Inspection of Multi-Layer Aluminum Structures in Aerospace
Defects in multi-layer aluminum structures can be difficult to detect from the surface. Eddy current testing enables reliable inspection of safety-critical areas, including bolt and bore holes, without damaging the component.
The challenge
Multi-layer aluminum structures are used in various areas of aircraft construction. Several aluminum sheets are joined together, creating a layered structure in which defects may occur at or below the surface.
Particularly critical areas include bore, bolt and fastener holes, where cyclic mechanical loads can lead to fatigue cracks. The multi-layer configuration can make inspection more challenging, as defects may occur at different depths and positions within the structure.
Reliable non-destructive testing is therefore essential to detect relevant defects at an early stage and support the safe operation and maintenance of aircraft components.
The solution
FOERSTER's TCM provides a portable platform for eddy current inspection of multi-layer aluminum structures directly on the aircraft or during maintenance.
For bolt and bore hole inspection, a dedicated reference standard can reproduce the relevant multi-layer configuration of the component. Defined reference defects allow the inspection setup to be calibrated and the signal response to be verified under representative conditions.
Depending on the inspection task and probe used, the TCM supports a range of aerospace applications, including:
- Surface and near-surface crack detection
- Bolt and bore hole inspection
- Eddy Current Array (ECA) inspection
- Electrical conductivity measurement for material verification
Adjustable test frequencies and application-specific probes allow the inspection setup to be adapted to different requirements, while intuitive signal evaluation supports reliable assessment directly on site.
The result
The portable TCM enables efficient eddy current inspection of multi-layer aluminum structures without damaging the inspected component. For bolt and bore hole applications, dedicated reference standards support reliable calibration and reproducible inspection conditions.
By combining multiple eddy current applications in a single compact platform, the TCM supports flexible inspection workflows in aerospace maintenance and helps identify defects in safety-critical areas.
The products
Multi-Method Inspection
TCM Product Family
One mobile device for all eddy current testing tasks