When a magnetic field cuts through metal, a current is induced. If a magnetic field cuts a wire in a closed circuit, a current is induced round the circuit. However if a magnetic field cuts through a sample of metal that is not connected to a circuit, an 'Eddy Current' is produced. This eddy current is localised in the metal, and has a flow pattern. The flow pattern is disturbed by discontinuities from the surface to a shallow depth of penetration. The method is quick and very sensitive. No contact with the metal is required. All metals may be subject to this form of testing.

We can provide Eddy Current training suitable for PCN/EN473/ISO 9712 levels 1, 2, and 3, and ASNT Level 3. Alternatively we can provide training suitable for candidates working to a written practice based on SNT-TC-1A. Eddy Current Testing is separated into three specific product sectors for certification purposes: Welds, Wrought Products (Forgings), and Tubes. ET Wrought Products must have been completed before commencing ET Tubes.

Level 1

General Theory:

- Brief History of Testing
- Basic Principles of Testing
- Generation of eddy currents by means of an AC field
- Effect of fields created by eddy currents
- Effect of change of impedance on instrumentation
- Terminology and units
- Principles of magnetisation.
- Magnetisation - electromagnetism theory
- Flux leakage theory and principle
- Readout Mechanism
- Types of Eddy Current Sensing Elements
- Types of Flux Leakage Sensing Elements
- Safety as applicable to Eddy Current Testing and Electrical Safety.

Specific Theory:

Application of the Method and use of Codes, Specifications and Procedures, applicable to the Company, including the relevant control checks.

Level 2
In addition to Level 1:
General Theory:

- Review of Electromagnetic Theory
- Factors that affect Coil Impedance
- Factors that affect Flux Leakage Fields
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio
- Selection of Test Frequency
- Selection of Method of Magnetisation for Flux
- Leakage Testing
- Coupling
- Field Strength and Its Selection
- Field Orientation for Flux Leakage Testing
- Instrument Design Consideration
- Safety as applicable to Eddy Current Testing and Electrical Safety

Specific Theory:

Application of the Method to the Specific requirements of the Company, in particular making reference to those Codes, Specifications and Procedures used by the Company, including the relevant control checks.

INTRO/PRAC4 - 5 Days Practical Introduction to Eddy Current Testing (40 Hours) Welds Specific ETW4 - Half Day Refresher Course for ET Welds (4 Hours) ETW8 - Full Day Refresher Course for ET Welds (8 Hours) ETW40 - 5 Days Course for ET Welds suitable for PCN/SNT Level 1 (40 Hours) ETW80 - 10 Days Course for ET Welds suitable for PCN/SNT Level 2 Direct (80 Hours) Wrought Products (Forgings) Specific ETWP4 - Half Day Refresher Course for ET Forgings (4 Hours) ETWP8 - Full Day Refresher Course for ET Forgings (8 Hours) ETWP40 - 5 Days Course for ET Forgings suitable for PCN/SNT Level 1 (40 Hours) ETWP80 - 10 Days Course for ET Forgings suitable for PCN/SNT Level 2 Direct(80 Hours) Tube Testing Specific ETTT40 - 5 Days Course for ET Tube Testing suitable for SNT/PCN (40 Hours) ETTT80 - 10 Days Course for ET Tube Testing suitable for SNT/PCN Level 2 Direct(80 Hours)

Please note, there is a further charge if you require examination at the end of your training course, look at the examination page for details.

Eddy Current courses are available at the Penistone Training Centre on request. We can provide onsite training for your NDT personnel on request.

Please telephone the Lavender International office if you require help deciding which course you require on 01226 765769.

In addition to these Eddy Current Testing specific books, we also recommend some general books which are useful for learning about product technology (the processes involved during the production of metallic components):

Product Technology PCN (2,3)
Basic Metallurgy for NDT (2,3)
Materials and Processes for NDT (2,3)

Level 1 40 Hours Training 3 Months Work Experience

Level 2 40 Additional Hours Training 9 Additional Months Work Experience

The minimum requirements for Level 2 are additional to requirements already satisfied for Level 1. If you are wishing to go direct to level 2, the minimum work experience is 12 months, and the minimum training is 80 hours.

Note: The examination may be taken before the work experience is completed, however certificates are not issued until proof of work experience is provided. After passing the examination, a results notice is issued by PCN, you then have 12 months to complete the required work experience.

If you require training to comply with your employer's written practice, Lavender International will change the course to suit your company's procedure. For information about training for an employer based certification, please telephone the Lavender International office.