In a standard Eddy Current Testing setup, what is the role of the oscilloscope?

The oscilloscope serves a crucial role in an Eddy Current Testing setup by allowing the technician to visualize and analyze the signals generated during the test. When an alternating current passes through the probe, it creates changing magnetic fields that induce eddy currents in the conductive material being tested. Any disruptions, such as cracks or other discontinuities, will alter these eddy currents and produce corresponding changes in the electrical signals.

The oscilloscope captures these variations, displaying the data as waveforms that can be interpreted to determine the integrity of the material. Technicians analyze the amplitude, frequency, and phase shifts of these signals to identify anomalies and assess the overall condition of the component being tested. This function is vital for quality control and safety assessments in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing.

While calibration of the equipment and other measurements are important aspects of Eddy Current Testing, they do not pertain directly to the oscilloscope's primary function of signal visualization and analysis. Thus, the selected answer accurately encompasses the oscilloscope's purpose in this context.