddy current techniques are not able to detect defects with wanted sensitivity. In this work a series of low frequency eddy current probes have been designed, fabricated and tested for this application. A probe design incorporating a shielded magnetic field sensor concentrically located in the interior of a drive coil has been employed to enable a localized deep diffusion of the electromagnetic field into the part under test. Due to the required low frequency inspections, probes have been testing using a variety of magnetic field sensors (pickup coil, giant magneto-resistive, anisotropic magneto-resistive, and spin-dependent tunneling). The probe designs as well as capabilities based upon a target inspection for sub-layer cracking in an airframe wing spar joint is presented.

Measuring Thicknesses of Coatings on Metals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cotty, Glenn M., Jr.

1986-01-01

Digital light sensor and eddy-current sensor measure thickness without contact. Surface of Coating reflects laser beam to optical sensor. Position of reflected spot on sensor used by microcomputer to calculate coating thickness. Eddy-current sensor maintains constant distance between optical sensor and metal substrate. When capabilities of available components fully exploited, instrument measures coatings from 0.001 to 6 in. (0.0025 to 15 cm) thick with accuracy of 1 part in 4,000. Instrument readily incorporated in automatic production and inspection systems. Used to inspect thermal-insulation layers, paint, and protective coatings. Also used to control application of coatings to preset thicknesses.

Detection and Inspection of Steel Bars in Reinforced Concrete Structures Using Active Infrared Thermography with Microwave Excitation and Eddy Current Sensors

PubMed Central

Szymanik, Barbara; Frankowski, Paweł Karol; Chady, Tomasz; John Chelliah, Cyril Robinson Azariah

2016-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to present a multi-sensor approach to the detection and inspection of steel bars in reinforced concrete structures. In connection with our past experience related to non-destructive testing of different materials, we propose using two potentially effective methods: active infrared thermography with microwave excitation and the eddy current technique. In this article active infrared thermography with microwave excitation is analyzed both by numerical modeling and experiments. This method, based on thermal imaging, due to its characteriatics should be considered as a preliminary method for the assessment of relatively shallowly located steel bar reinforcements. The eddy current technique, on the other hand, allows for more detailed evaluation and detection of deeply located rebars. In this paper a series of measurement results, together with the initial identification of certain features of steel reinforcement bars will be presented. PMID:26891305

Detection of Real Flaw using Uniform Eddy Current Multi-probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukuoka, Katsuhiro; Hashimoto, Mitsuo

The establishment of the nondestructive inspection technology with plant structures has been stimulated by the recent occurrence of cracks in the nuclear power plant structures. In this research, a uniform eddy current multi-probe to apply to the complex structure and inspect the cracks at high-speed data acquisition was developed. Pick-up coils of the developed probe were arranged on a flexible printed circuit board. This probe was able to obtain clear signal for an EDM (electro-discharge machining) slit with 0.5 mm depth and distinguish EDM slits arranged at 2 mm intervals. It was confirmed that the SCC (stress corrosion cracking) of real flaw was able to be detected with developed uniform eddy current multi-probe by using the ferrite core for the exciting coil and considering the impedance matching of the exciting coil and the flaw detection device.

Detection and Inspection of Steel Bars in Reinforced Concrete Structures Using Active Infrared Thermography with Microwave Excitation and Eddy Current Sensors.

PubMed

Szymanik, Barbara; Frankowski, Paweł Karol; Chady, Tomasz; John Chelliah, Cyril Robinson Azariah

2016-02-16

The purpose of this paper is to present a multi-sensor approach to the detection and inspection of steel bars in reinforced concrete structures. In connection with our past experience related to non-destructive testing of different materials, we propose using two potentially effective methods: active infrared thermography with microwave excitation and the eddy current technique. In this article active infrared thermography with microwave excitation is analyzed both by numerical modeling and experiments. This method, based on thermal imaging, due to its characteriatics should be considered as a preliminary method for the assessment of relatively shallowly located steel bar reinforcements. The eddy current technique, on the other hand, allows for more detailed evaluation and detection of deeply located rebars. In this paper a series of measurement results, together with the initial identification of certain features of steel reinforcement bars will be presented.

Eddy current standards - Cracks versus notches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagemaier, D. J.; Collingwood, M. R.; Nguyen, K. H.

1992-10-01

Eddy current tests aimed at evaluating cracks and electron-discharge machined (EDM) notches in 7075-T6 aluminum specimens are described. A comparison of the shape and amplitude of recordings made from both transverse and longitudinal scans of small EDM notches and fatigue cracks showd almost identical results. The signal amplitude and phase angle increased with an increase of EDM notch and crak size. It is concluded that equivalent eddy current results obtained from similar-size surface cracks and notches in aluminum can be used to establish a desired sensitivity level for inspection.

Non-Destructive Techniques Based on Eddy Current Testing

PubMed Central

García-Martín, Javier; Gómez-Gil, Jaime; Vázquez-Sánchez, Ernesto

2011-01-01

Non-destructive techniques are used widely in the metal industry in order to control the quality of materials. Eddy current testing is one of the most extensively used non-destructive techniques for inspecting electrically conductive materials at very high speeds that does not require any contact between the test piece and the sensor. This paper includes an overview of the fundamentals and main variables of eddy current testing. It also describes the state-of-the-art sensors and modern techniques such as multi-frequency and pulsed systems. Recent advances in complex models towards solving crack-sensor interaction, developments in instrumentation due to advances in electronic devices, and the evolution of data processing suggest that eddy current testing systems will be increasingly used in the future. PMID:22163754

Non-destructive techniques based on eddy current testing.

PubMed

García-Martín, Javier; Gómez-Gil, Jaime; Vázquez-Sánchez, Ernesto

2011-01-01

Non-destructive techniques are used widely in the metal industry in order to control the quality of materials. Eddy current testing is one of the most extensively used non-destructive techniques for inspecting electrically conductive materials at very high speeds that does not require any contact between the test piece and the sensor. This paper includes an overview of the fundamentals and main variables of eddy current testing. It also describes the state-of-the-art sensors and modern techniques such as multi-frequency and pulsed systems. Recent advances in complex models towards solving crack-sensor interaction, developments in instrumentation due to advances in electronic devices, and the evolution of data processing suggest that eddy current testing systems will be increasingly used in the future.

Nondestructive inspection assessment of eddy current and electrochemical analysis to separate inconel and stainless steel alloys

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moore, D.G.; Sorensen, N.R.

1998-02-01

This report presents a nondestructive inspection assessment of eddy current and electrochemical analysis to separate inconel alloys from stainless steel alloys as well as an evaluation of cleaning techniques to remove a thermal oxide layer on aircraft exhaust components. The results of this assessment are presented in terms of how effective each technique classifies a known exhaust material. Results indicate that either inspection technique can separate inconel and stainless steel alloys. Based on the experiments conducted, the electrochemical spot test is the optimum for use by airframe and powerplant mechanics. A spot test procedure is proposed for incorporation into themore » Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular 65-9A Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic - General Handbook. 3 refs., 70 figs., 7 tabs.« less

An Eddy Current Testing Platform System for Pipe Defect Inspection Based on an Optimized Eddy Current Technique Probe Design.

PubMed

Rifai, Damhuji; Abdalla, Ahmed N; Razali, Ramdan; Ali, Kharudin; Faraj, Moneer A

2017-03-13

The use of the eddy current technique (ECT) for the non-destructive testing of conducting materials has become increasingly important in the past few years. The use of the non-destructive ECT plays a key role in the ensuring the safety and integrity of the large industrial structures such as oil and gas pipelines. This paper introduce a novel ECT probe design integrated with the distributed ECT inspection system (DSECT) use for crack inspection on inner ferromagnetic pipes. The system consists of an array of giant magneto-resistive (GMR) sensors, a pneumatic system, a rotating magnetic field excitation source and a host PC acting as the data analysis center. Probe design parameters, namely probe diameter, an excitation coil and the number of GMR sensors in the array sensor is optimized using numerical optimization based on the desirability approach. The main benefits of DSECT can be seen in terms of its modularity and flexibility for the use of different types of magnetic transducers/sensors, and signals of a different nature with either digital or analog outputs, making it suited for the ECT probe design using an array of GMR magnetic sensors. A real-time application of the DSECT distributed system for ECT inspection can be exploited for the inspection of 70 mm carbon steel pipe. In order to predict the axial and circumference defect detection, a mathematical model is developed based on the technique known as response surface methodology (RSM). The inspection results of a carbon steel pipe sample with artificial defects indicate that the system design is highly efficient.

Progress in Developing Transfer Functions for Surface Scanning Eddy Current Inspections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shearer, J.; Heebl, J.; Brausch, J.; Lindgren, E.

2009-03-01

As US Air Force (USAF) aircraft continue to age, additional inspections are required for structural components. The validation of new inspections typically requires a capability demonstration of the method using representative structure with representative damage. To minimize the time and cost required to prepare such samples, Electric Discharge machined (EDM) notches are commonly used to represent fatigue cracks in validation studies. However, the sensitivity to damage typically changes as a function of damage type. This requires a mathematical relationship to be developed between the responses from the two different flaw types to enable the use of EDM notched samples to validate new inspections. This paper reviews progress to develop transfer functions for surface scanning eddy current inspections of aluminum and titanium alloys found in structural aircraft components. Multiple samples with well characterized grown fatigue cracks and master gages with EDM notches, both with a range of flaw sizes, were used to collect flaw signals with USAF field inspection equipment. Analysis of this empirical data was used to develop a transfer function between the response from the EDM notches and grown fatigue cracks.

Device Rotates Bearing Balls For Inspection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burley, R. K.

1988-01-01

Entire surface of ball inspected automatically and quickly. Device holds and rotates bearing ball for inspection by optical or mechanical surface-quality probe, eddy-current probe for detection of surface or subsurface defects, or circumference-measuring tool. Ensures entire surface of ball moves past inspection head quickly. New device saves time and increases reliability of inspections of spherical surfaces. Simple to operate and provides quick and easy access for loading and unloading of balls during inspection.

Model development and validation of geometrically complex eddy current coils using finite element methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, Alexander; Eviston, Connor

2017-02-01

Multiple FEM models of complex eddy current coil geometries were created and validated to calculate the change of impedance due to the presence of a notch. Capable realistic simulations of eddy current inspections are required for model assisted probability of detection (MAPOD) studies, inversion algorithms, experimental verification, and tailored probe design for NDE applications. An FEM solver was chosen to model complex real world situations including varying probe dimensions and orientations along with complex probe geometries. This will also enable creation of a probe model library database with variable parameters. Verification and validation was performed using other commercially available eddy current modeling software as well as experimentally collected benchmark data. Data analysis and comparison showed that the created models were able to correctly model the probe and conductor interactions and accurately calculate the change in impedance of several experimental scenarios with acceptable error. The promising results of the models enabled the start of an eddy current probe model library to give experimenters easy access to powerful parameter based eddy current models for alternate project applications.

An Eddy Current Testing Platform System for Pipe Defect Inspection Based on an Optimized Eddy Current Technique Probe Design

PubMed Central

Rifai, Damhuji; Abdalla, Ahmed N.; Razali, Ramdan; Ali, Kharudin; Faraj, Moneer A.

2017-01-01

The use of the eddy current technique (ECT) for the non-destructive testing of conducting materials has become increasingly important in the past few years. The use of the non-destructive ECT plays a key role in the ensuring the safety and integrity of the large industrial structures such as oil and gas pipelines. This paper introduce a novel ECT probe design integrated with the distributed ECT inspection system (DSECT) use for crack inspection on inner ferromagnetic pipes. The system consists of an array of giant magneto-resistive (GMR) sensors, a pneumatic system, a rotating magnetic field excitation source and a host PC acting as the data analysis center. Probe design parameters, namely probe diameter, an excitation coil and the number of GMR sensors in the array sensor is optimized using numerical optimization based on the desirability approach. The main benefits of DSECT can be seen in terms of its modularity and flexibility for the use of different types of magnetic transducers/sensors, and signals of a different nature with either digital or analog outputs, making it suited for the ECT probe design using an array of GMR magnetic sensors. A real-time application of the DSECT distributed system for ECT inspection can be exploited for the inspection of 70 mm carbon steel pipe. In order to predict the axial and circumference defect detection, a mathematical model is developed based on the technique known as response surface methodology (RSM). The inspection results of a carbon steel pipe sample with artificial defects indicate that the system design is highly efficient. PMID:28335399

Textural analyses of carbon fiber materials by 2D-FFT of complex images obtained by high frequency eddy current imaging (HF-ECI)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schulze, Martin H.; Heuer, Henning

2012-04-01

Carbon fiber based materials are used in many lightweight applications in aeronautical, automotive, machine and civil engineering application. By the increasing automation in the production process of CFRP laminates a manual optical inspection of each resin transfer molding (RTM) layer is not practicable. Due to the limitation to surface inspection, the quality parameters of multilayer 3 dimensional materials cannot be observed by optical systems. The Imaging Eddy- Current (EC) NDT is the only suitable inspection method for non-resin materials in the textile state that allows an inspection of surface and hidden layers in parallel. The HF-ECI method has the capability to measure layer displacements (misaligned angle orientations) and gap sizes in a multilayer carbon fiber structure. EC technique uses the variation of the electrical conductivity of carbon based materials to obtain material properties. Beside the determination of textural parameters like layer orientation and gap sizes between rovings, the detection of foreign polymer particles, fuzzy balls or visualization of undulations can be done by the method. For all of these typical parameters an imaging classification process chain based on a high resolving directional ECimaging device named EddyCus® MPECS and a 2D-FFT with adapted preprocessing algorithms are developed.

Automated detection and location of indications in eddy current signals

DOEpatents

Brudnoy, David M.; Oppenlander, Jane E.; Levy, Arthur J.

2000-01-01

A computer implemented information extraction process that locates and identifies eddy current signal features in digital point-ordered signals, signals representing data from inspection of test materials, by enhancing the signal features relative to signal noise, detecting features of the signals, verifying the location of the signal features that can be known in advance, and outputting information about the identity and location of all detected signal features.

Eddy current inspection of weld defects in tubing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Katragadda, G.; Lord, W.

1992-01-01

An approach using differential probes for the inspection of weld defects in tubing is studied. Finite element analysis is used to model the weld regions and defects. Impedance plane signals are predicted for different weld defect types and compared wherever possible with signals from actual welds in tubing. Results show that detection and sizing of defects in tubing is possible using differential eddy current techniques. The phase angle of the impedance plane trajectory gives a good indication of the sizing of the crack. Data on the type of defect can be obtained from the shape of the impedance plane trajectory and the phase. Depending on the skin depth, detection of outer wall, inner wall, and subsurface defects is possible.

Automated eddy current inspection of Space Shuttle APU turbine wheel blades

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fisher, Jay L.; Rowland, Stephen N.; Stolte, Jeffrey S.; Salkowski, Charles

1991-01-01

An automated inspection system based on eddy current testing (ET) techniques has been developed to inspect turbine wheel blades on the APU used in NASA's Space Transportation system. The APU is a hydrazine-powered gas turbine with a 15-cm diameter Rene 41 turbine wheel, which has 123 first-stage blades and 123 second-stage blades. The flaw detection capability of the ET system is verified through comparison with fluorescent penetrant test results. Results of the comparison indicate that ET is capable of inspecting surfaces with very restrictive geometries. The ET capability requires development of probes with extremely small coils to allow inspection within 0.4 mm of the blade root and the leading and trailing edges of the blade and within a height restriction of less than 1 mm. The color 2D presentation of the ET data provided crack-growth pattern and length information similar to those found with visual techniques. It also provided visual clues to minimize geometry effects such as generated from blade edges, a neighoring blade, and changes in the blade thickness.

76 FR 8620 - Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney JT8D-209, -217, -217A, -217C, and -219 Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-15

... inspection AD 97-17-04R1, and to allow automatic eddy current inspection per engine manual Section 72-33-31.... That AD currently requires revisions to the engine manufacturer's time limits section (TLS) to include... modifies the TLS of the manufacturer's engine manual and an air carrier's approved continuous airworthiness...

Fatigue Crack Growth Behavior Evaluation of Grainex Mar-M 247 for NASA's High Temperature, High Speed Turbine Seal Test Rig

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delgado, Irebert R.; Steinetz, Bruce M.; Rimnac, Clare M.; Lewandowski, John J.

2008-01-01

The fatigue crack growth behavior of Grainex Mar-M 247 is evaluated for NASA s Turbine Seal Test Facility. The facility is used to test air-to-air seals primarily for use in advanced jet engine applications. Because of extreme seal test conditions of temperature, pressure, and surface speeds, surface cracks may develop over time in the disk bolt holes. An inspection interval is developed to preclude catastrophic disk failure by using experimental fatigue crack growth data. By combining current fatigue crack growth results with previous fatigue strain-life experimental work, an inspection interval is determined for the test disk. The fatigue crack growth life of the NASA disk bolt holes is found to be 367 cycles at a crack depth of 0.501 mm using a factor of 2 on life at maximum operating conditions. Combining this result with previous fatigue strain-life experimental work gives a total fatigue life of 1032 cycles at a crack depth of 0.501 mm. Eddy-current inspections are suggested starting at 665 cycles since eddy current detection thresholds are currently at 0.381 mm. Inspection intervals are recommended every 50 cycles when operated at maximum operating conditions.

78 FR 18922 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-28

... specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this..., or incorrect rigging. (iii) Repeat the high frequency eddy current (HFEC) or magnetic particle... inspection of the cam latches and latch pins for discrepancies; and an HFEC or magnetic particle inspection...

Variables Affecting Probability of Detection in Bolt Hole Eddy Current Inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemire, H.; Krause, T. W.; Bunn, M.; Butcher, D. J.

2009-03-01

Physical variables affecting probability of detection (POD) in a bolt-hole eddy current inspection were examined. The POD study involved simulated bolt holes in 7075-T6 aluminum coupons representative of wing areas on CC-130 and CP-140 aircraft. The data were obtained from 24 inspectors who inspected 468 coupons, containing a subset of coupons with 45 electric discharge machined notches and 72 laboratory grown fatigue cracks located at the inner surface corner of the bi-layer structures. A comparison of physical features of cracks and notches in light of skin depth effects and probe geometry was used to identify length rather than depth as the significant variable producing signal variation. Probability of detection based on length produced similar results for the two discontinuity types, except at lengths less than 0.4 mm, where POD for cracks was found to be higher than that of notches.

A 3D Model for Eddy Current Inspection in Aeronautics: Application to Riveted Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paillard, S.; Pichenot, G.; Lambert, M.; Voillaume, H.; Dominguez, N.

2007-03-01

Eddy current technique is currently an operational tool used for fastener inspection which is an important issue for the maintenance of aircraft structures. The industry calls for faster, more sensitive and reliable NDT techniques for the detection and characterization of potential flaws nearby rivet. In order to reduce the development time and to optimize the design and the performances assessment of an inspection procedure, the CEA and EADS have started a collaborative work aiming at extending the modeling features of the CIVA non destructive simulation plat-form in order to handle the configuration of a layered planar structure with a rivet and an embedded flaw nearby. Therefore, an approach based on the Volume Integral Method using the Green dyadic formalism which greatly increases computation efficiency has been developed. The first step, modeling the rivet without flaw as a hole in a multi-stratified structure, has been reached and validated in several configurations with experimental data.

77 FR 24355 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-24

... cracks found in the Web pockets of the wing center section (WCS) spanwise beams. This AD requires repetitive detailed inspections and high frequency eddy current inspections for cracks of the WCS spanwise beams, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking in the WCS...

Robotic Welding and Inspection System

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

H. B. Smartt; D. P. Pace; E. D. Larsen

2008-06-01

This paper presents a robotic system for GTA welding of lids on cylindrical vessels. The system consists of an articulated robot arm, a rotating positioner, end effectors for welding, grinding, ultrasonic and eddy current inspection. Features include weld viewing cameras, modular software, and text-based procedural files for process and motion trajectories.

Evaluation of the Self-Nulling Rotating Eddy Current Probe System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagemaier, Don; Rengel, Kent; Wincheski, Buzz; Namkung, Min

1999-01-01

In order to detect multi-site fatigue cracks located under flush-head rivets, automated eddy current equipment is required. To assure a reliable system, the eddy current probe must be centered easily over the installed rivets. To meet these requirements, the NDE Group at NASA LaRC developed the Self-Nulling Rotating Eddy Current Probe System (SNRECPS) which will be referred to as RPS in this document. The system was evaluated at the FAA, NDI Validation Center, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The system was capable of detecting a 0.032 inch long crack with a 90/95% PoD. Further evaluations were conducted at Boeing in Long Beach, California. These evaluations included fatigue cracks and notches in a range from 0.025 to 0.100 inch long under flush-head aluminum rivets, and titanium or steel flush-head fasteners. The results of these tests are reported herein. Subsequently, the system was loaned to the USAF Structures Laboratory for the purpose of detecting and measuring short cracks under flush-head rivets in a variety of fatigue test specimens. The inspection task was to detect and plot crack growth from numbered fasteners in lettered rows. In January, 1998, the system was taken to Northwest Airlines Maintenance Base, in Atlanta, to inspect a DC-9, for multi-site cracks in three circumferential splices. The aircraft had 83,000 cycles. The inspection was conducted at 30 kHz from longeron 5 left to longeron 5 right. The system was calibrated using a 0,030 EDM first layer notch. The instrument gain was set to 19 mV from the notch. The reject level was set at 10 mV and the unflawed fasteners yielded a signal amplitude of 2 to 3 mV. Only one fastener location, out of about 2,500 tested, yielded a signal of 58 mV. The rivet was removed and visually evaluated. It appeared to be a slight gouge in the counter-sink zone. No fatigue cracks were detected. The same fastener locations were also inspected using the Boeing MAUS system at 60 kHz. No cracks were detected. Thus far, the rotating probe eddy current system has been found to be very user friendly and capable of detecting first layer cracks on the order of 0.030 inch long or longer.

Analysis of Eddy Current Capabilities for the Detection of Outer Diameter Stress Corrosion Cracking in Small Bore Metallic Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Williams, Phillip; Simpson, John

2007-01-01

The use of eddy current techniques for the detection of outer diameter damage in tubing and many complex aerospace structures often requires the use of an inner diameter probe due to a lack of access to the outside of the part. In small bore structures the probe size and orientation are constrained by the inner diameter of the part, complicating the optimization of the inspection technique. Detection of flaws through a significant remaining wall thickness becomes limited not only by the standard depth of penetration, but also geometrical aspects of the probe. Recently, an orthogonal eddy current probe was developed for detection of such flaws in Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control System (PRCS) Thrusters. In this case, the detection of deeply buried stress corrosion cracking by an inner diameter eddy current probe was sought. Probe optimization was performed based upon the limiting spatial dimensions, flaw orientation, and required detection sensitivity. Analysis of the probe/flaw interaction was performed through the use of finite and boundary element modeling techniques. Experimental data for the flaw detection capabilities, including a probability of detection study, will be presented along with the simulation data. The results of this work have led to the successful deployment of an inspection system for the detection of stress corrosion cracking in Space Shuttle Primary Reaction Control System (PRCS) Thrusters.

The interaction of pulsed eddy current with metal surface crack for various coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hung-Chi; Tai, Cheng-Chi

2002-05-01

We study the interaction of pulsed eddy current (PEC) with metal surface cracks using various coils that have different geometric sizes. In the previous work, we have showed that the PEC technique can be used to inspect electrical-discharge-machined (EDM) notches with depth from 0.5 mm to 9 mm. The results showed that the relationship between PEC signals and crack depth is obvious. In this work, we further try a series of coils with different radii, heights, turns and shapes. We will discuss the effects of these coil parameters on the PEC signal. Some other critical problems of PEC measurements such as signal drift that caused by heating effect of coil currents will be studied. We also show more experiments on fatigue cracks to demonstrate the capability of PEC technique for cracks inspection.

Mutual Inductance Problem for a System Consisting of a Current Sheet and a Thin Metal Plate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fulton, J. P.; Wincheski, B.; Nath, S.; Namkung, M.

1993-01-01

Rapid inspection of aircraft structures for flaws is of vital importance to the commercial and defense aircraft industry. In particular, inspecting thin aluminum structures for flaws is the focus of a large scale R&D effort in the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) community. Traditional eddy current methods used today are effective, but require long inspection times. New electromagnetic techniques which monitor the normal component of the magnetic field above a sample due to a sheet of current as the excitation, seem to be promising. This paper is an attempt to understand and analyze the magnetic field distribution due to a current sheet above an aluminum test sample. A simple theoretical model, coupled with a two dimensional finite element model (FEM) and experimental data will be presented in the next few sections. A current sheet above a conducting sample generates eddy currents in the material, while a sensor above the current sheet or in between the two plates monitors the normal component of the magnetic field. A rivet or a surface flaw near a rivet in an aircraft aluminum skin will disturb the magnetic field, which is imaged by the sensor. Initial results showed a strong dependence of the flaw induced normal magnetic field strength on the thickness and conductivity of the current-sheet that could not be accounted for by skin depth attenuation alone. It was believed that the eddy current imaging method explained the dependence of the thickness and conductivity of the flaw induced normal magnetic field. Further investigation, suggested the complexity associated with the mutual inductance of the system needed to be studied. The next section gives an analytical model to better understand the phenomenon.

Application of a Saddle-Type Eddy Current Sensor in Steel Ball Surface-Defect Inspection.

PubMed

Zhang, Huayu; Zhong, Mingming; Xie, Fengqin; Cao, Maoyong

2017-12-05

Steel ball surface-defect inspection was performed by using a new saddle-type eddy current sensor (SECS), which included a saddle coil and a signal conditioning circuit. The saddle coil was directly wound on the steel ball's outer bracket in a semi-circumferential direction. Driven by a friction wheel, the test steel ball rotated in a one-dimensional direction, such that the steel ball surface was fully scanned by the SECS. There were two purposes for using the SECS in the steel ball inspection system: one was to reduce the complexity of the unfolding wheel of the surface deployment mechanism, and the other was to reduce the difficulty of sensor processing and installation. Experiments were carried out on bearing steel balls in diameter of 8 mm with three types of representative and typical defects by using the SECS, and the results showed that the inspection system can detect surface defects as small as 0.05 mm in width and 0.1 mm in depth with high-repetition detection accuracy, and the detection efficiency of 5 pcs/s, which meet the requirement for inspecting ISO grade 10 bearing steel balls. The feasibility of detecting steel ball surface defects by SECS was verified.

Automation of NDE on RSRM Metal Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartman, John; Kirby, Mark; McCool, Alex (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

An automated eddy current system has been designed and built, and is being implemented to inspect RSRM (Space Shuttle) metal components. The system provides a significant increase in inspection reliability, as well as other benefits such as data storage, chemical waste reduction and reduction in overall process time. This paper is in viewgraph form.

75 FR 57660 - Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) AE 3007A Series Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-22

... applies to Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) AE 3007A series turbofan engines with high-pressure turbine (HPT... eddy current inspection (ECI) or surface wave ultrasonic test (SWUT) inspection on each affected high-pressure turbine (HPT) wheel. This AD requires removing or performing initial and repetitive ECIs or SWUT...

75 FR 80370 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company GE90-76B; GE90-77B; GE90-85B; GE90-90B; and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-22

... repetitive fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPIs) and eddy current inspections (ECIs) of the high-pressure... high- pressure compressor rotor (HPCR) 8-10 stage spool, part number (P/N) 1844M90G01 or 1844M90G02...

49 CFR 180.213 - Requalification markings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... eddy current examination combined with a visual inspection, the marking is as illustrated in paragraph..., securely affixed in a manner prescribed by the cylinder manufacturer, near the original manufacturer's...

Automation for nondestructive inspection of aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, M. W.

1994-01-01

We discuss the motivation and an architectural framework for using small mobile robots as automated aids to operators of nondestructive inspection (NDI) equipment. We review the need for aircraft skin inspection, and identify the constraints in commercial airlines operations that make small mobile robots the most attractive alternative for automated aids for NDI procedures. We describe the design and performance of the robot (ANDI) that we designed, built, and are testing for deployment of eddy current probes in prescribed commercial aircraft inspections. We discuss recent work aimed at also providing robotic aids for visual inspection.

Eddy-Current-Based Nondestructive Inspection System Using Superconducting Quantum Interference Device for Thin Copper Tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatsukade, Yoshimi; Kosugi, Akifumi; Mori, Kazuaki; Tanaka, Saburo

2004-11-01

An eddy-current-based nondestructive inspection (NDI) system using superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) cooled using a coaxial pulse tube cryocooler was constructed for the inspection of microflaws on copper tubes employing a high-Tc SQUID gradiometer and a Helmholtz-like coil inducer. The detection of artificial flaws several tens of μm in depth on copper tubes 6.35 mm in outer diameter and 0.825 mm in thickness was demonstrated using the SQUID-NDI system. With an excitation field of 1.6 μT at 5 kHz, a 30-μm-depth flaw was successfully detected by the system at an SN ratio of at least 20. The magnetic signal amplitude due to the flaw was proportional to both excitation frequency and the square of flaw depth. With consideration of the system’s sensitivity, the results indicate that sub-10-μm-depth flaws are detectable by the SQUID-NDI system.

Artificial intelligence in the materials processing laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.; Kaukler, William F.

1990-01-01

Materials science and engineering provides a vast arena for applications of artificial intelligence. Advanced materials research is an area in which challenging requirements confront the researcher, from the drawing board through production and into service. Advanced techniques results in the development of new materials for specialized applications. Hand-in-hand with these new materials are also requirements for state-of-the-art inspection methods to determine the integrity or fitness for service of structures fabricated from these materials. Two problems of current interest to the Materials Processing Laboratory at UAH are an expert system to assist in eddy current inspection of graphite epoxy components for aerospace and an expert system to assist in the design of superalloys for high temperature applications. Each project requires a different approach to reach the defined goals. Results to date are described for the eddy current analysis, but only the original concepts and approaches considered are given for the expert system to design superalloys.

Steam generator tube inspection in Japan

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fukui, Shigetaka

1997-02-01

Steam generator tube inspection was first carried out in 1971 at Mihama Unit-1 that is first PWR plant in Japan, when the plant was brought into the first annual inspection. At that time, inspection was made on sampling basis, and only bobbin coil probe was used. After experiencing various kinds of tube degradations, inspection method was changed from sampling to all number of tubes, and various kinds of probes were used to get higher detectability of flaw. At present, it is required that all the tubes shall be inspected in their full length at each annual inspection using standard bobbinmore » coil probe, and some special probes for certain plants that have susceptibility of occurrence of flaw. Sleeve repaired portion is included in this inspection. As a result of analyses of eddy current testing data, all indications that have been evaluated to be 20% wall thickness or deeper shall be repaired by either plugging or sleeving, where flaw morphology is to be a wastage or wear. Other types of flaw such as IGA/SCC are not allowed to be left inservice when those indications are detected. These inspections are performed according to inspection procedures that are approved by regulatory authority. Actual inspections are witnessed by the Japan Power engineering and inspection corporation (JAPEIC)`s inspectors during data acquisition and analysis, and they issue inspection report to authority for review and approval. It is achieved high safety performance of steam generator through this method of inspections, however. some tube leakage problems were experienced in the past. To prevent recurrence of such events, government is conducting development and verification test program for new eddy current testing technology.« less

Transmit-receive eddy current probes for defect detection and sizing in steam generator tubes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Obrutsky, L.S.; Cecco, V.S.; Sullivan, S.P.

1997-02-01

Inspection of steam generator tubes in aging Nuclear Generating Stations is increasingly important. Defect detection and sizing, especially in defect prone areas such as the tubesheet, support plates and U-bend regions, are required to assess the fitness-for-service of the steam generators. Information about defect morphology is required to address operational integrity issues, i.e., risk of tube rupture, number of tubes at risk, consequential leakage. A major challenge continues to be the detection and sizing of circumferential cracks. Utilities around the world have experienced this type of tube failure. Conventional in-service inspection, performed with eddy current bobbin probes, is ineffectual inmore » detecting circumferential cracks in tubing. It has been demonstrated in CANDU steam generators, with deformation, magnetite and copper deposits that multi-channel probes with transmit-receive eddy current coils are superior to those using surface impedance coils. Transmit-receive probes have strong directional properties, permitting probe optimization according to crack orientation. They are less sensitive to lift-off noise and magnetite deposits and possess good discrimination to internal defects. A single pass C3 array transmit-receive probe developed by AECL can detect and size circumferential stress corrosion cracks as shallow as 40% through-wall. Since its first trial in 1992, it has been used routinely for steam generator in-service inspection of four CANDU plants, preventing unscheduled shutdowns due to leaking steam generator tubes. More recently, a need has surfaced for simultaneous detection of both circumferential and axial cracks. The C5 probe was designed to address this concern. It combines transmit-receive array probe technology for equal sensitivity to axial and circumferential cracks with a bobbin probe for historical reference. This paper will discuss the operating principles of transmit-receive probes, along with inspection results.« less

Determination of linear defect depths from eddy currents disturbances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramos, Helena Geirinhas; Rocha, Tiago; Pasadas, Dário; Ribeiro, Artur Lopes

2014-02-01

One of the still open problems in the inspection research concerns the determination of the maximum depth to which a surface defect goes. Eddy current testing being one of the most sensitive well established inspection methods, able to detect and characterize different type of defects in conductive materials, is an adequate technique to solve this problem. This paper reports a study concerning the disturbances in the magnetic field and in the lines of current due to a machined linear defect having different depths in order to extract relevant information that allows the determination of the defect characteristics. The image of the eddy currents (EC) is paramount to understand the physical phenomena involved. The EC images for this study are generated using a commercial finite element model (FLUX). The excitation used produces a uniform magnetic field on the plate under test in the absence of defects and the disturbances due to the defects are compared with those obtained from experimental measurements. In order to increase the limited penetration depth of the method giant magnetoresistors (GMR) are used to lower the working frequency. The geometry of the excitation planar coil produces a uniform magnetic field on an area of around the GMR sensor, inducing a uniform eddy current distribution on the plate. In the presence of defects in the material surface, the lines of currents inside the material are deviated from their uniform direction and the magnetic field produced by these currents is sensed by the GMR sensor. Besides the theoretical study of the electromagnetic system, the paper describes the experiments that have been carried out to support the theory and conclusions are drawn for cracks having different depths.

Application of a Saddle-Type Eddy Current Sensor in Steel Ball Surface-Defect Inspection

PubMed Central

Zhong, Mingming; Xie, Fengqin; Cao, Maoyong

2017-01-01

Steel ball surface-defect inspection was performed by using a new saddle-type eddy current sensor (SECS), which included a saddle coil and a signal conditioning circuit. The saddle coil was directly wound on the steel ball’s outer bracket in a semi-circumferential direction. Driven by a friction wheel, the test steel ball rotated in a one-dimensional direction, such that the steel ball surface was fully scanned by the SECS. There were two purposes for using the SECS in the steel ball inspection system: one was to reduce the complexity of the unfolding wheel of the surface deployment mechanism, and the other was to reduce the difficulty of sensor processing and installation. Experiments were carried out on bearing steel balls in diameter of 8 mm with three types of representative and typical defects by using the SECS, and the results showed that the inspection system can detect surface defects as small as 0.05 mm in width and 0.1 mm in depth with high-repetition detection accuracy, and the detection efficiency of 5 pcs/s, which meet the requirement for inspecting ISO grade 10 bearing steel balls. The feasibility of detecting steel ball surface defects by SECS was verified. PMID:29206154

ORCHID - a computer simulation of the reliability of an NDE inspection system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moles, M.D.C.

1987-03-01

CANDU pressurized heavy water reactors contain several hundred horizontally-mounted zirconium alloy pressure tubes. Following a pressure tube failure, a pressure tube inspection system called CIGARette was rapidly designed, manufactured and put in operation. Defects called hydride blisters were found to be the cause of the failure, and were detected using a combination of eddy current and ultrasonic scans. A number of improvements were made to CIGARette during the inspection period. The ORCHID computer program models the operation of the delivery system, eddy current and ultrasonic systems by imitating the on-reactor decision-making procedure. ORCHID predicts that during the early stage ofmore » development, less than one blistered tube in three would be detected, while less than one in two would be detected in the middle development stage. However, ORCHID predicts that during the late development stage, probability of detection will be over 90%, primarily due to the inclusion of axial ultrasonic scans (a procedural modification). Rotational and axial slip could severely reduce probability of detection. Comparison of CIGARette's inspection data with ORCHID's predictions indicate that the latter are compatible with the actual inspection results, through the numbers are small and data uncertain. It should be emphasized that the CIGARette system has been essentially replaced with the much more reliable CIGAR system.« less

Sensor Fusion Techniques for Phased-Array Eddy Current and Phased-Array Ultrasound Data

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arrowood, Lloyd F.

