Study on defect classification in multi-layer structures based on Fisher linear discriminate analysis by using pulsed eddy current technique

Abstract Pulsed eddy current (PEC) is an emerging non-destructive testing technique with wide application potential. In this study, defect parameter identification in multi-layer structures is examined by using the PEC technique, and a Fisher linear discriminate analysis (FLDA)-based defect classification method is proposed. Defect localization and shape identification are investigated, and defects on the surface and subsurface of the third layer are discriminated. The time domain characterization method is introduced and researched by using the peak time and zero-crossing time of PEC response signals, the principal component analysis algorithm and the FLDA method. The feature extraction results of the three methods are used as the input values of support vector machine for defect classification and feature extraction, and the classification methods are compared. Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that the proposed method can contribute to effective classification for defect parameter identification.