applied

sciences
Article
An Investigation on Eddy Current Pulsed
Thermography to Detect Surface Cracks on the
Tungsten Carbide Matrix of Polycrystalline Diamond
Compact Bit
Changhang Xu *, Xumei Gong, Wuyang Zhang and Guoming Chen
College of Mechanical and Electronic Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Qingdao 266580, China;
gongxumei101@163.com (X.G.); 15666139907@163.com (W.Z.); gmchen@upc.edu.cn (G.C.)
* Correspondence: chxu@upc.edu.cn; Tel.: +86-532-8698-3503 (ext. 8707)

Academic Editors: Andrea Paglietti and Cem Selcuk

Received: 22 January 2017; Accepted: 17 April 2017; Published: 23 April 2017

Abstract: Polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits are commonly used drill bits in the petroleum
drilling industry. Cracks often occur on the surface of a bit, which may result in the unexpected
suspension of the drilling operation, or even accidents. Therefore, the detection of surface cracks on
PDC bits is of great importance to ensure continuous drilling operation and to prevent accidents.
However, it is extremely difficult to detect such cracks by visual inspection or other traditional
nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques due to the small size of cracks and the irregular geometry
of bits. As one emerging NDT technique, eddy current pulsed thermography (ECPT) can instantly
detect surface cracks on metal parts with irregular geometry. In this study, the feasibility of ECPT of
detecting surface cracks on the tungsten carbide matrix of PDC bits was investigated. A successive
scanning detection mode is proposed to detect surface cracks by using ECPT with a low power
heating excitation unit and small-size coils. The influence of excitation duration on the detection
result was also investigated. In addition, principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to
process the acquired IR image sequences to improve detection sensitivity. Finally, the whole shape
of a crack was restored with processed images containing varied cracks segments. Based on the
experimental results, we conclude that the surface cracks on the tungsten carbide matrix of PDC bit
can be detected effectively and conveniently by ECPT in scanning mode with the aid of PCA.

Keywords: polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits; the tungsten carbide matrix; surface crack
detection; eddy current pulsed thermography; PCA

1. Introduction
Polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits have been widely used in the onshore and offshore
petroleum drilling industry for many years. However, after a PDC bit has served for a long period of
time, or when it encounters complicated geological formation conditions during its service life, defects
may occur on its surface or inside. These defects include abrasion, wear, cutting teeth falling-off,
surface cracks, stress concentration, and so on [1,2]. Among these defects, surface cracks are fatal
defects because they may gradually expand and finally lead to the entire failure of the PDC bit.
Moreover, the dimensions of the surface crack, especially the width, are usually very small, which
makes it difficult to be detected by visual inspection.
The magnetic particle testing technique has been widely used for detecting surface defects on
the drilling bit matrix. However, in order to avoid a situation where the remaining contamination
reduces the detection sensitivity, surface cleaning is usually required, which makes the detection job
much more time-consuming and complicated. Therefore, several other testing techniques have been

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429; doi:10.3390/app7040429 www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 2 of 12

employed to detect surface or internal defects in drilling bits in recent years. Lund et al. conducted
nondestructive inspection for internal defects on a rotary drill bit using an ultrasonic technique [3].
Sullivan et al. proposed a method based on an ultrasonic phased array to identify and characterized
internal defects in a rotary drill component [4]. Williard et al. demonstrated that a scanning acoustic
microscope (C-SAM) can be used to detect defects at the PDC cutter of a drill bit [5]. Bellin [6] proposed
a method of acoustic emissions for testing the toughness of PDC inserted in a drill bit. These testing
techniques showed sound inspection capabilities for PDC bits. However, there are still disadvantages
in these methods, such as the difficulties of using acoustic couplant on the irregular surface of PDC
bits, low detection efficiency, or indirect detection results. Therefore, it is necessary to develop other
effective and suitable methods for detecting surface cracks on PDC bits.
Combining high sensitivity of eddy current testing and visualization of IR thermography, eddy
current pulsed thermography (ECPT), a kind of active thermography, has been widely applied to detect
surface defects on conductive materials. Previous research has demonstrated the efficacy of ECPT
to detect surface cracks on steel wires [7], metal compressor blades [8], and rail track due to rolling
contact fatigue [9], etc. In addition, He et al. detected steel corrosion and investigated the influence
of testing parameters on detection accuracy of ECPT [10,11]. Xu et al. investigated the feasibility of
ECPT for hidden crack detection on corroded metal surfaces [12]. Xie et al. stated that multiple defects
on ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic metallic surfaces can be detected using ECPT [13]. ECPT has
also been used to detect various defects in carbon fiber composites [14,15]. However, there has not
been any report on the application of ECPT to detect surface defects on PDC bits. The main possible
difficulties for using ECPT to detect surface defects on PDC bits come from its large volume and
weight. Firstly, it is very difficult to excite the whole bit one time because the required power of
heating excitation will be extremely high. Additionally, the size of the excitation coil needs to be large
enough to generate sufficient heat for the entire surface of PDC bits. Therefore, it is not feasible to raise
the temperature of the tested object with one or several heating excitations to detect surface defects
on PDC bits using conventional ECPT. Hence, it is necessary to develop a new detection mode for
ECPT to detect surface cracks on PDC bits. Some researchers have proposed scanning thermography
techniques, such as line scanning thermography, scanning induction thermography, and so on [16–18].
These scanning thermography techniques can achieve defect detection on a large area or cylinder.
For example, Thomas et al. demonstrated that scanning induction thermography is effective for defect
detection of composite components with flat surfaces [18]. Such achievements motivate us to develop
a new scanning mode for ECPT to detect surface cracks on PDC bits with more complicated geometry.
We aim to investigate the feasibility of using ECPT to detect surface cracks on the tungsten carbide
matrix of PDC bits in this work. A new scanning detection mode for ECPT is proposed according to
the surface features of the bit’s matrix. The influence of excitation duration on the detection result is
analyzed, and principal component analysis (PCA) is then used to process the IR image sequences
to further improve detection sensitivity. Finally, the whole crack is reconstructed by integrating IR
images of varied crack segments. The paper is organized as follows. After the introduction of the
research background in Section 1, the mechanism of detection of surface cracks on the matrix of PDC
bits using ECPT is described, and the theory of PCA for IR image processing is presented in Section 2.
Section 3 introduces the experimental setup. Section 4 presents experimental results and discussions.
Section 5 concludes the paper.