Sensor (or Data) fusion is the process of integrating multiple data sources to produce more consistent, accurate and comprehensive information than is provided by a single data source. Sensor fusion may also be used to combine multiple signals from a single modality to improve the performance of a particular inspection technique. Industrial nondestructive testing may utilize multiple sensors to acquire inspection data depending upon the object under inspection and the anticipated types of defects that can be identified. Sensor fusion can be performed at various levels of signal abstraction with each having its strengths and weaknesses. A multimodal data fusionmore » strategy first proposed by Heideklang and Shokouhi that combines spatially scattered detection locations to improve detection performance of surface-breaking and near-surface cracks in ferromagnetic metals is shown using a surface inspection example and is then extended for volumetric inspections. Utilizing data acquired from an Olympus Omniscan MX2 from both phased array eddy current and ultrasound probes on test phantoms, single and multilevel fusion techniques are employed to integrate signals from the two modalities. Preliminary results demonstrate how confidence in defect identification and interpretation benefit from sensor fusion techniques. Lastly, techniques for integrating data into radiographic and volumetric imagery from computed tomography are described and results are presented.« less

Discrimination between Fatigue Cracking and Mechanical Damage in Aircraft Fastener Holes by Eddy-Current Phase Rotation

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

present work, a systematic BHEC and fractographic study has been conducted by inspecting several hundred fastener holes in ex-service F/A- 18 ...BHEC and fractographic study was conducted by inspecting several hundred fastener holes in ex-service F/A- 18 aircraft bulkheads, following fatigue...study is based on BHEC inspections of several hundred fastener holes in ex-service F/A- 18 aircraft bulkheads. These Al-alloy bulkheads contained

Models in the Design and Validation of Eddy Current Inspection for Cracking in the Shuttle Reaction Control System Thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aldrin, John C.; Williams, Phillip A.; Wincheski, Russell (Buzz) A.

2008-01-01

A case study is presented for using models in eddy current NDE design for crack detection in Shuttle Reaction Control System thruster components. Numerical methods were used to address the complex geometry of the part and perform parametric studies of potential transducer designs. Simulations were found to show agreement with experimental results. Accurate representation of the coherent noise associated with the measurement and part geometry was found to be critical to properly evaluate the best probe designs.

Eddy Current System for Detection of Cracking Beneath Braiding in Corrugated Metal Hose

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Simpson, John; Hall, George

2009-03-01

In this paper an eddy current system for the detection of partially-through-the-thickness cracks in corrugated metal hose is presented. Design criteria based upon the geometry and conductivity of the part are developed and applied to the fabrication of a prototype inspection system. Experimental data are used to highlight the capabilities of the system and an image processing technique is presented to improve flaw detection capabilities. A case study for detection of cracking damage in a space shuttle radiator retract flex hoses is also presented.

Eddy Current System for Detection of Cracking Beneath Braiding in Corrugated Metal Hose

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Simpson, John; Hall, George

2008-01-01

In this paper an eddy current system for the detection of partially-through-the-thickness cracks in corrugated metal hose is presented. Design criteria based upon the geometry and conductivity of the part are developed and applied to the fabrication of a prototype inspection system. Experimental data are used to highlight the capabilities of the system and an image processing technique is presented to improve flaw detection capabilities. A case study for detection of cracking damage in a space shuttle radiator retract flex hoses is also presented.

Recent Advances in Simulation of Eddy Current Testing of Tubes and Experimental Validations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Reboud, C.; Premel, D.; Lesselier, D.

2007-03-21

Eddy current testing (ECT) is widely used in iron and steel industry for the inspection of tubes during manufacturing. A collaboration between CEA and the Vallourec Research Center led to the development of new numerical functionalities dedicated to the simulation of ECT of non-magnetic tubes by external probes. The achievement of experimental validations led us to the integration of these models into the CIVA platform. Modeling approach and validation results are discussed here. A new numerical scheme is also proposed in order to improve the accuracy of the model.

Recent Advances in Simulation of Eddy Current Testing of Tubes and Experimental Validations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reboud, C.; Prémel, D.; Lesselier, D.; Bisiaux, B.

2007-03-01

Eddy current testing (ECT) is widely used in iron and steel industry for the inspection of tubes during manufacturing. A collaboration between CEA and the Vallourec Research Center led to the development of new numerical functionalities dedicated to the simulation of ECT of non-magnetic tubes by external probes. The achievement of experimental validations led us to the integration of these models into the CIVA platform. Modeling approach and validation results are discussed here. A new numerical scheme is also proposed in order to improve the accuracy of the model.

Nondestructive examination of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) reaction control subsystem (RCS) propellant tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Free, James M.

1993-01-01

This paper assesses the feasibility of using eddy current nondestructive examination to determine flaw sizes in completely assembled hydrazine propellant tanks. The study was performed by the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center for the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) project to help determine whether existing propellant tanks could meet the fracture analysis requirements of the current pressure vessel specification, MIL-STD-1522A and, therefore be used on the TRMM spacecraft. After evaluating several nondestructive test methods, eddy current testing was selected as the most promising method for determining flaw sizes on external and internal surfaces of completely assembled tanks. Tests were conducted to confirm the detection capability of the eddy current NDE, procedures were developed to inspect two candidate tanks, and the test support equipment was designed. The non-spherical tank eddy current NDE test program was terminated when the decision was made to procure new tanks for the TRMM propulsion subsystem. The information on the development phase of this test program is presented in this paper as a reference for future investigation on the subject.

Pulsed eddy current inspection of broach support plates in steam generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mokros, Sarah Gwendolyn

Steam Generators (SGs) are a critical component of nuclear reactors, employing thousands of SG tubes to convert heat generated in the reactor core into useable energy. SG tubes are supported at numerous locations by Broach Support Plates (BSPs) that have trefoil shaped holes, which prevent excessive tube vibrations, while allowing water to easily flow through the support structures. A number of degradation modes occur in SGs, such as SG tube fretting, cracking or denting, requiring periodic inspection. Currently, conventional Eddy Current Testing (ECT) is used to non-destructively assess the condition of SG tubes and components. However, as reactors age, new modes of degradation will likely appear that may be difficult to detect and characterize using conventional ECT, such as wall loss in BSPs and build-up of corrosion products, which typically form as a hard sludge called magnetite. Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) technologies are an emerging technique that is presented in this work as a method to further advance inspection techniques used in CANDURTM nuclear reactors. A PEC probe was designed to inspect the unique shape of the trefoil shaped hole to detect and characterize wall loss and the presence of magnetite in A516 carbon steel BSPs with trefoil shaped holes from within 15.9 mm (5/8") Alloy-800 SG tubes. PEC was also used to observe how measurements of wall loss were affected by the presence of magnetite. This work presents Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations and experimental results collected to observe these degradation modes. The probe was demonstrated to be capable of detecting far side wall loss as low as 20%, locating and characterizing the relative permeability of magnetite, and of detecting wall loss when magnetite was present. FEM simulations and experimental results were found to be in good agreement, suggesting that additional investigations of the effects of BSP degradation on PEC signal response may also be performed using FEM models.

A Flexible Arrayed Eddy Current Sensor for Inspection of Hollow Axle Inner Surfaces.

PubMed

Sun, Zhenguo; Cai, Dong; Zou, Cheng; Zhang, Wenzeng; Chen, Qiang

2016-06-23

A reliable and accurate inspection of the hollow axle inner surface is important for the safe operation of high-speed trains. In order to improve the reliability of the inspection, a flexible arrayed eddy current sensor for non-destructive testing of the hollow axle inner surface was designed, fabricated and characterized. The sensor, consisting of two excitation traces and 28 sensing traces, was developed by using the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) technique to conform the geometric features of the inner surfaces of the hollow axles. The main innovative aspect of the sensor was the new arrangement of excitation/sensing traces to achieve a differential configuration. Finite element model was established to analyze sensor responses and to determine the optimal excitation frequency. Experimental validations were conducted on a specimen with several artificial defects. Results from experiments and simulations were consistent with each other, with the maximum relative error less than 4%. Both results proved that the sensor was capable of detecting longitudinal and transverse defects with the depth of 0.5 mm under the optimal excitation frequency of 0.9 MHz.

Development and applications of nondestructive evaluation at Marshall Space Flight Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitaker, Ann F.

1990-01-01

A brief description of facility design and equipment, facility usage, and typical investigations are presented for the following: Surface Inspection Facility; Advanced Computer Tomography Inspection Station (ACTIS); NDE Data Evaluation Facility; Thermographic Test Development Facility; Radiographic Test Facility; Realtime Radiographic Test Facility; Eddy Current Research Facility; Acoustic Emission Monitoring System; Advanced Ultrasonic Test Station (AUTS); Ultrasonic Test Facility; and Computer Controlled Scanning (CONSCAN) System.

Eddy current crack detection capability assessment approach using crack specimens with differing electrical conductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koshti, Ajay M.

2018-03-01

Like other NDE methods, eddy current surface crack detectability is determined using probability of detection (POD) demonstration. The POD demonstration involves eddy current testing of surface crack specimens with known crack sizes. Reliably detectable flaw size, denoted by, a90/95 is determined by statistical analysis of POD test data. The surface crack specimens shall be made from a similar material with electrical conductivity close to the part conductivity. A calibration standard with electro-discharged machined (EDM) notches is typically used in eddy current testing for surface crack detection. The calibration standard conductivity shall be within +/- 15% of the part conductivity. This condition is also applicable to the POD demonstration crack set. Here, a case is considered, where conductivity of the crack specimens available for POD testing differs by more than 15% from that of the part to be inspected. Therefore, a direct POD demonstration of reliably detectable flaw size is not applicable. Additional testing is necessary to use the demonstrated POD test data. An approach to estimate the reliably detectable flaw size in eddy current testing for part made from material A using POD crack specimens made from material B with different conductivity is provided. The approach uses additional test data obtained on EDM notch specimens made from materials A and B. EDM notch test data from the two materials is used to create a transfer function between the demonstrated a90/95 size on crack specimens made of material B and the estimated a90/95 size for part made of material A. Two methods are given. For method A, a90/95 crack size for material B is given and POD data is available. Objective of method A is to determine a90/95 crack size for material A using the same relative decision threshold that was used for material B. For method B, target crack size a90/95 for material A is known. Objective is to determine decision threshold for inspecting material A.

A Novel Defect Inspection Method for Semiconductor Wafer Based on Magneto-Optic Imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Z.; Chen, L.; Li, W.; Zhang, G.; Wu, P.

2013-03-01

The defects of semiconductor wafer may be generated from the manufacturing processes. A novel defect inspection method of semiconductor wafer is presented in this paper. The method is based on magneto-optic imaging, which involves inducing eddy current into the wafer under test, and detecting the magnetic flux associated with eddy current distribution in the wafer by exploiting the Faraday rotation effect. The magneto-optic image being generated may contain some noises that degrade the overall image quality, therefore, in this paper, in order to remove the unwanted noise present in the magneto-optic image, the image enhancement approach using multi-scale wavelet is presented, and the image segmentation approach based on the integration of watershed algorithm and clustering strategy is given. The experimental results show that many types of defects in wafer such as hole and scratch etc. can be detected by the method proposed in this paper.

Fatigue Crack Length Sizing Using a Novel Flexible Eddy Current Sensor Array.

PubMed

Xie, Ruifang; Chen, Dixiang; Pan, Mengchun; Tian, Wugang; Wu, Xuezhong; Zhou, Weihong; Tang, Ying

2015-12-21

The eddy current probe, which is flexible, array typed, highly sensitive and capable of quantitative inspection is one practical requirement in nondestructive testing and also a research hotspot. A novel flexible planar eddy current sensor array for the inspection of microcrack presentation in critical parts of airplanes is developed in this paper. Both exciting and sensing coils are etched on polyimide films using a flexible printed circuit board technique, thus conforming the sensor to complex geometric structures. In order to serve the needs of condition-based maintenance (CBM), the proposed sensor array is comprised of 64 elements. Its spatial resolution is only 0.8 mm, and it is not only sensitive to shallow microcracks, but also capable of sizing the length of fatigue cracks. The details and advantages of our sensor design are introduced. The working principal and the crack responses are analyzed by finite element simulation, with which a crack length sizing algorithm is proposed. Experiments based on standard specimens are implemented to verify the validity of our simulation and the efficiency of the crack length sizing algorithm. Experimental results show that the sensor array is sensitive to microcracks, and is capable of crack length sizing with an accuracy within ±0.2 mm.

Fatigue Crack Length Sizing Using a Novel Flexible Eddy Current Sensor Array

PubMed Central

Xie, Ruifang; Chen, Dixiang; Pan, Mengchun; Tian, Wugang; Wu, Xuezhong; Zhou, Weihong; Tang, Ying

2015-01-01

The eddy current probe, which is flexible, array typed, highly sensitive and capable of quantitative inspection is one practical requirement in nondestructive testing and also a research hotspot. A novel flexible planar eddy current sensor array for the inspection of microcrack presentation in critical parts of airplanes is developed in this paper. Both exciting and sensing coils are etched on polyimide films using a flexible printed circuit board technique, thus conforming the sensor to complex geometric structures. In order to serve the needs of condition-based maintenance (CBM), the proposed sensor array is comprised of 64 elements. Its spatial resolution is only 0.8 mm, and it is not only sensitive to shallow microcracks, but also capable of sizing the length of fatigue cracks. The details and advantages of our sensor design are introduced. The working principal and the crack responses are analyzed by finite element simulation, with which a crack length sizing algorithm is proposed. Experiments based on standard specimens are implemented to verify the validity of our simulation and the efficiency of the crack length sizing algorithm. Experimental results show that the sensor array is sensitive to microcracks, and is capable of crack length sizing with an accuracy within ±0.2 mm. PMID:26703608

Eddy Current for Sizing Cracks in Canisters for Dry Storage of Used Nuclear Fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meyer, Ryan M.; Jones, Anthony M.; Pardini, Allan F.

2014-01-01

The storage of used nuclear fuel (UNF) in dry canister storage systems (DCSSs) at Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installations (ISFSI) sites is a temporary measure to accommodate UNF inventory until it can be reprocessed or transferred to a repository for permanent disposal. Policy uncertainty surrounding the long-term management of UNF indicates that DCSSs will need to store UNF for much longer periods than originally envisioned. Meanwhile, the structural and leak-tight integrity of DCSSs must not be compromised. The eddy current technique is presented as a potential tool for inspecting the outer surfaces of DCSS canisters for degradation, particularly atmospheric stressmore » corrosion cracking (SCC). Results are presented that demonstrate that eddy current can detect flaws that cannot be detected reliably using standard visual techniques. In addition, simulations are performed to explore the best parameters of a pancake coil probe for sizing of SCC flaws in DCSS canisters and to identify features in frequency sweep curves that may potentially be useful for facilitating accurate depth sizing of atmospheric SCC flaws from eddy current measurements.« less

Eddy Current COPV Overwrap and Liner Thickness Measurement System and Data Analysis for 40-Inch Kevlar COPVs SN002 and SN027

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A.

2008-01-01

As part of the health assessment of flight spare 40in diameter Kevlar composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) SN002 and SN027 an eddy current characterization of the composite and liner thickness change during pressurization was requested under WSTF-TP-1085-07.A, "Space Shuttle Orbiter Main Propulsion System P/N MC282-0082-0101 S/N 002 and Orbital Maneuvering System P/N MC282-0082-001 S/N 027 COPV Health Assessment." The through the thickness strains have been determined to be an important parameter in the analysis of the reliability and likelihood of stress rupture failure. Eddy current techniques provide a means to measure these thicknesses changes based upon the change in impedance of an eddy current sensor mounted on the exterior of the vessel. Careful probe and technique design have resulted in the capability to independently measure the liner and overwrap thickness changes to better than +/- 0.0005 in. at each sensor location. Descriptions of the inspection system and test results are discussed.

Apparatus for inspecting piping

DOEpatents

Zollingger, W. Thor; Appel, D. Keith; Park, Larry R.

1995-01-01

An inspection rabbit for inspecting piping systems having severe bends therein. The rabbit consists of a flexible, modular body containing a miniaturized eddy current inspection probe, a self-contained power supply for proper operation of the rabbit, an outer surface that allows ease of movement through piping systems and means for transmitting data generated by the inspection device. The body is preferably made of flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubing or, alternatively, silicone rubber with a shrink wrapping of polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON.RTM.). The body is formed to contain the power supply, preferably a plurality of batteries, and a spool of communication wire that connects to a data processing computer external to the piping system.

Flowpath evaluation and reconnaissance by remote field Eddy current testing (FERRET)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smoak, A.E.; Zollinger, W.T.

1993-12-31

This document describes the design and development of FERRET (Flowpath Evaluation and Reconnaisance by Remote-field Eddy current Testing). FERRET is a system for inspecting the steel pipes which carry cooling water to underground nuclear waste storage tanks. The FERRET system has been tested in a small scale cooling pipe mock-up, an improved full scale mock-up, and in flaw detection experiments. Early prototype designs of FERRET and the FERRET launcher (a device which inserts, moves, and retrieves probes from a piping system) as well as the field-ready design are discussed.

76 FR 41395 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company GE90-76B; GE90-77B; GE90-85B; GE90-90B; and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-14

... repetitive fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPIs) and eddy current inspections (ECIs) of the high-pressure... engine operation, since the high-pressure module overhaul interval is 48,000 hours or 6,000 cycles when...-90B; and GE90-94B turbofan engines with a high- pressure compressor rotor (HPCR) 8-10 stage spool...

A pulsed eddy current probe for inspection of support plates from within Alloy-800 steam generator tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krause, T. W.; Babbar, V. K.; Underhill, P. R.

2014-02-01

Support plate degradation and fouling in nuclear steam generators (SGs) can lead to SG tube corrosion and loss of efficiency. Inspection and monitoring of these conditions can be integrated with preventive maintenance programs, thereby advancing station-life management processes. A prototype pulsed eddy current (PEC) probe, targeting inspection issues associated with SG tubes in SS410 tube support plate structures, has been developed using commercial finite element (FE) software. FE modeling was used to identify appropriate driver and pickup coil configurations for optimum sensitivity to changes in gap and offset for Alloy-800 SG tubes passing through 25 mm thick SS410 support plates. Experimental measurements using a probe that was manufactured based on the modeled configuration, were used to confirm the sensitivity of differential PEC signals to changes in relative position of the tube within the tube support plate holes. Models investigated the effect of shift and tilt of tube with respect to hole centers. Near hole centers and for small shifts, modeled signal amplitudes from the differentially connected coil pairs were observed to change linearly with tube shift. This was in agreement with experimentally measured TEC coil response. The work paves the way for development of a system targeting the inspection and evaluation of support plate structures in steam generators.

Emerging nondestructive inspection methods for aging aircraft

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Beattie, A; Dahlke, L; Gieske, J

This report identifies and describes emerging nondestructive inspection (NDI) methods that can potentially be used to inspect commercial transport and commuter aircraft for structural damage. The nine categories of emerging NDI techniques are: acoustic emission, x-ray computed tomography, backscatter radiation, reverse geometry x-ray, advanced electromagnetics, including magnetooptic imaging and advanced eddy current techniques, coherent optics, advanced ultrasonics, advanced visual, and infrared thermography. The physical principles, generalized performance characteristics, and typical applications associated with each method are described. In addition, aircraft inspection applications are discussed along with the associated technical considerations. Finally, the status of each technique is presented, with amore » discussion on when it may be available for use in actual aircraft maintenance programs. It should be noted that this is a companion document to DOT/FAA/CT-91/5, Current Nondestructive Inspection Methods for Aging Aircraft.« less

Apparatus for inspecting piping

DOEpatents

Zollingger, W.T.; Appel, D.K.; Park, L.R.

1995-03-21

An inspection rabbit is described for inspecting piping systems having severe bends therein. The rabbit consists of a flexible, modular body containing a miniaturized eddy current inspection probe, a self-contained power supply for proper operation of the rabbit, an outer surface that allows ease of movement through piping systems and means for transmitting data generated by the inspection device. The body is preferably made of flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubing or, alternatively, silicone rubber with a shrink wrapping of polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON{trademark}). The body is formed to contain the power supply, preferably a plurality of batteries, and a spool of communication wire that connects to a data processing computer external to the piping system. 6 figures.

Eddy Current Rail Inspection Using AC Bridge Techniques.

PubMed

Liu, Ze; Koffman, Andrew D; Waltrip, Bryan C; Wang, Yicheng

2013-01-01

AC bridge techniques commonly used for precision impedance measurements have been adapted to develop an eddy current sensor for rail defect detection. By using two detection coils instead of just one as in a conventional sensor, we can balance out the large baseline signals corresponding to a normal rail. We have significantly enhanced the detection sensitivity of the eddy current method by detecting and demodulating the differential signal of the two coils induced by rail defects, using a digital lock-in amplifier algorithm. We have also explored compensating for the lift-off effect of the eddy current sensor due to vibrations by using the summing signal of the detection coils to measure the lift-off distance. The dominant component of the summing signal is a constant resulting from direct coupling from the excitation coil, which can be experimentally determined. The remainder of the summing signal, which decreases as the lift-off distance increases, is induced by the secondary eddy current. This dependence on the lift-off distance is used to calibrate the differential signal, allowing for a more accurate characterization of the defects. Simulated experiments on a sample rail have been performed using a computer controlled X-Y moving table with the X-axis mimicking the train's motion and the Y-axis mimicking the train's vibrational bumping. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the new detection method.

Electromagnetic Detection of Fatigue Cracks under Protruding Head Ferromagnetic Fasteners

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Namkung, Min

2004-01-01

The detection of fatigue cracks under installed fasteners has been a major goal of the aging aircraft NDE community. The Sliding Probe, Magneto-Optic Imager, Rotating Self-Nulling Probe, Low Frequency Eddy Current Array, and Eddyscan systems are among the instruments developed for this inspection. It has been verified that the detection of fatigue cracks under flush head aluminum and titanium fasteners can be accomplished with a high resolution by the above techniques. The detection of fatigue cracks under ferromagnetic and protruding head fasteners, however, has been found to be much more difficult. For the present work, the inspection for fatigue cracks under SAE 4340 Steel Hi-Lok fasteners is explored. Modifications to the Rotating Self-Nulling Eddy Current Probe System are presented which enable the detection of fatigue cracks hidden under the protruding head of the ferromagnetic fastener. Inspection results for samples with varying length EDM notches are shown, as well as a comparison between the signature from an EDM notch and an actual fatigue crack. Finite Element Modeling is used to investigate the effect of the ferromagnetic fastener on the induced eddy current distribution in order to help explain the detection characteristics of the system. This paper will also introduce a modification to the Rotating Probe System designed specifically for the detection of deeply buried flaws in multilayer conductors. The design change incorporates a giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensor as the pickup device to improve the low frequency performance of the probe. The flaw detection capabilities of the GMR based Self- Nulling Probe are presented along with the status of the GMR based Rotating Probe System for detection of deeply buried flaws under installed fasteners.

Evaluation of machine learning tools for inspection of steam generator tube structures using pulsed eddy current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buck, J. A.; Underhill, P. R.; Morelli, J.; Krause, T. W.

2017-02-01

Degradation of nuclear steam generator (SG) tubes and support structures can result in a loss of reactor efficiency. Regular in-service inspection, by conventional eddy current testing (ECT), permits detection of cracks, measurement of wall loss, and identification of other SG tube degradation modes. However, ECT is challenged by overlapping degradation modes such as might occur for SG tube fretting accompanied by tube off-set within a corroding ferromagnetic support structure. Pulsed eddy current (PEC) is an emerging technology examined here for inspection of Alloy-800 SG tubes and associated carbon steel drilled support structures. Support structure hole size was varied to simulate uniform corrosion, while SG tube was off-set relative to hole axis. PEC measurements were performed using a single driver with an 8 pick-up coil configuration in the presence of flat-bottom rectangular frets as an overlapping degradation mode. A modified principal component analysis (MPCA) was performed on the time-voltage data in order to reduce data dimensionality. The MPCA scores were then used to train a support vector machine (SVM) that simultaneously targeted four independent parameters associated with; support structure hole size, tube off-centering in two dimensions and fret depth. The support vector machine was trained, tested, and validated on experimental data. Results were compared with a previously developed artificial neural network (ANN) trained on the same data. Estimates of tube position showed comparable results between the two machine learning tools. However, the ANN produced better estimates of hole inner diameter and fret depth. The better results from ANN analysis was attributed to challenges associated with the SVM when non-constant variance is present in the data.

Eddy current spectroscopy for near-surface residual stress profiling in surface treated nonmagnetic engine alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abu-Nabah, Bassam A.

Recent research results indicated that eddy current conductivity measurements can be exploited for nondestructive evaluation of near-surface residual stresses in surface-treated nickel-base superalloy components. Most of the previous experimental studies were conducted on highly peened (Almen 10-16A) specimens that exhibit harmful cold work in excess of 30% plastic strain. Such high level of cold work causes thermo-mechanical relaxation at relatively modest operational temperatures; therefore the obtained results were not directly relevant to engine manufacturers and end users. The main reason for choosing peening intensities in excess of recommended normal levels was that in low-conductivity engine alloys the eddy current penetration depth could not be forced below 0.2 mm without expanding the measurements above 10 MHz which is beyond the operational range of most commercial eddy current instruments. As for shot-peened components, it was initially felt that the residual stress effect was more difficult to separate from cold work, texture, and inhomogeneity effects in titanium alloys than in nickel-base superalloys. In addition, titanium alloys have almost 50% lower electric conductivity than nickel-base superalloys; therefore require proportionally higher inspection frequencies, which was not feasible until our recent breakthrough in instrument development. Our work has been focused on six main aspects of this continuing research, namely, (i) the development of an iterative inversion technique to better retrieve the depth-dependent conductivity profile from the measured frequency-dependent apparent eddy current conductivity (AECC), (ii) the extension of the frequency range up to 80 MHz to better capture the peak compressive residual stress in nickel-base superalloys using a new eddy current conductivity measuring system, which offers better reproducibility, accuracy and measurement speed than the previously used conventional systems, (iii) the lift-off effect on high frequency eddy current spectroscopy, (iv) the development of custom-made spiral coils to allow eddy current conductivity characterization over the whole frequency range of interest with reduced coil sensitivity to lift off, (v) the benefits of implementing a semi-quadratic system calibration in reducing the coil sensitivity to lift-off, and (vi) the feasibility of adapting high-frequency eddy current residual stress characterization for shot-peened titanium alloys.

Research on defects inspection of solder balls based on eddy current pulsed thermography.

PubMed

Zhou, Xiuyun; Zhou, Jinlong; Tian, Guiyun; Wang, Yizhe

2015-10-13

In order to solve tiny defect detection for solder balls in high-density flip-chip, this paper proposed feasibility study on the effect of detectability as well as classification based on eddy current pulsed thermography (ECPT). Specifically, numerical analysis of 3D finite element inductive heat model is generated to investigate disturbance on the temperature field for different kind of defects such as cracks, voids, etc. The temperature variation between defective and non-defective solder balls is monitored for defects identification and classification. Finally, experimental study is carried on the diameter 1mm tiny solder balls by using ECPT and verify the efficacy of the technique.

Adaptive sparse grid approach for the efficient simulation of pulsed eddy current testing inspections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miorelli, Roberto; Reboud, Christophe

2018-04-01

Pulsed Eddy Current Testing (PECT) is a popular NonDestructive Testing (NDT) technique for some applications like corrosion monitoring in the oil and gas industry, or rivet inspection in the aeronautic area. Its particularity is to use a transient excitation, which allows to retrieve more information from the piece than conventional harmonic ECT, in a simpler and cheaper way than multi-frequency ECT setups. Efficient modeling tools prove, as usual, very useful to optimize experimental sensors and devices or evaluate their performance, for instance. This paper proposes an efficient simulation of PECT signals based on standard time harmonic solvers and use of an Adaptive Sparse Grid (ASG) algorithm. An adaptive sampling of the ECT signal spectrum is performed with this algorithm, then the complete spectrum is interpolated from this sparse representation and PECT signals are finally synthesized by means of inverse Fourier transform. Simulation results corresponding to existing industrial configurations are presented and the performance of the strategy is discussed by comparison to reference results.

Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Orbiter Main Propulsion System (MPS) Gaseous Hydrogen (GH2) Flow Control Valve (FCV) Poppet Eddy Current (EC) Inspection Probability of Detection (POD) Study. Volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Piascik, Robert S.; Prosser, William H.

2011-01-01

The Director of the NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC), requested an independent assessment of the anomalous gaseous hydrogen (GH2) flow incident on the Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Orbiter Vehicle (OV)-105 during the Space Transportation System (STS)-126 mission. The main propulsion system (MPS) engine #2 GH2 flow control valve (FCV) LV-57 transition from low towards high flow position without being commanded. Post-flight examination revealed that the FCV LV-57 poppet had experienced a fatigue failure that liberated a section of the poppet flange. The NESC assessment provided a peer review of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD), stress analysis, and impact testing. A probability of detection (POD) study was requested by the SSP Orbiter Project for the eddy current (EC) nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques that were developed to inspect the flight FCV poppets. This report contains the findings and recommendations from the NESC assessment.

Characterization of flaws in a tube bundle mock-up for reliability studies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kupperman, D.S.; Bakhtiari, S.

1997-02-01

As part of an assessment of in-service inspection of steam generator tubes, the authors will assemble a steam generator mock-up for round robin studies and use as a test bed in evaluating emerging technologies. Progress is reported on the characterization of flaws that will be part of the mock-up. Eddy current and ultrasonic techniques are being evaluated as a means to characterize the flaws in the mock-up tubes before final assembly. Twenty Inconel 600 tubes with laboratory-grown cracks, typical of those to be used in the mock-up, were provided by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory for laboratory testing. After the tubesmore » were inspected with eddy current and ultrasonic techniques, they were destructively analyzed to establish the actual depths, lengths, and profiles of the cracks. The analysis of the results will allow the best techniques to be used for characterizing the flaws in the mock-up tubes.« less

2015 WFNDEC eddy current benchmark modeling of impedance variation in coil due to a crack located at the plate edge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocha, João Vicente; Camerini, Cesar; Pereira, Gabriela

2016-02-01

The 2015 World Federation of NDE Centers (WFNDEC) eddy current benchmark problem involves the inspection of two EDM notches placed at the edge of a conducting plate with a pancake coil that runs parallel to the plate's edge line. Experimental data consists of impedance variation measured with a precision LCR bridge as a XY scanner moves the coil. The authors are pleased to present the numerical results obtained with commercial FEM packages (OPERA 3-D). Values of electrical resistance and inductive reactance variation between base material and the region around the notch are plotted as function of the coil displacement over the plate. The calculations were made for frequencies of 1 kHz and 10 kHz and agreement between experimental and numerical results are excellent for all inspection conditions. Explanations are made about how the impedance is calculated as well as pros and cons of the presented methods.

Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Orbiter Main Propulsion System (MPS) Gaseous Hydrogen (GH2) Flow Control Valve (FCV) Poppet Eddy Current (EC) Inspection Probability of Detection (POD) Study. Volume 2; Appendices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Piascik, Robert S.; Prosser, William H.

2011-01-01

The Director of the NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC), requested an independent assessment of the anomalous gaseous hydrogen (GH2) flow incident on the Space Shuttle Program (SSP) Orbiter Vehicle (OV)-105 during the Space Transportation System (STS)-126 mission. The main propulsion system (MPS) engine #2 GH2 flow control valve (FCV) LV-57 transition from low towards high flow position without being commanded. Post-flight examination revealed that the FCV LV-57 poppet had experienced a fatigue failure that liberated a section of the poppet flange. The NESC assessment provided a peer review of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD), stress analysis, and impact testing. A probability of detection (POD) study was requested by the SSP Orbiter Project for the eddy current (EC) nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques that were developed to inspect the flight FCV poppets. This report contains the Appendices to the main report.

KSC-02pd1295

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-30

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The final Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder is moved to Crawler Transporter No. 2 (CT-2) for installation. During recent routine maintenance inspections, cracks were found on four bearings in two JEL cylinders. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. CT-2 was repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1182

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 is lowered by a crane to a position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler.

Application of ECT inspection to the first wall of a fusion reactor with wavelet analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, G.; Yoshida, Y.; Miya, K.

1994-12-31

The first wall of a fusion reactor will be subjected to intensive loads during fusion operations. Since these loads may cause defects in the first wall, nondestructive evaluation techniques of the first wall should be developed. In this paper, we try to apply eddy current testing (ECT) technique to the inspection of the first wall. A method based on current vector potential and wavelet analysis is proposed. Owing to the use of wavelet analysis, a new theory developed recently, the accuracy of the present method is shown to be better than a conventional one.

KSC-02pd1169

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-13

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians check out a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinders from Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the vehicle to gain access to the bearings for routine maintenance and found three of the four bearings had cracks. Of the three bearings, two had extensive damage. Further eddy current inspections indicate that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Although no cause for the cracks is known at this time, engineers are currently evaluating the situation to determine the most appropriate solution.

[Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) Capabilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Born, Martin

2010-01-01

These poster boards display the United Space Alliance's (USA) systems and equipment used for Nondestructive Evaluation. These include: (1) the Robotic Inspection Facility, (2) CAT-Scan and Laminography, (3) Laser Surface Profilometry, (4) Remote Eddy Current, (5) Ultrasonic Phased Array, (7) Infrared Flash Thermography, and (8) Backscatter X-Ray (BSX)

Fast solver for large scale eddy current non-destructive evaluation problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Naiguang

Eddy current testing plays a very important role in non-destructive evaluations of conducting test samples. Based on Faraday's law, an alternating magnetic field source generates induced currents, called eddy currents, in an electrically conducting test specimen. The eddy currents generate induced magnetic fields that oppose the direction of the inducing magnetic field in accordance with Lenz's law. In the presence of discontinuities in material property or defects in the test specimen, the induced eddy current paths are perturbed and the associated magnetic fields can be detected by coils or magnetic field sensors, such as Hall elements or magneto-resistance sensors. Due to the complexity of the test specimen and the inspection environments, the availability of theoretical simulation models is extremely valuable for studying the basic field/flaw interactions in order to obtain a fuller understanding of non-destructive testing phenomena. Theoretical models of the forward problem are also useful for training and validation of automated defect detection systems. Theoretical models generate defect signatures that are expensive to replicate experimentally. In general, modelling methods can be classified into two categories: analytical and numerical. Although analytical approaches offer closed form solution, it is generally not possible to obtain largely due to the complex sample and defect geometries, especially in three-dimensional space. Numerical modelling has become popular with advances in computer technology and computational methods. However, due to the huge time consumption in the case of large scale problems, accelerations/fast solvers are needed to enhance numerical models. This dissertation describes a numerical simulation model for eddy current problems using finite element analysis. Validation of the accuracy of this model is demonstrated via comparison with experimental measurements of steam generator tube wall defects. These simulations generating two-dimension raster scan data typically takes one to two days on a dedicated eight-core PC. A novel direct integral solver for eddy current problems and GPU-based implementation is also investigated in this research to reduce the computational time.

Some Inspection Methods for Quality Control and In-service Inspection of GLARE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinke, J.

2003-07-01

Quality control of materials and structures is an important issue, also for GLARE. During the manufacturing stage the processes and materials should be monitored and checked frequently in order to obtain a qualified product. During the operation of the aircraft, frequent monitoring and inspections are performed to maintain the quality at a prescribed level. Therefore, in-service inspection methods are applied, and when necessary repair activities are conducted. For the quality control of the GLARE panels and components during manufacturing, the C-scan method proves to be an effective tool. For in-service inspection the Eddy Current Method is one of the suitable options. In this paper a brief overview is presented of both methods and their application on GLARE products.

Inspection of aging aircraft: A manufacturer's perspective

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagemaier, Donald J.

1992-01-01

Douglas, in conjunction with operators and regulators, has established interrelated programs to identify and address issues regarding inspection of aging aircraft. These inspection programs consist of the following: Supplemental Inspection Documents; Corrosion Prevention and Control Documents; Repair Assessment Documents; and Service Bulletin Compliance Documents. In addition, airframe manufacturers perform extended airframe fatigue tests to deal with potential problems before they can develop in the fleet. Lastly, nondestructive inspection (NDI) plays a role in all these programs through the detection of cracks, corrosion, and disbonds. However, improved and more cost effective NDI methods are needed. Some methods such as magneto-optic imaging, electronic shearography, Diffractor-Sight, and multi-parameter eddy current testing appear viable for near-term improvements in NDI of aging aircraft.

Literature Review: Theory and Application of In-Line Inspection Technologies for Oil and Gas Pipeline Girth Weld Defection

PubMed Central

Feng, Qingshan; Li, Rui; Nie, Baohua; Liu, Shucong; Zhao, Lianyu; Zhang, Hong

2016-01-01

Girth weld cracking is one of the main failure modes in oil and gas pipelines; girth weld cracking inspection has great economic and social significance for the intrinsic safety of pipelines. This paper introduces the typical girth weld defects of oil and gas pipelines and the common nondestructive testing methods, and systematically generalizes the progress in the studies on technical principles, signal analysis, defect sizing method and inspection reliability, etc., of magnetic flux leakage (MFL) inspection, liquid ultrasonic inspection, electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) inspection and remote field eddy current (RFDC) inspection for oil and gas pipeline girth weld defects. Additionally, it introduces the new technologies for composite ultrasonic, laser ultrasonic, and magnetostriction inspection, and provides reference for development and application of oil and gas pipeline girth weld defect in-line inspection technology. PMID:28036016

Post-tensioning tendon force loss detection using low power pulsed eddy current measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Ji-Min; Lee, Jun; Sohn, Hoon

2018-04-01

In the field of bridge engineering, pre-fabrication of a bridge member and its construction in site have been issued and studied, which achieves improved quality and rapid construction. For integration of those pre-fabricated segments into a structural member (i.e., a concrete slab, girder and pier), post-tensioning (PT) technique is adopted utilizing a high-strength steel tendon, and an effective investigation of the remaining PT tendon force is essential to assure an overall structural integrity. This study proposes a pulsed eddy current based tendon force loss detection system. A compact eddy current sensor is designed to be installed on the surface of an anchor holding a steel PT tendon. The intensity of the induced eddy current varies with PT tendon force alteration due to the magnetostriction effect of a ferromagnetic material. The advantages of the proposed system are as follows: (1) low power consumption, (2) rapid inspection, and (3) simple installation. Its performance was validated experimentally in a full-scale lab test of a 3.3-m long, 15.2-mm diameter mono-tendon that was tensioned using a universal testing machine. Tendon force was controlled from 20 to 180 kN with 20 kN interval, and eddy current responses were measured and analyzed at each force condition. The proposed damage index and the amount of force loss of PT tendon were monotonically related, and an excessive loss as much as 30 % of an initially-introduced tendon force was successfully predicted.

