Numerical Simulation and Analysis on Magnetizing Exciter for Magnetic Flux Leakage

Abstract

Magnetic flux leakage (MFL) is a non-destructive testing method used to inspect the pipe and magnetization of the pipe wall to saturation is essential for anomalies to be reliably and accurately detected and characterized. Axial components of magnetic flux density obtained during the MFL inspection have been simulated using three-dimensional finite element analysis and the effects of magnetizing exciter parameters on magnetic flux density are investigated. The pipe modeled in this paper has an outer diameter of 127mm (5 in.) with a wall thickness of 9 mm (0.354 in.). According to numerical simulations, an increase in the magnetic flux density of pipe wall is observed with an increase in the permanent magnet length and height. It clearly illustrates that Nd-Fe-B permanent magnet assembly with 70 mm length and 40 mm height may magnetize pipe wall to near saturation.