2. Methodology

2.1. Fundamental of ECPT

A basic schematic diagram of ECPT is shown in Figure 1a. A coil with high frequency alternating
current (AC) produces a short burst of electromagnetic excitation and thereby induces eddy currents
(ECs) in the conductive material. The induced ECs concentrate in a skin depth of homogeneous
material, and a local temperature rise can then be caused by the effect of Joule heating from the eddy
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 3 of 12

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 3 of 12

currents. The heat will be conducted from the heated area to other places until a thermal balance
currents. The heat will be conducted from the heated area to other places until a thermal balance is
is finally reached. In case there is a surface crack in a conductive material, as depicted in Figure 1a,
finally reached. In case there is a surface crack in a conductive material, as depicted in Figure 1a,
thethe
presence
presence ofofa acrack
crackcan
can cause
cause aa diversion
diversionininthethe
ECEC flow
flow andand
heatheat conduction,
conduction, whichwhich leads to
leads to
a different temperature distribution pattern on the surface [19]. Hence, the crack can be detected
a different temperature distribution pattern on the surface [19]. Hence, the crack can be detected by by
thethe
variation of temperature distribution between the defect and the surrounding sound
variation of temperature distribution between the defect and the surrounding sound areas in theareas in the
IR images.
IR images.

Excited crack segments

PositionI

Moving

PositionII Crack

Width

(a) (b)

Figure
Figure 1. 1.The
Thedetection
detection mechanism
mechanism forforcracks onon
cracks a polycrystalline diamond
a polycrystalline compact
diamond (PDC) (PDC)
compact bit: bit:
(a) principle of eddy current pulsed thermography (ECPT); (b) temperature distribution excited by
(a) principle of eddy current pulsed thermography (ECPT); (b) temperature distribution excited by
an annular coil.
an annular coil.
As mentioned above, due to its large volume and weight, it is difficult to thermally excite and
As mentioned
detect the bit onceabove,
using aduesmallto induction
its large volume and weight,
coil. In order it is difficult
to solve such a problem,to ECPT
thermally
with excite
low and
excitation power and a small-size coil is proposed here to detect surface
detect the bit once using a small induction coil. In order to solve such a problem, ECPT with cracks on the matrix of low
a PDC bit in scanning mode.
excitation power and a small-size coil is proposed here to detect surface cracks on the matrix of a PDC
From Figure
bit in scanning mode.1b, we can see the temperature distribution of a specimen with a surface crack on
the matrix excited by an annular coil with a small size, which is calculated with COMSOL. For a given
From Figure 1b, we can see the temperature distribution of a specimen with a surface crack on
position of the coil, only the annular region below the coil can be directly heated because the size of
the matrix excited by an annular coil with a small size, which is calculated with COMSOL. For a
the coil is much smaller than the length of the crack. It means that only the crack segment within and
given position
around of thecoil
the annular coil, only the
labeled annular
in Figure region
1b can belowdetected
be directly the coileach
cantime.
be directly
In order heated because the
to completely
sizedetect
of the
allcoil is much
segments smaller
of the crack, itthan the length
is necessary of the
to move thecrack. It means
excitation that only
coil to perform the crack
a scanning segment
heat
within and around
excitation. However,theitannular coil
is difficult to labeled in Figure
use continuous 1b canapproach
scanning be directly detected
presented each time.
in previous work In order
to completely detect all segments of the crack, it is necessary to move the excitation coil to perform a
[18] because PDC bits have an irregular (rather than flat) surface. Therefore, a successive scanning
mode isheat
scanning proposed for heatHowever,
excitation. excitation on PDC
it is bits. After
difficult to usefinishing one heating
continuous excitation
scanning at the present
approach presented in
position
previous (Position
work I), as shown
[18] because PDC in Figure
bits have 1b, the coil will be(rather
an irregular movedthanto theflat)
following position
surface. (Position
Therefore, II).
a successive
The rest can be done in the same manner until all positions are detected. Then, the crack will be
scanning mode is proposed for heat excitation on PDC bits. After finishing one heating excitation at
reconstructed by all segments in varied IR images captured in different positions. Obviously, such
the present position (Position I), as shown in Figure 1b, the coil will be moved to the following position
scanning heating mode makes it possible to ensure that all positions of a bit matrix are effectively
(Position II). The rest can be done in the same manner until all positions are detected. Then, the crack
heated because the coil can be placed in a flexible and suitable manner for each position.
will be reconstructed by all segments in varied IR images captured in different positions. Obviously,
such scanning
2.2. PCA-Basedheating mode makes it possible to ensure that all positions of a bit matrix are effectively
Image Reconstruction
heated because the coil can be placed in a flexible and suitable manner for each position.
Different regions, such as the crack, the coil, and the surrounding sound areas, present
distinctive thermal profiles in IR images. Therefore, we can take each region as an independent signal
2.2. PCA-Based Image Reconstruction
source and separately enhance the features of cracks. Here, PCA is used for source separation for
IRDifferent
images. regions, such as the crack, the coil, and the surrounding sound areas, present distinctive
thermal profiles in IR images. Therefore, we can take each region as an independent signal source and
separately enhance the features of cracks. Here, PCA is used for source separation for IR images.
Principal component analysis (PCA) [20–22] is a common image processing method usually
used in thermography to improve the sensitivity of crack detection. A detailed algorithm of PCA
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 4 of 12
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 4 of 12

