ACFM INSPECTION

THROUGH COATINGS
TSC INSPECTION SYSTEMS

One of the main advantages of the uniform field used in the ACFM
technique is that it results in a relatively small reduction in signal
strength with probe lift-off. This means that ACFM is capable of
crack detection through several millimetres of non-conducting
coating. Typical applications of inspection through coatings include
paint, epoxy coatings, oxide layers, fire protection layers and marine
growth.

The maximum coating thickness through which a defect can be

detected depends on the defect size, the probe type, and the signal
noise. The rate at which the Bx signal amplitude drops off with
coating thickness for a standard 5kHz weld probe is shown overleaf.
The signal variation due to surface roughness, material property
variations etc. is usually less than 1%, so the data shows that, for
example, a 5mm deep defect in a good surface should be detectable
through more than 10mm of coating (for critical applications, users
should measure the actual level of signal noise on site).

Defect sizing algorithms, incorporated in TSC software, compensate

for coating thicknesses up to 4 or 5mm (depending on probe type).
For sizing through thicker coatings, refer to TSC.

ACFM can also be used through thin conducting coatings, such as

zinc galvanising and flame sprayed aluminium, although spurious
signals can occur if the coating is unevenly applied or flaking off.
 Effect of coating thickness on Bx for 5kHz weld probe

8%

7%

6%
Bx amplitude, %
5%
20x1mm slot
4% 20x2mm slot
50x5mm slot
3%

2%

1%

0%
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
Coating thickness, mm

The maximum coating thickness through which a defect should be detectable

(assuming a signal noise level of 1%) for three different probe types is shown
below.
Coating thickness at which Bx amplitude drops to 1%

14

12
Coating thickness, mm

10

8 weld probe
straight mini
6 right angle mini

0
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
Slot depth, mm

Due to our policy of continual improvement, specifications are subject to change without prior
notification. For critical applications, please contact TSC before ordering.

For further information, please contact:

TSC Inspection Systems

6 Mill Square, Featherstone Road
Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5RB
UNITED KINGDOM

Tel No: +44 (0) 1908 317444

Fax No: +44 (0) 1908 220959
Email: sales@tscinspectionsystems.com
Web: www.tscinspectionsystems.com

® ACFM is a registered trademark of Technical Software Consultants Ltd

Please Note: As part of its continuing programme of product improvement, TSC reserve
the right to alter specifications without prior notice.

TSC Inspection Systems is a trading name of Technical Software Consultants Ltd.