Rapid flaw depth estimation from SQUID-based eddy current nondestructive evaluation

A scheme to rapidly estimate the depth of an unknown flaw from finite element two dimensional calculations using sheet inducer geometry is described. The linear relationship between the phase of the defect magnetic field (difference between the magnetic field arising from eddy currents in flawed and unflawed regions of a plate) and the depth of a flaw is utilized along with two experimental SQUID-based eddy current nondestructive evaluation line scans—one with a flaw at a known depth for reference and the other with the unknown flaw. The results are in good agreement with experimental data obtained with a double-D coil.