Nondestructive differential eddy current testing for corrosion detection on coated aluminium alloys

Purpose The objective of this study is to use non-destructive testing of corrosion on coated aluminium alloys using differential eddy current detection (DECD), with the aim of elucidating the relationship between the characteristics of corrosion defects and the detection signal. Design/methodology/approach Pitting corrosion defects of varying geometrical dimensions were fabricated on the surface of aluminium alloy plates, and their impedance signals were detected using DECD to investigate the influence of defect diameter, depth, corrosion products and coating thickness on the detection signals. Furthermore, finite element analysis was used to ascertain the eddy current distributions and detection signals under different parameters. Findings The size of the defect is positively correlated with the strength of the detection signal, with the defect affecting the latter by modifying the distribution and magnitude of the eddy current. An increase in the diameter and depth of corrosion defects will enhance the eddy current detection (ECD) signal. The presence of corrosion products in the corrosion defects has no significant effect on the eddy current signal. The presence of a coating results in a decrease in the ECD signal, with the magnitude of this decrease increasing with the thickness of the coating. Originality/value The objective is to provide experimental and theoretical references for the design of eddy current non-destructive testing equipment and eddy current testing applications.