Principal component analysis (PCA) [20–22] is a common image processing method usually used
can be found in a previous work [19]. Figure 2 shows the schematic diagram of PCA-based image
in thermography to improve the sensitivity of crack detection. A detailed algorithm of PCA can be
reconstruction
found in amethod.
previous Firstly,
work [19]. theFigure
IR image
2 shows sequences captured
the
schematic diagrambyof the IR camera
PCA-based imageare converted
to gray-level imagemethod.
reconstruction sequences. Here,
Firstly, the X Nsequences
IR image x , Ny , n captured
represents
by thethe pixel are
IR camera value of gray-level
converted to image
gray-level
sequences, whichimage
is a sequences.
3D matrix. The𝑋(𝑁
Here, Nx𝑥 ,×
𝑁𝑦 , N
𝑛) represents the pixel value of gray-level image
y means the resolution of camera, and n is the number
sequences, which is a 3D matrix. The 𝑁𝑥 × 𝑁𝑦 means the resolution of camera, and n is the
number
of images. Next, the 3D matrix X is transferred to a 2D matrix U Nx × Ny , n as the input data of
of images. Next, the 3D matrix X is transferred to a 2D matrix 𝑈(𝑁𝑥 × 𝑁𝑦 , 𝑛) as the input data of
image processing. Then,
image processing. thethe
Then, matrixUUisisprocessed
matrix processed by byPCA,
PCA,generating
generating the principal
the principal components (PCs).
components
Finally,(PCs).
the appropriate PCs are transferred
Finally, the appropriate to 2D to
PCs are transferred arrays to form
2D arrays new
to form images,
new images,which
which can
can improve the
improve the detection sensitivity and increase the signal-to-noise
detection sensitivity and increase the signal-to-noise ratio of raw IR images. ratio of raw IR images.

Raw IR image sequence

Gray-level image sequence

X(Nx, Ny, n)
Data transfer (3D to 2D)

2D data Y(Nx ×Ny, n)

PCA

PCs

Data transfer (1D to 2D)

Image reconstruction

2. Schematic
FigureFigure diagram
2. Schematic diagram of principal
of principal component
component analysis
analysis (PCA)-based
(PCA)-based image reconstruction.
image reconstruction.

The solution of PCA is mainly based on eigenvalue decomposition of whitening matrix (EVD),
The solution
as shown offollowing
in the PCA is equation.
mainly based on eigenvalue decomposition of whitening matrix (EVD),
as shown in the following equation. 𝐸{𝑈’(𝑡)𝑈’(𝑡)𝑇 } = 𝐸𝐷𝐸 𝑇 (1)
𝐸 is the orthogonal matrices of eigenvectors, D=diag(λ1 ,⋯,λN ) represents the eigenvalue
E{U 0 (t)U 0 (t) T } = EDE T
matrix, and λ1 ≥⋯≥λN is the eigenvalues. (1)
Eigenvalue decomposition can be expanded as
E is the orthogonal matrices
𝑇 }=𝐸𝐷𝐸 𝑇 of eigenvectors,
T D = diag(λ 1 ,-T·}W · ·-T, λ.N ) represents
(2) the eigenvalue
𝐸{𝑈’(𝑡)𝑈’(𝑡) PCA E{X’PCA (t)X’PCA (t)
=ED0.5 D0.5 E =W-1 PCA
matrix, and λ1 ≥ · · · ≥ λ N is the eigenvalues.
Among them, E{X’PCA (t)X’PCA (t)-T }=I, so Equation (2) can be simplified as
Eigenvalue decomposition can be expanded as
𝐸{𝑈’(𝑡)𝑈’(𝑡)𝑇 }=W-1 -T -1 -T
PCA IWPCA =WPCA WPCA . (3)
0 0 T T 0.5 0.5 T − 1 0 0 − T −T
E{U (t)UEquations
Combining (t) } =(2) EDE = we
and (3), EDcan D obtain E the=Equation { XasPCA
W PCA E(4) (t) X PCA (t) }WPCA
follows: . (2)
-1
WPCA =(ED ) =D E .
0.5 0.5 T
(4)
Among them,
Finally, theE{X
0
signal (t) X
vector
PCA
0
PCA (
matrix (𝑁t)𝑥 −×T𝑁}𝑦=
, n) I, so Equation
is separated (2) can be simplified as
by PCA:

