nondestructive electric test

[picasa]

The specification ASTM A 213 item 10 on page 6 talks about nondestructive electric test for heat exchanger tubes. What is this test for? Does it serve the same purpose as hydrostatic test? Where is it decribed? Is there any ASTM spec that details how to perform this test?

 

[stanweld]

These are eddy current tests. See ASME Sec. V Article 8 and SE-243, amongst other ASTM standards. It tests for surface flaws among other capabilities.

 

[ndeguy]

picasa

Specialist contractors perform Eddy Current (ET), Remote Field Eddy current (RFET) and Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) which are tube inspection methods for pits, cracks, corrosion, baffle wear. IRIS is an ultrasonic inspection of tubes. Often two inspection methods are utilised as they all ahve theri strengths and weaknesses. RFET may be used to pick up indications and followed by IRIS for defect sizing.

Here is a link to a descriptive paper:

http://www.ndt.net/article/apcndt01/papers/7/7.htm

 

[deanc]

When you use a spec. you need to read the entire thing. The first or second page will give you the references.

 

[stanweld]

picasa,
Further to my comments, the electric test may be used iun lieu of hydrotest by the manufacturer unless otherwise stated in the Purchase Order. Most, if not all tube manufacturers have in line automated eddy current testing facilities. When properly, setup, maintained and operated, eddy current testing is an excellent test method. When inproperly performed, the test can be useless. I have seen improperly operated equipment fail to find through wall defects at two different tube manufacturers.