The Influence of Calibration and Acceptance Criteria on Crack Detection and Discrimination by Eddy Current Techniques

Use of linear elastic fracture mechanics in design and in life-cycle management of engineering systems has increased the demand for quantitative NDE and for quantification of NDE performance capabilities. Demonstrated performance capabilities by eddy current methods have increased the focus on eddy current applications for the detection of small cracks in critical hardware. Although eddy current methods have an extensive history of application, characterization of critical factors in application and quantification of the output has received little attention. Work described herein was performed to increase understanding of critical eddy current probe characteristics, to quantify performance in support of detection theory development, and to demonstrate the effects of established eddy current procedures on overall performance.