Comprehensive characterization of measurement data gathered by the pressure tube to calandria tube gap probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shokralla, Shaddy Samir Zaki

Multi-frequency eddy current measurements are employed in estimating pressure tube (PT) to calandria tube (CT) gap in CANDU fuel channels, a critical inspection activity required to ensure fitness for service of fuel channels. In this thesis, a comprehensive characterization of eddy current gap data is laid out, in order to extract further information on fuel channel condition, and to identify generalized applications for multi-frequency eddy current data. A surface profiling technique, generalizable to multiple probe and conductive material configurations has been developed. This technique has allowed for identification of various pressure tube artefacts, has been independently validated (using ultrasonic measurements), and has been deployed and commissioned at Ontario Power Generation. Dodd and Deeds solutions to the electromagnetic boundary value problem associated with the PT to CT gap probe configuration were experimentally validated for amplitude response to changes in gap. Using the validated Dodd and Deeds solutions, principal components analysis (PCA) has been employed to identify independence and redundancies in multi-frequency eddy current data. This has allowed for an enhanced visualization of factors affecting gap measurement. Results of the PCA of simulation data are consistent with the skin depth equation, and are validated against PCA of physical experiments. Finally, compressed data acquisition has been realized, allowing faster data acquisition for multi-frequency eddy current systems with hardware limitations, and is generalizable to other applications where real time acquisition of large data sets is prohibitive.

40-in. OMS Kevlar(Registered Trademark) COPV S/N 007 Stress Rupture Test NDE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saulsberry, Regor; Greene, Nate; Forth, Scott; Leifeste, Mark; Gallus, Tim; Yoder, Tommy; Keddy, Chris; Mandaras, Eric; Wincheski, Buzz; Williams, Philip;

49 CFR Appendix C to Part 180 - Eddy Current Examination With Visual Inspection for DOT 3AL Cylinders Manufactured of Aluminum...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... examinations. Visual examinations of the neck and shoulder area of the cylinder must be conducted in accordance... with visual examination reveals any crack in the neck or shoulder of 2 thread lengths or more. 6...

49 CFR Appendix C to Part 180 - Eddy Current Examination With Visual Inspection for DOT 3AL Cylinders Manufactured of Aluminum...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... examinations. Visual examinations of the neck and shoulder area of the cylinder must be conducted in accordance... with visual examination reveals any crack in the neck or shoulder of 2 thread lengths or more. 6...

49 CFR Appendix C to Part 180 - Eddy Current Examination With Visual Inspection for DOT 3AL Cylinders Manufactured of Aluminum...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... examinations. Visual examinations of the neck and shoulder area of the cylinder must be conducted in accordance... with visual examination reveals any crack in the neck or shoulder of 2 thread lengths or more. 6...

Rotating concave eddy current probe

DOEpatents

Roach, Dennis P [Albuquerque, NM; Walkington, Phil [Albuquerque, NM; Rackow, Kirk A [Albuquerque, NM; Hohman, Ed [Albuquerque, NM

2008-04-01

A rotating concave eddy current probe for detecting fatigue cracks hidden from view underneath the head of a raised head fastener, such as a buttonhead-type rivet, used to join together structural skins, such as aluminum aircraft skins. The probe has a recessed concave dimple in its bottom surface that closely conforms to the shape of the raised head. The concave dimple holds the probe in good alignment on top of the rivet while the probe is rotated around the rivet's centerline. One or more magnetic coils are rigidly embedded within the probe's cylindrical body, which is made of a non-conducting material. This design overcomes the inspection impediment associated with widely varying conductivity in fastened joints.

Nonlinear, non-stationary image processing technique for eddy current NDE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Guang; Dib, Gerges; Kim, Jaejoon; Zhang, Lu; Xin, Junjun; Udpa, Lalita

2012-05-01

Automatic analysis of eddy current (EC) data has facilitated the analysis of large volumes of data generated in the inspection of steam generator tubes in nuclear power plants. The traditional procedure for analysis of EC data includes data calibration, pre-processing, region of interest (ROI) detection, feature extraction and classification. Accurate ROI detection has been enhanced by pre-processing, which involves reducing noise and other undesirable components as well as enhancing defect indications in the raw measurement. This paper presents the Hilbert-Huang Transform (HHT) for feature extraction and support vector machine (SVM) for classification. The performance is shown to significantly better than the existing rule based classification approach used in industry.

JEL Cylinder is moved into Crawler Transporter No. 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The final Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder is moved to Crawler Transporter No. 2 (CT-2) for installation. During recent routine maintenance inspections, cracks were found on four bearings in two JEL cylinders. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. CT-2 was repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

JEL Cylinder is moved into Crawler Transporter No. 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers help guide the final Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder into place on Crawler Transporter No. 2 (CT-2) for installation. During recent routine maintenance inspections, cracks were found on four bearings in two JEL cylinders. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. CT-2 was repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1296

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-30

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers help guide the final Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder into place on Crawler Transporter No. 2 (CT-2) for installation. During recent routine maintenance inspections, cracks were found on four bearings in two JEL cylinders. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. CT-2 was repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

Detection of Cracks at Welds in Steel Tubing Using Flux Focusing Electromagnetic Probe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Fulton, Jim; Nath, Shridhar; Simpson, John; Namkung, Min

1994-01-01

The inspection of weldments in critical pressure vessel joints is a major concern in the nuclear power industry. Corrosive environments can speed the fatigue process and access to the critical area is often limited. Eddy current techniques have begun to be used to help overcome these obstacles [1]. As direct contact and couplants are not required, remote areas can be inspected by simply snaking an eddy current coil into the intake tube of the vessel. The drawback of the eddy current method has been the high sensitivity to small changes in the conductivity and permeability of the test piece which are known to vary at weldments [1]. The flaw detection mechanism of the flux focusing electromagnetic probe can help alleviate these difficulties and provide a unique capability for detecting longitudinal fatigue cracks in critical tube structures. The Flux Focusing Electromagnetic Flaw Detector, originally invented for the detection of fatigue and corrosion damage in aluminum plates [2-3], has been adapted for use in testing steel tubing for longitudinal fatigue cracks. The modified design allows for the probe to be placed axisymmetrically into the tubing, inducing eddy currents in the tube wall. The pickup coil of the probe is fixed slightly below the primary windings and is rotated 90 so that its axis is normal to the tube wall. The magnetic flux of the primary coil is focused through the use of ferromagnetic material so that in the absence of fatigue damage there will be no flux linkage with the pickup coil. The presence of a longitudinal fatigue crack will cause the eddy currents induced in the tube wall to flow around the flaw and directly under the pickup coil. The magnetic field associated with these currents will then link the pickup coil and an unambiguous increase in the output voltage of the probe will be measured. The use of the flux focusing electromagnetic probe is especially suited for the detection of flaws originating at or near tube welds. The probe is shown to discriminate against signals due solely to the weld joint so that flaw signals are not hidden in the background in these locations. Experimental and finite element modeling results are presented for the flaw detection capabilities of the probe in stainless steel tubes.

KSC-02pd1170

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-13

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians check out a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinders from Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the vehicle to gain access to the bearings for routine maintenance and found three of the four bearings had cracks. Of the three bearings, two had extensive damage. Further eddy current inspections indicate that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Although no cause for the cracks is known at this time, engineers are currently evaluating the situation to determine the most appropriate solution. The crawler is in the background.

KSC-02pd1171

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-13

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A crane operator (center) talks with technicians (right) standing next to one of the jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinders from Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the vehicle to gain access to the bearings for routine maintenance and found three of the four bearings had cracks. Of the three bearings, two had extensive damage. Further eddy current inspections indicate that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Although no cause for the cracks is known at this time, engineers are currently evaluating the situation to determine the most appropriate solution.

KSC-02pd1166

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-13

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Perry Becker, an engineer with NASA, looks at a bearing from one of the jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinders on Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the vehicle to gain access to the bearings for routine maintenance and found three of the four bearings had cracks. Of the three bearings, two had extensive damage. Further eddy current inspections indicate that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Although no cause for the cracks is known at this time, engineers are currently evaluating the situation to determine the most appropriate solution.

Recent progress in the NDE of cast ship propulsion components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spies, Martin; Rieder, Hans; Dillhöfer, Alexander; Rauhut, Markus; Taeubner, Kai; Kreier, Peter

2014-02-01

The failure of propulsion components of ships and ferries can lead to serious environmental and economic damage or even the loss of lives. For ultrasonic inspection of such large components we employ mechanized scanning and defect reconstruction using the Synthetic Aperture Focusing Technique (SAFT). We report on results obtained in view of the detection of defects with different inspection techniques. Also, we address the issue of Probability of Detection by reporting results obtained in POD and MAPOD-studies (Model-Assisted POD) using experimental and simulated data. Finally, we show recent results of surface and sub-surface inspection using optical and eddy current techniques.

Apparatus and method for inspecting a bearing ball

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bankston, B. F. (Inventor)

1985-01-01

A method and apparatus for inspecting the surface of a ball bearing is disclosed which includes a base having a high friction non-abrasive base scanning surface. A holding device includes a cone-shaped cup recess in which a ball element is received. Air is introduced through a passage to relieve friction between the wall of the recess and the ball element and facilitate rolling of the ball over the high friction base surface. The holding device is moved over the base scanning surface in a predetermined pattern such that the entire surface of the ball element is inspected byan eddy current probe which detects any surface defects.

Optically and non-optically excited thermography for composites: A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Ruizhen; He, Yunze

2016-03-01

Composites, such as glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), and adhesive bonding are being increasingly used in fields of aerospace, renewable energy, civil and architecture, and other industries. Flaws and damages are inevitable during either fabrication or lifetime of composites structures or components. Thus, nondestructive testing (NDT) are extremely required to prevent failures and to increase reliability of composite structures or components in both manufacture and in-service inspection. Infrared thermography techniques including pulsed thermography, pulsed phase thermography, and lock-in thermography have shown the great potential and advantages. Besides conventional optical thermography, other sources such as laser, eddy current, microwave, and ultrasound excited thermography are drawing increasingly attentions for composites. In this work, a fully, in-depth and comprehensive review of thermography NDT techniques for composites inspection was conducted based on an orderly and concise literature survey and detailed analysis. Firstly, basic concepts for thermography NDT were defined and introduced, such as volume heating thermography. Next, the developments of conventional optic, laser, eddy current, microwave, and ultrasound thermography for composite inspection were reviewed. Then, some case studies for scanning thermography were also reviewed. After that, the strengths and limitations of thermography techniques were concluded through comparison studies. At last, some research trends were predicted. This work containing critical overview, detailed comparison and extensive list of references will disseminates knowledge between users, manufacturers, designers and researchers involved in composite structures or components inspection by means of thermography NDT techniques.

77 FR 2932 - Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-20

...-pressure (IP) compressor rotor shaft rear balance land for cracks, which could lead to engine failure. This... and when in the shop, repetitive eddy current inspections (ECIs) for cracks on the rear balance land... for cracks on the rear balance land. That NPRM also proposed certain optional terminating actions...

77 FR 60658 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-04

...: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319-112, -113, and... airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of two fatigue cracks on the left-hand and right-hand... proposed AD would require a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for any cracking on the left-hand...

77 FR 13230 - Airworthiness Directives; BAE SYSTEMS (OPERATIONS) LIMITED Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-06

... rulemaking (NPRM). SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain BAE SYSTEMS... crack found on the left-hand sidewall well on the nose landing gear (NLG). This proposed AD would require performing a repetitive high frequency eddy current inspection of the stiffeners on the left-hand...

Comparison of Signal Response Between EDM Notch and Cracks in Eddy-Current Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kane, Mary; Koshti, Ajay

2008-01-01

In the field of ET an eddy-current instrument is calibrated on a manufactured notch that is designed to simulate a defect in a part. The calibrated instrument is then used to scan parts with the assumption that any response that is over half the amplitude of the notch signal is taken to be defective. The purpose of this study is to attempt a direct comparison of the signal response observed from an EDM notch to a crack of the same size. To make this comparison test equipment will be set up and calibrated as per normal inspection procedures. Once this has been achieved both notches and as many different sizes of crack specimens will be scanned and the data recorded. This data will then be analyzed to provide a comparison of the response. The results should also provide information that shows it is acceptable to use the half-amplitude method for determining if a part is defective. The tests will be performed on two different materials commonly inspected, titanium and aluminum. This will allow a comparison of the results between materials.

Impedance of curved rectangular spiral coils around a conductive cylinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burke, S. K.; Ditchburn, R. J.; Theodoulidis, T. P.

2008-07-01

Eddy-current induction due to a thin conformable coil wrapped around a long conductive cylinder is examined using a second-order vector potential formalism. Compact closed-form expressions are derived for the self- and mutual impedances of curved rectangular spiral coils (i) in free space and (ii) when wrapped around the surface of the cylindrical rod. The validity of these expressions was tested against the results of a systematic series of experiments using a cylindrical Al-alloy rod and conformable coils manufactured using flexible printed-circuit-board technology. The theoretical expressions were in very good agreement with the experimental measurements. The significance of the results for eddy-current nondestructive inspection using flexible coils and flexible coil arrays is discussed.

Application of Motion Induced Remote-Field Eddy-Current effect to online inspection and quality examination of rolling metallic strips

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Yushi; Udpa, Satish; Lord, William; Udpa, Lalita; Ouyang, Tianhe

2001-04-01

The Motion Induced Remote-Field Eddy-Current (MIRFEC) effect was first observed in 1994. The effect was first exploited for detecting pipeline stress corrosion cracks as a part of a research project sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. This paper presents a new application of the MIRFEC effect for online inspection of rolling metallic strips. Currently, rolled metallic strips and sheets are inspected off-line, which is costly, time consuming and not ideal for quality control. A well-designed online diagnostic and control system for metal rolling process may be able to reduce cost, improve quality, and hence enhance competitiveness of the product. The overall objective of this paper is to demonstrate the feasibility of a new nondestructive measurement system for on-line diagnostics and control of metallic rolling process using the MIRFEC effect. The system can be used to monitor, in real time, metallic strips/sheets for possible anomalies, inclusions, voids, bubbles, lamination, as well as variations in its magnetic and other properties. The potential advantages of the MIRFEC system include simplicity, robustness, low cost, high reliability, quick and accurate signal classification and characterization. Such systems can be used for real-time process control, or off-line data analysis. The technique also allows operation at high temperatures, tolerates large lift-off and vibration, and high rolling speed. Results of finite element modeling of the MIRFEC effect and experimental measurement data obtained from a prototype system are presented.

KSC-02pd1180

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A crane lifts a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

NDE to Manage Atmospheric SCC in Canisters for Dry Storage of Spent Fuel: An Assessment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meyer, Ryan M.; Pardini, Allan F.; Cuta, Judith M.

2013-09-01

This report documents efforts to assess representative horizontal (Transuclear NUHOMS®) and vertical (Holtec HI-STORM) storage systems for the implementation of non-destructive examination (NDE) methods or techniques to manage atmospheric stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in canisters for dry storage of used nuclear fuel. The assessment is conducted by assessing accessibility and deployment, environmental compatibility, and applicability of NDE methods. A recommendation of this assessment is to focus on bulk ultrasonic and eddy current techniques for direct canister monitoring of atmospheric SCC. This assessment also highlights canister regions that may be most vulnerable to atmospheric SCC to guide the use of bulkmore » ultrasonic and eddy current examinations. An assessment of accessibility also identifies canister regions that are easiest and more difficult to access through the ventilation paths of the concrete shielding modules. A conceivable sampling strategy for canister inspections is to sample only the easiest to access portions of vulnerable regions. There are aspects to performing an NDE inspection of dry canister storage system (DCSS) canisters for atmospheric SCC that have not been addressed in previous performance studies. These aspects provide the basis for recommendations of future efforts to determine the capability and performance of eddy current and bulk ultrasonic examinations for atmospheric SCC in DCSS canisters. Finally, other important areas of investigation are identified including the development of instrumented surveillance specimens to identify when conditions are conducive for atmospheric SCC, characterization of atmospheric SCC morphology, and an assessment of air flow patterns over canister surfaces and their influence on chloride deposition.« less

76 FR 30573 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company (GE) GE90-110B1 and GE90-115B Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-26

...) stages 2-5 spools installed. This proposed AD would require eddy current inspection (ECI) or spot... on the static seal. This proposed AD would require ECI or spot FPI of the stages 1-2 rotating seal... part 39 continues to read as follows: [[Page 30575

78 FR 60804 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-02

... detailed and eddy current inspections to detect cracking of the frame web around the cutout for the doorstop intercostal strap at the aft side of the station (STA) 291.5 frame at stringer 16R, and corrective... various locations of the STA 277 to STA 291.5 frames and intercostals, including webs, chords, clips, and...

Corrosion Detection in Airframes Using a New Flux-Focusing Eddy Current Probe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fulton, James P.; Wincheski, Buzz; Nath, Shridhar; Namkung, Min

1994-01-01

A new flux-focusing eddy current probe was recently developed at NASA Langley Research Center. The new probe is similar in design to a reflection type eddy current probe, but is unique in that it does not require the use of an impedance bridge for balancing. The device monitors the RMS output voltage of a pickup coil and, as a result, is easier to operate and interpret than traditional eddy current instruments. The unique design feature of the probe is a ferromagnetic cylinder, typically 1020 steel, which separates a concentrically positioned drive and pickup coil. The increased permeability of the steel causes the magnetic flux produced by the drive coil to be focused in a ring around the pickup coil. At high frequencies the eddy currents induced in both the sample and the cylinder allow little or no flux to link with the pickup coil. This results in a self-nulling condition which has been shown to be useful for the unambiguous detection of cracks in conducting materials. As the frequency is lowered the flux produced by the drive coil begins to link with the pickup coil causing an output which, among other things, is proportional to the thickness of the test specimen. This enables highly accurate measurements of the thickness of conducting materials and helps to facilitate the monitoring of thickness variations in a conducting structure such as an aircraft fuselage. Under ideal laboratory conditions the probe can sense thickness changes on the order of 1% as illustrated. However, this is highly dependent upon the thickness, and the geometric complexity of the sample being tested and for practical problems the sensitivity is usually much less. In this presentation we highlight some of the advantages and limitations in using the probe to inspect aircraft panels for corrosion and other types of material nonuniformities. In particular, we present preliminary results which illustrate the probes capabilities for detecting first and second layer corrosion in aircraft panels which may contain air gaps between the layers. Since the probe utilized eddy currents its corrosion detection capabilities are similar to convectional eddy current techniques, but the new probe is much easier to use.

KSC-02pd1167

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-13

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Perry Becker, an engineer with NASA, points to a crack in a bearing from one of the jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinders on Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the vehicle to gain access to the bearings for routine maintenance and found three of the four bearings had cracks. Of the three bearings, two had extensive damage. Further eddy current inspections indicate that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Although no cause for the cracks is known at this time, engineers are currently evaluating the situation to determine the most appropriate solution.

KSC-02pd1168

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-13

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Perry Becker, an engineer with NASA, looks at a spacer on the bearing in one of the jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinders on Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the vehicle to gain access to the bearings for routine maintenance and found three of the four bearings had cracks. Of the three bearings, two had extensive damage. Further eddy current inspections indicate that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Although no cause for the cracks is known at this time, engineers are currently evaluating the situation to determine the most appropriate solution.

Robotic Inspection System for Non-Destructive Evaluation (nde) of Pipes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mackenzie, L. D.; Pierce, S. G.; Hayward, G.

2009-03-01

The demand for remote inspection of pipework in the processing cells of nuclear plant provides significant challenges of access, navigation, inspection technique and data communication. Such processing cells typically contain several kilometres of densely packed pipework whose actual physical layout may be poorly documented. Access to these pipes is typically afforded through the radiation shield via a small removable concrete plug which may be several meters from the actual inspection site, thus considerably complicating practical inspection. The current research focuses on the robotic deployment of multiple NDE payloads for weld inspection along non-ferritic steel pipework (thus precluding use of magnetic traction options). A fully wireless robotic inspection platform has been developed that is capable of travelling along the outside of a pipe at any orientation, while avoiding obstacles such as pipe hangers and delivering a variety of NDE payloads. An eddy current array system provides rapid imaging capabilities for surface breaking defects while an on-board camera, in addition to assisting with navigation tasks, also allows real time image processing to identify potential defects. All sensor data can be processed by the embedded microcontroller or transmitted wirelessly back to the point of access for post-processing analysis.

Evaluation of eddy current and magnetic techniques for inspecting rebars in bridge barrier rails

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lo, C. C. H.; Nakagawa, N.

2013-01-01

This paper reports on a feasibility study of using eddy current (EC) and magnetic flux leakage (MFL) methods to detect corrosion damage in rebars that anchor concrete barrier rails to the road deck of bridge structures. EC and MFL measurements were carried out on standalone rebars with and without artificial defects of 25% and 50% material loss, using a commercial EC-based rebar locator and a MFL system that was developed using giant magnetoresistance sensors to detect leakage fluxes from the defects. Both techniques can readily detect the defects at a distance of 2.5″ (63.5 mm). The amplitudes of the EC and MFL signals vary monotonically with the amount of material loss, indicating the potential of using the techniques to quantify material loss of standalone rebars.

Probability of detection for bolt hole eddy current in extracted from service aircraft wing structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Underhill, P. R.; Uemura, C.; Krause, T. W.

2018-04-01

Fatigue cracks are prone to develop around fasteners found in multi-layer aluminum structures on aging aircraft. Bolt hole eddy current (BHEC) is used for detection of cracks from within bolt holes after fastener removal. In support of qualification towards a target a90/95 (detect 90% of cracks of depth a, 95% of the time) of 0.76 mm (0.030"), a preliminary probability of detection (POD) study was performed to identify those parameters whose variation may keep a bolt hole inspection from attaining its goal. Parameters that were examined included variability in lift-off due to probe type, out-of-round holes, holes with diameters too large to permit surface-contact of the probe and mechanical damage to the holes, including burrs. The study examined the POD for BHEC of corner cracks in unfinished fastener holes extracted from service material. 68 EDM notches were introduced into two specimens of a horizontal stabilizer from a CC-130 Hercules aircraft. The fastener holes were inspected in the unfinished state, simulating potential inspection conditions, by 7 certified inspectors using a manual BHEC setup with an impedance plane display and also with one inspection conducted utilizing a BHEC automated C-Scan apparatus. While the standard detection limit of 1.27 mm (0.050") was achieved, given the a90/95 of 0.97 mm (0.039"), the target 0.76 mm (0.030") was not achieved. The work highlighted a number of areas where there was insufficient information to complete the qualification. Consequently, a number of recommendations were made. These included; development of a specification for minimum probe requirements; criteria for condition of the hole to be inspected, including out-of-roundness and presence of corrosion pits; statement of range of hole sizes; inspection frequency and data display for analysis.

Amplitude-independent flaw length determination using differential eddy current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shell, E.

2013-01-01

Military engine component manufacturers typically specify the eddy current (EC) inspection requirements as a crack length or depth with the assumption that the cracks in both the test specimens and inspected component are of a similar fixed aspect ratio. However, differential EC response amplitude is dependent on the area of the crack face, not the length or depth. Additionally, due to complex stresses, in-service cracks do not always grow in the assumed manner. It would be advantageous to use more of the information contained in the EC data to better determine the full profile of cracks independent of the fixed aspect ratio amplitude response curve. A specimen with narrow width notches is used to mimic cracks of varying aspect ratios in a controllable manner. The specimen notches have aspect ratios that vary from 1:1 to 10:1. Analysis routines have been developed using the shape of the EC response signals that can determine the length of a surface flaw of common orientations without use of the amplitude of the signal or any supporting traditional probability of detection basis. Combined with the relationship between signal amplitude and area, the depth of the flaw can also be calculated.

Considerations for ultrasonic testing application for on-orbit NDE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koshti, Ajay M.

2015-04-01

The paper addresses some on-orbit nondestructive evaluation (NDE) needs of NASA for International Space Station (ISS). The presentation gives NDE requirements for inspecting suspect damage due to micro-meteoroids and orbital debris (MMOD) impact on the pressure wall of the ISS. This inspection is meant to be conducted from inside of the ISS module. The metallic wall of the module has a fixed wall thickness but also has integral orthogrid ribs for reinforcement. Typically, a single MMOD hit causes localized damage in a small area causing loss of material similar to pitting corrosion, but cracks may be present too. The impact may cause bulging of the wall. Results of the ultrasonic and eddy current demonstration scans on test samples are provided. The ultrasonic technique uses shear wave scans to interrogate the localized damage area from the surrounding undamaged area. The scanning protocol results in multiple scans, each with multiple "vee" paths. A superimposition and mosaic of the three-dimensional ultrasonic data from individual scans is desired to create C-scan images of the damage. This is a new data reduction process which is not currently implemented in state-of-art ultrasonic instruments. Results of ultrasonic scans on the simulated MMOD damage test plates are provided. The individual C-scans are superimposed manually creating mosaic of the inspection. The resulting image is compared with visibly detected damage boundaries, X-ray images, and localized ultrasonic and eddy current scans for locating crack tips to assess effectiveness of the ultrasonic scanning. The paper also discusses developments needed in improving ergonomics of the ultrasonic testing for on-orbit applications.

Numerical evaluation of ECT impedance signal due to minute cracks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fukutomi, Hiroyuki; Takagi, Toshiyuki; Tani, Junji

1997-03-01

This paper describes an experimental and analytical study on minute crack inspection with Eddy Current Testing (ECT). Measurement and simulation using a 3D FEM program are applied for the evaluation of the detecting signal with a minute crack in a test piece. Parameters such as mesh division, ICCG convergence criteria, etc. are evaluated to achieve high accuracy in numerical calculation. The simulation results agreed with experimental ones. ECT is used for in-service inspection of tubes in steam generators, heat exchangers and condensers in nuclear or conventional power plants as well as in chemical installations.

Corrosion-Indicating Pigment And Probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Cohen, Yoseph; Bugga, Ratnakumar V.; Attia, Alan I.

1993-01-01

Proposed hydrogen-sensitive paint for metal structures changes color at onset of corrosion, involving emission of hydrogen as result of electrochemical reactions. Pigment of suitable paint includes rhodium compound RhCl(PPh3)3, known as Wilkinson's catalyst. As coating on critical parts of such structures as bridges and aircraft, paint gives early warning of corrosion, and parts thus repaired or replaced before failing catastrophically. Reveals corrosion before it becomes visible to eye. Inspection for changes in color not ordinarily necessitate removal of structure from service, and costs less than inspection by x-ray or thermal neutron radiography, ultrasonic, eddy-current, or acoustic-emission techniques.

KSC-02pd1186

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians supervise a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 as it is lowered by a crane to a position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1178

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians hook a crane to a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing on Crawler-Transporter No. 2 in preparation for its removal. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1181

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A crane lowers a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 to a position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1177

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians hook a crane to a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing on Crawler-Transporter No. 2 in preparation for its removal. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1185

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A technician steadies a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 as it is lowered by a crane to a position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1184

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians closely monitor a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 as it lowered by a crane to a position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1179

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians give the signal for a crane to begin lifting a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing on Crawler-Transporter No. 2. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1183

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians closely monitor a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 as it lowered by a crane to a position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

Method and Apparatus for Non-Destructive Evaluation of Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Washabaugh, Andrew P. (Inventor); Lyons, Robert (Inventor); Thomas, Zachary (Inventor); Martin, Christopher (Inventor); Goldfine, Neil J. (Inventor)

2017-01-01

Methods and apparatus for characterizing composite materials for manufacturing quality assurance (QA), periodic inspection during the useful life, or for forensic analysis/material testing. System are provided that relate eddy-current sensor responses to the fiber layup of a composite structure, the presence of impact damage on a composite structure with or without a metal liner, volumetric stress within the composite, fiber tow density, and other NDE inspection requirements. Also provided are systems that determine electromagnetic material properties and material dimensions of composite materials from capacitive sensor inspection measurements. These properties are related to the presence of buried defects in non-conductive composite materials, moisture ingress, aging of the material due to service or environmental/thermal exposure, or changes in manufacturing quality.

Method and Apparatus for Non-Destructive Evaluation of Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lyons, Robert (Inventor); Martin, Christopher (Inventor); Washabaugh, Andrew P. (Inventor); Goldfine, Neil J. (Inventor); Thomas, Zachary (Inventor); Jablonski, David A. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

Methods and apparatus for characterizing composite materials for manufacturing quality assurance (QA), periodic inspection during the useful life, or for forensic analysis/material testing. System are provided that relate eddy-current sensor responses to the fiber layup of a composite structure, the presence of impact damage on a composite structure with or without a metal liner, volumetric stress within the composite, fiber tow density, and other NDE inspection requirements. Also provided are systems that determine electromagnetic material properties and material dimensions of composite materials from capacitive sensor inspection measurements. These properties are related to the presence of buried defects in non-conductive composite materials, moisture ingress, aging of the material due to service or environmental/thermal exposure, or changes in manufacturing quality.

Development and Application of Eddy Current Sensor Arrays for Process Integrated Inspection of Carbon Fibre Preforms.

PubMed

Berger, Dietrich; Lanza, Gisela

2017-12-21

This publication presents the realisation of a sensor concept, which is based on eddy current testing, to detect textile defects during preforming of semi-finished carbon fibre parts. The presented system has the potential for 100% control of manufactured carbon fibre based components, allowing the immediate exclusion of defective parts from further process steps. The core innovation of this system is given by the high degree of process integration, which has not been implemented in the state of the art. The publication presents the functional principle of the sensor that is based on half-transmission probes as well as the signals that can be gained by its application. Furthermore, a method to determine the optimum sensor resolution is presented as well as the sensor housing and its integration in the preforming process.

Positioning challenges in reconfigurable semi-autonomous robotic NDE inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierce, S. Gareth; Dobie, Gordon; Summan, Rahul; Mackenzie, Liam; Hensman, James; Worden, Keith; Hayward, Gordon

2010-03-01

This paper describes work conducted into mobile, wireless, semi-autonomous NDE inspection robots developed at The University of Strathclyde as part of the UK Research Centre for Non Destructive Evaluation (RCNDE). The inspection vehicles can incorporate a number of different NDE payloads including ultrasonic, eddy current, visual and magnetic based payloads, and have been developed to try and improve NDE inspection techniques in challenging inspection areas (for example oil, gas, and nuclear structures). A significant research challenge remains in the accurate positioning and guidance of such vehicles for real inspection tasks. Employing both relative and absolute position measurements, we discuss a number of approaches to position estimation including Kalman and particle filtering. Using probabilistic approaches enables a common mathematical framework to be employed for both positioning and data fusion from different NDE sensors. In this fashion the uncertainties in both position and defect identification and classification can be dealt with using a consistent approach. A number of practical constraints and considerations to different precision positioning techniques are discussed, along with NDE applications and the potential for improved inspection capabilities by utilising the inherent reconfigurable capabilities of the inspection vehicles.

76 FR 67591 - Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turbofan Engines

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-02

... Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turbofan Engines AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA... 3007A1P, and AE 3007A3 turbofan engines. This AD requires initial and repetitive eddy current inspections... 3007A, AE 3007A1/1, AE 3007A1, AE 3007A1/3, AE 3007A1E, AE 3007A1P, and AE 3007A3 turbofan engines...

76 FR 53346 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-26

... propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD would require repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracking of the left and right rib.... Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New...

KSC-02pd1187

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A technician holds a crane strap to steady and guide a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 as it is lowered by a crane to a resting position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1207

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of the repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinders is moved from the repair site for installation into Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1188

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-14

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians remove the crane straps from a jacking, equalization and leveling (JEL) cylinder and bearing from Crawler-Transporter No. 2 after it is lowered by a crane to a resting position on the ground. During routine maintenance inspections last week, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks are present on 15 of the bearings. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. Engineers are evaluating the situation to determine the cause of the cracks and an appropriate solution to the problem.

KSC-02pd1213

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers on Crawler Transporter No. 2 help guide a repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder into place. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1206

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinders with repaired bearings are ready to be moved to Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1214

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers on Crawler Transporter No. 2 help guide a repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder as it is lowered into place. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1216

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Near the bottom of the repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder, workers fasten the JEL to Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1215

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two workers help maneuver a repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder as it is lowered into place on Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1211

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A crane lifts the repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder to move into to Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

On the seasonal response of the Lower St Lawrence Estuary to buoyancy forcing by regulated river runoff

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koutitonsky, V. G.; Wilson, R. E.; El-Sabh, M. I.

1990-10-01

The seasonal current fluctuations recorded from May to September 1979 in the Lower St Lawrence Estuary (LSLE) were re-examined using complex empirical orthogonal functions analysis. The first mode explained 88% of the seasonal variability, and revealed the presence of an estuary-wide anticyclonic eddy near the mouth, which lasted for 40 days in June and July. Careful inspection of the (regulated) 1979 freshwater runoff and salinity time series indicated that light surface water pulses from the St Lawrence River and the Saguenay fjord arrived in the LSLE during that time. Their duration was about 40 days. The contention is that the anticyclonic eddy results from buoyancy forcing by these light water pulses, isolated in the LSLE by denser waters upwelled upstream and by the buoyancy front at the mouth. A reduced gravity model is used to show that when the width of the LSLE becomes greater than two internal Rossby radii, an initial dynamic height elevation will adjust through geostrophy to an anticyclonic eddy. This seems to occur downstream of Rimouski. The eddy will form within a time scale 0 (f -1), and in the absence of instabilities in the current field, it will conserve potential energy for extended periods of time. During August, the advected river runoff decreased, unstable wave activity developed, and denser Gulf waters entered the LSLE from the north shore producing a cyclonic eddy near the mouth. Concurrent satellite thermal imagery tends to support these findings.

Application of low-frequency eddy current testing to the inspection of a double-walled tank in a reprocessing plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tajima, Naoki; Yusa, Noritaka; Hashizume, Hidetoshi

2018-04-01

This paper discusses the applicability of simple low-frequency eddy current testing to the detection of deeply embedded flaws. The study specifically considered a double tank in a reprocessing plant for extracting plutonium-uranium from spent nuclear fuels. The tank was modelled by two type 304 austenitic stainless steel plates situated with an air gap of 80 mm, and the change in the thickness of one of the plates was detected through the other plate and the air gap. Axisymmetric two-dimensional finite element simulations were conducted and found that a simple circular coil with a large diameter enabled to detect the thickness based on the magnetic flux density at the centre of the coil although the plates were as thick as 30 mm. The results of the numerical simulations were validated by experiments.

Eddy current proximity measurement of perpendicular tubes from within pressure tubes in CANDU nuclear reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bennett, P. F. D.; Underhill, P. R.; Morelli, J.; Krause, T. W.

2018-04-01

Fuel channels in CANDU® (CANada Deuterium Uranium) nuclear reactors consist of two non-concentric tubes; an inner pressure tube (PT) and a larger diameter calandria tube (CT). Up to 400 horizontally mounted fuel channels are contained within a calandria vessel, which also holds the heavy water moderator. Certain fuel channels pass perpendicularly over horizontally oriented tubes (nozzles) that are part of the reactor's liquid injection shutdown system (LISS). Due to sag, these fuel channels are at risk of coming into contact with the LISS nozzles. In the event of contact between the LISS nozzle and CT, flow-induced vibrations from within the moderator could lead to fretting and deformation of the CT. LISS nozzle proximity to CTs is currently measured optically from within the calandria vessel, but from outside the fuel channels. Measurement by an independent means would provide confidence in optical results and supplement cases where optical observations are not possible. Separation of PT and CT, known as gap, is monitored from within the PT using a transmit-receive eddy current probe. Investigation of the eddy current based gap probe as a tool to also measure proximity of LISS nozzles was carried out experimentally in this work. Eddy current response as a function of LISS-PT proximity was recorded. When PT-CT gap, PT wall thickness, PT resistivity and probe lift-off variations were not present this dependence could be used to determine the LISS-PT proximity. This method has the potential to provide LISS-CT proximity using existing gap measurement data. Obtaining LISS nozzle proximity at multiple inspection intervals could be used to provide an estimate of the time to LISS-CT contact, and thereby provide a means of optimizing maintenance schedules.

Model based optimization of driver-pickup separation for eddy current measurement of gap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klein, G.; Morelli, J.; Krause, T. W.

