Near-field array (NFA) is the multiplexed evolution ofnear-field testing (NFT). Thanks to its sizing capabilities, it is an excellent alternative to IRIS infin-fan air coolers and ferromagnetic heat exchanger tubing.

NFA technology functions in transmit-receive mode. A single bobbin coil acts as the transmitter to generate the near field, an absolute bobbin receiver coil detects and sizes the general internal wall loss, and up to two rows of multiplexed receiver coils cover the entire inner surface of aluminum-finned tubes (full 360°). With up to 30 optimized coils and thanks to channel multiplexing, NFA is capable of generating high-quality signals yielding a very good signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that allow detecting circumferential and axial cracking. The coil configuration of NFA also enables C-scan imaging despite a scan speed equivalent to NFT at 300 mm/s (12 in/s) in tubes ranging from 19.1 mm to 38.1 mm (0.75–1.50 in) in diameter. So doing, NFA technology gives probes the necessary resolution to reliably detect and size small, volumetric defects approximately 3.2 mm (1/8 in) in a single pass.

Compared to other inspection technologies, near-field array technology is easier to deploy. NFA does not incorporate any magnets, so probes are easy to push and pull through tubes, and are not as sensitive to pull speed as MFL probes. NFA probes also do not require water or complex tools, making them much easier to use than IRIS.

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Benefits

• Inspect air cooler tube with a high-resolution array, providing intuitive C-scans at NFT speeds

• Detecting and sizing internal defects in one pass

• Detecting axial and circumferential cracks

• Easy to use (no magnet = easy to push and pull)