X’ (t)=W −𝑈’(𝑡). (5)

(t)T }= PCA
E{U 0 (t)U 0PCA W PCA1 −T
IW PCA −1
= W PCA W −T . (3)
Each column of the matrix X’PCA (t) is a principal component, which canPCA
be transferred to a 2D
matrix and then used to conduct image reconstruction.
Combining Equations (2) and (3), we can obtain the Equation (4) as follows:

WPCA = ( ED 0.5 )−1 = D0.5 E T . (4)

Finally, the signal vector matrix (Nx × Ny , n) is separated by PCA:

X 0 PCA (t)= W PCA U 0 (t). (5)

Each column of the matrix X 0 PCA (t) is a principal component, which can be transferred to a 2D
matrix and then used to conduct image reconstruction.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 5 of 12

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 5 of 12

3. Experimental
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7,Setup
429 5 of 12
3. Experimental Setup
The experimental
3. Experimental Setupsetup
The experimental
in this study is shown in Figure 3a. An induction heating system
setup in this study is shown in Figure 3a. An induction heating system
(EasyHeat 0224,
(EasyHeat Ambrell, NY,
0224, Ambrell, USA) is usedis for thermal excitation. In order to fit
to the complex geometry
The experimental setupNY, in USA)
this study usedis for thermal
shown excitation.
in Figure 3a. AnIn order
induction fit heating
the complex
system
of a PDC bit, the
geometry
(EasyHeat excitation
of a PDC
0224, bit,coil
Ambrell, the
NY,isexcitation
designed
USA) iscoil asisan
used forannular
designed
thermal as coil
an as shown
annular
excitation. coil in Figure
as shown
In order to fitin3b. The
Figure
the induction
3b.
complex
heating The induction heating system provides a maximum excitation power of 2.4 kW,
geometry of a PDC bit, the excitation coil is designed as an annular coil as shown in Figureof3b.
system provides a maximum excitation power of 2.4 kW, a maximum a maximum
output output
current 380 A,
and an current of 380
excitation A, and anrange
frequency excitation
of frequencykHz.
150~400 rangeThe
of 150~400 kHz. Theresponse
temperature temperature
of response
the of the surface
specimen
The induction heating system provides a maximum excitation power of 2.4 kW, a maximum output
specimen surface is recorded by an infrared camera (SAT-HY6850) with 320 × 240 pixels at a frame
is recorded
currentby an infrared
of 380 A, and ancamera
excitation (SAT-HY6850)
frequency range with 320 × kHz.
of 150~400 240 pixels at a frameresponse
The temperature rate of 25 Hz and
of the
rate of 25 Hz and a spatial resolution of 1.3 rad. The thermal sensitivity of the camera is 80 mK and
specimen
a spatial surface
resolution of is recorded
1.3
the accuracy is ±2%. rad. Thebythermal
an infrared camera (SAT-HY6850)
sensitivity of the camera with
is 80 320
mK ×and
240 thepixelsaccuracy is ±2%.
at a frame
rate of 25 Hz and a spatial resolution of 1.3 rad. The thermal sensitivity of the camera is 80 mK and
the accuracy is ±2%.

