Sigma provides ASNT/PCN/NAS-410 Level I, II, & III technicians and inspectors for Eddy Current Array (ECA) Testing to detect anomalies (flaws) in welds, metal pipe, vessels, and metal floor/wall sheets.

ECA is an NDT/NDE method using electromagnetic induction to detect and characterize surface and sub-surface defects/flaws and corrosion/erosion in conductive materials. ECA is a series of single elements, arranged in a row, multiplexed together allowing the technician to cover a larger area in a single pass than a single element probe. Multiplexing activates and deactivates the elements in specific sequences to increase the overall width examined. Multiplexing also minimizes mutual inductance between elements and maximizes overall resolution.

ECA probes eliminate the raster scanning necessary when using single element probes. This reduces inspection time.

Benefits compared to single element

1. Quicker inspections
2. Larger coverage area
3. More consistent results
4. Higher resolution detection
5. Simpler scan patterns for easier analysis
6. Improved positioning and sizing because of encoded data
7. Customization of ECA probes facilitates inspection of hard-to-reach areas

Eddy current array for weld inspection of in-service weldments can detect surface-breaking cracks as small as .05 mm without extensive surface cleaning and preparation. ECA weld inspection detects fatigue cracks before they propagate. The technician analyses these measurements to determine the mechanical integrity of the asset and makes a pass/fail recommendation.

Certified technicians are available for call-out or long-term assignments. Sigma provides turnkey ECA inspection and reporting complete with equipment, consumables, vehicles (mileage), and accommodations required to perform NDT/NDE.