Ferritescope Test a Non-Destructive Technique
Ferritescope Test Device
Ferrite content measurement, or ferrite-scope testing, is a non-destructive technique used by experienced lab technicians to measure the ferrite content of stainless steel and duplex steel welds. This technique is beneficial for industries that are exposed to high temperatures, hostile media, and high pressure, such as oil and gas, electricity, and process engineering plants. The Fischer ferrite scope device is a useful tool for this type of testing, as it is portable and provides accurate data quickly.
The ferrite content of steel welds affects the steel’s mechanical characteristics and ability to resist corrosion. If the ferrite content is too low, the weldment can be susceptible to solidification cracking or hot cracking. On the other hand, if the ferrite content is too high, the steel’s toughness, ductility, and corrosion resistance are reduced. The acceptable ferrite content of stainless steel and duplex steel welds is specified by the customer and is usually expressed as a ferrite number (FN) or ferrite percentage (%). These measurements are reported in accordance with relevant technical specifications (e.g., AWS A4.2, EN ISO 8249, SES 38.2 REV. 07, DEP 30.10.60.18, DEP 31.38.01.31). Test results are provided with drawings that illustrate the test area.
Advanced lab technicians utilize the magnetic induction method to measure ferrite content. This method uses a coil to create a magnetic field, which is then used to measure the voltage changes that correspond to the amount of ferrite in the specimen. All magnetic components of the steel, including martensite, are detected.
