Electrical currents (eddy currents) are generated in a conductive material by a changing magnetic field.
There are factors which contribute to the strength of eddy currents such as:
- frequency
- applied voltage
- permeability;
- and lift-off.
Relevant indications are noted by the inspector when the flow of eddy currents is interrupted by a defect. These electrical currents are also affected by the electrical and magnetic permeability of a material, which allows this method to be used to sort some materials based on these properties.