Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) Inspection

Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) is an advanced inspection method based on the principles of Eddy Current (EC). It is typically used to detect flaws and corrosion which may be hidden under layers of coating, fireproofing, or insulation.

Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) inspection is a non-destructive testing (NDT) technique used for assessing the integrity of structures, particularly for detecting corrosion and thinning in metallic components. PEC is often applied to inspect large areas quickly, making it particularly useful for industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and aerospace.

Here are the key features and aspects of Pulsed Eddy Current Inspection:

Principal:

PEC is based on the principles of traditional eddy current testing, which involves inducing electrical currents in a conductive material using a time-varying magnetic field. PEC, however, uses a pulsed excitation technique to improve its capabilities for inspecting thicker structures.

Applications:

PEC is commonly applied in the oil and gas industry for inspecting pipelines, offshore structures, and storage tanks. It is also used in the aerospace and petrochemical industries for assessing the integrity of critical components.

Pulsed Excitation:

In PEC, a pulsed magnetic field is applied to the material under inspection. This pulsed excitation creates eddy currents in the material. The response of these eddy currents is then measured, and variations in the signal can indicate the presence of anomalies or changes in material thickness.In summary, IRIS inspection is a valuable NDT technique for assessing the condition of internal surfaces in tubular structures. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and safety of components in industries where tubing is a critical part of various processes.

Large Area Coverage:

PEC is designed to cover large areas quickly, making it suitable for inspecting extensive structures like pipelines, storage tanks, and pressure vessels. This capability helps in efficient and cost-effective inspections of industrial assets. Suitable for Coated Surfaces

Real-Time Data Analysis

PEC systems often include real-time data analysis capabilities, allowing inspectors to quickly assess the condition of the material during the inspection process. This can facilitate timely decision-making regarding maintenance or further investigation. Suitable for Coated Surfaces

Advantages:

Some advantages of PEC include its ability to provide information about material thickness, its capacity for large-area coverage, and its suitability for inspecting coated surfaces. It offers a balance between the depth of penetration and inspection speed. While PEC is a powerful inspection technique, it is essential to consider factors such as material properties, surface conditions, and the specific requirements of the inspection when choosing an NDT method.

Depth of Penetration

PEC is particularly well-suited for applications where the thickness of the material being inspected is relatively large. The depth of penetration is greater compared to traditional eddy current methods, allowing for effective inspection of thicker components.

Detection of Corrosion and Thinning:

PEC is commonly used to detect and quantify corrosion and thinning in metallic structures. By analyzing the changes in the eddy current response, the system can provide information about the thickness of the material and identify areas of potential concern.

Suitable for Coated Surfaces:

PEC can effectively inspect coated surfaces, making it useful in situations where the material under inspection is covered with paint, insulation, or other protective coatings.