Ensuring the Integrity of Tubular Components
Eddy Current Testing (ET) is a key method for non-destructive evaluation of heat exchanger, condenser, and feedwater tubes. These components are vital to system efficiency but prone to corrosion, erosion, pitting, and cracking. ET enables fast and accurate condition assessment without removing tubes or disrupting operations.
The process inserts a calibrated probe—such as bobbin, rotating, or array—into the tube. Induced eddy currents flow within the tube wall, and any variation caused by flaws, thinning, or deposits modifies the coil impedance. These variations are displayed as impedance-plane signals, which are interpreted to locate and size defects.
BQCIS utilizes high-speed multi-frequency and array ET systems for efficient large-scale inspections. Our certified technicians deliver comprehensive integrity reports that help clients schedule maintenance, extend service life, and avoid costly unscheduled shutdowns.
Key ET Tube Inspection Activities
Key Benefits of ET for Tubes & Pipes
High-Speed Inspection
Enables inspection of thousands of tubes during scheduled maintenance periods, minimizing plant downtime and optimizing productivity.
Sensitive to Common Tube Flaws
Detects corrosion, pitting, wall loss, fatigue, and stress corrosion cracking with high precision, even beneath support plates.
No Couplant Required
A dry method that eliminates the need for coupling media, simplifying inspection of internal tube surfaces.
Provides Digital Record
Produces detailed signal traces and digital C-scan maps for traceable, repeatable, and auditable integrity records.
Success Story
Eddy Current Inspection Prevents Heat Exchanger Leak
A power generation facility needed to inspect thousands of brass tubes in a critical feedwater heater during a short outage window.
BQCIS mobilized multiple ET units with automated probe scanners. Calibration against reference tubes ensured accuracy throughout the inspection cycle.
Several tubes exhibiting internal pitting and wall thinning were identified and plugged preventively. The inspection results prevented potential failures and extended equipment reliability.