Standard Practice for Electromagnetic (Eddy-Current) Examination of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tubes

1.1 This practice covers the procedures that shall be followed in eddy-current examination of copper and copper-alloy tubes for detecting discontinuities of a severity likely to cause failure of the tube. These procedures are applicable for tubes with outside diameters to 31/8 in. (79.4 mm), inclusive, and wall thicknesses from 0.017 in. (0.432 mm) to 0.120 in. (3.04 mm), inclusive, or as otherwise stated in ASTM product specifications; or by other users of this practice. These procedures may be used for tubes beyond the size range recommended, upon contractual agreement between the purchaser and the manufacturer.

1.2 The procedures described in this practice are based on methods making use of encircling annular test coil systems.

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard.

Note 1-This practice may be used as a guideline for the examination, by means of internal probe test coil systems, of installations using tubular products where the outer surface of the tube is not accessible. For such applications, the technical differences associated with the use of internal probe coils should be recognized and accommodated. The effect of foreign materials on the tube surface and signals due to tube supports are typical of the factors that must be considered.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.