2018-04-01

The fuel channels in CANDU® (CANada Deuterium Uranium) nuclear reactors consist of a pressure tube (PT) contained within a larger diameter calandria tube (CT). The separation between the tubes, known as the PT-CT gap, ensures PT hydride blisters, which could lead to potential cracking of the PT, do not develop. Therefore, accurate measurements are required to confirm that contact between PT and CT is not imminent. Gap measurement uses an eddy current probe. However this probe is sensitive to lift-off variations, which can adversely affect estimated gap. A validated analytical flat plate model of eddy current response to gap was used to examine the effect of driver-pickup spacing on lift-off and response to gap at a frequency of 4 kHz, which is used for in-reactor measurements. This model was compared against, and shown to have good agreement with, a COMSOL® finite element method (FEM) model. The optimum coil separation, which included the constraint of coil size, was found to be 11 mm, resulting in a phase response between lift-off and response to change in gap of 66°. This work demonstrates the advantages of using analytical models for optimizing coil designs for measurement of parameters that may negatively influence the outcome of an inspection measurement.

NDE of copper canisters for long-term storage of spent nuclear fuel from the Swedish nuclear power plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepinski, Tadeusz

2003-07-01

Sweden has been intensively developing methods for long term storage of spent fuel from the nuclear power plants for twenty-five years. A dedicated research program has been initiated and conducted by the Swedish company SKB (Swedish Nuclear Fuels and Waste Management Co.). After the interim storage SKB plans to encapsulate spent nuclear fuel in copper canisters that will be placed at a deep repository located in bedrock. The canisters filled with fuel rods will be sealed by an electron beam weld. This paper presents three complementary NDE techniques used for assessing the sealing weld in copper canisters, radiography, ultrasound, and eddy current. A powerful X-ray source and a digital detector are used for the radiography. An ultrasonic array system consisting of a phased ultrasonic array and a multi-channel electronics is used for the ultrasonic examination. The array system enables electronic focusing and rapid electronic scanning eliminating the use of a complicated mechanical scanner. A specially designed eddy current probe capable of detecting small voids at the depth up to 4 mm in copper is used for the eddy current inspection. Presently, all the NDE techniques are verified in SKB's Canister Laboratory where full scale canisters are welded and examined.

Development of Inspection for Friction Stir Welds for Rocket Fuel Tanks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, Samuel S.

2012-01-01

During development of the Ares I weld processes nondestructive and destructive testing were used to identify and characterize defects that occurred. These defects were named and character noted. This catalogue of defects and characteristics was then used to develop inspection methods for Self Reacting Friction Stir Welds (SR ]FSW) and Conventional Friction Stir Welds (C ]FSW). Dye penetrant, eddy current, x ]radiography, single element ultrasonic, and phased array ultrasonic (PAUT) inspection procedures were developed to target the expected defects. Once the method procedure was developed a comparison was performed to allow for selection of the best inspection method. Tests of the effectiveness of the inspection were performed on purposely fabricated flawed specimens and electrodischarge machined notches. The initial test results prompted a revisit of the PAUT procedure and a redesign of the inspection. Subsequent testing showed that a multi ]angle PAUT inspection resulted in better detection capability. A discussion of the most effective orientations of the PAUT transducer will be presented. Also, the implementation of the inspection on production hardware will be presented. In some cases the weld tool is used as the transducer manipulator and in some cases a portable scanner is used

Human Factors in Aviation Maintenance. Phase 3. Volume 2. Progress Report

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-07-01

computer-simulated NDI eddy-current task developed by Dr. Colin G. Drury and his colleagues at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo. The task...to lower cost and increase performance ............... 28 Figure 3.2 Comparison of development and delivery costs for CBT and traditional training...Active Female Aircraft Mechanics. . 110 Figure 5.1 NDI Inspection Task Simulation ( Drury et al., 1992) ............... 147 Figure 5.2 Mean Misses and

Development of Inspection and Repair Technology for Heat Exchanger Tubes in Fast Breeder Reactors

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-06-01

Technology for Heat Exchanger Tubes in Fast Breeder Reactors Akihiko NISHIMURA *1 , Takahisa SHOBU, Kiyoshi OKA, Toshihiko YAMAGUCHI, Yukihiro SHIMADA...fast breeder reactors (FBRs). It comprises a laser processing head combined with an eddy current testing unit. Ultrashort laser pulse ablation is used...be applied in the main- tenance of large structures such as nuclear reactors and chemical factories [1]. Internal access to a blanket cooling pipe

KSC-02pd1210

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder is attached to a crane. The crane will lift the JEL for placement in Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1212

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Supported by the overhead crane and maneuvered by several workers, a repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder is lifted into position on Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

KSC-02pd1208

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers accompany the repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinder as it is moved from the repair site for installation into Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings.. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

NDE detectability of fatigue-type cracks in high-strength alloys: NDI reliability assessments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Christner, Brent K.; Long, Donald L.; Rummel, Ward D.

1988-01-01

This program was conducted to generate quantitative flaw detection capability data for the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques typically practiced by aerospace contractors. Inconel 718 and Haynes 188 alloy test specimens containing fatigue flaws with a wide distribution of sizes were used to assess the flaw detection capabilities at a number of contractor and government facilities. During this program 85 inspection sequences were completed presenting a total of 20,994 fatigue cracks to 53 different inspectors. The inspection sequences completed included 78 liquid penetrant, 4 eddy current, and 3 ultrasonic evaluations. The results of the assessment inspections are presented and discussed. In generating the flaw detection capability data base, procedures for data collection, data analysis, and specimen care and maintenance were developed, demonstrated, and validated. The data collection procedures and methods that evolved during this program for the measurement of flaw detection capabilities and the effects of inspection variables on performance are discussed. The Inconel 718 and Haynes 188 test specimens that were used in conducting this program and the NDE assessment procedures that were demonstrated, provide NASA with the capability to accurately assess the flaw detection capabilities of specific inspection procedures being applied or proposed for use on current and future fracture control hardware program.

Characteristics of Ferromagnetic Flux Focusing Lens in the Development of Surface/Subsurface Flaw Detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Fulton, Jim; Nath, Shridhar; Namkung, Min; Simpson, John

1993-01-01

Electromagnetic NDE techniques have in the past steered away from the use of ferromagnetic materials. Although their high permeabilities lead to increased field levels, the properties of ferrous elements in the presence of alternating magnetic fields are difficult to determine. In addition, their use leads to losses which can be minimized through the use of low conductivity ferrites. In fact, the eddy current probes which do incorporate ferromagnetic materials have focused on these losses and the shielding which can be obtained by surrounding a probe with a high permeability, conducting material. Eddy current probes enclosed in conducting and magnetic shields have been used to prevent the generated fields from interacting with materials in the vicinity of the probe, such as when testing near material boundaries. A recent invention has used ferromagnetic shielding to magnetically separate individual concentric eddy current probes in order to eliminate cross-talk between the probes so that simultaneous detection of different types of flaws at different depths can be achieved. In contrast to the previous uses of ferromagnetic materials purely as magnetic shields, an electromagnetic flaw detector recently developed at NASA Langley Research Center takes advantage of the flux focusing properties of a ferromagnetic mild steel in order to produce a simple, effective device for the non-destructive evaluation of conducting materials. The Flux Focusing Eddy Current Probe has been shown to accurately measure material thickness and fatigue damage. The straight forward flaw response of the probe makes the device ideal for rapid inspection of large structures, and has lead to its incorporation in a computer controlled search routine to locate fatigue crack tips and monitor experimental fatigue crack growth experiments.

Original non-stationary eddy current imaging process for the evaluation of defects in metallic structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Placko, Dominique; Bore, Thierry; Rivollet, Alain; Joubert, Pierre-Yves

2015-10-01

This paper deals with the problem of imaging defects in metallic structures through eddy current (EC) inspections, and proposes an original process for a possible tomographical crack evaluation. This process is based on a semi analytical modeling, called "distributed point source method" (DPSM) which is used to describe and equate the interactions between the implemented EC probes and the structure under test. Several steps will be successively described, illustrating the feasibility of this new imaging process dedicated to the quantitative evaluation of defects. The basic principles of this imaging process firstly consist in creating a 3D grid by meshing the volume potentially inspected by the sensor. As a result, a given number of elemental volumes (called voxels) are obtained. Secondly, the DPSM modeling is used to compute an image for all occurrences in which only one of the voxels has a different conductivity among all the other ones. The assumption consists to consider that a real defect may be truly represented by a superimposition of elemental voxels: the resulting accuracy will naturally depend on the density of space sampling. On other hand, the excitation device of the EC imager has the capability to be oriented in several directions, and driven by an excitation current at variable frequency. So, the simulation will be performed for several frequencies and directions of the eddy currents induced in the structure, which increases the signal entropy. All these results are merged in a so-called "observation matrix" containing all the probe/structure interaction configurations. This matrix is then used in an inversion scheme in order to perform the evaluation of the defect location and geometry. The modeled EC data provided by the DPSM are compared to the experimental images provided by an eddy current imager (ECI), implemented on aluminum plates containing some buried defects. In order to validate the proposed inversion process, we feed it with computed images of various acquisition configurations. Additive noise was added to the images so that they are more representative of actual EC data. In the case of simple notch type defects, for which the relative conductivity may only take two extreme values (1 or 0), a threshold was introduced on the inverted images, in a post processing step, taking advantage of a priori knowledge of the statistical properties of the restored images. This threshold allowed to enhance the image contrast and has contributed to eliminate both the residual noise and the pixels showing non-realistic values.

Study on quantitative detection technology of special position defects in heat transfer tubes of nuclear power plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Pan; Cui, Hongyan; Shao, Wenbin; Feng, Meiming; Liao, Shusheng

2018-04-01

This study was conducted analyzing eddy current signals from a rotary probe and an array probe to detect artificial cracks and flat bottom holes (FBH) located in selected positions in a steam generator heat transfer tube of a nuclear power plant. In particular, the study examined the expanded transition section, and the detection sensitivity and the variation characteristics of the unilateral signal to provide guidance for in-service inspections.

Surface Profiling and Core Evaluation of Aluminum Honeycomb Sandwich Aircraft Panels Using Multi-Frequency Eddy Current Testing

PubMed Central

Reyno, Tyler; Underhill, P. Ross; Krause, Thomas W.; Marsden, Catharine; Wowk, Diane

2017-01-01

Surface damage on honeycomb aircraft panels is often measured manually, and is therefore subject to variation based on inspection personnel. Eddy current testing (ECT) is sensitive to variations in probe-to-specimen spacing, or lift-off, and is thus promising for high-resolution profiling of surface damage on aluminum panels. Lower frequency testing also allows inspection through the face sheet, an advantage over optical 3D scanning methods. This paper presents results from the ECT inspection of surface damage on an approximately flat aluminum honeycomb aircraft panel, and compares the measurements to those taken using optical 3D scanning technology. An ECT C-Scan of the dented panel surface was obtained by attaching the probe to a robotic scanning apparatus. Data was taken simultaneously at four frequencies of 25, 100, 400 and 1600 kHz. A reference surface was then defined that approximated the original, undamaged panel surface, which also compensated for the effects of specimen tilt and thermal drift within the ECT instrument. Data was converted to lift-off using height calibration curves developed for each probe frequency. A damage region of 22,550 mm2 area with dents ranging in depth from 0.13–1.01 mm was analyzed. The method was accurate at 1600 kHz to within 0.05 mm (2σ) when compared with 231 measurements taken via optical 3D scanning. Testing at 25 kHz revealed a 3.2 mm cell size within the honeycomb core, which was confirmed via destructive evaluation. As a result, ECT demonstrates potential for implementation as a method for rapid in-field aircraft panel surface damage assessment. PMID:28906434

Methods Developed by the Tools for Engine Diagnostics Task to Monitor and Predict Rotor Damage in Real Time

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, George Y.; Smith, Kevin; Raulerson, David; Gyekenyesi, Andrew L.; Sawicki, Jerzy T.; Brasche, Lisa

2003-01-01

Tools for Engine Diagnostics is a major task in the Propulsion System Health Management area of the Single Aircraft Accident Prevention project under NASA s Aviation Safety Program. The major goal of the Aviation Safety Program is to reduce fatal aircraft accidents by 80 percent within 10 years and by 90 percent within 25 years. The goal of the Propulsion System Health Management area is to eliminate propulsion system malfunctions as a primary or contributing factor to the cause of aircraft accidents. The purpose of Tools for Engine Diagnostics, a 2-yr-old task, is to establish and improve tools for engine diagnostics and prognostics that measure the deformation and damage of rotating engine components at the ground level and that perform intermittent or continuous monitoring on the engine wing. In this work, nondestructive-evaluation- (NDE-) based technology is combined with model-dependent disk spin experimental simulation systems, like finite element modeling (FEM) and modal norms, to monitor and predict rotor damage in real time. Fracture mechanics time-dependent fatigue crack growth and damage-mechanics-based life estimation are being developed, and their potential use investigated. In addition, wireless eddy current and advanced acoustics are being developed for on-wing and just-in-time NDE engine inspection to provide deeper access and higher sensitivity to extend on-wing capabilities and improve inspection readiness. In the long run, these methods could establish a base for prognostic sensing while an engine is running, without any overt actions, like inspections. This damage-detection strategy includes experimentally acquired vibration-, eddy-current- and capacitance-based displacement measurements and analytically computed FEM-, modal norms-, and conventional rotordynamics-based models of well-defined damages and critical mass imbalances in rotating disks and rotors.

Surface Profiling and Core Evaluation of Aluminum Honeycomb Sandwich Aircraft Panels Using Multi-Frequency Eddy Current Testing.

PubMed

Reyno, Tyler; Underhill, P Ross; Krause, Thomas W; Marsden, Catharine; Wowk, Diane

2017-09-14

Surface damage on honeycomb aircraft panels is often measured manually, and is therefore subject to variation based on inspection personnel. Eddy current testing (ECT) is sensitive to variations in probe-to-specimen spacing, or lift-off, and is thus promising for high-resolution profiling of surface damage on aluminum panels. Lower frequency testing also allows inspection through the face sheet, an advantage over optical 3D scanning methods. This paper presents results from the ECT inspection of surface damage on an approximately flat aluminum honeycomb aircraft panel, and compares the measurements to those taken using optical 3D scanning technology. An ECT C-Scan of the dented panel surface was obtained by attaching the probe to a robotic scanning apparatus. Data was taken simultaneously at four frequencies of 25, 100, 400 and 1600 kHz. A reference surface was then defined that approximated the original, undamaged panel surface, which also compensated for the effects of specimen tilt and thermal drift within the ECT instrument. Data was converted to lift-off using height calibration curves developed for each probe frequency. A damage region of 22,550 mm² area with dents ranging in depth from 0.13-1.01 mm was analyzed. The method was accurate at 1600 kHz to within 0.05 mm (2σ) when compared with 231 measurements taken via optical 3D scanning. Testing at 25 kHz revealed a 3.2 mm cell size within the honeycomb core, which was confirmed via destructive evaluation. As a result, ECT demonstrates potential for implementation as a method for rapid in-field aircraft panel surface damage assessment.

Differential geometry based model for eddy current inspection of U-bend sections in steam generator tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mukherjee, Saptarshi; Rosell, Anders; Udpa, Lalita; Udpa, Satish; Tamburrino, Antonello

2017-02-01

The modeling of U-Bend segment in steam generator tubes for predicting eddy current probe signals from cracks, wear and pitting in this region poses challenges and is non-trivial. Meshing the geometry in the cartesian coordinate system might require a large number of elements to model the U-bend region. Also, since the lift-off distance between the probe and tube wall is usually very small, a very fine mesh is required near the probe region to accurately describe the eddy current field. This paper presents a U-bend model using differential geometry principles that exploit the result that Maxwell's equations are covariant with respect to changes of coordinates and independent of metrics. The equations remain unaltered in their form, regardless of the choice of the coordinates system, provided the field quantities are represented in the proper covariant and contravariant form. The complex shapes are mapped into simple straight sections, while small lift-off is mapped to larger values, thus reducing the intrinsic dimension of the mesh and stiffness matrix. In this contribution, the numerical implementation of the above approach will be discussed with regard to field and current distributions within the U-bend tube wall. For the sake of simplicity, a two dimensional test case will be considered. The approach is evaluated in terms of efficiency and accuracy by comparing the results with that obtained using a conventional FE model in cartesian coordinates.

KSC-02pd1209

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-08-23

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the crawler parking area, one of the repaired Jacking, Equalization and Leveling (JEL) cylinders is positioned for hookup to a crane. The crane will lift the JEL for placement in Crawler Transporter No. 2. There are 16 cylinders and 32 bearings per crawler. During recent routine maintenance inspections, technicians removed two of the 16 JEL cylinders on the crawler to gain access to the bearings and found three of the four bearings cracked. Further eddy current inspections indicated that cracks were present on 15 of the bearings. Technicians have removed and replaced 14 of the bearings on CT-2, which is being repaired in order to enable Atlantis' rollout for mission STS-112, scheduled for launch no earlier than Oct. 2.

Working session 2: Tubing inspection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guerra, J.; Tapping, R.L.

1997-02-01

This session was attended by delegates from 10 countries, and four papers were presented. A wide range of issues was tabled for discussion. Realizing that there was limited time available for more detailed discussion, three topics were chosen for the more detailed discussion: circumferential cracking, performance demonstration (to focus on POD and sizing), and limits of methods. Two other subsessions were organized: one dealt with some challenges related to the robustness of current inspection methods, especially with respect to leaving cracked tubes in service, and the other with developing a chart of current NDE technology with recommendations for future development.more » These three areas are summarized in turn, along with conclusions and/or recommendations. During the discussions there were four presentations. There were two (Canada, Japan) on eddy current probe developments, both of which addressed multiarray probes that would detect a range of flaws, one (Spain) on circumferential crack detection, and one (JRC, Petten) on the recent PISC III results.« less

Fatigue flaw growth and NDI evaluation for preventing through cracks in spacecraft tankage structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pettit, D. E.; Hoeppner, D. W.

1972-01-01

A program was conducted to determine the fatigue-crack propagation behavior of parent and welded 2219-T87 aluminum alloy sheet under controlled cyclic stress conditions in room temperature air and 300 F air. Specimens possessing an initial surface defect of controlled dimensions were cycled under constant load amplitude until the propagating fatigue crack penetrated the back surface of the specimen. A series of precracked specimens were prepared to determine optimum penetrant, X-ray, ultrasonic, and eddy current nondestructive inspection procedures.

Summary of nondestructive testing theory and practice

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meister, R. P.; Randall, M. D.; Mitchell, D. K.; Williams, L. P.; Pattee, H. E.

1972-01-01

The ability to fabricate design critical and man-rated aerospace structures using materials near the limits of their capabilities requires a comprehensive and dependable assurance program. The quality assurance program must rely heavily on nondestructive testing methods for thorough inspection to assess properties and quality of hardware items. A survey of nondestructive testing methods is presented to provide space program managers, supervisors and engineers who are unfamiliar with this technical area with appropriate insight into the commonly accepted nondestructive testing methods available, their interrelationships, used, advantages and limitations. Primary emphasis is placed on the most common methods: liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, radiography, ultrasonics and eddy current. A number of the newer test techniques including thermal, acoustic emission, holography, microwaves, eddy-sonic and exo-electron emission, which are beginning to be used in applications of interest to NASA, are also discussed briefly.

KSC-2009-1949

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-03-03

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – One of the three thoroughly inspected gaseous hydrogen flow control valves is shown after its arrival at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Technicians installed and retested them in space shuttle Discovery. Part of the main propulsion system, the valves channel gaseous hydrogen from the main engines to the external tank. NASA and contractor teams have worked to identify what caused damage to a flow control valve on shuttle Endeavour during its November 2008 flight. Space Shuttle Program managers decided to replace Discovery's valves with others that have undergone a detailed eddy current inspection. Program managers will review the testing and determine whether to meet on March 6 for the Flight Readiness Review for the STS-119 mission. Launch of Discovery tentatively is targeted for March 12. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Rhodes

KSC-2009-1948

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-03-03

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – One of the three thoroughly inspected gaseous hydrogen flow control valves is shown after its arrival at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Technicians installed and retested them in space shuttle Discovery. Part of the main propulsion system, the valves channel gaseous hydrogen from the main engines to the external tank. NASA and contractor teams have worked to identify what caused damage to a flow control valve on shuttle Endeavour during its November 2008 flight. Space Shuttle Program managers decided to replace Discovery's valves with others that have undergone a detailed eddy current inspection. Program managers will review the testing and determine whether to meet on March 6 for the Flight Readiness Review for the STS-119 mission. Launch of Discovery tentatively is targeted for March 12. Photo credit: NASA/Chris Rhodes

Inspection and repair of steam generator tubing with a robot

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Boehm, H.H.; Foerch, H.

1985-11-01

During inspection and repair of steam generator tubing, radiation exposure to personnel is an unrequested endowment. To combat this intrinsic handicap, a robot has been designed for deployment in all operations inside the steam generator water chamber. This measure drastically reduces entering time and also improves inspection capabilities with regard to the accuracy and reproduction of the desired tube address. The inherent flexibility of the robot allows for performing various inspection and repair techniques: eddy-current testing of tubing; ultrasonic testing of tubing; visual examination of tube ends; profilometry measurements; tube plugging; plug removal; tube extraction; sleeving of tubes; tube endmore » repair; chemical cleaning; and thermal treatment. Plant experience has highlighted the following features of the robot: 1) short installation and demounting periods; 2) installation independent of manhole location; 3) installation possible from outside the steam generator; 4) only one relocation required to address all the tube positions; 5) fast and highly accurate positioning; 6) operational surveillance not required; and 7) drastic reduction of radiation exposure to personnel during repair work.« less

Nondestructive inspection of bonded composite doublers for aircraft

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Roach, D.; Moore, D.; Walkington, P.

1996-12-31

One major thrust in FAA`s National Aging Aircraft Research Program is to foster new technologies in civil aircraft maintenance. Recent DOD and other government developments in using bonded composite doublers on metal structures support the need for validation of such doubler applications on US certificated airplanes. In this study, a specific composite application was chosen on an L-1011 aircraft. Primary inspection requirements for these doublers include identifying disbonds between composite laminate and aluminum parent material, and delaminations in the composite laminate. Surveillance of cracks or corrosion in the parent aluminum material beneath the double is also a concern. No singlemore » NDI method can inspect for every flaw type, therefore we need to know NDI capabilities and limitations. This paper reports on a series of NDI tests conducted on laboratory test structures and on a fuselage section from a retired L-1011. Application of ultrasonics, x-ray, and eddy current to composite doublers and results from test specimens loaded to provide a changing flaw profile, are presented in this paper. Development of appropriate inspection calibration standards are also discussed.« less

Eddy Current Testing, RQA/M1-5330.17.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Huntsville, AL. George C. Marshall Space Flight Center.

As one in the series of classroom training handbooks, prepared by the U.S. space program, instructional material is presented in this volume concerning familiarization and orientation on eddy current testing. The subject is presented under the following headings: Introduction, Eddy Current Principles, Eddy Current Equipment, Eddy Current Methods,…

PSF mapping-based correction of eddy-current-induced distortions in diffusion-weighted echo-planar imaging.

PubMed

In, Myung-Ho; Posnansky, Oleg; Speck, Oliver

2016-05-01

To accurately correct diffusion-encoding direction-dependent eddy-current-induced geometric distortions in diffusion-weighted echo-planar imaging (DW-EPI) and to minimize the calibration time at 7 Tesla (T). A point spread function (PSF) mapping based eddy-current calibration method is newly presented to determine eddy-current-induced geometric distortions even including nonlinear eddy-current effects within the readout acquisition window. To evaluate the temporal stability of eddy-current maps, calibration was performed four times within 3 months. Furthermore, spatial variations of measured eddy-current maps versus their linear superposition were investigated to enable correction in DW-EPIs with arbitrary diffusion directions without direct calibration. For comparison, an image-based eddy-current correction method was additionally applied. Finally, this method was combined with a PSF-based susceptibility-induced distortion correction approach proposed previously to correct both susceptibility and eddy-current-induced distortions in DW-EPIs. Very fast eddy-current calibration in a three-dimensional volume is possible with the proposed method. The measured eddy-current maps are very stable over time and very similar maps can be obtained by linear superposition of principal-axes eddy-current maps. High resolution in vivo brain results demonstrate that the proposed method allows more efficient eddy-current correction than the image-based method. The combination of both PSF-based approaches allows distortion-free images, which permit reliable analysis in diffusion tensor imaging applications at 7T. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optical coherence tomography for nondestructive evaluation of fuel rod degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Renshaw, Jeremy B.; Jenkins, Thomas P.; Buckner, Benjamin D.; Friend, Brian

2015-03-01

Nuclear power plants regularly inspect fuel rods to ensure safe and reliable operation. Excessive corrosion can cause fuel failures which can have significant repercussions for the plant, including impacts on plant operation, worker exposure to radiation, and the plant's INPO rating. While plants typically inspect for fuel rod corrosion using eddy current techniques, these techniques have known issues with reliability in the presence of tenacious, ferromagnetic crud layers that can deposit during operation, and the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) inspection results can often be in error by a factor of 2 or 3. For this reason, alternative measurement techniques, such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), have been evaluated that are not sensitive to the ferromagnetic nature of the crud. This paper demonstrates that OCT has significant potential to characterize the thickness of crud layers that can deposit on the surfaces of fuel rods during operation. Physical trials have been performed on simulated crud samples, and the resulting data show an apparent correlation between the crud layer thickness and the OCT signal.

Evaluation of steam generator WWER 440 tube integrity criteria

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Splichal, K.; Otruba, J.; Burda, J.

1997-02-01

The main corrosion damage in WWER steam generators under operating conditions has been observed on the outer surface of these tubes. An essential operational requirement is to assure a low probability of radioactive primary water leakage, unstable defect development and rupture of tubes. In the case of WWER 440 steam generators the above requirements led to the development of permissible limits for data evaluation of the primary-to-secondary leak measurements and determination of acceptable values for plugging of heat exchange tubes based on eddy current test (ECT) inspections.

Pulsed Eddy Current Sensing for Critical Pipe Condition Assessment.

PubMed

Ulapane, Nalika; Alempijevic, Alen; Vidal Calleja, Teresa; Valls Miro, Jaime

2017-09-26

Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) sensing is used for Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) of the structural integrity of metallic structures in the aircraft, railway, oil and gas sectors. Urban water utilities also have extensive large ferromagnetic structures in the form of critical pressure pipe systems made of grey cast iron, ductile cast iron and mild steel. The associated material properties render NDE of these pipes by means of electromagnetic sensing a necessity. In recent years PEC sensing has established itself as a state-of-the-art NDE technique in the critical water pipe sector. This paper presents advancements to PEC inspection in view of the specific information demanded from water utilities along with the challenges encountered in this sector. Operating principles of the sensor architecture suitable for application on critical pipes are presented with the associated sensor design and calibration strategy. A Gaussian process-based approach is applied to model a functional relationship between a PEC signal feature and critical pipe wall thickness. A case study demonstrates the sensor's behaviour on a grey cast iron pipe and discusses the implications of the observed results and challenges relating to this application.

Detection and evaluation of weld defects in stainless steel using alternating current field measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei-Li, Ma, Weiping; Pan-Qi, Wen-jiao, Dou; Yuan, Xin'an; Yin, Xiaokang

2018-04-01

Stainless steel is widely used in nuclear power plants, such as various high-radioactive pool, tools storage and fuel transportation channel, and serves as an important barrier to stop the leakage of high-radioactive material. NonDestructive Evaluation (NDE) methods, eddy current testing (ET), ultrasonic examination (UT), penetration testing (PT) and hybrid detection method, etc., have been introduced into the inspection of a nuclear plant. In this paper, the Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM) was fully applied to detect and evaluate the defects in the welds of the stainless steel. Simulations were carried out on different defect types, crack lengths, and orientation to reveal the relationship between the signals and dimensions to determine whether methods could be validated by the experiment. A 3-axis ACFM probe was developed and three plates including 16 defects, which served in nuclear plant before, were examined by automatic detection equipment. The result shows that the minimum detectable crack length on the surface is 2mm and ACFM shows excellent inspection results for a weld in stainless steel and gives an encouraging prospect of broader application.

The eddy current probe array for Keda Torus eXperiment.

PubMed

Li, Zichao; Li, Hong; Tu, Cui; Hu, Jintong; You, Wei; Luo, Bing; Tan, Mingsheng; Adil, Yolbarsop; Wu, Yanqi; Shen, Biao; Xiao, Bingjia; Zhang, Ping; Mao, Wenzhe; Wang, Hai; Wen, Xiaohui; Zhou, Haiyang; Xie, Jinlin; Lan, Tao; Liu, Adi; Ding, Weixing; Xiao, Chijin; Liu, Wandong

2016-11-01

In a reversed field pinch device, the conductive shell is placed as close as possible to the plasma so as to balance the plasma during discharge. Plasma instabilities such as the resistive wall mode and certain tearing modes, which restrain the plasma high parameter operation, respond closely with conditions in the wall, in essence the eddy current present. Also, the effect of eddy currents induced by the external coils cannot be ignored when active control is applied to control instabilities. One diagnostic tool, an eddy current probe array, detects the eddy current in the composite shell. Magnetic probes measuring differences between the inner and outer magnetic fields enable estimates of the amplitude and angle of these eddy currents. Along with measurements of currents through the copper bolts connecting the poloidal shield copper shells, we can obtain the eddy currents over the entire shell. Magnetic field and eddy current resolutions approach 2 G and 6 A, respectively. Additionally, the vortex electric field can be obtained by eddy current probes. As the conductivity of the composite shell is high, the eddy current probe array is very sensitive to the electric field and has a resolution of 0.2 mV/cm. In a bench test experiment using a 1/4 vacuum vessel, measurements of the induced eddy currents are compared with simulation results based on a 3D electromagnetic model. The preliminary data of the eddy currents have been detected during discharges in a Keda Torus eXperiment device. The typical value of toroidal and poloidal eddy currents across the magnetic probe coverage rectangular area could reach 3.0 kA and 1.3 kA, respectively.

Determination of eddy current response with magnetic measurements.

PubMed

Jiang, Y Z; Tan, Y; Gao, Z; Nakamura, K; Liu, W B; Wang, S Z; Zhong, H; Wang, B B

2017-09-01

Accurate mutual inductances between magnetic diagnostics and poloidal field coils are an essential requirement for determining the poloidal flux for plasma equilibrium reconstruction. The mutual inductance calibration of the flux loops and magnetic probes requires time-varying coil currents, which also simultaneously drive eddy currents in electrically conducting structures. The eddy current-induced field appearing in the magnetic measurements can substantially increase the calibration error in the model if the eddy currents are neglected. In this paper, an expression of the magnetic diagnostic response to the coil currents is used to calibrate the mutual inductances, estimate the conductor time constant, and predict the eddy currents response. It is found that the eddy current effects in magnetic signals can be well-explained by the eddy current response determination. A set of experiments using a specially shaped saddle coil diagnostic are conducted to measure the SUNIST-like eddy current response and to examine the accuracy of this method. In shots that include plasmas, this approach can more accurately determine the plasma-related response in the magnetic signals by eliminating the field due to the eddy currents produced by the external field.

Improved Imaging With Laser-Induced Eddy Currents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chern, Engmin J.

1993-01-01

System tests specimen of material nondestructively by laser-induced eddy-current imaging improved by changing method of processing of eddy-current signal. Changes in impedance of eddy-current coil measured in absolute instead of relative units.

Piping inspection instrument carriage with precise and repeatable position control and location determination

DOEpatents

Hapstack, M.; Talarek, T.R.; Zollinger, W.T.; Heckendorn, F.M. II; Park, L.R.

1994-02-15

An instrument carriage for inspection of piping comprises front and rear leg assemblies for engaging the interior of the piping and supporting and centering the carriage therein, and an instrumentation arm carried by a shaft system running from the front to rear leg assemblies. The shaft system has a screw shaft for moving the arm axially and a spline gear for moving the arm azimuthally. The arm has a pair of air cylinders that raise and lower a plate in the radial direction. On the plate are probes including an eddy current probe and an ultrasonic testing probe. The ultrasonic testing probe is capable of spinning 360[degree] about its axis. The instrument carriage uses servo motors and pressurized air cylinders for precise actuation of instrument components and precise, repeatable actuation of position control mechanisms. 8 figures.

Piping inspection instrument carriage with precise and repeatable position control and location determination

DOEpatents

Hapstack, Mark; Talarek, Ted R.; Zollinger, W. Thor; Heckendorn, II, Frank M.; Park, Larry R.

1994-01-01

An instrument carriage for inspection of piping comprises front and rear leg assemblies for engaging the interior of the piping and supporting and centering the carriage therein, and an instrumentation arm carried by a shaft system running from the front to rear leg assemblies. The shaft system has a screw shaft for moving the arm axially and a spline gear for moving the arm azimuthally. The arm has a pair of air cylinders that raise and lower a plate in the radial direction. On the plate are probes including an eddy current probe and an ultrasonic testing probe. The ultrasonic testing probe is capable of spinning 360.degree. about its axis. The instrument carriage uses servo motors and pressurized air cylinders for precise actuation of instrument components and precise, repeatable actuation of position control mechanisms.

Defect characterization by inductive heated thermography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noethen, Matthias; Meyendorf, Norbert

2012-05-01

During inductive-thermographic inspection, an eddy current of high intensity is induced into the inspected material and the thermal response is detected by an infrared camera. Anomalies in the surface temperature during and after inductive heating correspond to inhomogeneities in the material. A finite element simulation of the surface crack detection process using active thermography with inductive heating has been developed. The simulation model is based on the finite element software ANSYS. The simulation tool was tested and used for investigations on steel components with different longitudinal orientated cracks, varying in shape, width and height. This paper focuses on surface connected longitudinal orientated cracks in austenitic steel. The results show that depending on the excitation frequency the temperature distribution of the material under test are different and a possible way to measure the depth of the crack will be discussed.

The Safety Course Design and Operations of Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPV)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saulsberry, Regor; Prosser, William

2015-01-01

Following a Commercial Launch Vehicle On-Pad COPV (Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels) failure, a request was received by the NESC (NASA Engineering and Safety Center) June 14, 2014. An assessment was approved July 10, 2014, to develop and assess the capability of scanning eddy current (EC) nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods for mapping thickness and inspection for flaws. Current methods could not identify thickness reduction from necking and critical flaw detection was not possible with conventional dye penetrant (PT) methods, so sensitive EC scanning techniques were needed. Developmental methods existed, but had not been fully developed, nor had the requisite capability assessment (i.e., a POD (Probability of Detection) study) been performed.

Influence of magnet eddy current on magnetization characteristics of variable flux memory machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hui; Lin, Heyun; Zhu, Z. Q.; Lyu, Shukang

2018-05-01

In this paper, the magnet eddy current characteristics of a newly developed variable flux memory machine (VFMM) is investigated. Firstly, the machine structure, non-linear hysteresis characteristics and eddy current modeling of low coercive force magnet are described, respectively. Besides, the PM eddy current behaviors when applying the demagnetizing current pulses are unveiled and investigated. The mismatch of the required demagnetization currents between the cases with or without considering the magnet eddy current is identified. In addition, the influences of the magnet eddy current on the demagnetization effect of VFMM are analyzed. Finally, a prototype is manufactured and tested to verify the theoretical analyses.

Method and apparatus for correcting eddy current signal voltage for temperature effects

DOEpatents

Kustra, Thomas A.; Caffarel, Alfred J.

1990-01-01

An apparatus and method for measuring physical characteristics of an electrically conductive material by the use of eddy-current techniques and compensating measurement errors caused by changes in temperature includes a switching arrangement connected between primary and reference coils of an eddy-current probe which allows the probe to be selectively connected between an eddy current output oscilloscope and a digital ohm-meter for measuring the resistances of the primary and reference coils substantially at the time of eddy current measurement. In this way, changes in resistance due to temperature effects can be completely taken into account in determining the true error in the eddy current measurement. The true error can consequently be converted into an equivalent eddy current measurement correction.

GMR-based eddy current probe for weld seam inspection and its non-scanning detection study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Peng; Wang, Chao; Li, Yang; Wang, Libin; Cong, Zheng; Zhi, Ya

2017-04-01

Eddy current testing is one of the most important non-destructive testing methods for welding defects detection. This paper presents the use of a probe consisting of 4 giant magneto-resistive (GMR) sensors to detect weld defects. Information from four measuring points above and on both sides of the weld seam is collected at the same time. By setting the GMR sensors' sensing axes perpendicular to the direction of the excitation magnetic field, the information collected mainly reflects the change in the eddy current which is caused by defects. Digital demodulation technology is applied to extract the real part and imaginary part of the GMR sensors' output signals. The variables containing directional information of the magnetic field are introduced. Based on the data from the four GMR (4-GMR) sensors' output signals, four values, Ran, Mean, Var and k are selected as the feature quantities for defect recognition. Experiments are carried out on weld seams with and without defects, and the detection outputs are given in this paper. The 4-GMR probe is also employed to investigate non-scanning weld defect detection and the four feature quantities (Ran, Mean, Var and k) are studied to evaluate weld quality. The non-scanning weld defect detection is presented. A support vector machine is used to classify and discriminate welds with and without defects. Experiments carried out show that through the method in this paper, the recognition rate is 92% for welds without defects and 90% for welds with defects, with an overall recognition rate of 90.9%, indicating that this method could effectively detect weld defects.

