Application of flaw detection methods for detection of fatigue processes in low-alloyed steel

The paper presents the investigations conducted in the Fraunhofer Institute (IZFP Saarbrücken) by use of a BEMI microscope (BEMI= Barkhausenrausch- und Wirbelstrom-Mikroskopie or Barkhausen Noise and Eddy Current Microscopy). The ability to detect cyclic and contact fatigue load influences has been investigated. The measurement amplitudes obtained with Barkhausen Noise and Eddy Current probes havebeen analysed. Correlation of measurement results and material’s condition has been observed in case of the eddy current mode method for frequencies above 2 MHz (for contact-loaded material samples). Detection of material’s fatigue process (at 80 % fatiguelife) in the sample subjected to series of high-cyclic loads has been proven to be practically impossible. Application of flaw detection methods in material fatigue tests requires modification of test methods and use of investigation methods relevant to physical parameters of the investigated material. The magnetic leakage field method, which has been abandoned by many researchers, may be of significant use in the material fatigue assessment and may provide new research prospects