Figure 3. Experimental setup: (a) each part of the experimental system; (b) zoomed view of the
Figure 3. Experimental setup: (a) each part of the experimental system; (b) zoomed view of the
excitation coil.
excitation coil.
Figure
A PDC3. Experimental setup:
bit retired from (a) each
oil drilling part
field is of theasexperimental
used experimentalsystem; (b) in
specimen zoomed viewasofshown
this study, the
excitation coil.
in Figure 4a. A PDC bit is comprised of three parts: a PDC cutter, a tungsten carbide matrix, and the
A PDC bit retired from oil drilling field is used as experimental specimen in this study, as shown
joint. There are two crossed surface cracks on the tungsten carbide matrix, which are labeled as Crack І
in Figure A 4a. A PDC bit isfrom
comprised of three parts: a PDC cutter, aspecimen
tungsten carbide matrix, and the
and PDC
CrackbitII,retired
as shown in oil drilling
Figure field is
4b. Their used as
widths areexperimental
both less than 0.2 mm, in this study,
which makes as shown
it very
joint. in
There
Figureare for
two
difficult4a.
crossed
Adirect
PDC bit issurface
visual comprisedcracks
observation. of Theonlengths
three the tungsten
parts: a PDC
of
carbide
Crackcutter,
matrix,
І and aCrack
tungsten which
II arecarbide
areand
labeled
88 mmmatrix, 21 and
as Crack
mm,the
I andjoint.
Crack
respectively. Figure 4c shows the zoomed view of Crack I. The polycrystalline diamond compact itІ very
II,
There as
are shown
two in
crossed Figure
surface 4b. Their
cracks on widths
the are
tungsten both
carbideless than
matrix, 0.2
which mm,are which
labeled makes
as Crack
andcutter
difficult Crack
for II, asvisual
direct
comprises shown
a thin in Figure
observation.
layer 4b. Their
of sinteredThe widths are
lengths
polycrystalline both less
ofdiamond
Crack thanCrack
Ibonded
and 0.2
to amm, which
II are
tungsten 88 makes
mm and it very
carbide–cobalt 21 mm,
difficult for
substrate. direct
The visual
tungsten observation.
carbide matrix The
is lengths
one kind ofof Crack
alloy І
steel and
that
respectively. Figure 4c shows the zoomed view of Crack I. The polycrystalline diamond compact Crack
mainly II are
includes88 mm
W, Fe,and
T.C,21 mm,
F.C,
6 diamond compact
cutterrespectively.
Si, Ni, Co, aFigure
comprises and
thin 4c components.
other
layershows the zoomed
of sintered view conductivity
of Crack
Itspolycrystalline
electrical I. The
diamond is about 5.21 to
bonded × 10
polycrystalline S/m and carbide–cobalt
a tungsten thermal
cutter comprises
conductivity is a0.42
thin layer K).
W/(cm· of sintered polycrystalline
The conductivity diamond
of tungsten carbide bonded
makesto a tungsten
it possible carbide–cobalt
to heat the PDC
substrate. The tungsten carbide matrix is one kind of alloy steel that mainly includes W, Fe, T.C, F.C,
bit matrix
substrate. Thebytungsten
inductioncarbide
heating.matrix is one kind of alloy steel that mainly includes W, Fe, T.C, F.C,
Si, Ni, Co, and other components. Its electrical conductivity is about 5.21 × 6106 S/m and thermal
Si, Ni, Co, and other components. Its electrical conductivity is about 5.21 × 10 S/m and thermal
conductivity is 0.42
conductivity W/(cm
is 0.42 W/(cm··K).K).
TheTheconductivity
conductivity of tungstencarbide
of tungsten carbidemakes
makes it possible
it possible to heat
to heat the PDC
the PDC
bit matrix by induction
bit matrix by induction heating.
heating.

Figure 4. Cont.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 6 of 12
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 6 of 12

Crack I

(c)
Figure 4. Tested specimen: (a) the PDC bit; (b) two cross cracks on the surface: Crack I and Crack II;
Figure 4. Tested specimen: (a) the PDC bit; (b) two cross cracks on the surface: Crack I and Crack II;
(c) zoomed view of Crack I.
(c) zoomed view of Crack I.
From Figure 3a, we can see that the size of the annular coil is too small to detect the surface
From
cracksFigure 3a, matrix.
on the bit we canAdditionally,
see that the size of the of
the power annular coil is too
the induction smallsystem
heating to detect thelimited
is also surfaceforcracks
exciting
on the the whole
bit matrix. bit at one the
Additionally, time. Therefore,
power of theasinduction
discussedheating
in Section 2.1, ECPT
system canlimited
is also be applied to
for exciting
detect the cracks in a successive scanning manner. As shown in Figure 4b, the induction
the whole bit at one time. Therefore, as discussed in Section 2.1, ECPT can be applied to detect the coil was
successively
cracks movedscanning
in a successive from Position
manner.A toAsPosition
shownEininFigure
such a 4b,
way: thethe inductioncoil
induction coilwas
wassuccessively
moved
20 mm each time and heat the PDC bit for 500 ms followed by a cooling time of 3.5 s at each position.
moved from Position A to Position E in such a way: the induction coil was moved 20 mm each time
Additionally, the recording process of the IR camera is an ongoing process during the detection for
and heat the PDC bit for 500 ms followed by a cooling time of 3.5 s at each position. Additionally,
the five positions. After the excitation coil scanning the whole surface of bit matrix, each segment of
the recording process
each surface crack of
canthe
beIR camera
roughly is an ongoing
detected process during the detection for the five positions.
in sequence.
After the excitation coil scanning the whole surface of bit matrix, each segment of each surface crack
can be
4. roughly detected
Results and in sequence.
Discussion

