Eddy Current Probes are indispensable tools that help industries ensure the integrity and safety of their products. These probes rely on the principles of electromagnetic induction, offering precise and efficient inspection capabilities across a multitude of sectors.
What are Eddy Current Probes?
Eddy Current Probes, often simply referred to as Eddy Currents or EC probes, are non-contact testing devices employed to detect surface and near-surface defects in conductive materials. They offer straightforward and cost-effective solutions, providing swift, non-contact measurements of vibration, proximity, or displacement in static or rotating machinery whenever required.
How Do Eddy Current Probes Work?
Eddy Current Probes consist of a coil through which an alternating current is passed. When the coil is brought close to the test material, the alternating magnetic field induces eddy currents in the material. A second coil or sensor, located nearby, detects changes in the electromagnetic field caused by these eddy currents. The detected signal is then analysed to identify defects or inconsistencies in the material.
The key advantage of Eddy Current Probes is their ability to detect defects without physical contact with the material being tested. This non-contact nature is particularly valuable when inspecting delicate or sensitive surfaces, as it eliminates the risk of damage during the testing process. Moreover, Eddy Current Probes are highly sensitive and can detect defects in a wide range of materials, including metals, composites, and conductive coatings.
Industries Using Eddy Current Probes
Eddy Current Probes find applications in numerous industries where the quality and reliability of materials and components are paramount. Some of the key sectors that heavily rely on Eddy Current Probes include:
- Manufacturing: Eddy Current Probes play a vital role in ensuring the quality of manufactured goods, including metal parts, fasteners, and electrical connectors. They help identify defects early in the production process, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
- Oil and Gas: In the oil and gas sector, Eddy Current Probes are used to inspect pipelines, welds, and storage tanks for corrosion, stress cracking, and other defects that could lead to leaks or structural failures.
- Power Generation: Eddy Current Probes are instrumental in inspecting the integrity of power plant components, such as steam generator tubes in nuclear power plants and turbine blades in gas and steam turbines.
- Renewable Energy: Wind turbine blades and solar panel materials are subjected to Eddy Current testing to detect hidden defects and ensure the long-term performance of renewable energy installations.
What we offer
Our range of eddy current probes offers cost-effective and straightforward solutions for swiftly measuring vibration, proximity, or displacement in both static and rotating machinery, ensuring prompt and contactless assessment whenever needed.
They are:
- Resistant to contamination from oil, dirt, dust and water
- Ruggedly built and rigorously tested to withstand harsh conditions
- Manufactured in the UK to ISO 9001:2008
To find out more please take a look at our range of eddy current probes here or contact us now.