ISO 17643:2015 defines eddy current testing techniques for detection of surface breaking and near surface planar discontinuities, mainly in ferritic materials (weld material, heat-affected zones, base material).
Eddy current testing can also be specified for use with non-ferritic materials, for example in an application standard.
The techniques can be applied to coated and uncoated objects during fabrication and in service, both onshore and offshore.
Eddy current testing can be carried out on all accessible surfaces and on welds of almost any configuration.
Unless otherwise specified at specific items in this International Standard, the general principles of ISO 15549 apply.
NOTE Eddy current testing is usually performed in the as-welded condition. However, the accuracy of the results can be affected by very rough surface finishes.