Analysis of PEC technique and external magnetic fields for detection of corrosion under insulation: 3D finite element model

Metal piping in industrial plants is subject to corrosion under insulation, which reduces the wall thickness and limits service life operating conditions. The Pulsed Eddy Current (PEC) technique can be effective inspection of isolated metallic materials. However, changes magnetic permeability make its use difficult ferromagnetic steels. In this work, we used Neodymium magnets magnetize material during tests with a probe. We developed 3D finite element model reproduce field PEC probe identify defects insulation. Theoretical results satisfactorily matched experimental results.