Characterization and implementation of a GMR based probe for eddy current testing

Issue title: Selected Papers from the 13th International Symposium on Applied Electromagnetics and Mechanics (ISEM 2007)

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Tamburrino, A.^a | Ventre, S.^{a; *} | Ferrigno, L.^a | Udpa, S.^b

Affiliations: [a] Association EURATOM/ENEA/CREATE – DAEIMI, Università di Cassino, Via G. Di Biasio, 43 – 03043 Cassino, Italy | [b] Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI-48824, USA

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author. Tel.: +39 0776 299 4345; Fax: +39 0776 299 3707; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: The aim of this work is to describe an eddy current non-destructive testing system employing Giant Magnetoresistive (GMR) sensors. GMR sensors are solid state devices capable of measuring the magnetic flux density. The use of GMR sensors in the framework of eddy current testing is motivated by their intrinsically high sensitivity, large bandwidth and low cost. This paper is specifically focused on the development of a GMR based probe integrated into an eddy current testing system for detecting the presence of millimeters size cracks in highly conductive materials such as Aluminum.

Keywords: Eddy current testing, giant magneto resistance

DOI: 10.3233/JAE-2008-992

Journal: International Journal of Applied Electromagnetics and Mechanics, vol. 28, no. 1-2, pp. 329-336, 2008