Finite element optimization of field configuration for the eddy current testing of roller bearing rib rings

Abstract

Eddy current probes are being used widely in manufacturing industries for the nondestructive testing (NDT) of electrically conductive materials and products. Although significant progress has been made in recent years in modeling of electromagnetic fields and NDT phenomena, little attention has been given to the optimization of probe field configuration for maximum sensitivity. As a result, the design of eddy current sensors still remains empirical. This paper describes the application of the finite element numerical method to the design of a special purpose eddy current probe used in the nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of rib rings to ensure adequate case depth (rib rings provide seating for rollers in single row unitized tapered roller bearings). Presented in this paper are (a) the geometry of the developed probe with dual primary, (b) results of finite element model analyses, (c) comparison of test data with predicted outputs, and (d) the performance of this new probe in production testing.