Asset Integrity Inspection with Eddy Current Testing

Asset integrity is a critical area of concern in industrial applications and factories. Two main factors that contribute towards compromising the reliability and the integrity of assets are – heat and chemical reactions. Heat exchangers start to deteriorate after a while as the expansion and contraction of the tubes inside the heat exchanger start to erode them. Also, these tubes rest against steel support plates, and after some time, through the passage of fluids at high speed through the tubes, there is circumferential cracking in the tubes. These result in the wear down of the asset. Similarly, chemical reactions can damage the tubes and the support plates, creating holes through the tubes. 

Eddy current testing is one of the commonly used non-destructive testing methods included in asset integrity management programs. Reasons for using this testing method are many: 

- It is a fast method with instant results

- Eddy current testing is a cheap and affordable method

- It is extremely useful and effective in detecting defects in tubes

- The test can be carried out through layers of paints and coats too

 

Of course, there are disadvantages too. For example, it cannot detect the circumferential defects in the plates and the tubes, and it should be used only with non-ferrous materials. It is a reliable method and a non-destructive method to enhance the life of assets. 

How does the test take place? 

Eddy current testing is one of the ideal ways to test the life of tubes in heat exchangers and steam generators, air coolers, heaters, and so on. This is why it is used in industries like petrochemicals, fertilizers, air conditioning, power generation, and chemical industries.  

Electromagnetic induction is the principle behind this test that is used for determining defects in tubes. A probe is made to enter the tube through its entire length. Eddy current generated in the probe is monitored along the length for electrical impedance. The result obtained is then used to assess if there is a defect that exists in the tube or not. The data generated through the test is then backed up to be used as a reference.

 

 

 

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