4. Results and Discussion

4.1. Analysis of Excitation Duration on Detection Ability of ECPT for Surface Cracks on PDC Bit Matrix
Due to the principle of ECPT that the effect of current obstruction by defect can cause a different
4.1. Analysis of Excitation Duration on Detection Ability of ECPT for Surface Cracks on PDC Bit Matrix
temperature distribution of the specimen surface, excitation current intensity and excitation duration
are two
Due key parameters
to the principle offor ECPTthat
ECPT testing.
the A larger
effect ofexcitation current intensity
current obstruction generally
by defect canleads
cause toamore
different
obvious thermal contrast between the defect and the sound area. Therefore,
temperature distribution of the specimen surface, excitation current intensity and excitation duration the excitation current
intensity
are two should be set
key parameters forasECPT
large as possible
testing. A for different
larger inspected
excitation objects.
current As a result,
intensity 350 A leads
generally is chosen
to more
as the excitation current intensity during the experiments. Additionally, the excitation frequency
obvious thermal contrast between the defect and the sound area. Therefore, the excitation current
used in the experiment is set to 200 kHz, at which the calculated penetration depth of the induced
intensity should be set as large as possible for different inspected objects. As a result, 350 A is chosen
eddy current is about 0.49 mm. For a specific eddy current heating system, the influence of current
as theexcitation
excitation currentonintensity
duration during
the detection thediffers
result experiments.
with varied Additionally,
tested objects.theHence,
excitation frequency
it is necessary to used
in theconduct
experiment is set to 200investigation
an experimental kHz, at which on the calculated
determining thepenetration
optimized depthexcitation of the induced
duration foreddy
current is about
detecting 0.49 mm.
surface cracksForonaPDC
specific
bits. eddy current heating system, the influence of current excitation
duration In onthis
thepaper,
detection result
Position D indiffers
Figure 4bwith variedastested
is selected objects.
an example Hence, it
to optimize theisexcitation
necessary to conduct
duration.
With other detecting parameters unchanged, experiments with a series
an experimental investigation on determining the optimized excitation duration for detecting surface of excitation duration,
cracksincluding
on PDC100, bits.200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 ms, have been conducted respectively to detect the two
cracks. Considering
In this paper, Position the infrared camera
D in Figure 4b worked at the
is selected asframe frequency
an example of 25 Hz, 100
to optimize theIR image frames
excitation duration.
were sequentially recorded for each position (the recording time of 4000 ms). Consequently, taking
With other detecting parameters unchanged, experiments with a series of excitation duration, including
the heating duration of 500 ms as an example, each IR image sequence can be divided into three
100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 ms, have been conducted respectively to detect the two cracks.
periods: frames from 1 to 10 (0~400 ms) as the stage before heating; frames from 11 to 23 (401~900 ms)
Considering the infrared
as the heating stage and camera
framesworked
from 24 to at100
the(901~4000
frame frequency
ms) as theofcooling
25 Hz,stage
100 IR image
(after frames were
heating).
sequentially recorded for each position (the recording time of 4000 ms). Consequently,
According to the findings in previous works [12], the frame at the end time of heating excitation taking the
heating duration of 500 ms as an example, each IR image sequence can be
stage in each infrared sequence was chosen for IR image analysis to evaluate the influence of heatdivided into three periods:
frames from 1 duration
excitation to 10 (0~400 ms) as results.
on detection the stage before
Figure heating;
5 shows frames
IR images from 11
recorded to 23
with (401~900
different ms) as the
excitation
duration
heating stagewhen the coil from
and frames was located at Position
24 to 100 (901~4000D. We canas
ms) see thecooling
the segments of two
stage cracks
(after can be easily
heating).
recognized in
According toFigure 5a–f despite
the findings the interference
in previous of excitation
works [12], the frame coilatinthe
visual
endfield.
time of heating excitation
To find the optimum heating excitation duration,
stage in each infrared sequence was chosen for IR image analysis to evaluatea criterion is necessary to find the optimum
the influence of heat
heating excitation duration. It is well known that the crack is easier to detect when the thermal
excitation duration on detection results. Figure 5 shows IR images recorded with different excitation
contrast between the defect and the surrounding sound area is higher. Hence, such thermal contrast
duration when the coil was located at Position D. We can see the segments of two cracks can be easily
can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of each excitation duration setting for ECPT. The temperature
recognized
responseincan
Figure 5a–f be
certainly despite
used tothe interference
calculate of excitation
the thermal coil in visualthere
contrast. Additionally, field.is a proportional
To find the optimum heating excitation duration, a criterion is necessary to find the optimum
heating excitation duration. It is well known that the crack is easier to detect when the thermal contrast
between the defect and the surrounding sound area is higher. Hence, such thermal contrast can
Appl.Appl. Sci. 2017,
Sci. 2017, 7, 429
7, 429 7 of 12
7 of 12

