Papers by Keyword: Absolute Signal

Abstract: In this paper, absolute and differential eddy current signals from various shapes and sizes of defects in the steam generator tube are numerically predicted and their slope characteristics are investigated. The signal variations due to frequency increase are also observed. Then, the analysis of mixed defect signals affected by a ferromagnetic support plate is attempted. Axisymmetric finite element modeling is used for signal prediction and the slope angle of signal is used importantly in analyzing the signal. Results show that differential signals are useful for locating the position of a defect inside the support plate hole, while absolute signals are easy to presume and interpret even though the effect of support plate is mixed in the signal. Understanding of respective signal characteristics and relationship between them will be helpful for more reliable defect characterization.

Abstract: Steam generator tubes are expanded inside tubesheet holes and the crevice gap between tubesheet and the tube should be minimized. To examine tube expansion area, eddy current testing is usually used. In this paper, absolute and differential signals are computed by a numerical method for several different locations of transition region and signal variations due to tubesheet, tube expansion and operating frequencies are observed. Results show that low frequency is good for identifying the location of tubesheet, and high frequency is good for the measurement of expanded tube diameter and the recognition of transition region. In general, absolute signal is good for measuring tube diameter and the differential signal has advantages of locating tubesheet and both ends of the transition region.

Abstract: In this paper, eddy current signals from various anomalous defects in the steam generator tube are numerically predicted and their signal slope characteristics are investigated. The signal variations due to increased frequencies are also observed. Based on the accumulated knowledge, the analysis of compound signal is attempted which includes the effect of support plate. Both differential and absolute bobbin probe signals are analyzed. For the signal prediction, axisymmetric finite element modeling is used and this leads us to the utilization of slope angle analysis of the signal. Results show that differential signals are useful for locating the position of defect under the support plate, while absolute signals are easy to presume and interpret even though the effect of support plate is mixed. Combined use of these two types of signals will help us accomplish a more reliable inspection.