What is Eddy Current Testing?

Eddy current testing is a non-contact electromagnetic testing technique used for the inspection of conductive materials without the need to remove non-conductive coatings. An alternating current is passed through a coil in order to create an alternating magnetic field which is used to induce a localised current (eddy current) into the material under test. Discontinuities such as fatigue cracks will interrupt the flow of eddy currents and alter the terminal impedance of the test coil. The amplitude and phase of the received signal can be interpreted to ascertain the severity and exact location of any discontinuities found. Eddy current is routinely used to inspect a wide range of different materials and components across several fields of engineering including oil and gas, nuclear, power generation and aerospace.

What are the responsibilities of a individual who is certified to Eddy Current Level 2?

An individual certified to Eddy Current Level 2 has demonstrated competence to perform NDT according to Eddy Current Testing procedures. Within the scope of the competence defined on the certificate, Level 2 personnel may be authorised by the employer to:

• Select the Eddy Current technique for the test method to be used;
• Define the limitations of application of the testing method;
• Translate NDT codes, standards, specifications and procedures into NDT instructions adapted to the actual working conditions;
• Set up and verify equipment settings;
• Perform and supervise tests;
• Interpret and evaluate results according to applicable standards, codes, specifications or procedures;
• Prepare Eddy Current written instructions
• Carry out and supervise all tasks at or below level 2;
• Provide guidance for personnel at or below level 2, and
• Report the results of Eddy Current test

10 Days / 80 Hrs

Eddy Current Level 2 training at Cutech covers the following:

General Theory:

• Brief history of testing
• Basic principles of testing
• Generation of eddy currents by means of an ac field
• Effect of fields created by eddy currents
• Effect of change of impedance on instrumentation
• Terminology and units
• Principles of magnetisation.
• Magnetisation
• Electromagnetism theory
• Flux leakage theory and principle
• Readout mechanism
• Types of eddy current sensing elements
• Types of flux leakage sensing elements

• Review of electromagnetic theory
• Factors that affect coil impedance
• Factors that affect flux leakage fields
• Signal-to-noise ratio
• Selection of test frequency
• Selection of method of magnetisation for flux
• Leakage testing
• Coupling
• Field strength and its selection
• Field orientation for flux leakage testing
• Instrument design consideration
• Safety as applicable to eddy current testing and electrical safety

Specific Theory:

Application of the method to the specific requirements of the company, in particular making reference to those codes, specifications and procedures used by the company, including the relevant control checks.

We can provide Eddy Current Testing training suitable for candidates working to an employer written practice based on SNT-TC-1A; EN4179 and NAS410.

Cuetch can provide Eddy Current training suitable for candidates working to an employer written practice based on SNT-TC-1A; EN4179 and NAS410. Eddy Current Testing is separated into three specific product sectors for certification purposes: Welds, Wrought Products (Forgings), and Tubes.

The Eddy Current Level 2 examination includes a general theory paper, specific paper, and a practical exam.

The PCN requirements for Level 2 Eddy Current are: 40 hours training if Level 1 is held, or 40 hours direct to level 2, previous to the exam, and 9 months supervised work experience additional to Level 1 (12 months direct), to be obtained either before the examination, or within 24 months after passing the exam.

Once the 40 additional hours training have been obtained, the examination passed, and 9 additional months supervised work experience obtained within 24 months of passing the exam, PCN will issue certification.

The options for Eddy Current Level 2 examinations are:

ET Tubes
ET Welds
ET Wrought Products
Resit (Theory)
Resit (Practical)
Recertification

To be eligible for the Level 2 examination, an eye test must be passed (near vision and colour).

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Suitable for:
Inspection engineers and supervisory staff. The course is ideal for inspectors requiring preparation for the CSWIP examinations - Welding Inspector. 
Those with little or no previous welding experience are advised to attend the Certificate in Visual Inspection of Welds course to prepare for this course.