ISO 17643-2015 PDF

Full title and description

ISO 17643:2015 — Non-destructive testing of welds — Eddy current testing of welds by complex‑plane analysis. This International Standard specifies eddy current testing (ECT) techniques using complex‑plane (vector) analysis for detection and characterization of surface‑breaking and near‑surface planar discontinuities in welds and adjacent areas, primarily for ferritic materials. It is intended for application on coated or uncoated components during fabrication and in service.

Abstract

ISO 17643:2015 defines standardized procedures and performance characteristics for eddy current testing of welds using complex‑plane (amplitude and phase) analysis. The standard covers inspection objectives, instrumentation and display requirements, calibration and reference practices, limitations related to surface condition and material type, and the relationship to general eddy current principles (see ISO 15549). It is principally aimed at detection of surface‑breaking and near‑surface planar defects in weld metal, heat‑affected zones and base material, with guidance for application to non‑ferritic materials when specified by an application standard.

General information

• Status: Published (confirmed).
• Publication date: 2015-09-07 (Edition 2, September 2015).
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
• ICS / categories: 25.160.40 (Non-destructive testing of welds).
• Edition / version: Edition 2 (2015).
• Number of pages: 14.

Scope

This standard specifies eddy current testing techniques based on complex‑plane (vector) analysis for detection of surface‑breaking and near‑surface planar discontinuities in welds and adjacent areas. It is primarily intended for ferritic materials (weld metal, heat‑affected zone and base metal) but can be applied to non‑ferritic materials when an application standard so requires. The methods apply to coated and uncoated components, during fabrication and in service, and to accessible weld geometries where eddy current access is practicable. ISO 15549 general principles apply unless otherwise stated.

Key topics and requirements

• Detection target: surface‑breaking and near‑surface planar discontinuities in welds, HAZ and base material.
• Methodology: complex‑plane (amplitude and phase/vector) analysis for signal interpretation and discrimination of indications.
• Instrumentation requirements: equipment capable of amplitude and phase measurement, complex‑plane display, phase control/rotation and freeze/display functions suitable for analysis.
• Calibration and references: use of representative calibration blocks and reference reflectors; procedures for sensitivity setting and verification.
• Personnel and procedures: inspection performed by qualified NDT personnel following written procedures (refer to qualification schemes such as ISO 9712 where applicable).
• Limitations and surface condition: guidance on effects of coatings, surface roughness and geometry; note that very rough surfaces can affect result accuracy.
• Applicability: coated/uncoated items, onshore and offshore service conditions, and a wide range of weld configurations provided surface access is available.

Typical use and users

Used by NDT engineers and technicians, welding inspectors, quality assurance personnel and asset integrity teams in industries such as petrochemical, power generation, shipbuilding, rail, aerospace (where applicable), pressure‑vessel and structural fabrication. Typical applications include routine weld inspection during manufacture, in‑service inspection for fatigue or corrosion‑related cracking, and specialized assessments where surface/near‑surface planar defects are a concern.

Related standards

Commonly referenced or complementary standards include ISO 15549 (Eddy current testing — General principles), ISO 9712 (Qualification and certification of NDT personnel), ISO 17637 (Visual testing of fusion‑welded joints), ISO 17635 (General rules for NDT of welds / selection of methods and acceptance guidance), and standards addressing weld quality levels such as ISO 5817 and ISO 10042 for acceptance criteria and quality classification.

Keywords

eddy current testing, ECT, weld inspection, non‑destructive testing, complex‑plane analysis, vector display, surface‑breaking defects, near‑surface defects, ferritic materials, calibration, NDT personnel qualification.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 17643:2015 is an International Standard that specifies eddy current testing techniques using complex‑plane (amplitude and phase) analysis for inspection of welds to detect surface‑breaking and near‑surface planar discontinuities.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the scope of inspection, instrumentation and display requirements for complex‑plane analysis, calibration and reference practices, limitations (surface condition, coatings and geometry), and how to apply general eddy current principles (ISO 15549) to weld inspections.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: NDT technicians and engineers, welding inspectors, QA/QC teams and asset integrity professionals in industries that require weld inspection—manufacturing, petrochemical, power, shipbuilding and similar sectors—use this standard to define ECT procedures and performance expectations.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ISO 17643:2015 is the second edition (2015) and is published as the active edition. It replaced the 2005 edition; users should check national adoptions or later ISO reviews for confirmation of current status in their jurisdiction.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It forms part of the family of ISO standards on non‑destructive testing of welds and on eddy current testing. It is linked with ISO 15549 (general ECT principles), ISO 17635 and ISO 17637 (other weld inspection methods), and standards covering personnel qualification such as ISO 9712.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Key keywords include: eddy current testing, complex‑plane analysis, welds, non‑destructive testing, surface discontinuities, near‑surface defects, ferritic materials, calibration, NDT personnel.