On Boundary Integral Equation Method for Field Distribution under Cracked Metal Surface

Abstract

<p>Two approaches to the problem of the AC magnetic field distribution inside conducting media are currently used. One consists of solving the quasi-stationary Maxwell differential equations subject to certain boundary conditions. Another one is based upon certain boundary integral equations that involve only the field components at the boundary surface [1,2]. Aside from some numerical advantage in treating unknowns of a lower dimension, the second method fits better the common formulation of the eddy current NDE, which aims at determination of the total impedance of a metal part (or its change due to a defect). The impedance is related to the integrated energy flux through the metal surface and as such it can be expressed in terms of the field components at the surface exclusively.</p>