Pulsed Eddy Current Testing (PEC)
Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) works on low alloy carbon steel by briefly magnetizing the ferrous metal through the insulation.
PEC may be used on larger diameter piping and pressure vessels with excellent results. The wall thickness of piping and plates should be between 0.25” and 2.5”. Insulation thickness may be up to 8”. Jacketing thickness for stainless steel, aluminum, and galvanized steel should be less than 1mm.
When determining the best method for your industry and company requirements, there are many factors that should be evaluated. Examine the following characteristics of conventional industrial radiography testing on piping.
Characteristics of PEC
- There is no risk of radiation with PEC, it is 100% safe to resume operations while testing.
- No insulation (up to 8”) removal or surface prep required. Requires uniform insulation thickness for best results.
- Measures corrosion and wall thickness.
- Most appropriate for larger diameter vessel shell & heads.
- Accurately measures single wall on pipe above 6″ without isolated pitting.
- Technicians can inspect up to 100 locations per day.
- PEC is able to provide real-time results.
Limitations
- Insulation over 8” may require removal.
- Cannot measure water or ice in insulation.
- Results are affected by nearby flanges, valves, pipe supports, or other ferrous steel components. Cannot reliable measure nested piping.
- Not appropriate piping under 6″ diameter (including insulation and jacketing) or where isolated pitting is present.
Consider a better method for testing your piping.
Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) is best for testing larger, flatter surfaces such as vessels.
Compare an alternative that doesn’t require you to settle. Radiometric Profiling (RP) can accurately interrogate all piping up to 24” diameter at a rate of 200+ test locations per day.