Finite element analysis of gradient z-coil induced eddy currents in a permanent MRI magnet.

PubMed

Li, Xia; Xia, Ling; Chen, Wufan; Liu, Feng; Crozier, Stuart; Xie, Dexin

2011-01-01

In permanent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, pulsed gradient fields induce strong eddy currents in the conducting structures of the magnet body. The gradient field for image encoding is perturbed by these eddy currents leading to MR image distortions. This paper presents a comprehensive finite element (FE) analysis of the eddy current generation in the magnet conductors. In the proposed FE model, the hysteretic characteristics of ferromagnetic materials are considered and a scalar Preisach hysteresis model is employed. The developed FE model was applied to study gradient z-coil induced eddy currents in a 0.5 T permanent MRI device. The simulation results demonstrate that the approach could be effectively used to investigate eddy current problems involving ferromagnetic materials. With the knowledge gained from this eddy current model, our next step is to design a passive magnet structure and active gradient coils to reduce the eddy current effects. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

3-D residual eddy current field characterisation: applied to diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

O'Brien, Kieran; Daducci, Alessandro; Kickler, Nils; Lazeyras, Francois; Gruetter, Rolf; Feiweier, Thorsten; Krueger, Gunnar

2013-08-01

Clinical use of the Stejskal-Tanner diffusion weighted images is hampered by the geometric distortions that result from the large residual 3-D eddy current field induced. In this work, we aimed to predict, using linear response theory, the residual 3-D eddy current field required for geometric distortion correction based on phantom eddy current field measurements. The predicted 3-D eddy current field induced by the diffusion-weighting gradients was able to reduce the root mean square error of the residual eddy current field to ~1 Hz. The model's performance was tested on diffusion weighted images of four normal volunteers, following distortion correction, the quality of the Stejskal-Tanner diffusion-weighted images was found to have comparable quality to image registration based corrections (FSL) at low b-values. Unlike registration techniques the correction was not hindered by low SNR at high b-values, and results in improved image quality relative to FSL. Characterization of the 3-D eddy current field with linear response theory enables the prediction of the 3-D eddy current field required to correct eddy current induced geometric distortions for a wide range of clinical and high b-value protocols.

Investigation of eddy current examination on OD fatigue crack for steam generator tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kong, Yuying; Ding, Boyuan; Li, Ming; Liu, Jinhong; Chen, Huaidong; Meyendorf, Norbert G.

2015-03-01

The opening width of fatigue crack was very small, and conventional Bobbin probe was very difficult to detect it in steam generator tubes. Different sizes of 8 fatigue cracks were inspected using bobbin probe rotating probe. The analysis results showed that, bobbin probe was not sensitive for fatigue crack even for small through wall crack mixed with denting signal. On the other hand, the rotating probe was easily to detect all cracks. Finally, the OD phase to depth curve for fatigue crack using rotating probe was established and the results agreed very well with the true crack size.

A robust multi-frequency mixing algorithm for suppression of rivet signal in GMR inspection of riveted structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safdernejad, Morteza S.; Karpenko, Oleksii; Ye, Chaofeng; Udpa, Lalita; Udpa, Satish

2016-02-01

The advent of Giant Magneto-Resistive (GMR) technology permits development of novel highly sensitive array probes for Eddy Current (EC) inspection of multi-layer riveted structures. Multi-frequency GMR measurements with different EC pene-tration depths show promise for detection of bottom layer notches at fastener sites. However, the distortion of the induced magnetic field due to flaws is dominated by the strong fastener signal, which makes defect detection and classification a challenging prob-lem. This issue is more pronounced for ferromagnetic fasteners that concentrate most of the magnetic flux. In the present work, a novel multi-frequency mixing algorithm is proposed to suppress rivet signal response and enhance defect detection capability of the GMR array probe. The algorithm is baseline-free and does not require any assumptions about the sample geometry being inspected. Fastener signal suppression is based upon the random sample consensus (RANSAC) method, which iteratively estimates parameters of a mathematical model from a set of observed data with outliers. Bottom layer defects at fastener site are simulated as EDM notches of different length. Performance of the proposed multi-frequency mixing approach is evaluated on finite element data and experimental GMR measurements obtained with unidirectional planar current excitation. Initial results are promising demonstrating the feasibility of the approach.

Stationary spiraling eddies in presence of polar amplification of global warming as a governing factor of ecology of Greenland seals White Sea population: results of verification study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melentyev, K.; Chernook, V.; Melentyev, V.

2003-04-01

Ice-associated forms of marine mammals are representatives of a high level of fodder chains in the ocean and taxation of population number for different group, as assessment of ecology and animal welfare are the important tasks for marine biology, ecology, fishery and other application uses. Many problems create a global warming and antropogenical impact on marine and coastal ecosystem. In order to investigate ice covered Arctic Ocean and charting the number of seals were performed annual inspections onboard research aircraft PINRO "Arktika". Multi-spectral airborne and satellite observations were fulfilled regularly from Barents and White Sea to the Bering and Okhotsk Sea (1996-2002). A contemporary status of different group of sea mammals was evaluated, where number of adults and pups were checked separately. In situ observations were provided with using helicopter and icebreaker for gathering a water samples and ice cores (with following biochemical and toxicological analysis). A prevailing part of life cycle of Greenland seals (harp seal) is strongly depended from winter hydrology (water masses, stable currents, meandering fronts, stationary eddies) and closely connected with type of ice (pack, fast ice) and other parameters of ice (age, origin, salinity, ice edge.). First-year ice floes which has a specific properties and distinctive features are used by harp seals for pupping, lactation, molting, pairing and resting. Ringed seals, inversely, use for corresponding purposes only fast-ice. Different aspects of ecology, and migration features of harp seals were analyzed in frame of verification study. It was revealed a scale of influence of winter severity and wind regime, but stationary eddies in the White Sea is most effective governing factor (novelty). Following relationship " eddies - ecology of Greenland seal White Sea population " will be discussed: A) regularities of eddies formation and their spatial arrangement, temporal (seasonal and annual) modification; B) eddies displacement and parameters modification (type of eddy, intensity and sign of rotation) as result of climate change; C) relationship between eddies location and whelping rookeries arrangement, climate change and variety of the type of migration; D) stationary eddy as zone of concentration of polluted waters and toxically hazard, climate change and self-cleaning ability; E) spiraling eddies in changing climate and prediction of modification of marine animal welfare.

Langley Research Center Standard for the Evaluation of Socket Welds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berry, R. F., Jr.

1985-01-01

A specification utilized for the nondestructive evaluation of socket type pipe joints at Langley Research Center (LaRC) is discussed. The scope of hardware shall include, but is not limited to, all common pipe fittings: tees, elbows, couplings, caps, and so forth, socket type flanges, unions, and valves. In addition, the exterior weld of slip on flanges shall be inspected using this specification. At the discretion of the design engineer, standard practice engineer, Fracture Mechanics Engineering Section, Pressure Systems Committee, or other authority, four nondestructive evaluation techniques may be utilized exclusively, or in combination, to inspect socket type welds. These techniques are visual, radiographic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant. Under special circumstances, other techniques (such as eddy current or ultrasonics) may be required and their application shall be guided by the appropriate sections of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (B&PVC).

Autogeneous Friction Stir Weld Lack-of-Penetration Defect Detection and Sizing Using Directional Conductivity Measurements with MWM Eddy Current Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldfine, Neil; Zilberstei, Vladimir; Lawson, Ablode; Kinchen, David; Arbegast, William

2000-01-01

Al 2195-T8 plate specimens containing Friction Stir Welds (FSW), provided by Lockheed Martin, were inspected using directional conductivity measurements with the MWM sensor. Sensitivity to lack-of-penetration (LOP) defect size has been demonstrated. The feature used to determine defect size was the normalized longitudinal component of the MWM conductivity measurements. This directional conductivity component was insensitive to the presence of a discrete crack. This permitted correlation of MWM conductivity measurements with the LOP defect size as changes in conductivity were apparently associated with metallurgical features within the first 0.020 in. of the LOP defect zone. Transverse directional conductivity measurements also provided an indication of the presence of discrete cracks. Continued efforts are focussed on inspection of a larger set of welded panels and further refinement of LOP characterization tools.

Terahertz NDE Application for Corrosion Detection and Evaluation under Shuttle Tiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anastasi, Robert F.; Madaras, Eric I.; Seebo, Jeffrey P.; Smith, Stephen W.; Lomness, Janice K.; Hintze, Paul E.; Kammerer, Catherine C.; Winfree, William P.; Russell, Richard W.

2007-01-01

Pulsed Terahertz NDE is being examined as a method to inspect for possible corrosion under Space Shuttle Tiles. Other methods such as ultrasonics, infrared, eddy current and microwave technologies have demonstrable shortcomings for tile NDE. This work applies Terahertz NDE, in the frequency range between 50 GHz and 1 THz, for the inspection of manufactured corrosion samples. The samples consist of induced corrosion spots that range in diameter (2.54 to 15.2 mm) and depth (0.036 to 0.787 mm) in an aluminum substrate material covered with tiles. Results of these measurements are presented for known corrosion flaws both covered and uncovered and for blind tests with unknown corrosion flaws covered with attached tiles. The Terahertz NDE system is shown to detect all artificially manufactured corrosion regions under a Shuttle tile with a depth greater than 0.13 mm.

Feasibility of using neutron radiography to inspect the Space Shuttle solid rocket booster aft skirt, forward skirt and frustum. Part 1: Summary report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barton, J. P.; Bader, J. W.; Brenizer, J. S.; Hosticka, B.

1992-01-01

The space shuttle's solid rocket boosters (SRB) include components made primarily of aluminum that are parachuted back for retrieval from the ocean and refurbished for repeated usage. Nondestructive inspection methods used on these aging parts to reduce the risk of unforeseen problems include x-ray, ultrasonics, and eddy current. Neutron radiography tests on segments of an SRB component show that entrapped moisture and naturally occurring aluminum corrosion can be revealed by neutron radiography even if present in only small amounts. Voids in sealant can also be evaluated. Three alternatives are suggested to follow-up this study: (1) take an SRB component to an existing neutron radiography system; (2) take an existing mobile neutron radiography system to the NASA site; or (3) plan a dedicated system custom designed for NASA applications.

Terahertz NDE application for corrosion detection and evaluation under Shuttle tiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anastasi, Robert F.; Madaras, Eric I.; Seebo, Jeffrey P.; Smith, Stephen W.; Lomness, Janice K.; Hintze, Paul E.; Kammerer, Catherine C.; Winfree, William P.; Russell, Richard W.

2007-04-01

Pulsed Terahertz NDE is being examined as a method to inspect for possible corrosion under Space Shuttle Tiles. Other methods such as ultrasonics, infrared, eddy current and microwave technologies have demonstrable shortcomings for tile NDE. This work applies Terahertz NDE, in the frequency range between 50 GHz and 1 THz, for the inspection of manufactured corrosion samples. The samples consist of induced corrosion spots that range in diameter (2.54 to 15.2 mm) and depth (0.036 to 0.787 mm) in an aluminum substrate material covered with tiles. Results of these measurements are presented for known corrosion flaws both covered and uncovered and for blind tests with unknown corrosion flaws covered with attached tiles. The Terahertz NDE system is shown to detect all artificially manufactured corrosion regions under a Shuttle tile with a depth greater than 0.13 mm.

Unified Ultrasonic/Eddy-Current Data Acquisition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chern, E. James; Butler, David W.

1993-01-01

Imaging station for detecting cracks and flaws in solid materials developed combining both ultrasonic C-scan and eddy-current imaging. Incorporation of both techniques into one system eliminates duplication of computers and of mechanical scanners; unifies acquisition, processing, and storage of data; reduces setup time for repetitious ultrasonic and eddy-current scans; and increases efficiency of system. Same mechanical scanner used to maneuver either ultrasonic or eddy-current probe over specimen and acquire point-by-point data. For ultrasonic scanning, probe linked to ultrasonic pulser/receiver circuit card, while, for eddy-current imaging, probe linked to impedance-analyzer circuit card. Both ultrasonic and eddy-current imaging subsystems share same desktop-computer controller, containing dedicated plug-in circuit boards for each.

Giant Magnetoresistance Sensors: A Review on Structures and Non-Destructive Eddy Current Testing Applications

PubMed Central

Rifai, Damhuji; Abdalla, Ahmed N.; Ali, Kharudin; Razali, Ramdan

2016-01-01

Non-destructive eddy current testing (ECT) is widely used to examine structural defects in ferromagnetic pipe in the oil and gas industry. Implementation of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors as magnetic field sensors to detect the changes of magnetic field continuity have increased the sensitivity of eddy current techniques in detecting the material defect profile. However, not many researchers have described in detail the structure and issues of GMR sensors and their application in eddy current techniques for nondestructive testing. This paper will describe the implementation of GMR sensors in non-destructive testing eddy current testing. The first part of this paper will describe the structure and principles of GMR sensors. The second part outlines the principles and types of eddy current testing probe that have been studied and developed by previous researchers. The influence of various parameters on the GMR measurement and a factor affecting in eddy current testing will be described in detail in the third part of this paper. Finally, this paper will discuss the limitations of coil probe and compensation techniques that researchers have applied in eddy current testing probes. A comprehensive review of previous studies on the application of GMR sensors in non-destructive eddy current testing also be given at the end of this paper. PMID:26927123

Giant Magnetoresistance Sensors: A Review on Structures and Non-Destructive Eddy Current Testing Applications.

PubMed

Rifai, Damhuji; Abdalla, Ahmed N; Ali, Kharudin; Razali, Ramdan

2016-02-26

Non-destructive eddy current testing (ECT) is widely used to examine structural defects in ferromagnetic pipe in the oil and gas industry. Implementation of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors as magnetic field sensors to detect the changes of magnetic field continuity have increased the sensitivity of eddy current techniques in detecting the material defect profile. However, not many researchers have described in detail the structure and issues of GMR sensors and their application in eddy current techniques for nondestructive testing. This paper will describe the implementation of GMR sensors in non-destructive testing eddy current testing. The first part of this paper will describe the structure and principles of GMR sensors. The second part outlines the principles and types of eddy current testing probe that have been studied and developed by previous researchers. The influence of various parameters on the GMR measurement and a factor affecting in eddy current testing will be described in detail in the third part of this paper. Finally, this paper will discuss the limitations of coil probe and compensation techniques that researchers have applied in eddy current testing probes. A comprehensive review of previous studies on the application of GMR sensors in non-destructive eddy current testing also be given at the end of this paper.

The detection of fatigue cracks by nondestructive testing methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rummel, W. D.; Todd, P. H., Jr.; Frecska, S. A.; Rathke, R. A.

1974-01-01

X-radiographic penetrant, ultrasonic, eddy current, holographic, and acoustic emission techniques were optimized and applied to the evaluation of 2219-T87 aluminum alloy test specimens. One hundred eighteen specimens containing a total of 328 fatigue cracks were evaluated. The cracks ranged in length from 0.500 inch (1.27 cm) to 0.007 inch (0.018 cm) and in depth from 0.178 inch (0.451 cm) and 0.001 inch (0.003 cm). Specimen thicknesses were nominally 0.060 inch (0.152 cm) and 0.210 inch (0.532 cm) and surface finishes were nominally 32 and 125 rms and 64 and 200 rms respectively. Specimens were evaluated in the as-milled surface condition, in the chemically milled surface condition and, after proof loading, in a randomized inspection sequence. Results of the nondestructive test (NDT) evaluations were compared with actual crack size obtained by measurement of the fractured specimens. Inspection data was then analyzed to provide a statistical basis for determinating the threshold crack detection sensitivity (the largest crack size that would be missed) for each of the inspection techniques at a 95% probability and 95% confidence level.

Optical coherence tomography for nondestructive evaluation of fuel rod degradation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Renshaw, Jeremy B., E-mail: jrenshaw@epri.com; Jenkins, Thomas P., E-mail: tjenkins@metrolaserinc.com; Buckner, Benjamin D., E-mail: tjenkins@metrolaserinc.com

Nuclear power plants regularly inspect fuel rods to ensure safe and reliable operation. Excessive corrosion can cause fuel failures which can have significant repercussions for the plant, including impacts on plant operation, worker exposure to radiation, and the plant's INPO rating. While plants typically inspect for fuel rod corrosion using eddy current techniques, these techniques have known issues with reliability in the presence of tenacious, ferromagnetic crud layers that can deposit during operation, and the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) inspection results can often be in error by a factor of 2 or 3. For this reason, alternative measurement techniques, such asmore » Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), have been evaluated that are not sensitive to the ferromagnetic nature of the crud. This paper demonstrates that OCT has significant potential to characterize the thickness of crud layers that can deposit on the surfaces of fuel rods during operation. Physical trials have been performed on simulated crud samples, and the resulting data show an apparent correlation between the crud layer thickness and the OCT signal.« less

A novel eddy current damper: theory and experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebrahimi, Babak; Khamesee, Mir Behrad; Golnaraghi, Farid

2009-04-01

A novel eddy current damper is developed and its damping characteristics are studied analytically and experimentally. The proposed eddy current damper consists of a conductor as an outer tube, and an array of axially magnetized ring-shaped permanent magnets separated by iron pole pieces as a mover. The relative movement of the magnets and the conductor causes the conductor to undergo motional eddy currents. Since the eddy currents produce a repulsive force that is proportional to the velocity of the conductor, the moving magnet and the conductor behave as a viscous damper. The eddy current generation causes the vibration to dissipate through the Joule heating generated in the conductor part. An accurate, analytical model of the system is obtained by applying electromagnetic theory to estimate the damping properties of the proposed eddy current damper. A prototype eddy current damper is fabricated, and experiments are carried out to verify the accuracy of the theoretical model. The experimental test bed consists of a one-degree-of-freedom vibration isolation system and is used for the frequency and transient time response analysis of the system. The eddy current damper model has a 0.1 m s-2 (4.8%) RMS error in the estimation of the mass acceleration. A damping coefficient as high as 53 Ns m-1 is achievable with the fabricated prototype. This novel eddy current damper is an oil-free, inexpensive damper that is applicable in various vibration isolation systems such as precision machinery, micro-mechanical suspension systems and structure vibration isolation.

Pulsed Eddy Current Sensing for Critical Pipe Condition Assessment

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) sensing is used for Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) of the structural integrity of metallic structures in the aircraft, railway, oil and gas sectors. Urban water utilities also have extensive large ferromagnetic structures in the form of critical pressure pipe systems made of grey cast iron, ductile cast iron and mild steel. The associated material properties render NDE of these pipes by means of electromagnetic sensing a necessity. In recent years PEC sensing has established itself as a state-of-the-art NDE technique in the critical water pipe sector. This paper presents advancements to PEC inspection in view of the specific information demanded from water utilities along with the challenges encountered in this sector. Operating principles of the sensor architecture suitable for application on critical pipes are presented with the associated sensor design and calibration strategy. A Gaussian process-based approach is applied to model a functional relationship between a PEC signal feature and critical pipe wall thickness. A case study demonstrates the sensor’s behaviour on a grey cast iron pipe and discusses the implications of the observed results and challenges relating to this application. PMID:28954392

Demonstration of array eddy current technology for real-time monitoring of laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todorov, Evgueni; Boulware, Paul; Gaah, Kingsley

2018-03-01

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) at various fabrication stages is required to assure quality of feedstock and solid builds. Industry efforts are shifting towards solutions that can provide real-time monitoring of additive manufacturing (AM) fabrication process layer-by-layer while the component is being built to reduce or eliminate dependence on post-process inspection. Array eddy current (AEC), electromagnetic NDE technique was developed and implemented to directly scan the component without physical contact with the powder and fused layer surfaces at elevated temperatures inside a LPBF chamber. The technique can detect discontinuities, surface irregularities, and undesirable metallurgical phase transformations in magnetic and nonmagnetic conductive materials used for laser fusion. The AEC hardware and software were integrated with the L-PBF test bed. Two layer-by-layer tests of Inconel 625 coupons with AM built discontinuities and lack of fusion were conducted inside the L-PBF chamber. The AEC technology demonstrated excellent sensitivity to seeded, natural surface, and near-surface-embedded discontinuities, while also detecting surface topography. The data was acquired and imaged in a layer-by-layer sequence demonstrating the real-time monitoring capabilities of this new technology.

A comparison of the structure, properties, and water mass composition of quasi-isotropic eddies in western boundary currents in an eddy-resolving ocean model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rykova, Tatiana; Oke, Peter R.; Griffin, David A.

2017-06-01

Using output from a near-global eddy-resolving ocean model, we analyse the properties and characteristics of quasi-isotropic eddies in five Western Boundary Current (WBC) regions, including the extensions of the Agulhas, East Australian Current (EAC), Brazil-Malvinas Confluence (BMC), Kuroshio and Gulf Stream regions. We assess the model eddies by comparing to satellite and in situ observations, and show that most aspects of the model's representation of eddies are realistic. We find that the mean eddies differ dramatically between these WBC regions - all with some unique and noteworthy characteristics. We find that the vertical displacement of isopycnals of Agulhas eddies is the greatest, averaging 350-450 m at depths of over 800-900 m. EAC (BMC) eddies are the least (most) barotropic, with only 50% (85-90%) of the velocity associated with the barotropic mode. Kuroshio eddies are the most stratified, resulting in small isopycnal displacement, even for strong eddies; and Gulf Stream eddies carry the most heat. Despite their differences, we explicitly show that the source waters for anticyclonic eddies are a mix of the WBC water (from the boundary current itself) and water that originates equatorward of the WBC eddy-field; and cyclonic eddies are a mix of WBC water and water that originates poleward of the WBC eddy-field.

Eddy current correction in volume-localized MR spectroscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, C.; Wendt, R. E. 3rd; Evans, H. J.; Rowe, R. M.; Hedrick, T. D.; LeBlanc, A. D.

1994-01-01

The quality of volume-localized magnetic resonance spectroscopy is affected by eddy currents caused by gradient switching. Eddy currents can be reduced with improved gradient systems; however, it has been suggested that the distortion due to eddy currents can be compensated for during postprocessing with a single-frequency reference signal. The authors propose modifying current techniques for acquiring the single-frequency reference signal by using relaxation weighting to reduce interference from components that cannot be eliminated by digital filtering alone. Additional sequences with T1 or T2 weighting for reference signal acquisition are shown to have the same eddy current characteristics as the original signal without relaxation weighting. The authors also studied a new eddy current correction method that does not require a single-frequency reference signal. This method uses two free induction decays (FIDs) collected from the same volume with two sequences with opposite gradients. Phase errors caused by eddy currents are opposite in these two FIDs and can be canceled completely by combining the FIDs. These methods were tested in a phantom. Eddy current distortions were corrected, allowing quantitative measurement of structures such as the -CH = CH- component, which is otherwise undetectable.

Nondestructive Testing Eddy Current Basic Principles RQA/M1-5330.12 (V-I).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Huntsville, AL. George C. Marshall Space Flight Center.

As one in the series of programmed instruction handbooks, prepared by the U.S. space program, home study material is presented in this volume concerning familiarization and orientation on basic eddy current principles. The subject is presented under the following headings: Basic Eddy Current Concepts, Eddy Current Generation and Distribution,…

Tube structural integrity evaluation of Palo Verde Unit 1 steam generators for axial upper-bundle cracking

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Woodman, B.W.; Begley, J.A.; Brown, S.D.

1995-12-01

The analysis of the issue of upper bundle axial ODSCC as it apples to steam generator tube structural integrity in Unit 1 at the Palo Verde Nuclear generating Station is presented in this study. Based on past inspection results for Units 2 and 3 at Palo Verde, the detection of secondary side stress corrosion cracks in the upper bundle region of Unit 1 may occur at some future date. The following discussion provides a description and analysis of the probability of axial ODSCC in Unit 1 leading to the exceedance of Regulatory Guide 1.121 structural limits. The probabilities of structuralmore » limit exceedance are estimated as function of run time using a conservative approach. The chosen approach models the historical development of cracks, crack growth, detection of cracks and subsequent removal from service and the initiation and growth of new cracks during a given cycle of operation. Past performance of all Palo Verde Units as well as the historical performance of other steam generators was considered in the development of cracking statistics for application to Unit 1. Data in the literature and Unit 2 pulled tube examination results were used to construct probability of detection curves for the detection of axial IGSCC/IGA using an MRPC (multi-frequency rotating panake coil) eddy current probe. Crack growth rates were estimated from Unit 2 eddy current inspection data combined with pulled tube examination results and data in the literature. A Monte-Carlo probabilistic model is developed to provide an overall assessment of the risk of Regulatory Guide exceedance during plant operation.« less

Calculation of Eddy Currents In the CTH Vacuum Vessel and Coil Frame

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

A. Zolfaghari, A. Brooks, A. Michaels, J. Hanson, and G. Hartwell

2012-09-25

Knowledge of eddy currents in the vacuum vessel walls and nearby conducting support structures can significantly contribute to the accuracy of Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) equilibrium reconstruction in toroidal plasmas. Moreover, the magnetic fields produced by the eddy currents could generate error fields that may give rise to islands at rational surfaces or cause field lines to become chaotic. In the Compact Toroidal Hybrid (CTH) device (R0 = 0.75 m, a = 0.29 m, B ≤ 0.7 T), the primary driver of the eddy currents during the plasma discharge is the changing flux of the ohmic heating transformer. Electromagnetic simulations are usedmore » to calculate eddy current paths and profile in the vacuum vessel and in the coil frame pieces with known time dependent currents in the ohmic heating coils. MAXWELL and SPARK codes were used for the Electromagnetic modeling and simulation. MAXWELL code was used for detailed 3D finite-element analysis of the eddy currents in the structures. SPARK code was used to calculate the eddy currents in the structures as modeled with shell/surface elements, with each element representing a current loop. In both cases current filaments representing the eddy currents were prepared for input into VMEC code for MHD equilibrium reconstruction of the plasma discharge. __________________________________________________« less

The influence of eddy currents on magnetic actuator performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zmood, R. B.; Anand, D. K.; Kirk, J. A.

1987-01-01

The present investigation of the effects of eddy currents on EM actuators' transient performance notes that a transfer function representation encompassing a first-order model of the eddy current influence can be useful in control system analysis. The method can be extended to represent the higher-order effects of eddy currents for actuators that cannot be represented by semiinfinite planes.

Expert system for analyzing eddy current measurements

DOEpatents

Levy, Arthur J.; Oppenlander, Jane E.; Brudnoy, David M.; Englund, James M.; Loomis, Kent C.

1994-01-01

A method and apparatus (called DODGER) analyzes eddy current data for heat exchanger tubes or any other metallic object. DODGER uses an expert system to analyze eddy current data by reasoning with uncertainty and pattern recognition. The expert system permits DODGER to analyze eddy current data intelligently, and obviate operator uncertainty by analyzing the data in a uniform and consistent manner.

Effect of mesoscale eddies on the Taiwan Strait Current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Y. L.; Miyazawa, Y.; Guo, X.

2016-02-01

This study shows that mesoscale eddies can alter the Taiwan Strait current. The 20-year data-assimilated Japan Coastal Ocean Predictability Experiment 2 (JCOPE2) reanalysis data are analyzed, and the results are confirmed with idealized experiments. The leading wind-forced seasonal cycle is excluded to focus on the effect of the eddy. The warm eddy southwest of Taiwan is shown to generate a northward flow, whereas the cold eddy produces a southward current. The effect of the eddy penetrates onto the shelf through the Joint Effect of Baroclinicity and Relief (JEBAR). The cross-isobath fluxes lead to shelfward convergence and divergence, setting up the modulation of the sea level slope. The resulting along-strait current anomaly eventually affects a wide area of the Taiwan Strait. The stronger eddy leads to larger modification of the cross-shelf flows and sea level slope, producing a greater transport anomaly. The composite Sea-Viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) serves as an indicator to show the change in Chl-a concentration in the strait in response to the eddy-induced current. During the warm eddy period, the current carries the southern water of lower concentration northward, reducing Chl-a concentration in the strait. In contrast, Chl-a is enhanced because the cold eddy-induced southward current carries the northern water of higher concentration southward into the strait.

Dual optimization method of radiofrequency and quasistatic field simulations for reduction of eddy currents generated on 7T radiofrequency coil shielding.

PubMed

Zhao, Yujuan; Zhao, Tiejun; Raval, Shailesh B; Krishnamurthy, Narayanan; Zheng, Hai; Harris, Chad T; Handler, William B; Chronik, Blaine A; Ibrahim, Tamer S

2015-11-01

To optimize the design of radiofrequency (RF) shielding of transmit coils at 7T and reduce eddy currents generated on the RF shielding when imaging with rapid gradient waveforms. One set of a four-element, 2 × 2 Tic-Tac-Toe head coil structure was selected and constructed to study eddy currents on the RF coil shielding. The generated eddy currents were quantitatively studied in the time and frequency domains. The RF characteristics were studied using the finite difference time domain method. Five different kinds of RF shielding were tested on a 7T MRI scanner with phantoms and in vivo human subjects. The eddy current simulation method was verified by the measurement results. Eddy currents induced by solid/intact and simple-structured slotted RF shielding significantly distorted the gradient fields. Echo-planar images, B1+ maps, and S matrix measurements verified that the proposed slot pattern suppressed the eddy currents while maintaining the RF characteristics of the transmit coil. The presented dual-optimization method could be used to design RF shielding and reduce the gradient field-induced eddy currents while maintaining the RF characteristics of the transmit coil. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Eddy Current Assessment of Engineered Components Containing Nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ko, Ray T.; Hoppe, Wally; Pierce, Jenny

2009-03-01

The eddy current approach has been used to assess engineered components containing nanofibers. Five specimens with different programmed defects were fabricated. A 4-point collinear probe was used to verify the electrical resistivity of each specimen. The liftoff component of the eddy current signal was used to test two extreme cases with different nano contents. Additional eddy current measurements were also used in detecting a missing nano layer simulating a manufacturing process error. The results of this assessment suggest that eddy current liftoff measurement can be a useful tool in evaluating the electrical properties of materials containing nanofibers.

Eddy current probe with foil sensor mounted on flexible probe tip and method of use

DOEpatents

Viertl, John R. M.; Lee, Martin K.

2001-01-01

A pair of copper coils are embedded in the foil strip. A first coil of the pair generates an electromagnetic field that induces eddy currents on the surface, and the second coil carries a current influenced by the eddy currents on the surface. The currents in the second coil are analyzed to obtain information on the surface eddy currents. An eddy current probe has a metal housing having a tip that is covered by a flexible conductive foil strip. The foil strip is mounted on a deformable nose at the probe tip so that the strip and coils will conform to the surface to which they are applied.

Mitigation of eddy current heating during magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia therapy.

PubMed

Stigliano, Robert V; Shubitidze, Fridon; Petryk, James D; Shoshiashvili, Levan; Petryk, Alicia A; Hoopes, P Jack

2016-11-01

Magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia therapy is a promising technology for cancer treatment, involving delivering magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) into tumours then activating them using an alternating magnetic field (AMF). The system produces not only a magnetic field, but also an electric field which penetrates normal tissue and induces eddy currents, resulting in unwanted heating of normal tissues. Magnitude of the eddy current depends, in part, on the AMF source and the size of the tissue exposed to the field. The majority of in vivo MNP hyperthermia therapy studies have been performed in small animals, which, due to the spatial distribution of the AMF relative to the size of the animals, do not reveal the potential toxicity of eddy current heating in larger tissues. This has posed a non-trivial challenge for researchers attempting to scale up to clinically relevant volumes of tissue. There is a relative dearth of studies focused on decreasing the maximum temperature resulting from eddy current heating to increase therapeutic ratio. This paper presents two simple, clinically applicable techniques for decreasing maximum temperature induced by eddy currents. Computational and experimental results are presented to understand the underlying physics of eddy currents induced in conducting, biological tissues and leverage these insights to mitigate eddy current heating during MNP hyperthermia therapy. Phantom studies show that the displacement and motion techniques reduce maximum temperature due to eddy currents by 74% and 19% in simulation, and by 77% and 33% experimentally. Further study is required to optimise these methods for particular scenarios; however, these results suggest larger volumes of tissue could be treated, and/or higher field strengths and frequencies could be used to attain increased MNP heating when these eddy current mitigation techniques are employed.

A SQUID-based metal detector—comparison to coil and x-ray systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bick, M.; Sullivan, P.; Tilbrook, D. L.; Du, J.; Gnanarajan, S.; Leslie, K. E.; Foley, C. P.

2005-03-01

The presence of foreign metal bodies and fragments in foodstuff and pharmaceutical products is of major concern to producers. Further, hidden metal objects can pose threats to security. In particular, stainless steel is difficult to detect by conventional coil metal detectors due to its low conductivity. We have employed an HTS SQUID magnetometer for the detection of stainless steel particles which is based on the measurement of the remanent magnetization of the particle. Our aim was to determine the detection limits of HTS SQUID-based remote magnetometry, especially for food inspection purposes, and to make a comparison of this technique to commonly used eddy current coil and x-ray inspection systems. We show that the SQUID system's sensitivity to stainless steel fragments is significantly higher than that of coil systems if the samples are magnetized in a 100 mT magnetic field prior to detection. Further, it has a higher sensitivity than x-ray systems, depending on the density distribution of the product under inspection. A 0.6 mg piece of grade-316 stainless steel (a fragment of a hypodermic needle 0.5 mm long and 0.65 mm diameter) represents the detection limit of our system with a 150 × 150 mm2 inspection orifice.

Development of eddy current microscopy for high resolution electrical conductivity imaging using atomic force microscopy.

PubMed

Nalladega, V; Sathish, S; Jata, K V; Blodgett, M P

2008-07-01

We present a high resolution electrical conductivity imaging technique based on the principles of eddy current and atomic force microscopy (AFM). An electromagnetic coil is used to generate eddy currents in an electrically conducting material. The eddy currents generated in the conducting sample are detected and measured with a magnetic tip attached to a flexible cantilever of an AFM. The eddy current generation and its interaction with the magnetic tip cantilever are theoretically modeled using monopole approximation. The model is used to estimate the eddy current force between the magnetic tip and the electrically conducting sample. The theoretical model is also used to choose a magnetic tip-cantilever system with appropriate magnetic field and spring constant to facilitate the design of a high resolution electrical conductivity imaging system. The force between the tip and the sample due to eddy currents is measured as a function of the separation distance and compared to the model in a single crystal copper. Images of electrical conductivity variations in a polycrystalline dual phase titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) sample are obtained by scanning the magnetic tip-cantilever held at a standoff distance from the sample surface. The contrast in the image is explained based on the electrical conductivity and eddy current force between the magnetic tip and the sample. The spatial resolution of the eddy current imaging system is determined by imaging carbon nanofibers in a polymer matrix. The advantages, limitations, and applications of the technique are discussed.

Using eddy currents for noninvasive in vivo pH monitoring for bone tissue engineering.

PubMed

Beck-Broichsitter, Benedicta E; Daschner, Frank; Christofzik, David W; Knöchel, Reinhard; Wiltfang, Jörg; Becker, Stephan T

2015-03-01

The metabolic processes that regulate bone healing and bone induction in tissue engineering models are not fully understood. Eddy current excitation is widely used in technical approaches and in the food industry. The aim of this study was to establish eddy current excitation for monitoring metabolic processes during heterotopic osteoinduction in vivo. Hydroxyapatite scaffolds were implanted into the musculus latissimus dorsi of six rats. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) was applied 1 and 2 weeks after implantation. Weekly eddy current excitation measurements were performed. Additionally, invasive pH measurements were obtained from the scaffolds using fiber optic detection devices. Correlations between the eddy current measurements and the metabolic values were calculated. The eddy current measurements and pH values decreased significantly in the first 2 weeks of the study, followed by a steady increase and stabilization at higher levels towards the end of the study. The measurement curves and statistical evaluations indicated a significant correlation between the resonance frequency values of the eddy current excitation measurements and the observed pH levels (p = 0.0041). This innovative technique was capable of noninvasively monitoring metabolic processes in living tissues according to pH values, showing a direct correlation between eddy current excitation and pH in an in vivo tissue engineering model.

Mesoscale Eddy Activity and Transport in the Atlantic Water Inflow Region North of Svalbard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crews, L.; Sundfjord, A.; Albretsen, J.; Hattermann, T.

2018-01-01

Mesoscale eddies are known to transport heat and biogeochemical properties from Arctic Ocean boundary currents to basin interiors. Previous hydrographic surveys and model results suggest that eddy formation may be common in the Atlantic Water (AW) inflow area north of Svalbard, but no quantitative eddy survey has yet been done for the region. Here vorticity and water property signatures are used to identify and track AW eddies in an eddy-resolving sea ice-ocean model. The boundary current sheds AW eddies along most of the length of the continental slope considered, from the western Yermak Plateau to 40°E, though eddies forming east of 20°E are likely more important for slope-to-basin transport. Eddy formation seasonality reflects seasonal stability properties of the boundary current in the eastern portion of the study domain, but on and immediately east of the Yermak Plateau enhanced eddy formation during summer merits further investigation. AW eddies tend to be anticyclonic, have radii close to the local deformation radius, and be centered in the halocline. They transport roughly 0.16 Sv of AW and, due to their warm cores, 1.0 TW away from the boundary current. These findings suggest eddies may be important for halocline ventilation in the Eurasian Basin, as has been shown for Pacific Water eddies in the Canadian Basin.

