Alternating current field measurement
Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM) is an electromagnetic technique for non-destructive testing detection and sizing of surface breaking cracks. It was derived from the methods used in eddy-current testing and works on all metals, ferrous or non-ferrous. Since it doesn't require direct electrical contact with the surface it can work through coatings such as paint or rust.
Use
The system was originally developed in the early 1990 for the sub-sea and topside inspections of offshore structures without the need to remove the item's protective coating. Since then it has been successfully applied to onshore process plants. Applications include in-service inspection of welded items and crack detection in vessels.
Method
The ACFM probe induces a uniform alternating current in the area under test and detects magnetic field of the resulting current near the surface.
This current is undisturbed if the area is defect free. A crack redirects the current around the ends and faces of the crack. The ACFM instrument measures these disturbances in the field and uses mathematical modelling to estimate crack size.[1] The lateral and vertical components of the magnetic field are analyzed; disturbances indicate a crack is present, and the size and depth of the crack can be calculated.
Capabilities
The method both detects cracks and estimates their size and length. It can inspect any electrically conductive material. Data is recorded electronically for off-line evaluation if necessary and provides a permanent record of indications. Tests can be repeated and compared over time for ongoing monitoring.
The method is non-invasive and can carry out inspection without removing any protective paint coating. With suitable probes, the method can be used on hot surfaces.
Limitations
- Not recommended for short sections or small items.
- Locations of weld repairs and localised grinding can cause spurious indications.
- Crack length needs to be longer than 5 mm. Multiple defects reduce the ability to estimate defect depth.
- Equipment more bulky than for MT and indications may be more difficult to interpret.
The probability of detection and false detection rate is generally good, but it is application dependent.
Preparation
Non-adherent protection such as insulation must be removed. The system can operate through non-conductive adherent coatings, but there may be a need to remove heavy or loose scale and spatter.
References
- ↑ Paul E. Mix,Introduction to nondestructive testing: a training guide, John Wiley and Sons, 2005, ISBN 0-471-42029-8 pages 124-126