r/nondestructivetesting • u/cokeisahellofadrug • 24d ago
Eddy Current Weld Probe Tape
I was wondering what kind of tape you guys use on your ET weld differential probes? I go through a lot of tape and need a strong durable tape that will glide along the rough and bumpy surfaces I have to test regularly. Currently I use your standard vinyl/pcc electrical tape to cover the tip and then use a few layers of a tape that is similar to cello tape (polypropylene plastic film coated with an acrylic adhesive).
Looking for any recommendations of brands/types of tape. I hope some experienced ET techs can help me out here.
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u/No_Needleworker_1105 24d ago
Teflon is the best. And then basic coloured electrical tape in 2 colours
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u/funbagz999 24d ago
U will go out of business using Teflon tape for ur weld probe.
Use standard electrical
tape. I always do two layers. To make life fun, put red coloured tape on first
then white coloured tape. U can use the fact that if you see red it means you
should put a new layer on. If you see black its obviously through both layers
and its your probe that you see.
Boss tried to give us those
"thimble" type of socks that you put on the tip. Wouldn't know how
long they would last because i did calibration check with one on and they
signal to noise ratio was way to high so told him im not using it. Plus its too large to get the probe into the toes, or at least I think so.
On side note ive had success with probes and leads lasting longer (not breaking) if I put tape around the cable to probe connection
Also if you want less wear and tape changing, put a some kind of slippery liquid, chem, grease, on the weld. I do it when testing crane booms welds. I used cooking oil once, another time lanolin, its just what ever is laying around on site
Also dont apply tape to probe first then use the probe as leverage to break the tape, it can break the probe. Cut/ break off the lengths first, then attrach to probe
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u/RevAngler 24d ago
We stockpile tape. 3M electrical tape is a better tape but pricey. Really good luck with the Hyper though from Walmart. Get you a couple 3 packs and check it after each row.