3D Magnetic Field Analysis of a Turbine Generator Stator Core-end Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wakui, Shinichi; Takahashi, Kazuhiko; Ide, Kazumasa; Takahashi, Miyoshi; Watanabe, Takashi

In this paper we calculated magnetic flux density and eddy current distributions of a 71MVA turbine generator stator core-end using three-dimensional numerical magnetic field analysis. Subsequently, the magnetic flux densities and eddy current densities in the stator core-end region on the no-load and three-phase short circuit conditions obtained by the analysis have good agreements with the measurements. Furthermore, the differences of eddy current and eddy current loss in the stator core-end region for various load conditions are shown numerically. As a result, the facing had an effect that decrease the eddy current loss of the end plate about 84%.

Analysis and numerical modelling of eddy current damper for vibration problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irazu, L.; Elejabarrieta, M. J.

2018-07-01

This work discusses a contactless eddy current damper, which is used to attenuate structural vibration. Eddy currents can remove energy from dynamic systems without any contact and, thus, without adding mass or modifying the rigidity of the structure. An experimental modal analysis of a cantilever beam in the absence of and under a partial magnetic field is conducted in the bandwidth of 01 kHz. The results show that the eddy current phenomenon can attenuate the vibration of the entire structure without modifying the natural frequencies or the mode shapes of the structure itself. In this study, a new inverse method to numerically determine the dynamic properties of the contactless eddy current damper is proposed. The proposed inverse method and the eddy current model based on a lineal viscous force are validated by a practical application. The numerically obtained transfer function correlates with the experimental one, thus showing good agreement in the entire bandwidth of 01 kHz. The proposed method provides an easy and quick tool to model and predict the dynamic behaviour of the contactless eddy current damper, thereby avoiding the use of complex analytical models.

Measurement of eddy-current distribution in the vacuum vessel of the Sino-UNIted Spherical Tokamak.

PubMed

Li, G; Tan, Y; Liu, Y Q

2015-08-01

Eddy currents have an important effect on tokamak plasma equilibrium and control of magneto hydrodynamic activity. The vacuum vessel of the Sino-UNIted Spherical Tokamak is separated into two hemispherical sections by a toroidal insulating barrier. Consequently, the characteristics of eddy currents are more complex than those found in a standard tokamak. Thus, it is necessary to measure and analyze the eddy-current distribution. In this study, we propose an experimental method for measuring the eddy-current distribution in a vacuum vessel. By placing a flexible printed circuit board with magnetic probes onto the external surface of the vacuum vessel to measure the magnetic field parallel to the surface and then subtracting the magnetic field generated by the vertical-field coils, the magnetic field due to the eddy current can be obtained, and its distribution can be determined. We successfully applied this method to the Sino-UNIted Spherical Tokamak, and thus, we obtained the eddy-current distribution despite the presence of the magnetic field generated by the external coils.

Eddies on the boundary between the Kuroshio current and coastal waters observed by HF ocean surface radar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nadai, A.

2016-02-01

The HF ocean surface radar (HFOSR) is one of the powerful tools to measure the ocean current parameters like surface currents. Three observations of the Kuroshio current in the Tokara straight using HFOSR had done by the National Institute of Information and Comunications Technology (NICT: the former name is the Communications Research Laboratory). The first-order echoes on Doppler spectra of HFOSR shows broaden and splitting shape in the region of the border between the Kuroshio currents and coastal waters. The surface velocity maps show the existence of eddy on the border. The investigation of the mechanism of broadening first order-echoes by Nadai (2006) revealed that the modulation of wave fields from surface currents like eddy is the cause of broadening and the measured current fields also influenced the modulated wave fields. Moreover, Nadai (2006) also suggested that the influence is able to reduce using the average of two radial velocities extracted by the first-order echoes. In this paper, the results of current field observation around the border between the Kuroshio current and coastal waters are presented. Many small scale eddies are observed at the border of the Kuroshio current and coastal waters. The typical radius of the eddies is about 10km. Usury the observation of such a small scale eddy is difficult, but the eddies with same scale are observed by airborne synthetic aperture radar in the same area at different time. The eddies shows strong rotation as the typical tangential speed is about 1m/s. While the typical speed of the Kuroshio current is about 1.5m/s, the typical speed of the eddy movements is about 0.7m/s. No eddies generated in the radar coverage, but one or two eddies entered in the radar coverage a day. Therefore the origin of these eddies will exist in the upstream area of the radar coverage. Using the compensation method for the influence of the modulated wave field suggested by Nadai (2006), the eddies shows weak divergence. It is important to consider the mixing between the water of Kuroshio region and East China Sea. However the vertical structure is needed for more precise discussion.

Eddy Currents: Levitation, Metal Detectors, and Induction Heating

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wouch, G.; Lord, A. E., Jr.

1978-01-01

A simple and accessible calculation is given of the effects of eddy currents for a sphere in the field of a single circular loop of alternating current. These calculations should help toward the inclusion of eddy current effects in upper undergraduate physics courses. (BB)

Healing of Fatigue Crack in 1045 Steel by Using Eddy Current Treatment

PubMed Central

Yang, Chuan; Xu, Wenchen; Guo, Bin; Shan, Debin; Zhang, Jian

2016-01-01

In order to investigate the methods to heal fatigue cracks in metals, tubular specimens of 1045 steel with axial and radial fatigue cracks were treated under the eddy current. The optical microscope was employed to examine the change of fatigue cracks of specimens before and after the eddy current treatment. The results show that the fatigue cracks along the axial direction of the specimen could be healed effectively in the fatigue crack initiation zone and the crack tip zone under the eddy current treatment, and the healing could occur within a very short time. The voltage breakdown and the transient thermal compressive stress caused by the detouring of eddy current around the fatigue crack were the main factors contributing to the healing in the fatigue crack initiation zone and the crack tip zone, respectively. Eddy current treatment may be a novel and effective method for crack healing. PMID:28773761

Healing of Fatigue Crack in 1045 Steel by Using Eddy Current Treatment.

PubMed

Yang, Chuan; Xu, Wenchen; Guo, Bin; Shan, Debin; Zhang, Jian

2016-07-29

In order to investigate the methods to heal fatigue cracks in metals, tubular specimens of 1045 steel with axial and radial fatigue cracks were treated under the eddy current. The optical microscope was employed to examine the change of fatigue cracks of specimens before and after the eddy current treatment. The results show that the fatigue cracks along the axial direction of the specimen could be healed effectively in the fatigue crack initiation zone and the crack tip zone under the eddy current treatment, and the healing could occur within a very short time. The voltage breakdown and the transient thermal compressive stress caused by the detouring of eddy current around the fatigue crack were the main factors contributing to the healing in the fatigue crack initiation zone and the crack tip zone, respectively. Eddy current treatment may be a novel and effective method for crack healing.

The numeric calculation of eddy current distributions in transcranial magnetic stimulation.

PubMed

Tsuyama, Seichi; Hyodo, Akira; Sekino, Masaki; Hayami, Takehito; Ueno, Shoogo; Iramina, Keiji

2008-01-01

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a method to stimulate neurons in the brain. It is necessary to obtain eddy current distributions and determine parameters such as position, radius and bend-angle of the coil to stimulate target area exactly. In this study, we performed FEM-based numerical simulations of eddy current induced by TMS using three-dimentional human head model with inhomogeneous conductivity. We used double-cone coil and changed the coil radius and bend-angle of coil. The result of computer simulation showed that as coil radius increases, the eddy current became stronger everywhere. And coil with bend-angle of 22.5 degrees induced stronger eddy current than the coil with bendangle of 0 degrees. Meanwhile, when the bend-angle was 45 degrees, eddy current became weaker than these two cases. This simulation allowed us to determine appropriate parameter easier.

Recent Advances in Active Infrared Thermography for Non-Destructive Testing of Aerospace Components.

PubMed

Ciampa, Francesco; Mahmoodi, Pooya; Pinto, Fulvio; Meo, Michele

2018-02-16

Active infrared thermography is a fast and accurate non-destructive evaluation technique that is of particular relevance to the aerospace industry for the inspection of aircraft and helicopters' primary and secondary structures, aero-engine parts, spacecraft components and its subsystems. This review provides an exhaustive summary of most recent active thermographic methods used for aerospace applications according to their physical principle and thermal excitation sources. Besides traditional optically stimulated thermography, which uses external optical radiation such as flashes, heaters and laser systems, novel hybrid thermographic techniques are also investigated. These include ultrasonic stimulated thermography, which uses ultrasonic waves and the local damage resonance effect to enhance the reliability and sensitivity to micro-cracks, eddy current stimulated thermography, which uses cost-effective eddy current excitation to generate induction heating, and microwave thermography, which uses electromagnetic radiation at the microwave frequency bands to provide rapid detection of cracks and delamination. All these techniques are here analysed and numerous examples are provided for different damage scenarios and aerospace components in order to identify the strength and limitations of each thermographic technique. Moreover, alternative strategies to current external thermal excitation sources, here named as material-based thermography methods, are examined in this paper. These novel thermographic techniques rely on thermoresistive internal heating and offer a fast, low power, accurate and reliable assessment of damage in aerospace composites.

Recent Advances in Active Infrared Thermography for Non-Destructive Testing of Aerospace Components

PubMed Central

Mahmoodi, Pooya; Pinto, Fulvio; Meo, Michele

2018-01-01

Active infrared thermography is a fast and accurate non-destructive evaluation technique that is of particular relevance to the aerospace industry for the inspection of aircraft and helicopters’ primary and secondary structures, aero-engine parts, spacecraft components and its subsystems. This review provides an exhaustive summary of most recent active thermographic methods used for aerospace applications according to their physical principle and thermal excitation sources. Besides traditional optically stimulated thermography, which uses external optical radiation such as flashes, heaters and laser systems, novel hybrid thermographic techniques are also investigated. These include ultrasonic stimulated thermography, which uses ultrasonic waves and the local damage resonance effect to enhance the reliability and sensitivity to micro-cracks, eddy current stimulated thermography, which uses cost-effective eddy current excitation to generate induction heating, and microwave thermography, which uses electromagnetic radiation at the microwave frequency bands to provide rapid detection of cracks and delamination. All these techniques are here analysed and numerous examples are provided for different damage scenarios and aerospace components in order to identify the strength and limitations of each thermographic technique. Moreover, alternative strategies to current external thermal excitation sources, here named as material-based thermography methods, are examined in this paper. These novel thermographic techniques rely on thermoresistive internal heating and offer a fast, low power, accurate and reliable assessment of damage in aerospace composites. PMID:29462953

Equilibrium reconstruction with 3D eddy currents in the Lithium Tokamak eXperiment

DOE PAGES

Hansen, C.; Boyle, D. P.; Schmitt, J. C.; ...

2017-04-18

Axisymmetric free-boundary equilibrium reconstructions of tokamak plasmas in the Lithium Tokamak eXperiment (LTX) are performed using the PSI-Tri equilibrium code. Reconstructions in LTX are complicated by the presence of long-lived non-axisymmetric eddy currents generated by a vacuum vessel and first wall structures. To account for this effect, reconstructions are performed with additional toroidal current sources in these conducting regions. The eddy current sources are fixed in their poloidal distributions, but their magnitude is adjusted as part of the full reconstruction. Eddy distributions are computed by toroidally averaging currents, generated by coupling to vacuum field coils, from a simplified 3D filamentmore » model of important conducting structures. The full 3D eddy current fields are also used to enable the inclusion of local magnetic field measurements, which have strong 3D eddy current pick-up, as reconstruction constraints. Using this method, equilibrium reconstruction yields good agreement with all available diagnostic signals. Here, an accompanying field perturbation produced by 3D eddy currents on the plasma surface with a primarily n = 2, m = 1 character is also predicted for these equilibria.« less

Innovative Sensors for Pipeline Crawlers: Rotating Permanent Magnet Inspection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

J. Bruce Nestleroth; Richard J. Davis; Stephanie Flamberg

2006-09-30

Internal inspection of pipelines is an important tool for ensuring safe and reliable delivery of fossil energy products. Current inspection systems that are propelled through the pipeline by the product flow cannot be used to inspect all pipelines because of the various physical barriers they may encounter. To facilitate inspection of these ''unpiggable'' pipelines, recent inspection development efforts have focused on a new generation of powered inspection platforms that are able to crawl slowly inside a pipeline and can maneuver past the physical barriers that limit internal inspection applicability, such as bore restrictions, low product flow rate, and low pressure.more » The first step in this research was to review existing inspection technologies for applicability and compatibility with crawler systems. Most existing inspection technologies, including magnetic flux leakage and ultrasonic methods, had significant implementation limitations including mass, physical size, inspection energy coupling requirements and technology maturity. The remote field technique was the most promising but power consumption was high and anomaly signals were low requiring sensitive detectors and electronics. After reviewing each inspection technology, it was decided to investigate the potential for a new inspection method. The new inspection method takes advantage of advances in permanent magnet strength, along with their wide availability and low cost. Called rotating permanent magnet inspection (RPMI), this patent pending technology employs pairs of permanent magnets rotating around the central axis of a cylinder to induce high current densities in the material under inspection. Anomalies and wall thickness variations are detected with an array of sensors that measure local changes in the magnetic field produced by the induced current flowing in the material. This inspection method is an alternative to the common concentric coil remote field technique that induces low-frequency eddy currents in ferromagnetic pipes and tubes. Since this is a new inspection method, both theory and experiment were used to determine fundamental capabilities and limitations. Fundamental finite element modeling analysis and experimental investigations performed during this development have led to the derivation of a first order analytical equation for designing rotating magnetizers to induce current and positioning sensors to record signals from anomalies. Experimental results confirm the analytical equation and the finite element calculations provide a firm basis for the design of RPMI systems. Experimental results have shown that metal loss anomalies and wall thickness variations can be detected with an array of sensors that measure local changes in the magnetic field produced by the induced current flowing in the material. The design exploits the phenomenon that circumferential currents are easily detectable at distances well away from the magnets. Current changes at anomalies were detectable with commercial low cost Hall Effect sensors. Commercial analog to digital converters can be used to measure the sensor output and data analysis can be performed in real time using PC computer systems. The technology was successfully demonstrated during two blind benchmark tests where numerous metal loss defects were detected. For this inspection technology, the detection threshold is a function of wall thickness and corrosion depth. For thinner materials, the detection threshold was experimentally shown to be comparable to magnetic flux leakage. For wall thicknesses greater than three tenths of an inch, the detection threshold increases with wall thickness. The potential for metal loss anomaly sizing was demonstrated in the second benchmarking study, again with accuracy comparable to existing magnetic flux leakage technologies. The rotating permanent magnet system has the potential for inspecting unpiggable pipelines since the magnetizer configurations can be sufficiently small with respect to the bore of the pipe to pass obstructions that limit the application of many inspection technologies. Also, since the largest dimension of the Hall Effect sensor is two tenths of an inch, the sensor packages can be small, flexible and light. The power consumption, on the order of ten watts, is low compared to some inspection systems; this would enable autonomous systems to inspect longer distances between charges. This project showed there are no technical barriers to building a field ready unit that can pass through narrow obstructions, such as plug valves. The next step in project implementation is to build a field ready unit that can begin to establish optimal performance capabilities including detection thresholds, sizing capability, and wall thickness limitations.« less

Effects of Angular Variation on Split D Differential Eddy Current Probe Response (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-10

AFRL-RX-WP-JA-2016-0327 EFFECTS OF ANGULAR VARIATION ON SPLIT D DIFFERENTIAL EDDY CURRENT PROBE RESPONSE (POSTPRINT) Ryan D...March 2014 – 22 September 2015 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE EFFECTS OF ANGULAR VARIATION ON SPLIT D DIFFERENTIAL EDDY CURRENT PROBE RESPONSE (POSTPRINT...last few years have seen increased levels of complexity added to push the state-of-the-art modeling software used in eddy current NDE today. The added

Birth of a Loop Current Eddy

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-05-24

The northern portion of the Gulf of Mexico Loop Current, shown in red, appears about to detach a large ring of current, creating a separate eddy. An eddy is a large, warm, clockwise-spinning vortex of water -- the ocean version of a cyclone.

The detection of tightly closed flaws by nondestructive testing (NDT) methods. [fatigue crack formation in aluminum alloy test specimens

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rummel, W. D.; Rathke, R. A.; Todd, P. H., Jr.; Mullen, S. J.

1975-01-01

Liquid penetrant, ultrasonic, eddy current and X-radiographic techniques were optimized and applied to the evaluation of 2219-T87 aluminum alloy test specimens in integrally stiffened panel, and weld panel configurations. Fatigue cracks in integrally stiffened panels, lack-of-fusion in weld panels, and fatigue cracks in weld panels were the flaw types used for evaluation. A 2319 aluminum alloy weld filler rod was used for all welding to produce the test specimens. Forty seven integrally stiffened panels containing a total of 146 fatigue cracks, ninety three lack-of-penetration (LOP) specimens containing a total of 239 LOP flaws, and one-hundred seventeen welded specimens containing a total of 293 fatigue cracks were evaluated. Nondestructive test detection reliability enhancement was evaluated during separate inspection sequences in the specimens in the 'as-machined or as-welded', post etched and post proof loaded conditions. Results of the nondestructive test evaluations were compared to the actual flaw size obtained by measurement of the fracture specimens after completing all inspection sequences. Inspection data were then analyzed to provide a statistical basis for determining the flaw detection reliability.

Grainex Mar-M 247 Turbine Disk Life Study for NASA's High Temperature High Speed Turbine Seal Test Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delgado, Irebert R.

2015-01-01

An experimental and analytical fatigue life study was performed on the Grainex Mar-M 247 disk used in NASA s Turbine Seal Test Facility. To preclude fatigue cracks from growing to critical size in the NASA disk bolt holes due to cyclic loading at severe test conditions, a retirement-for-cause methodology was adopted to detect and monitor cracks within the bolt holes using eddy-current inspection. For the NASA disk material that was tested, the fatigue strain-life to crack initiation at a total strain of 0.5 percent, a minimum to maximum strain ratio of 0, and a bolt hole temperature of 649 C was calculated to be 665 cycles using -99.95 percent prediction intervals. The fatigue crack propagation life was calculated to be 367 cycles after implementing a safety factor of 2 on life. Thus, the NASA disk bolt hole total life or retirement life was determined to be 1032 cycles at a crack depth of 0.501 mm. An initial NASA disk bolt hole inspection at 665 cycles is suggested with 50 cycle inspection intervals thereafter to monitor fatigue crack growth.

Theoretical and Experimental Analysis of an Induction Planar Actuator with Different Secondaries—A Planar Driver Application for Metallic Surface Inspection

PubMed Central

Treviso, Felipe; Silveira, Marilia A.; Flores Filho, Aly F.; Dorrell, David G.

2016-01-01

This paper presents a study on an induction planar actuator concept. The device uses the same principles as a linear induction motor in which the interaction between a travelling magnetic field and a conducting surface produces eddy currents that leads to the generation of a thrust force and can result in movement over a metallic surface. This can benefit the inspection of metallic surfaces based on the driving platform provided by the induction planar actuator. Equations of the magnetic and electric fields are presented and, by means of these equations, the forces involved were calculated. The behaviour of thrust and normal forces was analysed through the equations and by numerical models, and compared with the results obtained by measurements on a device prototype built in the laboratory as part of the study. With relation to the surface under inspection that forms the secondary, three cases were analysed: (1) a double-layered secondary formed by aluminium and ferromagnetic slabs; (2) a single aluminium layer and (3) a single ferromagnetic layer. Theoretical and measured values of thrust and normal forces showed good correlation. PMID:27007377

Best Practices for Evaluating the Capability of Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) and Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) Techniques for Damage Characterization (Post-Print)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-02-10

a wide range of part, environmental and damage conditions. Best practices of using models are presented for both an eddy current NDE sizing and...to assess the reliability of NDE and SHM characterization capability. Best practices of using models are presented for both an eddy current NDE... EDDY CURRENT NDE CASE STUDY An eddy current crack sizing case study is presented to highlight examples of some of these complex characteristics of

Computational Analysis of Static and Dynamic Behaviour of Magnetic Suspensions and Magnetic Bearings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britcher, Colin P. (Editor); Groom, Nelson J.

1996-01-01

Static modelling of magnetic bearings is often carried out using magnetic circuit theory. This theory cannot easily include nonlinear effects such as magnetic saturation or the fringing of flux in air-gaps. Modern computational tools are able to accurately model complex magnetic bearing geometries, provided some care is exercised. In magnetic suspension applications, the magnetic fields are highly three-dimensional and require computational tools for the solution of most problems of interest. The dynamics of a magnetic bearing or magnetic suspension system can be strongly affected by eddy currents. Eddy currents are present whenever a time-varying magnetic flux penetrates a conducting medium. The direction of flow of the eddy current is such as to reduce the rate-of-change of flux. Analytic solutions for eddy currents are available for some simplified geometries, but complex geometries must be solved by computation. It is only in recent years that such computations have been considered truly practical. At NASA Langley Research Center, state-of-the-art finite-element computer codes, 'OPERA', 'TOSCA' and 'ELEKTRA' have recently been installed and applied to the magnetostatic and eddy current problems. This paper reviews results of theoretical analyses which suggest general forms of mathematical models for eddy currents, together with computational results. A simplified circuit-based eddy current model proposed appears to predict the observed trends in the case of large eddy current circuits in conducting non-magnetic material. A much more difficult case is seen to be that of eddy currents in magnetic material, or in non-magnetic material at higher frequencies, due to the lower skin depths. Even here, the dissipative behavior has been shown to yield at least somewhat to linear modelling. Magnetostatic and eddy current computations have been carried out relating to the Annular Suspension and Pointing System, a prototype for a space payload pointing and vibration isolation system, where the magnetic actuator geometry resembles a conventional magnetic bearing. Magnetostatic computations provide estimates of flux density within airgaps and the iron core material, fringing at the pole faces and the net force generated. Eddy current computations provide coil inductance, power dissipation and the phase lag in the magnetic field, all as functions of excitation frequency. Here, the dynamics of the magnetic bearings, notably the rise time of forces with changing currents, are found to be very strongly affected by eddy currents, even at quite low frequencies. Results are also compared to experimental measurements of the performance of a large-gap magnetic suspension system, the Large Angle Magnetic Suspension Test Fixture (LAMSTF). Eddy current effects are again shown to significantly affect the dynamics of the system. Some consideration is given to the ease and accuracy of computation, specifically relating to OPERA/TOSCA/ELEKTRA.

Eddy current-nulled convex optimized diffusion encoding (EN-CODE) for distortion-free diffusion tensor imaging with short echo times.

PubMed

Aliotta, Eric; Moulin, Kévin; Ennis, Daniel B

2018-02-01

To design and evaluate eddy current-nulled convex optimized diffusion encoding (EN-CODE) gradient waveforms for efficient diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) that is free of eddy current-induced image distortions. The EN-CODE framework was used to generate diffusion-encoding waveforms that are eddy current-compensated. The EN-CODE DTI waveform was compared with the existing eddy current-nulled twice refocused spin echo (TRSE) sequence as well as monopolar (MONO) and non-eddy current-compensated CODE in terms of echo time (TE) and image distortions. Comparisons were made in simulations, phantom experiments, and neuro imaging in 10 healthy volunteers. The EN-CODE sequence achieved eddy current compensation with a significantly shorter TE than TRSE (78 versus 96 ms) and a slightly shorter TE than MONO (78 versus 80 ms). Intravoxel signal variance was lower in phantoms with EN-CODE than with MONO (13.6 ± 11.6 versus 37.4 ± 25.8) and not different from TRSE (15.1 ± 11.6), indicating good robustness to eddy current-induced image distortions. Mean fractional anisotropy values in brain edges were also significantly lower with EN-CODE than with MONO (0.16 ± 0.01 versus 0.24 ± 0.02, P < 1 x 10 -5 ) and not different from TRSE (0.16 ± 0.01 versus 0.16 ± 0.01, P = nonsignificant). The EN-CODE sequence eliminated eddy current-induced image distortions in DTI with a TE comparable to MONO and substantially shorter than TRSE. Magn Reson Med 79:663-672, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Effect of asymmetrical eddy currents on magnetic diagnosis signals for equilibrium reconstruction in the Sino-UNIted Spherical Tokamak.

PubMed

Jiang, Y Z; Tan, Y; Gao, Z; Wang, L

2014-11-01

The vacuum vessel of Sino-UNIted Spherical Tokamak was split into two insulated hemispheres, both of which were insulated from the central cylinder. The eddy currents flowing in the vacuum vessel would become asymmetrical due to discontinuity. A 3D finite elements model was applied in order to study the eddy currents. The modeling results indicated that when the Poloidal Field (PF) was applied, the induced eddy currents would flow in the toroidal direction in the center of the hemispheres and would be forced to turn to the poloidal and radial directions due to the insulated slit. Since the eddy currents converged on the top and bottom of the vessel, the current densities there tended to be much higher than those in the equatorial plane were. Moreover, the eddy currents on the top and bottom of vacuum vessel had the same direction when the current flowed in the PF coils. These features resulted in the leading phases of signals on the top and bottom flux loops when compared with the PF waveforms.

High-Temperature Surface-Acoustic-Wave Transducer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhao, Xiaoliang; Tittmann, Bernhard R.

2010-01-01

Aircraft-engine rotating equipment usually operates at high temperature and stress. Non-invasive inspection of microcracks in those components poses a challenge for the non-destructive evaluation community. A low-profile ultrasonic guided wave sensor can detect cracks in situ. The key feature of the sensor is that it should withstand high temperatures and excite strong surface wave energy to inspect surface/subsurface cracks. As far as the innovators know at the time of this reporting, there is no existing sensor that is mounted to the rotor disks for crack inspection; the most often used technology includes fluorescent penetrant inspection or eddy-current probes for disassembled part inspection. An efficient, high-temperature, low-profile surface acoustic wave transducer design has been identified and tested for nondestructive evaluation of structures or materials. The development is a Sol-Gel bismuth titanate-based surface-acoustic-wave (SAW) sensor that can generate efficient surface acoustic waves for crack inspection. The produced sensor is very thin (submillimeter), and can generate surface waves up to 540 C. Finite element analysis of the SAW transducer design was performed to predict the sensor behavior, and experimental studies confirmed the results. One major uniqueness of the Sol-Gel bismuth titanate SAW sensor is that it is easy to implement to structures of various shapes. With a spray coating process, the sensor can be applied to surfaces of large curvatures. Second, the sensor is very thin (as a coating) and has very minimal effect on airflow or rotating equipment imbalance. Third, it can withstand temperatures up to 530 C, which is very useful for engine applications where high temperature is an issue.

Analysis of eddy current induced in track on medium-low speed maglev train

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Guanchun; Jia, Zhen; He, Guang; Li, Jie

2017-06-01

Electromagnetic levitation (EMS) maglev train relies on the attraction between the electromagnets and rails which are mounted on the train to achieve suspension. During the movement, the magnetic field generated by the electromagnet will induce the eddy current in the orbit and the eddy current will weaken the suspended magnetic field. Which leads to the attenuation of the levitation force, the increases of suspension current and the degradation the suspension performance. In this paper, the influence of eddy current on the air gap magnetic field is solved by theoretical analysis, and the correction coefficient of air gap magnetic field is fitted according to the finite element data. The levitation force and current are calculated by the modified formula, and the velocity curves of the levitation force and current are obtained. The results show that the eddy current effect increases the load power by 61.9% in the case of heavy loads.

Eddy Current Sensing of Torque in Rotating Shafts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varonis, Orestes J.; Ida, Nathan

2013-12-01

The noncontact torque sensing in machine shafts is addressed based on the stress induced in a press-fitted magnetoelastic sleeve on the shaft and eddy current sensing of the changes of electrical conductivity and magnetic permeability due to the presence of stress. The eddy current probe uses dual drive, dual sensing coils whose purpose is increased sensitivity to torque and decreased sensitivity to variations in distance between probe and shaft (liftoff). A mechanism of keeping the distance constant is also employed. Both the probe and the magnetoelastic sleeve are evaluated for performance using a standard eddy current instrument. An eddy current instrument is also used to drive the coils and analyze the torque data. The method and sensor described are general and adaptable to a variety of applications. The sensor is suitable for static and rotating shafts, is independent of shaft diameter and operational over a large range of torques. The torque sensor uses a differential eddy current measurement resulting in cancellation of common mode effects including temperature and vibrations.

Advance High Temperature Inspection Capabilities for Small Modular Reactors: Part 1 - Ultrasonics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bond, Leonard J.; Bowler, John R.

The project objective was to investigate the development non-destructive evaluation techniques for advanced small modular reactors (aSMR), where the research sought to provide key enabling inspection technologies needed to support the design and maintenance of reactor component performance. The project tasks for the development of inspection techniques to be applied to small modular reactor are being addressed through two related activities. The first is focused on high temperature ultrasonic transducers development (this report Part 1) and the second is focused on an advanced eddy current inspection capability (Part 2). For both inspection techniques the primary aim is to develop in-servicemore » inspection techniques that can be carried out under standby condition in a fast reactor at a temperature of approximately 250°C in the presence of liquid sodium. The piezoelectric material and the bonding between layers have been recognized as key factors fundamental for development of robust ultrasonic transducers. Dielectric constant characterization of bismuth scantanate-lead titanate ((1-x)BiScO 3-xPbTiO 3) (BS-PT) has shown a high Curie temperature in excess of 450°C , suitable for hot stand-by inspection in liquid metal reactors. High temperature pulse-echo contact measurements have been performed with BS-PT bonded to 12.5 mm thick 1018-low carbon steel plate from 20C up to 260 C. High temperature air-backed immersion transducers have been developed with BS-PT, high temperature epoxy and quarter wavlength nickel plate, needed for wetting ability in liquid sodium. Ultrasonic immersion measurements have been performed in water up to 92C and in silicone oil up to 140C. Physics based models have been validated with room temperature experimental data with benchmark artifical defects.« less

Cold spray NDE for porosity and other process anomalies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glass, S. W.; Larche, M. R.; Prowant, M. S.; Suter, J. D.; Lareau, J. P.; Jiang, X.; Ross, K. A.

2018-04-01

This paper describes a technology review of nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods that can be applied to cold spray coatings. Cold spray is a process for depositing metal powder at high velocity so that it bonds to the substrate metal without significant heating that would be likely to cause additional residual tensile stresses. Coatings in the range from millimeters to centimeters are possible at relatively high deposition rates. Cold spray coatings that may be used for hydroelectric components that are subject to erosion, corrosion, wear, and cavitation damage are of interest. The topic of cold spray NDE is treated generally, however, but may be considered applicable to virtually any cold spray application except where there are constraints of the hydroelectric component application that bear special consideration. Optical profilometry, eddy current, ultrasound, and hardness tests are shown for one set of good, fair, and poor nickel-chrome (NiCr) on 304 stainless steel (304SS) cold spray samples to demonstrate inspection possibilities. The primary indicator of cold spray quality is the cold spray porosity that is most directly measured with witness-sample destructive examinations (DE)—mostly photo-micrographs. These DE-generated porosity values are correlated with optical profilometry, eddy current, ultrasound, and hardness test NDE methods to infer the porosity and other information of interest. These parameters of interest primarily include: • Porosity primarily caused by improper process conditions (temperature, gas velocity, spray standoff, spray angle, powder size, condition, surface cleanliness, surface oxide, etc.) • Presence/absence of the cold spray coating including possible over-sprayed voids • Coating thicknessOptical profilometry measurements of surface roughness trended with porosity plus, if compared with a reference measurement or reference drawing, would provide information on the coating thickness. Ultrasound could provide similar surface profile information plus attenuation measurements trended with porosity. The ultrasound measurements, however, may be limited to geometries where the substrate back-wall is normal to the cold spray surface and not too thick. Eddy current showed a strong correlation with porosity. Eddy currents can also be sensitive to cracks and do not need fluid coupling to make measurements, but are not sensitive to coating thicknesses in most cases. Vickers hardness measurements also tracked well with porosity; however, these types of hardness measurements are also not sensitive to coating thickness. An NDE program may include multiple measurements.

Combined Wave and Current Bottom Boundary Layers: A Review

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

18 3.2 Wave and currents at arbitrary angles ....................................................................... 19 3.3 Eddy viscosity ...closure ................................................................................................. 22 3.3.1 Eddy viscosity for stratified fluids...23 3.3.2 Time-dependent eddy viscosities

Detection and sizing of cracks in structural steel using the eddy current method

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2000-11-01

This report summarizes research pertaining to the application of the Eddy Current method as a means of crack detection in structural steel members of highway bridges. Eddy currents are induced when an energized coil is placed near the surface of a co...

Measurement of toroidal vessel eddy current during plasma disruption on J-TEXT.

PubMed

Liu, L J; Yu, K X; Zhang, M; Zhuang, G; Li, X; Yuan, T; Rao, B; Zhao, Q

2016-01-01

In this paper, we have employed a thin, printed circuit board eddy current array in order to determine the radial distribution of the azimuthal component of the eddy current density at the surface of a steel plate. The eddy current in the steel plate can be calculated by analytical methods under the simplifying assumptions that the steel plate is infinitely large and the exciting current is of uniform distribution. The measurement on the steel plate shows that this method has high spatial resolution. Then, we extended this methodology to a toroidal geometry with the objective of determining the poloidal distribution of the toroidal component of the eddy current density associated with plasma disruption in a fusion reactor called J-TEXT. The preliminary measured result is consistent with the analysis and calculation results on the J-TEXT vacuum vessel.

3D analysis of eddy current loss in the permanent magnet coupling.

PubMed

Zhu, Zina; Meng, Zhuo

2016-07-01

This paper first presents a 3D analytical model for analyzing the radial air-gap magnetic field between the inner and outer magnetic rotors of the permanent magnet couplings by using the Amperian current model. Based on the air-gap field analysis, the eddy current loss in the isolation cover is predicted according to the Maxwell's equations. A 3D finite element analysis model is constructed to analyze the magnetic field spatial distributions and vector eddy currents, and then the simulation results obtained are analyzed and compared with the analytical method. Finally, the current losses of two types of practical magnet couplings are measured in the experiment to compare with the theoretical results. It is concluded that the 3D analytical method of eddy current loss in the magnet coupling is viable and could be used for the eddy current loss prediction of magnet couplings.

Longitudinal gradient coil optimization in the presence of transient eddy currents.

PubMed

Trakic, A; Liu, F; Lopez, H Sanchez; Wang, H; Crozier, S

2007-06-01

The switching of magnetic field gradient coils in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) inevitably induces transient eddy currents in conducting system components, such as the cryostat vessel. These secondary currents degrade the spatial and temporal performance of the gradient coils, and compensation methods are commonly employed to correct for these distortions. This theoretical study shows that by incorporating the eddy currents into the coil optimization process, it is possible to modify a gradient coil design so that the fields created by the coil and the eddy currents combine together to generate a spatially homogeneous gradient that follows the input pulse. Shielded and unshielded longitudinal gradient coils are used to exemplify this novel approach. To assist in the evaluation of transient eddy currents induced within a realistic cryostat vessel, a low-frequency finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method using the total-field scattered-field (TFSF) scheme was performed. The simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for optimizing longitudinal gradient fields while taking into account the spatial and temporal behavior of the eddy currents.

Eddy properties in the Southern California Current System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chenillat, Fanny; Franks, Peter J. S.; Capet, Xavier; Rivière, Pascal; Grima, Nicolas; Blanke, Bruno; Combes, Vincent

2018-05-01

The California Current System (CCS) is an eastern boundary upwelling system characterized by strong eddies that are often generated at the coast. These eddies contribute to intense, long-distance cross-shelf transport of upwelled water with enhanced biological activity. However, the mechanisms of formation of such coastal eddies, and more importantly their capacity to trap and transport tracers, are poorly understood. Their unpredictability and strong dynamics leave us with an incomplete picture of the physical and biological processes at work, their effects on coastal export, lateral water exchange among eddies and their surrounding waters, and how long and how far these eddies remain coherent structures. Focusing our analysis on the southern part of the CCS, we find a predominance of cyclonic eddies, with a 25-km radius and a SSH amplitude of 6 cm. They are formed near shore and travel slightly northwest offshore for 190 days at 2 km day-1. We then study one particular, representative cyclonic eddy using a combined Lagrangian and Eulerian numerical approach to characterize its kinematics. Formed near shore, this eddy trapped a core made up of 67% California Current waters and 33% California Undercurrent waters. This core was surrounded by other waters while the eddy detached from the coast, leaving the oldest waters at the eddy's core and the younger waters toward the edge. The eddy traveled several months as a coherent structure, with only limited lateral exchange within the eddy.

Test and Evaluation of an Eddy Current Clutch/Brake Propulsion System

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1975-01-01

This report covers the Phase II effort of a program to develop and test a 15 hp eddy-current clutch propulsion system. Included in the Phase 2 effort are the test and evaluation of the eddy-current clutch propulsion system on board a test vehicle. Th...

Nondestructive examination of recovery stage during annealing of a cold-rolled low-carbon steel using eddy current testing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seyfpour, M.; Ghanei, S.; Mazinani, M.; Kashefi, M.; Davis, C.

