High Resolution SQUID Magnetometry for Non-destructive Evaluation
Abstract
Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetometers offer promise as multi-mode instruments capable of obtaining high resolution images of extremely low frequency injected currents or eddy currents, and they can be configured to image the magnetic susceptibility of titanium, aluminum and nonmetallic composites. While high resolution SQUID magnetometers will generally be noisier than conventional SQUIDs, the small coils and reduced coil-to-source spacing more than compensate to provide low-noise, high-resolution images. The high spatial resolution which can be obtained with SQUID magnetometers, the unparalleled sensitivity of SQUIDs at low frequencies, the ability to measure weak perturbations in strong applied magnetic fields, and the ability to discriminate against external sources of noise should make SQUID magnetometers well suited for NDE of deep flaws in aluminum and titanium aerostructures. To explore SQUID NDE, we have developed research facilities that include the high- resolution MicroSQUID magnetometer, a magnetic shield, a scanning stage, and a computer-based control and data acquisition system. Using this instrumentation, we have imaged magnetic fields produced by sources as varied as intrinsic currents due to corrosion or Johnson noise, remanent magnetization from ferromagnetic contamination, flaw-induced perturbations in either injected current or eddy currents induced by an AC field, Johnson noise currents in a copper ring, persistent currents in high transition-temperature superconductors, distributions of dia- or paramagnetism in an AC or DC magnetic field, and surface flaws decorated with a paramagnetic tracer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 30, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA268884
Entities
People
- John P. Wikswo, Jr.
Organizations
- Vanderbilt University