relationship between the intensity of each pixel in the IR image and the temperature response of the
be used to evaluateposition.
corresponding the effectivenessTherefore,ofthe each excitation
intensity duration
contrast of thesetting
IR image for can
ECPT. The temperature
be used to represent the
response can certainly be used to calculate the thermal contrast.
thermal contrast. For simplified calculation, we convert the IR images to gray scale images and the Additionally, there is a proportional
relationship
gray contrastbetween the intensity
(intensity contrastof each
gray pixel in the
scale-level IR image
images) and the
between thetemperature
defect and itsresponsesurrounding of thearea
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 7 of 12
corresponding
to representposition.
that the Therefore,
thermal contrast the intensity contrast
is obtained of the
as the IR image
criterion can be the
to assess used to representof
effectiveness theeach
thermal contrast.
excitation For
duration
relationship simplified
between setting calculation,
for ECPT.
the intensity we convert the IR images to gray
of each pixel in the IR image and the temperature response of the scale images and the
gray contrast
Here,(intensity
corresponding
we take contrast
position.
Crack I asgray
Therefore, scale-level
the intensity
an example andimages)
contrast
the gray between
of the IR image
contrast the defect
can
between andcrack
be used
the itsrepresent
to surrounding
and soundthe area are
area
thermal
to represent thatcontrast.
the For
thermal simplified
contrast calculation,
is obtainedwe convert
as the the IR images
criterion
calculated based on the IR images shown as Figure 5a–f. The calculated gray contrast is shown in toto gray
assess scale
the images and
effectiveness the of each
gray contrast (intensity contrast gray scale-level images) between the defect and its surrounding area
excitation
Figure duration
6. It can setting
be seenforfrom ECPT. Figure 6 that the gray contrast rises with the increase of excitation
to represent that the thermal contrast is obtained as the criterion to assess the effectiveness of each
Here, we
duration take100
from Crack ms Itoas500an ms.
example
However, and the when gray thecontrast
excitation between
duration the exceeds
crack and 500sound areagray
ms, the
excitation duration setting for ECPT.
are contrast
calculated based
decreases.
Here, on
we take The the IR
Crackreason images shown
comes and
I as an example fromas Figure
thethe
grayfact5a–f. The
thatbetween
contrast calculated
there are gray
two and
the crack maincontrast
soundfactors is shown
affecting
area are in the
Figure 6.calculated
contrastIt can bebased
between seenthe from
on Figure
defect
the and
IR images 6 that
thethe
shown gray
surrounding contrast
as Figure 5a–f. rises
sound with
area:the
The calculated increase
temperature
gray of excitation
contrast rising
is shown induration
caused by the
from 100Figure
thermal 6. It
msexcitation
to 500canms. be
and seen
However, from Figure
thermal when6 the
balance that the grayfrom
excitation
resulted contrast
the rises
duration lateral with
exceeds
heattheconduction
increase
500 ms,ofthe excitation
gray contrast
between the crack
and duration
decreases. itsThe from 100
reason
surrounding ms tofrom
comes area.500Inms. the
theHowever,
fact when are
thatstages
early there the excitation
of two
heatmain duration exceeds 500
factors affecting
excitation, the thermal thems, the graybetween
contrast
contrast gradually
contrast decreases. The reason comes from the fact that there are two main factors affecting the
the increases
defect andbecausethe surrounding
the effect of sound area: temperature
temperature rising caused
rising is dominant. With by thethe thermal
increase excitation
in exciting and
duration,
contrast between the defect and the surrounding sound area: temperature rising caused by the
thermal balance
the thermal
influence resulted
of theand
excitation
from
lateral the
thermal
lateral
heat heat
conduction
balance
conduction
resulted from becomes between
more
the lateral heat
the crack
prominent, and its surrounding
which makes
conduction between
area.
the crackthe thermal
In the early
contrast
and its stages
begin toofdecreases.
surrounding heatarea. excitation, the thermal
In the early stages ofcontrast gradually
heat excitation, increases
the thermal because
contrast the effect of
gradually
temperature rising
Additionally,
increases is dominant.
because itthe
is effect
a waste ofWith the increase
of energy
temperature and in
risingais exciting
higher
dominant.riskduration,
to damage
With thethe
the increase influence
tested
in exciting ofduration,
theiflateral
object heat
the excitation
the
conduction influence
becomes of the
more lateral heat
prominent, conduction
which becomes
makes the more
thermalprominent,
contrast
time is set too long. As a result, 500 ms is chosen as the optimum excitation duration for surface defect which
begin makes
to the thermal
decreases.
contrast begin
Additionally, it to
is decreases.
a wastecarbide of energy and of a higher riskbittoindamage the tested object if the excitation
detection on the tungsten matrix the PDC the presented experiments.
Additionally, it is a waste of energy and a higher risk to damage the tested object if the excitation
time is set too long. As a result, 500 ms is chosen as the optimum excitation duration for surface defect
time is set too long. As a result, 500 ms is chosen as the optimum excitation duration for surface defect
detection on theon
detection tungsten
the tungsten carbide carbidematrix
matrix ofofthethePDC
PDC bitbitininthethepresented
presented experiments.
experiments.

Crack II Crack II Crack II

CrackCrack
I II Crack
CrackII I Crack II Crack I

Crack I Crack I Crack I

(a) (b) (c)

(a) (b) (c)

Crack II Crack II Crack II

Crack II Crack II Crack II

CrackCrack
I I Crack
Crack I I Crack I Crack I

(d)(d) (e) (e) (f) (f)

Figure 5. IR image recorded at (a) 100 ms, (b) 200 ms, (c) 300 ms, (d) 400 ms, (e) 500 ms, and (f) 600 ms
Figure
Figure 5. IR5.image
IR image recorded
recorded at100
at (a) (a) 100
ms, ms, (b) 200
(b) 200 ms, ms, (c) 300
(c) 300 ms, ms, (d) 400
(d) 400 ms, ms, (e) 500
(e) 500 ms, ms,
andand (f) 600
(f) 600 ms ms
when the coil is placed on Position D shown as Figure 4b.
when the coil
when is placed
the coil on Position
is placed D shown
on Position as Figure
D shown 4b. 4b.
as Figure
60
60
50
difference