2018-04-01

The recovery process in steel is usually investigated by conventional destructive tests that are expensive, time-consuming and also cumbersome. In this study, an alternative non-destructive test technique (based on eddy current testing) is used to characterise the recovery process during annealing of cold-rolled low-carbon steels. For assessing the reliability of eddy current results corresponding to different levels of recovery, X-ray line broadening analysis is also employed. It is shown that there is a strong relationship between eddy current outputs and the extent to which recovery occurs at different annealing temperatures. Accordingly, the non-destructive eddy current test technique represents the potential to be used as a reliable process for detection of the occurrence of recovery in the steel microstructure.

Mechanical properties and eddy current testing of thermally aged Z3CN20.09M cast duplex stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Tonghua; Wang, Wei; Qiang, Wenjiang; Shu, Guogang

2018-04-01

To study the thermal aging embrittlement of Z3CN20.09M duplex stainless steel produced in China, accelerated thermal aging experiments were carried out at 380 °C up to 9000 h. Microhardness measurements, Charpy impact and eddy current tests were performed on aged samples to characterize their thermal aging embrittlement. The results showed that the signal amplitude of eddy current decreased with the increase in aging time. Two quantitative correlations of the eddy current signal amplitude with both the Charpy impact energy, and the Vickers microhardness of the ferrite phase are obtained. The study showed that eddy current testing could be used to non-destructively evaluate the thermal aging embrittlement of cast duplex stainless steels.

Eddy current compensation for delta relaxation enhanced MR by dynamic reference phase modulation.

PubMed

Hoelscher, Uvo Christoph; Jakob, Peter M

2013-04-01

Eddy current compensation by dynamic reference phase modulation (eDREAM) is a compensation method for eddy current fields induced by B 0 field-cycling which occur in delta relaxation enhanced MR (dreMR) imaging. The presented method is based on a dynamic frequency adjustment and prevents eddy current related artifacts. It is easy to implement and can be completely realized in software for any imaging sequence. In this paper, the theory of eDREAM is derived and two applications are demonstrated. The theory describes how to model the behavior of the eddy currents and how to implement the compensation. Phantom and in vivo measurements are carried out and demonstrate the benefits of eDREAM. A comparison of images acquired with and without eDREAM shows a significant improvement in dreMR image quality. Images without eDREAM suffer from severe artifacts and do not allow proper interpretation while images with eDREAM are artifact free. In vivo experiments demonstrate that dreMR imaging without eDREAM is not feasible as artifacts completely change the image contrast. eDREAM is a flexible eddy current compensation for dreMR. It is capable of completely removing the influence of eddy currents such that the dreMR images do not suffer from artifacts.

Magnetic Field of Conductive Objects as Superposition of Elementary Eddy Currents and Eddy Current Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sukhanov, D. Ya.; Zav'yalova, K. V.

2018-03-01

The paper represents induced currents in an electrically conductive object as a totality of elementary eddy currents. The proposed scanning method includes measurements of only one component of the secondary magnetic field. Reconstruction of the current distribution is performed by deconvolution with regularization. Numerical modeling supported by the field experiments show that this approach is of direct practical relevance.

NDI method to locate intergranular corrosion around fastener holes in aluminum wing skins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rutherford, Paul S.

1998-03-01

Contact between galvanically dissimilar metals, such as cadmium plated steel fasteners and aluminum wing skins are known to be a source of corrosion. There is a design requirement to fill the void between the contacting surfaces of steel fasteners with a wet sealant. However, if the contacting surface is damaged or a void exists between the fastener head and the aluminum skin, moisture can collect and intergranular corrosion may occur along aluminum grain boundaries, which run parallel to the surface of the wing skin. If intergranular corrosion is allowed to propagate, delamination of the thin layers of aluminum, known as exfoliation corrosion will occur. When this intergranular corrosion reaches an exfoliated state, extensive rework is involved in removing the corrosion. This paper discusses the results of a USAF E-3A Engineering Service Task 89-E3B3-16 to develop a nondestructive inspection procedure to detect intergranular corrosion in an incipient state before it reaches exfoliation. Eddy current and ultrasonic inspection techniques were evaluated. A novel ultrasonic pulse echo technique was developed which utilizes a focus transducer with a hand held fixture. Inspections were performed on test parts which were removed from the upper wing skin of a retired 707 which had varying degrees of intergranular and exfoliation corrosion. Inspection results are compared to the results from the mechanical rework of the wing skin and dissection of a wing skin fastener hole.

Software compensation of eddy current fields in multislice high order dynamic shimming.

PubMed

Sengupta, Saikat; Avison, Malcolm J; Gore, John C; Brian Welch, E

2011-06-01

Dynamic B(0) shimming (DS) can produce better field homogeneity than static global shimming by dynamically updating slicewise shim values in a multislice acquisition. The performance of DS however is limited by eddy current fields produced by the switching of 2nd and 3rd order unshielded shims. In this work, we present a novel method of eddy field compensation (EFC) applied to higher order shim induced eddy current fields in multislice DS. This method does not require shim shielding, extra hardware for eddy current compensation or subject specific prescanning. The interactions between shim harmonics are modeled assuming steady state of the medium and long time constant, cross and self term eddy fields in a DS experiment and 'correction factors' characterizing the entire set of shim interactions are derived. The correction factors for a given time between shim switches are shown to be invariable with object scanned, shim switching pattern and actual shim values, allowing for their generalized prospective use. Phantom and human head, 2nd and 3rd order DS experiments performed without any hardware eddy current compensation using the technique show large reductions in field gradients and offsets leading to significant improvements in image quality. This method holds promise as an alternative to expensive hardware based eddy current compensation required in 2nd and 3rd order DS. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Observations of the interaction between near-inertial waves and mesoscale eddies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Marrero, Antonio; Sangrá, Pablo; Caldeira, Rui; Aguiar-González, Borja; Rodríguez-Santana, Ángel

2014-05-01

Trajectories of eight drifters dragged below the surface mixed layer and current meter data from a mooring are used to analyse the interaction between near-inertial waves and mesoscale eddies. Drifters were deployed within eddies generated downstream of Canary and Madeira islands between 1998 and 2007. The mooring was installed in the passage of cyclonic eddies induced by Gran Canaria island during 2006. Rotatory wavelet analysis of Lagrangian velocities shows a clear relationship between the near-inertial waves' intrinsic frequencies and the eddy angular velocities. The results reveal that near-inertial waves reach a minimum frequency of half the planetary vorticity (f/2) in the inner core of young anticyclonic eddies rotating with its maximum absolute angular speed of f/2. The highest amplitudes of the observed inertial motions are also found within anticyclonic eddies evidencing the trapping of inertial waves. Finally, the analysis of the current meter series show frequency fluctuations of the near-inertial currents in the upper 500 meters that are related to the passage of cyclonic eddies. These fluctuations appear to be consistent with the variation of the background vorticity produced by the eddies.

Key factors of eddy current separation for recovering aluminum from crushed e-waste.

PubMed

Ruan, Jujun; Dong, Lipeng; Zheng, Jie; Zhang, Tao; Huang, Mingzhi; Xu, Zhenming

2017-02-01

Recovery of e-waste in China had caused serious pollutions. Eddy current separation is an environment-friendly technology of separating nonferrous metallic particles from crushed e-waste. However, due to complex particle characters, separation efficiency of traditional eddy current separator was low. In production, controllable operation factors of eddy current separation are feeding speed, (ωR-v), and S p . There is little special information about influencing mechanism and critical parameters of these factors in eddy current separation. This paper provided the special information of these key factors in eddy current separation of recovering aluminum particles from crushed waste refrigerator cabinets. Detachment angles increased as the increase of (ωR-v). Separation efficiency increased with the growing of detachment angles. Aluminum particles were completely separated from plastic particles in critical parameters of feeding speed 0.5m/s and detachment angles greater than 6.61deg. S p /S m of aluminum particles in crushed waste refrigerators ranged from 0.08 to 0.51. Separation efficiency increased as the increase of S p /S m . This enlightened us to develop new separator to separate smaller nonferrous metallic particles in e-waste recovery. High feeding speed destroyed separation efficiency. However, greater S p of aluminum particles brought positive impact on separation efficiency. Greater S p could increase critical feeding speed to offer greater throughput of eddy current separation. This paper will guide eddy current separation in production of recovering nonferrous metals from crushed e-waste. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Measurement of toroidal vessel eddy current during plasma disruption on J-TEXT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, L. J.; Yu, K. X.; Zhang, M., E-mail: zhangming@hust.edu.cn

2016-01-15

In this paper, we have employed a thin, printed circuit board eddy current array in order to determine the radial distribution of the azimuthal component of the eddy current density at the surface of a steel plate. The eddy current in the steel plate can be calculated by analytical methods under the simplifying assumptions that the steel plate is infinitely large and the exciting current is of uniform distribution. The measurement on the steel plate shows that this method has high spatial resolution. Then, we extended this methodology to a toroidal geometry with the objective of determining the poloidal distributionmore » of the toroidal component of the eddy current density associated with plasma disruption in a fusion reactor called J-TEXT. The preliminary measured result is consistent with the analysis and calculation results on the J-TEXT vacuum vessel.« less

Quantification and Compensation of Eddy-Current-Induced Magnetic Field Gradients

PubMed Central

Spees, William M.; Buhl, Niels; Sun, Peng; Ackerman, Joseph J.H.; Neil, Jeffrey J.; Garbow, Joel R.

2011-01-01

Two robust techniques for quantification and compensation of eddy-current-induced magnetic-field gradients and static magnetic-field shifts (ΔB0) in MRI systems are described. Purpose-built 1-D or 6-point phantoms are employed. Both procedures involve measuring the effects of a prior magnetic-field-gradient test pulse on the phantom’s free induction decay (FID). Phantom-specific analysis of the resulting FID data produces estimates of the time-dependent, eddy-current-induced magnetic field gradient(s) and ΔB0 shift. Using Bayesian methods, the time dependencies of the eddy-current-induced decays are modeled as sums of exponentially decaying components, each defined by an amplitude and time constant. These amplitudes and time constants are employed to adjust the scanner’s gradient pre-emphasis unit and eliminate undesirable eddy-current effects. Measurement with the six-point sample phantom allows for simultaneous, direct estimation of both on-axis and cross-term eddy-current-induced gradients. The two methods are demonstrated and validated on several MRI systems with actively-shielded gradient coil sets. PMID:21764614

Quantification and compensation of eddy-current-induced magnetic-field gradients.

PubMed

Spees, William M; Buhl, Niels; Sun, Peng; Ackerman, Joseph J H; Neil, Jeffrey J; Garbow, Joel R

2011-09-01

Two robust techniques for quantification and compensation of eddy-current-induced magnetic-field gradients and static magnetic-field shifts (ΔB0) in MRI systems are described. Purpose-built 1-D or six-point phantoms are employed. Both procedures involve measuring the effects of a prior magnetic-field-gradient test pulse on the phantom's free induction decay (FID). Phantom-specific analysis of the resulting FID data produces estimates of the time-dependent, eddy-current-induced magnetic field gradient(s) and ΔB0 shift. Using Bayesian methods, the time dependencies of the eddy-current-induced decays are modeled as sums of exponentially decaying components, each defined by an amplitude and time constant. These amplitudes and time constants are employed to adjust the scanner's gradient pre-emphasis unit and eliminate undesirable eddy-current effects. Measurement with the six-point sample phantom allows for simultaneous, direct estimation of both on-axis and cross-term eddy-current-induced gradients. The two methods are demonstrated and validated on several MRI systems with actively-shielded gradient coil sets. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An avenue of eddies: Quantifying the biophysical properties of mesoscale eddies in the Tasman Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Everett, J. D.; Baird, M. E.; Oke, P. R.; Suthers, I. M.

2012-08-01

The Tasman Sea is unique - characterised by a strong seasonal western boundary current that breaks down into a complicated field of mesoscale eddies almost immediately after separating from the coast. Through a 16-year analysis of Tasman Sea eddies, we identify a region along the southeast Australian coast which we name ‘Eddy Avenue’ where eddies have higher sea level anomalies, faster rotation and greater sea surface temperature and chlorophyll a anomalies. The density of cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies within Eddy Avenue is 23% and 16% higher respectively than the broader Tasman Sea. We find that Eddy Avenue cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies have more strongly differentiated biological properties than those of the broader Tasman Sea, as a result of larger anticyclonic eddies formed from Coral Sea water depressing chl. a concentrations, and for coastal cyclonic eddies due to the entrainment of nutrient-rich shelf waters. Cyclonic eddies within Eddy Avenue have almost double the chlorophyll a (0.35 mg m-3) of anticyclonic eddies (0.18 mg m-3). The average chlorophyll a concentration for cyclonic eddies is 16% higher in Eddy Avenue and 28% lower for anticyclonic eddies when compared to the Tasman Sea. With a strengthening East Australian Current, the propagation of these eddies will have significant implications for heat transport and the entrainment and connectivity of plankton and larval fish populations.

Eddy current testing probe with dual half-cylindrical coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bae, Byung-Hoon; Choi, Jung-Mi; Kim, Soo-Yong

2000-02-01

We have developed a new eddy current probe composed of a dual half-cylindrical (2HC) coil as an exciting coil and a sensing coil that is placed in the small gap of the 2HC coil. The 2HC coil induces a linear eddy current on the narrow region within the target medium. The magnitude of eddy current has a maximum peak with the narrow width, underneath the center of the exciting 2HC coil. Because of the linear eddy current, the probe can be used to detect not only the existence of a crack but also its direction in conducting materials. Using specimen with a machined crack, and varying the exciting frequency from 0.5 to 100 kHz, we investigated the relationships between the direction of crack and the output voltage of the sensing coil.

Impacts of the Mesoscale Ocean-Atmosphere Coupling on the Peru-Chile Ocean Dynamics: The Current-Induced Wind Stress Modulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oerder, V.; Colas, F.; Echevin, V.; Masson, S.; Lemarié, F.

2018-02-01

The ocean dynamical responses to the surface current-wind stress interaction at the oceanic mesoscale are investigated in the South-East Pacific using a high-resolution regional ocean-atmosphere coupled model. Two simulations are compared: one includes the surface current in the wind stress computation while the other does not. In the coastal region, absolute wind velocities are different between the two simulations but the wind stress remains very similar. As a consequence, the mean regional oceanic circulation is almost unchanged. On the contrary, the mesoscale activity is strongly reduced when taking into account the effect of the surface current on the wind stress. This is caused by a weakening of the eddy kinetic energy generation near the coast by the wind work and to intensified offshore eddy damping. We show that, above coherent eddies, the current-stress interaction generates eddy damping through Ekman pumping and eddy kinetic energy dissipation through wind work. This alters significantly the coherent eddy vertical structures compared with the control simulation, weakening the temperature and vorticity anomalies and increasing strongly the vertical velocity anomalies associated to eddies.

Results of NDE Technique Evaluation of Clad Hydrides

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kunerth, Dennis C.

2014-09-01

This report fulfills the M4 milestone, M4FT-14IN0805023, Results of NDE Technique Evaluation of Clad Hydrides, under Work Package Number FT-14IN080502. During service, zirconium alloy fuel cladding will degrade via corrosion/oxidation. Hydrogen, a byproduct of the oxidation process, will be absorbed into the cladding and eventually form hydrides due to low hydrogen solubility limits. The hydride phase is detrimental to the mechanical properties of the cladding and therefore it is important to be able to detect and characterize the presence of this constituent within the cladding. Presently, hydrides are evaluated using destructive examination. If nondestructive evaluation techniques can be used tomore » detect and characterize the hydrides, the potential exists to significantly increase test sample coverage while reducing evaluation time and cost. To demonstrate the viability this approach, an initial evaluation of eddy current and ultrasonic techniques were performed to demonstrate the basic ability to these techniques to detect hydrides or their effects on the microstructure. Conventional continuous wave eddy current techniques were applied to zirconium based cladding test samples thermally processed with hydrogen gas to promote the absorption of hydrogen and subsequent formation of hydrides. The results of the evaluation demonstrate that eddy current inspection approaches have the potential to detect both the physical damage induced by hydrides, e.g. blisters and cracking, as well as the combined effects of absorbed hydrogen and hydride precipitates on the electrical properties of the zirconium alloy. Similarly, measurements of ultrasonic wave velocities indicate changes in the elastic properties resulting from the combined effects of absorbed hydrogen and hydride precipitates as well as changes in geometry in regions of severe degradation. However, for both approaches, the signal responses intended to make the desired measurement incorporate a number of contributing parameters. These contributing factors need to be recognized and a means to control them or separate their contributions will be required to obtain the desired information.« less

A combined experimental and finite element analysis method for the estimation of eddy-current loss in NdFeB magnets.

PubMed

Fratila, Radu; Benabou, Abdelkader; Tounzi, Abdelmounaïm; Mipo, Jean-Claude

2014-05-14

NdFeB permanent magnets (PMs) are widely used in high performance electrical machines, but their relatively high conductivity subjects them to eddy current losses that can lead to magnetization loss. The Finite Element (FE) method is generally used to quantify the eddy current loss of PMs, but it remains quite difficult to validate the accuracy of the results with complex devices. In this paper, an experimental test device is used in order to extract the eddy current losses that are then compared with those of a 3D FE model.

Development of Interior Permanent Magnet Motors with Concentrated Windings for Reducing Magnet Eddy Current Loss

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamazaki, Katsumi; Kanou, Yuji; Fukushima, Yu; Ohki, Shunji; Nezu, Akira; Ikemi, Takeshi; Mizokami, Ryoichi

In this paper, we present the development of interior magnet motors with concentrated windings, which reduce the eddy current loss of the magnets. First, the mechanism of the magnet eddy current loss generation is investigated by a simple linear magnetic circuit. Due to the consideration, an automatic optimization method using an adaptive finite element method is carried out to determine the stator and rotor shapes, which decrease the eddy current loss of the magnet. The determined stator and rotor are manufactured in order to proof the effectiveness by the measurement.

A High-Sensitivity Flexible Eddy Current Array Sensor for Crack Monitoring of Welded Structures under Varying Environment.

PubMed

Chen, Tao; He, Yuting; Du, Jinqiang

2018-06-01

This paper develops a high-sensitivity flexible eddy current array (HS-FECA) sensor for crack monitoring of welded structures under varying environment. Firstly, effects of stress, temperature and crack on output signals of the traditional flexible eddy current array (FECA) sensor were investigated by experiments that show both stress and temperature have great influences on the crack monitoring performance of the sensor. A 3-D finite element model was established using Comsol AC/DC module to analyze the perturbation effects of crack on eddy currents and output signals of the sensor, which showed perturbation effect of cracks on eddy currents is reduced by the current loop when crack propagates. Then, the HS-FECA sensor was proposed to boost the sensitivity to cracks. Simulation results show that perturbation effect of cracks on eddy currents excited by the HS-FECA sensor gradually grows stronger when the crack propagates, resulting in much higher sensitivity to cracks. Experimental result further shows that the sensitivity of the new sensor is at least 19 times that of the original one. In addition, both stress and temperature variations have little effect on signals of the new sensor.

Eddy-current testing of fatigue degradation upon contact fatigue loading of gas powder laser clad NiCrBSi-Cr3C2 composite coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Savrai, R. A.; Makarov, A. V.; Gorkunov, E. S.; Soboleva, N. N.; Kogan, L. Kh.; Malygina, I. Yu.; Osintseva, A. L.; Davydova, N. A.

2017-12-01

The possibilities of the eddy-current method for testing the fatigue degradation under contact loading of gas powder laser clad NiCrBSi-Cr3C2 composite coating with 15 wt.% of Cr3C2 additive have been investigated. It is shown that the eddy-current testing of the fatigue degradation under contact loading of the NiCrBSi-15%Cr3C2 composite coating can be performed at high excitation frequencies 72-120 kHz of the eddy-current transducer. At that, the dependences of the eddy-current instrument readings on the number of loading cycles have both downward and upward branches, with the boundary between the branches being 3×105 cycles in the given loading conditions. This is caused, on the one hand, by cracking, and, on the other hand, by cohesive spalling and compaction of the composite coating, which affect oppositely the material resistivity and, correspondingly, the eddy-current instrument readings. The downward branch can be used to monitor the processes of crack formation and growth, the upward branch - to monitor the degree of cohesive spalling, while taking into account in the testing methodology an ambiguous character of the dependences of the eddy-current instrument readings on the number of loading cycles.

A western boundary current eddy characterisation study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ribbe, Joachim; Brieva, Daniel

2016-12-01

The analysis of an eddy census for the East Australian Current (EAC) region yielded a total of 497 individual short-lived (7-28 days) cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies for the period 1993 to 2015. This was an average of about 23 eddies per year. 41% of the tracked individual cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies were detected off southeast Queensland between about 25 °S and 29 °S. This is the region where the flow of the EAC intensifies forming a swift western boundary current that impinges near Fraser Island on the continental shelf. This zone was also identified as having a maximum in detected short-lived cyclonic eddies. A total of 94 (43%) individual cyclonic eddies or about 4-5 per year were tracked in this region. The census found that these potentially displaced entrained water by about 115 km with an average displacement speed of about 4 km per day. Cyclonic eddies were likely to contribute to establishing an on-shelf longshore northerly flow forming the western branch of the Fraser Island Gyre and possibly presented an important cross-shelf transport process in the life cycle of temperate fish species of the EAC domain. In-situ observations near western boundary currents previously documented the entrainment, off-shelf transport and export of near shore water, nutrients, sediments, fish larvae and the renewal of inner shelf water due to short-lived eddies. This study found that these cyclonic eddies potentially play an important off-shelf transport process off the central east Australian coast.

Technique for temperature compensation of eddy-current proximity probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masters, Robert M.

1989-01-01

Eddy-current proximity probes are used in turbomachinery evaluation testing and operation to measure distances, primarily vibration, deflection, or displacment of shafts, bearings and seals. Measurements of steady-state conditions made with standard eddy-current proximity probes are susceptible to error caused by temperature variations during normal operation of the component under investigation. Errors resulting from temperature effects for the specific probes used in this study were approximately 1.016 x 10 to the -3 mm/deg C over the temperature range of -252 to 100 C. This report examines temperature caused changes on the eddy-current proximity probe measurement system, establishes their origin, and discusses what may be done to minimize their effect on the output signal. In addition, recommendations are made for the installation and operation of the electronic components associated with an eddy-current proximity probe. Several techniques are described that provide active on-line error compensation for over 95 percent of the temperature effects.

Eddy current imaging for electrical characterization of silicon solar cells and TCO layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, Byungguk; Hillmann, Susanne; Schulze, Martin; Klein, Marcus; Heuer, Henning

2015-03-01

Eddy Current Testing has been mainly used to determine defects of conductive materials and wall thicknesses in heavy industries such as construction or aerospace. Recently, high frequency Eddy Current imaging technology was developed. This enables the acquirement of information of different depth level in conductive thin-film structures by realizing proper standard penetration depth. In this paper, we summarize the state of the art applications focusing on PV industry and extend the analysis implementing achievements by applying spatially resolved Eddy Current Testing. The specific state of frequency and complex phase angle rotation demonstrates diverse defects from front to back side of silicon solar cells and characterizes homogeneity of sheet resistance in Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) layers. In order to verify technical feasibility, measurement results from the Multi Parameter Eddy Current Scanner, MPECS are compared to the results from Electroluminescence.

Effect of eddy current damping on phononic band gaps generated by locally resonant periodic structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozkaya, Efe; Yilmaz, Cetin

2017-02-01

The effect of eddy current damping on a novel locally resonant periodic structure is investigated. The frequency response characteristics are obtained by using a lumped parameter and a finite element model. In order to obtain wide band gaps at low frequencies, the periodic structure is optimized according to certain constraints, such as mass distribution in the unit cell, lower limit of the band gap, stiffness between the components in the unit cell, the size of magnets used for eddy current damping, and the number of unit cells in the periodic structure. Then, the locally resonant periodic structure with eddy current damping is manufactured and its experimental frequency response is obtained. The frequency response results obtained analytically, numerically and experimentally match quite well. The inclusion of eddy current damping to the periodic structure decreases amplitudes of resonance peaks without disturbing stop band width.

Conductive shield for ultra-low-field magnetic resonance imaging: Theory and measurements of eddy currents.

PubMed

Zevenhoven, Koos C J; Busch, Sarah; Hatridge, Michael; Oisjöen, Fredrik; Ilmoniemi, Risto J; Clarke, John

2014-03-14

Eddy currents induced by applied magnetic-field pulses have been a common issue in ultra-low-field magnetic resonance imaging. In particular, a relatively large prepolarizing field-applied before each signal acquisition sequence to increase the signal-induces currents in the walls of the surrounding conductive shielded room. The magnetic-field transient generated by the eddy currents may cause severe image distortions and signal loss, especially with the large prepolarizing coils designed for in vivo imaging. We derive a theory of eddy currents in thin conducting structures and enclosures to provide intuitive understanding and efficient computations. We present detailed measurements of the eddy-current patterns and their time evolution in a previous-generation shielded room. The analysis led to the design and construction of a new shielded room with symmetrically placed 1.6-mm-thick aluminum sheets that were weakly coupled electrically. The currents flowing around the entire room were heavily damped, resulting in a decay time constant of about 6 ms for both the measured and computed field transients. The measured eddy-current vector maps were in excellent agreement with predictions based on the theory, suggesting that both the experimental methods and the theory were successful and could be applied to a wide variety of thin conducting structures.

Conductive shield for ultra-low-field magnetic resonance imaging: Theory and measurements of eddy currents

PubMed Central

Zevenhoven, Koos C. J.; Busch, Sarah; Hatridge, Michael; Öisjöen, Fredrik; Ilmoniemi, Risto J.; Clarke, John

2014-01-01

Eddy currents induced by applied magnetic-field pulses have been a common issue in ultra-low-field magnetic resonance imaging. In particular, a relatively large prepolarizing field—applied before each signal acquisition sequence to increase the signal—induces currents in the walls of the surrounding conductive shielded room. The magnetic-field transient generated by the eddy currents may cause severe image distortions and signal loss, especially with the large prepolarizing coils designed for in vivo imaging. We derive a theory of eddy currents in thin conducting structures and enclosures to provide intuitive understanding and efficient computations. We present detailed measurements of the eddy-current patterns and their time evolution in a previous-generation shielded room. The analysis led to the design and construction of a new shielded room with symmetrically placed 1.6-mm-thick aluminum sheets that were weakly coupled electrically. The currents flowing around the entire room were heavily damped, resulting in a decay time constant of about 6 ms for both the measured and computed field transients. The measured eddy-current vector maps were in excellent agreement with predictions based on the theory, suggesting that both the experimental methods and the theory were successful and could be applied to a wide variety of thin conducting structures. PMID:24753629

Multipurpose Pressure Vessel Scanner and Photon Doppler Velocimetry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ellis, Tayera

2015-01-01

Critical flight hardware typically undergoes a series of nondestructive evaluation methods to screen for defects before it is integrated into the flight system. Conventionally, pressure vessels have been inspected for flaws using a technique known as fluorescent dye penetrant, which is biased to inspector interpretation. An alternate method known as eddy current is automated and can detect small cracks better than dye penetrant. A new multipurpose pressure vessel scanner has been developed to perform internal and external eddy current scanning, laser profilometry, and thickness mapping on pressure vessels. Before this system can be implemented throughout industry, a probability of detection (POD) study needs to be performed to validate the system's eddy current crack/flaw capabilities. The POD sample set will consist of 6 flight-like metal pressure vessel liners with defects of known size. Preparation for the POD includes sample set fabrication, system operation, procedure development, and eddy current settings optimization. For this, collaborating with subject matter experts was required. This technical paper details the preparation activities leading up to the POD study currently scheduled for winter 2015/2016. Once validated, this system will be a proven innovation for increasing the safety and reliability of necessary flight hardware. Additionally, testing of frangible joint requires Photon Doppler Velocimetry (PDV) and Digital Image Correlation instrumentation. There is often noise associated with PDV data, which necessitates a frequency modulation (FM) signal-to-noise pre-test. Generally, FM radio works by varying the carrier frequency and mixing it with a fixed frequency source, creating a beat frequency which is represented by audio frequency that can be heard between about 20 to 20,000 Hz. Similarly, PDV reflects a shifted frequency (a phenomenon known as the Doppler Effect) from a moving source and mixes it with a fixed source frequency, which results in a beat frequency. However, for PDV, discerning the signal from the noise is difficult without a moving source to induce the modulation. A rotating wheel is currently being used as the moving source but its configuration is impractical and has cumbersome placement inside the current frangible joint test cell. As a way to combat this problem and verify a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio, a reflective moving crystal piezo will be used to modulate a beat frequency, and an absorptive target will be used to block the signal in order to determine any back reflection coming from the probe and discern the true signal-to-noise ratio. The piezo will be mounted and inserted onto the test table on an extendable telescopic antenna grounded by a magnetic base in the test zone. This piezo configuration will be more compatible within the test zone and allow for easy removal of the disk following acceptable signal verification and prior to frangible joint tests.

Measurement station for interim inspections of Lightbridge metallic fuel rods at the Halden Boiling Water Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartmann, C.; Totemeier, A.; Holcombe, S.; Liverud, J.; Limi, M.; Hansen, J. E.; Navestad, E. AB(; )

2018-01-01

Lightbridge Corporation has developed a new Uranium-Zirconium based metallic fuel. The fuel rods aremanufactured via a co-extrusion process, and are characterized by their multi-lobed (cruciform-shaped) cross section. The fuel rods are also helically-twisted in the axial direction. Two experimental fuel assemblies, each containing four Lightbridge fuel rods, are scheduled to be irradiated in the Halden Boiling Water Reactor (HBWR) starting in 2018. In addition to on-line monitoring of fuel rod elongation and critical assembly conditions (e.g. power, flow rates, coolant temperatures, etc.) during the irradiation, several key parameters of the fuel will be measured out-of-core during interim inspections. An inspection measurement station for use in the irradiated fuel handling compartment at the HBWR has therefore been developed for this purpose. The multi-lobed cladding cross section combined with the spiral shape of the Lightbridge metallic fuel rods requires a high-precision guiding system to ensure good position repeatability combined with low-friction guiding. The measurement station is equipped with a combination of instruments and equipment supplied from third-party vendors and instruments and equipment developed at Institute for Energy Technology (IFE). Two sets of floating linear voltage differential transformer (LVDT) pairs are used to measure swelling and diameter changes between the lobes and the valleys over the length of the fuel rods. Eddy current probes are used to measure the thickness of oxide layers in the valleys and on the lobe tips and also to detect possible surface cracks/pores. The measurement station also accommodates gamma scans. Additionally, an eddy-current probe has been developed at IFE specifically to detect potential gaps or discontinuities in the bonding layer between the metallic fuel and the Zirconium alloy cladding. Potential gaps in the bonding layer will be hidden behind a 0.5-1.0 mm thick cladding wall. It has therefore been necessary to perform a careful design study of the probe geometry. For this, finite element analysis (FEA) has been performed in combination with practical validation tests on representative fuel dummies with machined flaws to find the probe geometry that best detects a hidden flaw. Tests performed thus far show that gaps down to 25 μm thickness can be detected with good repeatability and good discrimination from lift-off signals.

Eddy-Current Measurement Of Turning Or Curvature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chern, Engmin J.

1993-01-01

Rotatable conductive plate covers sensing coil to varying degree. Curvature of pipe at remote or otherwise inaccessible location inside pipe measured using relatively simple angular-displacement eddy-current probe. Crawler and sensor assemblies move along inside of pipe on wheels. Conductive plate pivots to follow curvature of pipe, partly covering one of eddy-current coils to degree depending on local curvature on pipe.

Immersed transient eddy current flow metering: a calibration-free velocity measurement technique for liquid metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krauter, N.; Stefani, F.

2017-10-01

Eddy current flow meters are widely used for measuring the flow velocity of electrically conducting fluids. Since the flow induced perturbations of a magnetic field depend both on the geometry and the conductivity of the fluid, extensive calibration is needed to get accurate results. Transient eddy current flow metering has been developed to overcome this problem. It relies on tracking the position of an impressed eddy current system that is moving with the same velocity as the conductive fluid. We present an immersed version of this measurement technique and demonstrate its viability by numerical simulations and a first experimental validation.

Eddy current measurement of the thickness of top Cu film of the multilayer interconnects in the integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qu, Zilian; Meng, Yonggang; Zhao, Qian

2015-03-01

This paper proposes a new eddy current method, named equivalent unit method (EUM), for the thickness measurement of the top copper film of multilayer interconnects in the chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process, which is an important step in the integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing. The influence of the underneath circuit layers on the eddy current is modeled and treated as an equivalent film thickness. By subtracting this equivalent film component, the accuracy of the thickness measurement of the top copper layer with an eddy current sensor is improved and the absolute error is 3 nm for sampler measurement.

An integrated eddy current detection and imaging system on a silicon chip

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henderson, H. Thurman; Kartalia, K. P.; Dury, Joseph D.

1991-01-01

Eddy current probes have been used for many years for numerous sensing applications including crack detection in metals. However, these applications have traditionally used the eddy current effect in the form of a physically wound single or different probe pairs which of necessity must be made quite large compared to microelectronics dimensions. Also, the traditional wound probe can only take a point reading, although that point might include tens of individual cracks or crack arrays; thus, conventional eddy current probes are beset by two major problems: (1) no detailed information can be obtained about the crack or crack array; and (2) for applications such as quality assurance, a vast amount of time must be taken to scan a complete surface. Laboratory efforts have been made to fabricate linear arrays of single turn probes in a thick film format on a ceramic substrate as well as in a flexible cable format; however, such efforts inherently suffer from relatively large size requirements as well as sensitivity issues. Preliminary efforts to fully extend eddy current probing from a point or single dimensional level to a two dimensional micro-eddy current format on a silicon chip, which might overcome all of the above problems, are presented.

Eddy current analysis of cracks grown from surface defects and non-metallic particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherry, Matthew R.; Hutson, Alisha; Aldrin, John C.; Shank, Jared

2018-04-01

Eddy current methods are sensitive to any discrete change in conductivity. Traditionally this has been used to determine the presence of a crack. However, other features that are not cracks such as non-metallic inclusions, carbide stringers and surface voids can cause an eddy current indication that could potentially lead to a reject of an in-service component. These features may not actually be lifelimiting, meaning NDE methods could reject components with remaining useful life. In-depth analysis of signals from eddy current sensors could provide a means of sorting between rejectable indications and false-calls from geometric and non-conductive features. In this project, cracks were grown from voids and non-metallic inclusions in a nickel-based super-alloy and eddy current analysis was performed on multiple intermediate steps of fatigue. Data were collected with multiple different ECT probes and at multiple frequencies, and the results were analyzed. The results show how cracks growing from non-metallic features can skew eddy current signals and make characterization a challenge. Modeling and simulation was performed with multiple analysis codes, and the models were found to be in good agreement with the data for cracks growing away from voids and non-metallic inclusions.

Non-Contact EDDY Current Hole Eccentricity and Diameter Measurement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chern, E. James

1998-01-01

Precision holes are among the most critical features of a mechanical component. Deviations from permissible tolerances can impede operation and result in unexpected failure. We have developed an automated non-contact eddy current hole diameter and eccentricity measuring system. The operating principle is based on the eddy current lift-off effect, which is the coil impedance as a function of the distance between the coil and the test object. An absolute eddy current probe rotates in the hole. The impedance of each angular position is acquired and input to the computer for integration and analysis. The eccentricity of the hole is the profile of the impedance as a function of angular position as compared to a straight line, an ideal hole. The diameter of the hole is the sum of the diameter of the probe and twice the distance-calibrated impedance. An eddy current image is generated by integrating angular scans for a plurality of depths between the top and bottom to display the eccentricity profile. This system can also detect and image defects in the hole. The method for non-contact eddy current hole diameter and eccentricity measurement has been granted a patent by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

An efficient 3-D eddy-current solver using an independent impedance method for transcranial magnetic stimulation.

PubMed

De Geeter, Nele; Crevecoeur, Guillaume; Dupre, Luc

2011-02-01

In many important bioelectromagnetic problem settings, eddy-current simulations are required. Examples are the reduction of eddy-current artifacts in magnetic resonance imaging and techniques, whereby the eddy currents interact with the biological system, like the alteration of the neurophysiology due to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS has become an important tool for the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases and psychiatric disorders. A widely applied method for simulating the eddy currents is the impedance method (IM). However, this method has to contend with an ill conditioned problem and consequently a long convergence time. When dealing with optimal design problems and sensitivity control, the convergence rate becomes even more crucial since the eddy-current solver needs to be evaluated in an iterative loop. Therefore, we introduce an independent IM (IIM), which improves the conditionality and speeds up the numerical convergence. This paper shows how IIM is based on IM and what are the advantages. Moreover, the method is applied to the efficient simulation of TMS. The proposed IIM achieves superior convergence properties with high time efficiency, compared to the traditional IM and is therefore a useful tool for accurate and fast TMS simulations.

A numerical study of the acoustic radiation due to eddy current-cryostat interactions.

