Eddy Current Testing
Eddy Current Testing (ECT) is a non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses electromagnetic induction to detect surface and near-surface flaws in conductive materials. It involves inducing eddy currents in the material with a probe coil and analyzing changes in the electromagnetic field caused by defects, such as cracks or corrosion. This technique is widely used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing for quality control and maintenance inspections.
Developers should learn Eddy Current Testing when working in fields involving material science, structural integrity, or industrial automation, particularly for applications requiring non-invasive inspection of conductive components. It is essential for ensuring safety and reliability in critical systems, such as aircraft structures, pipelines, and power plants, where detecting hidden defects without damaging the material is crucial. Use cases include flaw detection in metal parts, thickness measurement of coatings, and material sorting based on conductivity.