Eddy Current Testing: Higher Throughput, Smaller Flaw Detection, Greater Precision, and More Cost-Efficient NDT

Abstract Tie bolts used in aircraft wheels take the brunt of landing forces and are also heavily loaded during takeoff and taxiing. Because tie-bolt failures typically originate as small cracks either in the root of a bolt thread or where the bolt head joins the shank, early detection of cracks in those areas is essential. This article compares and contrasts nondestructive test methods that have been to inspect aircraft tie bolts, including liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, ultrasonic, and eddy current testing.