HiF-PD: Development of advanced performance eddy current testing technology based on high frequency phase discrimination.

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"Non destructive testing is used extensively across a number of industries, where there is a need to detect anomalies and defects in engineered components, without destroying them. The most demanding applications are in equipment used in industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, and power generation, where components are safety-critical, of particularly high value and subject to extreme operating conditions. Non destructive testing, during manufacturing and service can identify, for example, cracks caused by manufacturing or material issues, delamination of surface coatings, porosity, and cracks caused by fatigue due to cyclic and thermal loads. To address a multitude of different application requirements, there are many different techniques used in non-destructive testing; these include ultrasound, magnetic-particle, liquid dye penetrant, visual, eddy current, and X-rays.Techniques based on magnetic disturbances induced in conductive materials by eddy currents (as discovered by Faraday in the 19th Century, and employed in non destructive testing commercially since the 1950s) are useful in a number of applications, including the detection of surface and near sub-surface defects in metal parts. However, the technology's capabilities have not kept pace with the advances in the components it is employed to evaluate. Manual liquid dye penetrant techniques have been in use since the late 19th century in similar applications. The process has high 'resolution' in skilled hands, and remains the mainstay of non destructive testing for surface defects in some of the most advanced engineered components. However, the technique has a number of disadvantages, including the subjective nature of interpretation of results, high operating costs, toxic consumables, lengthy testing times, and the need to thoroughly prepare the surface prior to testing.Using innovative electronics and analysis techniques, Eddysense is developing the next generation of capability in eddy current testing. Our technology will allow for detection of smaller defects, in a wider range of materials, than is currently possible with the state of the art. Where manufacturers and maintenance providers are currently reliant on the aged liquid dye penetrant technique, our technology will provide a much cleaner, safer and more reliable solution to the challenges of those involved in some of our most advanced engineering."