Eddy Current Testing (ET) for EWPs
Eddy current testing is an electromagnetic non-destructive method used to find surface and near-surface cracks in conductive components. On elevated work platforms it is valuable where fatigue cracking tends to start — around highly stressed connections and fittings — and it can often detect flaws without stripping paint or coatings, which makes it a practical tool during inspection and repair verification.
We coordinate eddy current testing as one option within a wider NDT toolkit, choosing it when its characteristics suit the component and the flaw being investigated. Because no couplant is needed and the method responds to changes in a component's conductivity and geometry, ET is well suited to spot-checking fasteners, fittings and localised areas quickly. Every test is interpreted against acceptance criteria and documented so it supports your inspection records.
Built For
- Fleet owners investigating suspected fatigue cracking
- Inspectors verifying highly stressed connections and fittings
- Operators preparing plant for a major inspection
- Asset managers in mining, rail and utilities
- Anyone needing localised crack detection without stripping coatings
Equipment & Coverage
- Highly stressed fittings, lugs and connection points
- Fasteners and threaded components
- Surface and near-surface regions of conductive members
- Localised areas of suspected fatigue cracking
- Components where couplant or coating removal is impractical
The Process
Scope the check
We confirm which components and areas need testing and why — routine verification, fatigue investigation or post-repair confidence.
Confirm ET suits the job
Eddy current is selected where surface and near-surface flaw detection on conductive material is what the situation calls for.
Test & interpret
The component is tested and the signal interpreted against acceptance criteria so real cracks are distinguished from harmless features.
Document
Findings are recorded with locations and severity so the results feed directly into your inspection and repair history.
Compliance & Standards
Eddy current testing supports the structural assessment expected under AS 2550.10 for elevated work platforms designed to AS/NZS 1418.10. As with any NDT, the method is chosen to suit the material and the type of flaw being investigated, and the results are interpreted against acceptance criteria so they are meaningful and defensible. ET is one method among several — the right choice depends on the component, not habit.
Why EWP Australia
- Detects surface and near-surface cracks in conductive components
- Often works without removing paint or coatings
- No couplant required, suiting quick localised checks
- Chosen only where its characteristics suit the component
- Documented results with locations and severity for your records
Eddy Current vs MPI vs Ultrasonic — Method Characteristics
A general comparison of common NDT methods used on EWP components. The right method is chosen to suit the material and the flaw, not by preference.
| Method | Detects | Materials | Notable characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eddy Current (ET) | Surface & near-surface cracks | Conductive materials | No couplant; can often work through coatings; suited to localised spot checks |
| Magnetic Particle (MPI) | Surface & slightly sub-surface cracks | Ferromagnetic materials | Requires magnetisation; surface generally needs to be accessible and reasonably clean |
| Ultrasonic (UT) | Internal & volumetric flaws | Wide range of materials | Assesses internal integrity and thickness; typically needs couplant and a trained interpreter |
Figures are indicative of typical equipment classes, not a specific unit. Confirm exact specifications for any machine before hire or purchase.
Common Questions
What is eddy current testing used for on an EWP?
It is used to find surface and near-surface cracks in conductive components, particularly around highly stressed fittings, fasteners and connection points where fatigue cracking tends to begin. It is one method within a wider NDT toolkit, chosen when its characteristics suit the component.
How does eddy current testing differ from MPI?
Magnetic particle testing detects surface and slightly sub-surface cracks in ferromagnetic materials by magnetising the part, while eddy current testing uses electromagnetic induction to detect surface and near-surface flaws in conductive materials, often without removing coatings and without couplant. The choice depends on the material and access.
When would ultrasonic testing be used instead?
Ultrasonic testing is chosen when internal or volumetric integrity is in question — for example assessing the inside of a weld or measuring thickness — rather than surface-breaking cracks. Eddy current focuses on surface and near-surface flaws, so the two methods complement rather than replace each other.
Does eddy current testing damage the component?
No. Like all non-destructive testing, it assesses the component without cutting, sectioning or otherwise damaging it, so the part can go back into service once the results confirm it is sound.
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