Alternating Current Field Measurement (ACFM)

Alternating current field measurement (ACFM) is an electromagnetic technique used for the detection and sizing of surface-breaking cracks in metallic components and welds. It combines the advantages of the alternating current potential drop (ACPD) technique and Eddy Current Testing (ECT) in terms of defect sizing without calibration and ability to work without electrical contact respectively.

The ACFM probe introduces an electric current locally into the part and measures the associated electromagnetic fields close to the surface. The presence of a defect disturbs the associated fields and the information is graphically presented to the system operator. The ends of a defect are easily identified to provide information on defect location and length. Through wall extent of the flaw plays an important role in determining structural integrity and the same is calculated using mathematical computation thus allowing an immediate evaluation of the implication of the indication. ACFM inspection can be performed through paint and coatings, hence it is considered to be a faster and economic technique than others (E.g. magnetic particle inspection (MPI)