PubMed

Wang, Yaohui; Liu, Feng; Zhou, Xiaorong; Li, Yu; Crozier, Stuart

2017-06-01

To investigate the acoustic radiation due to eddy current-cryostat interactions and perform a qualitative analysis on noise reduction methods. In order to evaluate the sound pressure level (SPL) of the eddy current induced warm bore wall vibration, a Finite Element (FE) model was created to simulate the noises from both the warm bore wall vibration and the gradient coil assembly. For the SPL reduction of the warm bore wall vibration, we first improved the active shielding of the gradient coil, thus reducing the eddy current on the warm bore wall. A damping treatment was then applied to the warm bore wall to control the acoustic radiation. Initial simulations show that the SPL of the warm bore wall is higher than that of the gradient assembly with typical design shielding ratios at many frequencies. Subsequent simulation results of eddy current control and damping treatment application show that the average SPL reduction of the warm bore wall can be as high as 9.6 dB, and even higher in some frequency bands. Combining eddy current control and suggested damping scheme, the noise level in a MRI system can be effectively reduced. © 2017 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Investigation of the Effects of Notch Width on Eddy Current Response and Comparison of Signals from Notches and Cracks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larson, B. F.; Lo, C. C. H.; Nakagawa, N.

2010-02-01

This paper reports on work conducted to investigate the effect that electrical discharge machining (EDM) notch width has on the eddy current (EC) signal as a function of coil drive frequency. The notch results are also compared to EC signals from laboratory-grown fatigue cracks. This study builds upon previous work with titanium, Inconel and aluminum materials where the signal amplitude was shown to decrease, as expected, as the notch width decreases. The trend was captured well by numerical results and this allowed estimates to be made about the signals from idealized "zero-width" notches. The results indicated that the signal reduction factor from a 0.127 mm (0.005 inch) wide, rectangular notch to a theoretical zero-width semi-elliptical notch of the same size ranged from 25 to 42% for low conductivity materials when data was collected at 2 MHz. For aluminum, the difference between signals from 0.127 mm wide notches and estimated signals for zero-width notches was approximately 50%. However, 2 MHz is an uncommonly high frequency for inspecting aluminum alloys so additional work was necessary to investigate the notch width effect at lower frequencies. This study sought to determine how the notch-width effect changed as a function of frequency for high conductivity materials such as aluminum.

Applicability of a Crack-Detection System for Use in Rotor Disk Spin Test Experiments Being Evaluated

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdul-Aziz, Ali; Baaklini, George Y.; Roth, Don J.

2004-01-01

Engine makers and aviation safety government institutions continue to have a strong interest in monitoring the health of rotating components in aircraft engines to improve safety and to lower maintenance costs. To prevent catastrophic failure (burst) of the engine, they use nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and major overhauls for periodic inspections to discover any cracks that might have formed. The lowest cost fluorescent penetrant inspection NDE technique can fail to disclose cracks that are tightly closed during rest or that are below the surface. The NDE eddy current system is more effective at detecting both crack types, but it requires careful setup and operation and only a small portion of the disk can be practically inspected. So that sensor systems can sustain normal function in a severe environment, health-monitoring systems require the sensor system to transmit a signal if a crack detected in the component is above a predetermined length (but below the length that would lead to failure) and lastly to act neutrally upon the overall performance of the engine system and not interfere with engine maintenance operations. Therefore, more reliable diagnostic tools and high-level techniques for detecting damage and monitoring the health of rotating components are very essential in maintaining engine safety and reliability and in assessing life.

[Quantitative experiment and analysis of gradient-induced eddy currents on magnetic resonance imaging].

PubMed

He, Wenjing; Zhu, Yuanzhong; Wang, Wenzhou; Zou, Kai; Zhang, Kai; He, Chao

2017-04-01

Pulsed magnetic field gradients generated by gradient coils are widely used in signal location in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, gradient coils can also induce eddy currents in final magnetic field in the nearby conducting structures which lead to distortion and artifact in images, misguiding clinical diagnosis. We tried in our laboratory to measure the magnetic field of gradient-induced eddy current in 1.5 T superconducting magnetic resonance imaging device; and extracted key parameters including amplitude and time constant of exponential terms according to inductance-resistance series mathematical module. These parameters of both self-induced component and crossing component are useful to design digital filters to implement pulse pre-emphasize to reshape the waveform. A measure device that is a basement equipped with phantoms and receiving coils was designed and placed in the isocenter of the magnetic field. By applying testing sequence, contrast experiments were carried out in a superconducting magnet before and after eddy current compensation. Sets of one dimension signal were obtained as raw data to calculate gradient-induced eddy currents. Curve fitting by least squares method was also done to match inductance-resistance series module. The results also illustrated that pulse pre-emphasize measurement with digital filter was correct and effective in reducing eddy current effect. Pre-emphasize waveform was developed based on system function. The usefulness of pre-emphasize measurement in reducing eddy current was confirmed and the improvement was also presented. All these are valuable for reducing artifact in magnetic resonance imaging device.

The Dynamics of Cuba Anticyclones (CubANs) and Interaction With the Loop Current/Florida Current System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kourafalou, Vassiliki; Androulidakis, Yannis; Le Hénaff, Matthieu; Kang, HeeSook

2017-10-01

Mesoscale anticyclonic eddies along the northern Cuban coast (CubANs) have been identified in the Straits of Florida, associated with the northward shift of the Florida Current (FC) and the anticyclonic curvature of the Loop Current (LC) at the western entrance of the Straits. The dynamics of CubAN eddies and their interaction with the LC/FC system are described for the first time using satellite, drifter and buoy data, and a high-resolution model. It is shown that the evolution of CubANs to the south of the FC front complements the evolution of cyclonic eddies to the north of the FC, advancing previous studies on synergy between FC meandering and eddy activity. Two types of CubAN eddies are characterized: (a) a main anticyclonic cell (type "A") within the core of the LC during retracted phase conditions, associated with the process of LC Eddy (LCE) shedding from an extended LC, and (b) an individual, distinct anticyclonic eddy that is released from the main LC core and is advected eastward, along the northern Cuban coast (type "B"). There are also mixed cases, when the process of LCE shedding has started, so a type "A" CubAN is being formed, in the presence of one or more eastward progressing type "B" eddies. CubAN evolution is associated with an increased mixed layer and weaker stratification of the upper ocean along the eddy's track. The cyclonic activity along the Cuban coast and wind-induced upwelling events also contribute to the evolution and fate of the CubAN eddies.

Formation of Maximum Eddy Current Force by Non Ferrous Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kader, M. M. A.; Razali, Z. B.; Yasin, N. S. M.; Daud, M. H.

2018-03-01

This project is concerned with the study of eddy current effects on various materials such as aluminum, copper and magnesium. Two types of magnets used in this study; magnetic ferrite (ZnFe+2O4) and magnetic neodymium (NdFeBN42). Eddy current force will be exerted to these materials due to current flows along the magnet. This force depends on the type of magnet, type of material and the gap between the magnet and the material or between the two magnets. The results show that at constant magnet to material gap, the eddy current force decreases as the magnet to magnet gap increases. Similarly, at constant magnet to magnet gap, the eddy current force decreases as the magnet to material gap increases. The minimum force was achieved when the gap of magnet to material is maximum, similarly to the gap of magnet to magnet. The weakest force was between Copper and Neodymium at a magnet to material gap of 20 mm and magnet to magnet gap of 40 mm; the eddy current force was 0.00048 N. The strongest force (maximum) was between Magnesium and Ferrite and 0.42273 N at a magnet to material gap of 3 mm and magnet to magnet gap of 5 mm.

Determination of plasma displacement based on eddy current diagnostics for the Keda Torus eXperiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tu, Cui; Li, Hong; Liu, Adi; Li, Zichao; Zhang, Yuan; You, Wei; Tan, Mingsheng; Luo, Bing; Adil, Yolbarsop; Hu, Jintong; Wu, Yanqi; Yan, Wentan; Xie, Jinlin; Lan, Tao; Mao, Wenzhe; Ding, Weixing; Xiao, Chijin; Zhuang, Ge; Liu, Wandong

2017-10-01

The measurement of plasma displacement is one of the most basic diagnostic tools in the study of plasma equilibrium and control in a toroidal magnetic confinement configuration. During pulse discharge, the eddy current induced in the vacuum vessel and shell will produce an additional magnetic field at the plasma boundary, which will have a significant impact on the measurement of plasma displacement using magnetic probes. In the newly built Keda Torus eXperiment (KTX) reversed field pinch device, the eddy current in the composite shell can be obtained at a high spatial resolution. This device offers a new way to determine the plasma displacement for KTX through the multipole moment expansion of the eddy current, which can be obtained by unique probe arrays installed on the inner and outer surfaces of the composite shell. In an ideal conductor shell approximation, the method of multipole moment expansion of the poloidal eddy current for measuring the plasma displacement in toroidal coordinates, is more accurate than the previous method based on symmetrical magnetic probes, which yielded results in cylindrical coordinates. Through an analytical analysis of many current filaments and numerical simulations of the current distribution in toroidal coordinates, the scaling relation between the first moment of the eddy current and the center of gravity of the plasma current is obtained. In addition, the origin of the multipole moment expansion of the eddy current in KTX is retrieved simultaneously. Preliminary data on the plasma displacement have been collected using these two methods during short pulse discharges in the KTX device, and the results of the two methods are in reasonable agreement.

Advanced NDE research in electromagnetic, thermal, and coherent optics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Skinner, S. Ballou

1992-01-01

A new inspection technology called magneto-optic/eddy current imaging was investigated. The magneto-optic imager makes readily visible irregularities and inconsistencies in airframe components. Other research observed in electromagnetics included (1) disbond detection via resonant modal analysis; (2) AC magnetic field frequency dependence of magnetoacoustic emission; and (3) multi-view magneto-optic imaging. Research observed in the thermal group included (1) thermographic detection and characterization of corrosion in aircraft aluminum; (2) a multipurpose infrared imaging system for thermoelastic stress detection; (3) thermal diffusivity imaging of stress induced damage in composites; and (4) detection and measurement of ice formation on the space shuttle main fuel tank. Research observed in the optics group included advancements in optical nondestructive evaluation (NDE).

Nondestructive testing of moisture separator reheater tubing system using Hall sensor array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le, Minhhuy; Kim, Jungmin; Kim, Jisoo; Do, Hwa Sik; Lee, Jinyi

2018-01-01

This paper presents a nondestructive testing system for inspecting the moisture separator reheater (MSR) tubing system in a nuclear power plant. The technique is based on partial saturation eddy current testing in which a Hall sensor array is used to measure the radial component of the electromagnetic field distributed in the tubes. A finned MRS tube of ferritic stainless steel (SS439) with artificial, flat-bottom hole-type defects was used in the experiments. The results show that the proposed system has potential applications in the MSR system or ferromagnetic material tubes in general, which could detect the artificial defects of about 20% of the wall thickness (0.24 mm). Furthermore, the defect volume could be quantitatively evaluated.

Assessment of NDE reliability data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yee, B. G. W.; Couchman, J. C.; Chang, F. H.; Packman, D. F.

1975-01-01

Twenty sets of relevant nondestructive test (NDT) reliability data were identified, collected, compiled, and categorized. A criterion for the selection of data for statistical analysis considerations was formulated, and a model to grade the quality and validity of the data sets was developed. Data input formats, which record the pertinent parameters of the defect/specimen and inspection procedures, were formulated for each NDE method. A comprehensive computer program was written and debugged to calculate the probability of flaw detection at several confidence limits by the binomial distribution. This program also selects the desired data sets for pooling and tests the statistical pooling criteria before calculating the composite detection reliability. An example of the calculated reliability of crack detection in bolt holes by an automatic eddy current method is presented.

Recent developments in measurement and evaluation of FAC damage in power plants

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Garud, Y.S.; Besuner, P.; Cohn, M.J.

1999-11-01

This paper describes some recent developments in the measurement and evaluation of flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC) damage in power plants. The evaluation focuses on data checking and smoothing to account for gross errors, noise, and uncertainty in the wall thickness measurements from ultrasonic or pulsed eddy-current data. Also, the evaluation method utilizes advanced regression analysis for spatial and temporal evolution of the wall loss, providing statistically robust predictions of wear rates and associated uncertainty. Results of the application of these new tools are presented for several components in actual service. More importantly, the practical implications of using these advances are discussedmore » in relation to the likely impact on the scope and effectiveness of FAC related inspection programs.« less

Magnetic diagnostics for equilibrium reconstructions with eddy currents on the lithium tokamak experimenta)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmitt, J. C.; Bialek, J.; Lazerson, S.

2014-11-01

The Lithium Tokamak eXperiment is a spherical tokamak with a close-fitting low-recycling wall composed of thin lithium layers evaporated onto a stainless steel-lined copper shell. Long-lived non-axisymmetric eddy currents are induced in the shell and vacuum vessel by transient plasma and coil currents and these eddy currents influence both the plasma and the magnetic diagnositc signals that are used as constraints for equilibrium reconstruction. A newly installed set of re-entrant magnetic diagnostics and internal saddle flux loops, compatible with high-temperatures and lithium environments, is discussed. Details of the axisymmetric (2D) and non-axisymmetric (3D) treatments of the eddy currents and themore » equilibrium reconstruction are presented.« less

Magnetic diagnostics for equilibrium reconstructions with eddy currents on the lithium tokamak experiment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmitt, J. C., E-mail: jschmitt@pppl.gov; Lazerson, S.; Majeski, R.

2014-11-15

The Lithium Tokamak eXperiment is a spherical tokamak with a close-fitting low-recycling wall composed of thin lithium layers evaporated onto a stainless steel-lined copper shell. Long-lived non-axisymmetric eddy currents are induced in the shell and vacuum vessel by transient plasma and coil currents and these eddy currents influence both the plasma and the magnetic diagnostic signals that are used as constraints for equilibrium reconstruction. A newly installed set of re-entrant magnetic diagnostics and internal saddle flux loops, compatible with high-temperatures and lithium environments, is discussed. Details of the axisymmetric (2D) and non-axisymmetric (3D) treatments of the eddy currents and themore » equilibrium reconstruction are presented.« less

Transient tidal eddy motion in the western Gulf of Maine, part 1: Primary structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, W. S.; Marques, G. M.

2013-07-01

High frequency radar-derived surface current maps of the Great South Channel (GSC) in the western Gulf of Maine in 2005 revealed clockwise (CW) and anticlockwise (ACW) eddy motion associated with the strong regional tidal currents. To better elucidate the kinematics and dynamics of these transient tidal eddy motions, an observational and modeling study was conducted during the weakly stratified conditions of winter 2008-2009. Our moored bottom pressure and ADCP current measurements in 13m depth were augmented by historical current measurements in about 30m in documenting the dominance of highly polarized M2 semidiurnal currents in our nearshore study region. The high-resolution finite element coastal ocean model (QUODDY) - forced by the five principal tidal constituents - produced maps depicting the formation and evolution of the CW and ACW eddy motions that regularly follow maximum ebb and flood flows, respectively. Observation versus model current comparison required that the model bottom current drag coefficient be set to at an unusually high Cd=0.01 - suggesting the importance of form drag in the study region. The observations and model results were consistent in diagnosing CW or ACW eddy motions that (a) form nearshore in the coastal boundary layer (CBL) for about 3h after the respective tidal current maxima and then (b) translate southeastward across the GSC along curved 50m isobath at speeds of about 25m/s. Observation-based and model-based momentum budget estimates were consistent in showing a first order forced semidiurnal standing tidal wave dynamics (like the adjacent Gulf of Maine) which was modulated by adverse pressure gradient/bottom stress forcing to generate the eddy motions. Observation-based estimates of terms in the transport vorticity budget showed that in the shallower Inner Zone subregion (average depth=23m) that the diffusion of nearshore vorticity was dominant in feeding the growth of eddy motion vorticity; while in the somewhat deeper Outer Zone subregion (33m) bottom current lateral shear and water column stretching/squashing was significant in modulating the eddy motion. We conclude that the transient eddy motions in the GSC region are phase eddies that accompany the change of tide across the GSC and are (1) generated by bottom stress gradients in the shallower nearshore - an issue which needs to be better understood for improved future forecasting.

Subregional characterization of mesoscale eddies across the Brazil-Malvinas Confluence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, Evan; Pascual, Ananda; Gaube, Peter; Ruiz, Simón; Pelegrí, Josep L.; Delepoulle, Antoine

2017-04-01

Horizontal and vertical motions associated with coherent mesoscale structures, including eddies and meanders, are responsible for significant global transports of many properties, including heat and mass. Mesoscale vertical fluxes also influence upper ocean biological productivity by mediating the supply of nutrients into the euphotic layer, with potential impacts on the global carbon cycle. The Brazil-Malvinas Confluence (BMC) is a western boundary current region in the South Atlantic with intense mesoscale activity. This region has an active role in the genesis and transformation of water masses and thus is a critical component of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation. The collision between the Malvinas and Brazil Currents over the Patagonian shelf/slope creates an energetic front that translates offshore to form a vigorous eddy field. Recent improvements in gridded altimetric sea level anomaly fields allow us to track BMC mesoscale eddies with high spatial and temporal resolutions using an automated eddy tracker. We characterize the eddies across fourteen 5° × 5° subregions. Eddy-centric composites of tracers and geostrophic currents diagnosed from a global reanalysis of surface and in situ data reveal substantial subregional heterogeneity. The in situ data are also used to compute the evolving quasi-geostrophic vertical velocity (QG-ω) associated with each instantaneous eddy instance. The QG-ω eddy composites have the expected dipole patterns of alternating upwelling/downwelling, however, the magnitude and sign of azimuthally averaged vertical velocity varies among subregions. Maximum eddy values are found near fronts and sharp topographic gradients. In comparison with regional eddy composites, subregional composites provide refined information about mesoscale eddy heterogeneity.

Preliminary study on detection technology of the cladding weld of spent fuel storage pool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Pan; Cui, Hongyan; Feng, Meiming; Shao, Wenbin; Liao, Shusheng; Li, Wei

2018-04-01

As the first barrier of the Spent fuel storage pool, the steel cladding using different sizes (length×width) of 304L stainless steel with 3˜6mm thickness plate argon arc welded together which is direct contacted with boric acid water. Environmental humidity between the back of steel cladding and concrete, makes phosphate, chloride ion overflowed from the concrete that corroded on the weld zone with different mechanism. Part of the corrosion defects can penetrate leaded to leakage of boric acid water in penetration position accelerated crack propagation. In view of the above situation and combined with the actual needs of the power plant, the development of effective underwater nondestructive testing means of the weld area for periodic inspection and monitoring is necessary. A single method may lead to the missing of defects detection due to weld reinforcement unpolished. In this paper, eddy current array (ARRAY) and Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM) are adapted to test the limit sensitivity and resolution through by the specimens with artificial defects which make their detection abilities close to satisfy engineering requirements. The preliminary study found that Φ0.5mm through-wall hole and with 2mm length and 0.3mm width through-wall crack in the weld can be good inspected.

The Leeuwin Current and its eddies: An introductory overview

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waite, A. M.; Thompson, P. A.; Pesant, S.; Feng, M.; Beckley, L. E.; Domingues, C. M.; Gaughan, D.; Hanson, C. E.; Holl, C. M.; Koslow, T.; Meuleners, M.; Montoya, J. P.; Moore, T.; Muhling, B. A.; Paterson, H.; Rennie, S.; Strzelecki, J.; Twomey, L.

2007-04-01

The Leeuwin Current (LC) is an anomalous poleward-flowing eastern boundary current that carries warm, low-salinity water southward along the coast of Western Australia. We present an introduction to a new body of work on the physical and biological dynamics of the LC and its eddies, collected in this Special Issue of Deep-Sea Research II, including (1) several modelling efforts aimed at understanding LC dynamics and eddy generation, (2) papers from regional surveys of primary productivity and nitrogen uptake patterns in the LC, and (3) the first detailed field investigations of the biological oceanography of LC mesoscale eddies. Key results in papers collected here include insight into the source regions of the LC and the Leeuwin Undercurrent (LUC), the energetic interactions of the LC and LUC, and their roles in the generation of warm-core (WC) and cold-core (CC) eddies, respectively. In near-shore waters, the dynamics of upwelling were found to control the spatio-temporal variability of primary production, and important latitudinal differences were found in the fraction of production driven by nitrate (the f-ratio). The ubiquitous deep chlorophyll maximum within LC was found to be a significant contributor to total water column production within the region. WC eddies including a single large eddy studied in 2000 contained relatively elevated chlorophyll a concentrations thought to originate at least in part from the continental shelf/shelf break region and to have been incorporated during eddy formation. During the Eddies 2003 voyage, a more detailed study comparing the WC and CC eddies illuminated more mechanistic details of the unusual dynamics and ecology of the eddies. Food web analysis suggested that the WC eddy had an enhanced "classic" food web, with more concentrated mesozooplankton and larger diatom populations than in the CC eddy. Finally, implications for fisheries management are addressed.

Eddy currents in a conducting sphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bergman, John; Hestenes, David

1986-01-01

This report analyzes the eddy current induced in a solid conducting sphere by a sinusoidal current in a circular loop. Analytical expressions for the eddy currents are derived as a power series in the vectorial displacement of the center of the sphere from the axis of the loop. These are used for first order calculations of the power dissipated in the sphere and the force and torque exerted on the sphere by the electromagnetic field of the loop.

Analytical modeling and analysis of magnetic field and torque for novel axial flux eddy current couplers with PM excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhao; Wang, Dazhi; Zheng, Di; Yu, Linxin

2017-10-01

Rotational permanent magnet eddy current couplers are promising devices for torque and speed transmission without any mechanical contact. In this study, flux-concentration disk-type permanent magnet eddy current couplers with double conductor rotor are investigated. Given the drawback of the accurate three-dimensional finite element method, this paper proposes a mixed two-dimensional analytical modeling approach. Based on this approach, the closed-form expressions of magnetic field, eddy current, electromagnetic force and torque for such devices are obtained. Finally, a three-dimensional finite element method is employed to validate the analytical results. Besides, a prototype is manufactured and tested for the torque-speed characteristic.

Quantifying mesoscale eddies in the Lofoten Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raj, R. P.; Johannessen, J. A.; Eldevik, T.; Nilsen, J. E. Ø.; Halo, I.

2016-07-01

The Lofoten Basin is the most eddy rich region in the Norwegian Sea. In this paper, the characteristics of these eddies are investigated from a comprehensive database of nearly two decades of satellite altimeter data (1995-2013) together with Argo profiling floats and surface drifter data. An automated method identified 1695/1666 individual anticyclonic/cyclonic eddies in the Lofoten Basin from more than 10,000 altimeter-based eddy observations. The eddies are found to be predominantly generated and residing locally. The spatial distributions of lifetime, occurrence, generation sites, size, intensity, and drift of the eddies are studied in detail. The anticyclonic eddies in the Lofoten Basin are the most long-lived eddies (>60 days), especially in the western part of the basin. We reveal two hotspots of eddy occurrence on either side of the Lofoten Basin. Furthermore, we infer a cyclonic drift of eddies in the western Lofoten Basin. Barotropic energy conversion rates reveals energy transfer from the slope current to the eddies during winter. An automated colocation of surface drifters trapped inside the altimeter-based eddies are used to corroborate the orbital speed of the anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies. Moreover, the vertical structure of the altimeter-based eddies is examined using colocated Argo profiling float profiles. Combination of altimetry, Argo floats, and surface drifter data is therefore considered to be a promising observation-based approach for further studies of the role of eddies in transport of heat and biomass from the slope current to the Lofoten Basin.

Internal and forced eddy variability in the Labrador Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bracco, A.; Luo, H.; Zhong, Y.; Lilly, J.

2009-04-01

Water mass transformation in the Labrador Sea, widely believed to be one of the key regions in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), now appears to be strongly impacted by vortex dynamics of the unstable boundary current. Large interannual variations in both eddy shedding and buoyancy transport from the boundary current have been observed but not explained, and are apparently sensitive to the state of the inflowing current. Heat and salinity fluxes associated with the eddies drive ventilation changes not accounted for by changes in local surface forcing, particularly during occasional years of extreme eddy activity, and constitute a predominant source of "internal" oceanic variability. The nature of this variable eddy-driven restratification is one of the outstanding questions along the northern transformation pathway. Here we investigate the eddy generation mechanism and the associated buoyancy fluxes by combining realistic and idealized numerical modeling, data analysis, and theory. Theory, supported by idealized experiments, provides criteria to test hypotheses as to the vortex formation process (by baroclinic instability linked to the bottom topography). Ensembles of numerical experiments with a high-resolution regional model (ROMS) allow for quantifying the sensitivity of eddy generation and property transport to variations in local and external forcing parameters. For the first time, we reproduce with a numerical simulation the observed interannual variability in the eddy kinetic energy in the convective region of the Labrador Basin and along the West Greenland Current.

Design and Application of Hybrid Magnetic Field-Eddy Current Probe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Buzz; Wallace, Terryl; Newman, Andy; Leser, Paul; Simpson, John

2013-01-01

The incorporation of magnetic field sensors into eddy current probes can result in novel probe designs with unique performance characteristics. One such example is a recently developed electromagnetic probe consisting of a two-channel magnetoresistive sensor with an embedded single-strand eddy current inducer. Magnetic flux leakage maps of ferrous materials are generated from the DC sensor response while high-resolution eddy current imaging is simultaneously performed at frequencies up to 5 megahertz. In this work the design and optimization of this probe will be presented, along with an application toward analysis of sensory materials with embedded ferromagnetic shape-memory alloy (FSMA) particles. The sensory material is designed to produce a paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition in the FSMA particles under strain. Mapping of the stray magnetic field and eddy current response of the sample with the hybrid probe can thereby image locations in the structure which have experienced an overstrain condition. Numerical modeling of the probe response is performed with good agreement with experimental results.

Radially Focused Eddy Current Sensor for Detection of Longitudinal Flaws in Metallic Tubes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wincheski, Russell A. (Inventor); Simpson, John W. (Inventor); Fulton, James P. (Inventor); Nath, Shridhar C. (Inventor); Todhunter, Ronald G. (Inventor); Namkung, Min (Inventor)

1999-01-01

A radially focused eddy current sensor detects longitudinal flaws in a metal tube. A drive coil induces eddy currents within the wall of the metal tube. A pick-up cod is spaced apart from the drive coil along the length of the metal tube. The pick@up coil is positioned with one end thereof lying adjacent the wall of the metal tube such that the pick-up coil's longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the wall of the metal tube. To isolate the pick-up coil from the magnetic flux of the drive coil and the flux from the induced eddy currents. except the eddy currents diverted by a longitudinal flaw. an electrically conducting material high in magnetic permeability surrounds all of the pick-up coil except its one end that is adjacent the walls of the metal tube. The electrically conducting material can extend into and through the drive coil in a coaxial relationship therewith.

Double-spin-echo diffusion weighting with a modified eddy current adjustment.

PubMed

Finsterbusch, Jürgen

2010-04-01

Magnetic field inhomogeneities like eddy current-related gradient fields cause geometric distortions in echo-planar imaging (EPI). This in particular affects diffusion-weighted imaging where these distortions vary with the direction of the diffusion weighting and hamper the accurate determination of diffusion parameters. The double-spin-echo preparation often used aims to reduce the cumulative eddy current effect by adjusting the diffusion-weighting gradient pulse durations to the time constant of the dominant eddy current contribution. However, eddy currents with a variety of time constants may be present and cause residual distortions. Here, a modification is proposed where the two bipolar gradient pairs of the preparation are adjusted independently to different time constants. At the expense of a slightly prolonged echo time, residual geometric distortions and correspondingly increased values of the diffusion anisotropy can be reduced as is demonstrated in phantoms and the human brain. Thus, it may help to improve the reliability of diffusion-weighted EPI. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Thin film eddy current impulse deicer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Samuel O.; Zieve, Peter B.

1990-01-01

Two new styles of electrical impulse deicers has been developed and tested in NASA's Icing Research Tunnel. With the Eddy Current Repulsion Deicing Boot (EDB), a thin and flexible spiral coil is encapsulated between two thicknesses of elastomer. The coil, made by an industrial printed circuit board manufacturer, is bonded to the aluminum aircraft leading edge. A capacitor bank is discharged through the coil. Induced eddy currents repel the coil from the aluminum aircraft structure and shed accumulated ice. A second configuration, the Eddy Current Repulsion Deicing-Strip (EDS) uses an outer metal erosion strip fastened over the coil. Opposite flowing eddy currents repel the strip and create the impulse deicing force. The outer strip serves as a surface for the collection and shedding of ice and does not require any structural properties. The EDS is suitable for composite aircraft structures. Both systems successfully dispelled over 95 percent of the accumulated ice from airfoils over the range of the FAA icing envelope.

Rapid Measurement and Correction of Phase Errors from B0 Eddy Currents: Impact on Image Quality for Non-Cartesian Imaging

PubMed Central

Brodsky, Ethan K.; Klaers, Jessica L.; Samsonov, Alexey A.; Kijowski, Richard; Block, Walter F.

2014-01-01

Non-Cartesian imaging sequences and navigational methods can be more sensitive to scanner imperfections that have little impact on conventional clinical sequences, an issue which has repeatedly complicated the commercialization of these techniques by frustrating transitions to multi-center evaluations. One such imperfection is phase errors caused by resonant frequency shifts from eddy currents induced in the cryostat by time-varying gradients, a phenomemon known as B0 eddy currents. These phase errors can have a substantial impact on sequences that use ramp sampling, bipolar gradients, and readouts at varying azimuthal angles. We present a method for measuring and correcting phase errors from B0 eddy currents and examine the results on two different scanner models. This technique yields significant improvements in image quality for high-resolution joint imaging on certain scanners. The results suggest that correction of short time B0 eddy currents in manufacturer provided service routines would simplify adoption of non-Cartesian sampling methods. PMID:22488532

Development of Ground Coils with Low Eddy Current Loss by Applying the Compression Molding Method after the Coil Winding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Masao; Aiba, Masayuki; Takahashi, Noriyuki; Ota, Satoru; Okada, Shigenori

In a magnetically levitated transportation (MAGLEV) system, a huge number of ground coils will be required because they must be laid for the whole line. Therefore, stable performance and reduced cost are essential requirements for the ground coil development. On the other hand, because the magnetic field changes when the superconducting magnet passes by, an eddy current will be generated in the conductor of the ground coil and will result in energy loss. The loss not only increases the magnetic resistance for the train running but also brings an increase in the ground coil temperature. Therefore, the reduction of the eddy current loss is extremely important. This study examined ground coils in which both the eddy current loss and temperature increase were small. Furthermore, quantitative comparison for the eddy current loss of various magnet wire samples was performed by bench test. On the basis of the comparison, a round twisted wire having low eddy current loss was selected as an effective ground coil material. In addition, the ground coils were manufactured on trial. A favorable outlook to improve the size accuracy of the winding coil and uneven thickness of molded resin was obtained without reducing the insulation strength between the coil layers by applying a compression molding after winding.

A quantitative comparison of two methods to correct eddy current-induced distortions in DT-MRI.

PubMed

Muñoz Maniega, Susana; Bastin, Mark E; Armitage, Paul A

2007-04-01

Eddy current-induced geometric distortions of single-shot, diffusion-weighted, echo-planar (DW-EP) images are a major confounding factor to the accurate determination of water diffusion parameters in diffusion tensor MRI (DT-MRI). Previously, it has been suggested that these geometric distortions can be removed from brain DW-EP images using affine transformations determined from phantom calibration experiments using iterative cross-correlation (ICC). Since this approach was first described, a number of image-based registration methods have become available that can also correct eddy current-induced distortions in DW-EP images. However, as yet no study has investigated whether separate eddy current calibration or image-based registration provides the most accurate way of removing these artefacts from DT-MRI data. Here we compare how ICC phantom calibration and affine FLIRT (http://www.fmrib.ox.ac.uk), a popular image-based multi-modal registration method that can correct both eddy current-induced distortions and bulk subject motion, perform when registering DW-EP images acquired with different slice thicknesses (2.8 and 5 mm) and b-values (1000 and 3000 s/mm(2)). With the use of consistency testing, it was found that ICC was a more robust algorithm for correcting eddy current-induced distortions than affine FLIRT, especially at high b-value and small slice thickness. In addition, principal component analysis demonstrated that the combination of ICC phantom calibration (to remove eddy current-induced distortions) with rigid body FLIRT (to remove bulk subject motion) provided a more accurate registration of DT-MRI data than that achieved by affine FLIRT.

Characterizing frontal eddies along the East Australian Current from HF radar observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaeffer, Amandine; Gramoulle, A.; Roughan, M.; Mantovanelli, A.

2017-05-01

The East Australian Current (EAC) dominates the ocean circulation along south-eastern Australia, however, little is known about the submesoscale frontal instabilities associated with this western boundary current. One year of surface current measurements from HF radars, in conjunction with mooring and satellite observations, highlight the occurrence and propagation of meanders and frontal eddies along the inshore edge of the EAC. Eddies were systematically identified using the geometry of the high spatial resolution (˜1.5 km) surface currents, and tracked every hour. Cyclonic eddies were observed irregularly, on average every 7 days, with inshore radius ˜10 km. Among various forms of structures, frontal eddies associated with EAC meanders were characterized by poleward advection speeds of ˜0.3-0.4 m/s, migrating as far as 500 km south, based on satellite imagery. Flow field kinematics show that cyclonic eddies have high Rossby numbers (0.6-1.9) and enhance particle dispersion. Patches of intensified surface divergence at the leading edge of the structures are expected to generate vertical uplift. This is confirmed by subsurface measurements showing temperature uplift of up to 55 m over 24 h and rough estimates of vertical velocities of 10s of meters per day. While frontal eddies propagate through the radar domain independently of local wind stress, upfront wind can influence their stalling and growth, and can also generate large cold core eddies through intense shear. Such coherent structures are a major mechanism for the transport and entrainment of nutrient rich coastal or deep waters, influencing physical and biological dynamics, and connectivity over large distances.

Eddy current simulation in thick cylinders of finite length induced by coils of arbitrary geometry.

PubMed

Sanchez Lopez, Hector; Poole, Michael; Crozier, Stuart

2010-12-01

Eddy currents are inevitably induced when time-varying magnetic field gradients interact with the metallic structures of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The secondary magnetic field produced by this induced current degrades the spatial and temporal performance of the primary field generated by the gradient coils. Although this undesired effect can be minimized by using actively and/or passively shielded gradient coils and current pre-emphasis techniques, a residual eddy current still remains in the MRI scanner structure. Accurate simulation of these eddy currents is important in the successful design of gradient coils and magnet cryostat vessels. Efficient methods for simulating eddy currents are currently restricted to cylindrical-symmetry. The approach presented in this paper divides thick conducting cylinders into thin layers (thinner than the skin depth) and expresses the current density on each as a Fourier series. The coupling between each mode of the Fourier series with every other is modeled with an inductive network method. In this way, the eddy currents induced in realistic cryostat surfaces by coils of arbitrary geometry can be simulated. The new method was validated by simulating a canonical problem and comparing the results against a commercially available software package. An accurate skin depth of 2.76 mm was calculated in 6 min with the new method. The currents induced by an actively shielded x-gradient coil were simulated assuming a finite length cylindrical cryostat consisting of three different conducting materials. Details of the temporal-spatial induced current diffusion process were simulated through all cryostat layers, which could not be efficiently simulated with any other method. With this data, all quantities that depend on the current density, such as the secondary magnetic field, are simply evaluated. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Theory and application of high temperature superconducting eddy current probes for nondestructive evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Claycomb, James Ronald

1998-10-01

Several High-T c Superconducting (HTS) eddy current probes have been developed for applications in electromagnetic nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of conducting materials. The probes utilize high-T c SUperconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetometers to detect the fields produced by the perturbation of induced eddy currents resulting from subsurface flaws. Localized HTS shields are incorporated to selectively screen out environmental electromagnetic interference and enable movement of the instrument in the Earth's magnetic field. High permeability magnetic shields are employed to focus flux into, and thereby increase the eddy current density in the metallic test samples. NDE test results are presented, in which machined flaws in aluminum alloy are detected by probes of different design. A novel current injection technique performing NDE of wires using SQUIDs is also discussed. The HTS and high permeability shields are designed based on analytical and numerical finite element method (FEM) calculations presented here. Superconducting and high permeability magnetic shields are modeled in uniform noise fields and in the presence of dipole fields characteristic of flaw signals. Several shield designs are characterized in terms of (1) their ability to screen out uniform background noise fields; (2) the resultant improvement in signal-to-noise ratio and (3) the extent to which dipole source fields are distorted. An analysis of eddy current induction is then presented for low frequency SQUID NDE. Analytical expressions are developed for the induced eddy currents and resulting magnetic fields produced by excitation sources above conducting plates of varying thickness. The expressions derived here are used to model the SQUID's response to material thinning. An analytical defect model is also developed, taking into account the attenuation of the defect field through the conducting material, as well as the current flow around the edges of the flaw. Time harmonic FEM calculations are then used to model the electromagnetic response of eight probe designs, consisting of an eddy current drive coil coupled to a SQUID surrounded by superconducting and/or high permeability magnetic shielding. Simulations are carried out with the eddy current probes located a finite distance above a conducting surface. Results are quantified in terms of shielding and focus factors for each probe design.

A numerical modeling study of the East Australian Current encircling and overwashing a warm-core eddy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacDonald, H. S.; Roughan, M.; Baird, M. E.; Wilkin, J.

2013-01-01