50
40
GrayContrast
difference

30
40
GrayContrast

20
Gray

30
10
20
Gray

0
100 200 300 400 500 600
Excitation 10
Excitationtime setting
duration
Figure 6. Gray contrast
0 between crack and sound area for each excitation duration.
100 200 300 400 500 600
Excitation
Excitationtime setting
duration
Figure 6. Gray contrast between crack and sound area for each excitation duration.
Figure 6. Gray contrast between crack and sound area for each excitation duration.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 8 of 12

Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 8 of 12

4.2. IR Image Analysis for Surface Crack Detection Using ECPT
4.2.
WithIR Image Analysis for
the optimum Surface Crack
excitation Detection namely
parameter, Using ECPT
the excitation current of 350 A, the frequency
of 200 kHz,Withand the excitation
the optimum duration
excitation of 500
parameter, ms, all
namely thesegments
excitation of Crack
current of I350
were tested
A, the by moving
frequency
of 200 kHz, and the excitation duration of 500 ms, all segments of Crack І were
coil at all positions shown in Figure 4b. The detection results are shown in Figure 7. As mentionedtested by moving coil
at all positions shown in Figure 4b. The detection results are shown in Figure 7.
before, only the crack segments within and around the annular coil can be directly detected at one As mentioned before,
onlyexcitation
heating the crack segments
position.within and around
From Figure 7a–e,theit isannular
found coil
thatcan
all be directly
crack detected
segments at one Iheating
of Crack are basically
excitation position. From Figure 7a–e, it is found that all crack segments of Crack I are basically
recognized due to the thermal contrast in each IR image. Especially, the segments at Position A and
recognized due to the thermal contrast in each IR image. Especially, the segments at Position A and
Position E are the starting tip and the end tip of Crack I, respectively. Meanwhile, Crack II with a
Position E are the starting tip and the end tip of Crack I, respectively. Meanwhile, Crack II with a
smaller length
smaller lengthcancan
bebe
clearly
clearlyobserved as aa horizontal
observed as horizontalbrightbright line
line in Figure
in Figure 7c,d.7c,d. Consequently,
Consequently, it is it is
demonstrated
demonstrated that the
that surface
the surfacecracks
cracks on the tungsten
on the tungstencarbide
carbide matrix
matrix of PDC
of PDC bits bits can
can be be detected
detected by by
using ECPT in a successive scanning
using ECPT in a successive scanning mode. mode.

Crack II
Crack I
Crack I
Crack I

(a) (b) (c)

Crack II

Crack I

(d) (e)

Figure
Figure 7. IR
7. IR images
images recordedwhen
recorded when the
the coil
coilisisplaced
placedatat
(a)(a)
Position A, (b)
Position A, Position B, (c) B,
(b) Position Position C,
(c) Position C,
(d) Position D, and (e) Position E. Positions A~E is corresponding to Figure 4b.
(d) Position D, and (e) Position E. Positions A~E is corresponding to Figure 4b.
4.3. PCA Processing for IR Images
4.3. PCA Processing for IR Images
From the analysis of IR images above, it is obvious that ECPT can be used to detect the presence
ofFrom the analysis
the surface cracks onof PDC
IR images
bits in above, it is obvious
a successive scanning thatmode. ECPT can be
However, dueused to effects
to the detectofthe presence
a low
SNR
of the (signal-to-noise
surface cracks onratio)PDCand bitsnon-uniform
in a successiveheating, it is difficult
scanning mode.toHowever,
make a precise
due tocharacterization
the effects of a low
SNRof(signal-to-noise
the crack geometry. ratio)For
andexample, the shape
non-uniform of each
heating, it issegment
difficult of
to Crack
make aI is hard to
precise identify in
characterization of
Figure 5a–f. As discussed in Section 2.2, PCA is effective to eliminate effects of noise
the crack geometry. For example, the shape of each segment of Crack I is hard to identify in Figure 5a–f. and non-uniform
heating in the raw IR images to enhance the features of the cracks. Hence, PCA is introduced as an
As discussed in Section 2.2, PCA is effective to eliminate effects of noise and non-uniform heating
image processing method to improve the detection result of ECPT for the cracks on tungsten carbide
in the raw IR images to enhance the features of the cracks. Hence, PCA is introduced as an image
matrix of PDC bit. Here, we take the condition of the coil located at Position D as an example to
processing method to improve the detection result of ECPT for the cracks on tungsten carbide matrix
illustrate the effectiveness of image processing with PCA.
of PDC bit. Here,
There we takesuggestions
are several the condition of the coil
for selection located
of the at Position
IR image frames as D the
as an example
input of PCAtomethod.
illustrate the
effectiveness of image
He et al. found that processing
the IR imagewith PCA. before the time of when the thermal responses of the
sequences
There and
defects are the
several
intactsuggestions
areas appear for selectionpattern
in inversion of theare IR suitable
image frames
for PCAas the input
analysis [10].of PCA method.
According
to this finding, IR image sequences from frame 10 to 30 (400~1200 ms)
He et al. found that the IR image sequences before the time of when the thermal responses were selected as the inputs for of the
PCA processing because the cracks show higher thermal response than those
defects and the intact areas appear in inversion pattern are suitable for PCA analysis [10]. According of surrounding sound
areas
to this in theseIRIRimage
finding, image sequences
frames. Generally, the first
from frame 10four
to 30principal
(400~1200components
ms) were obtained
selectedbyasPCAthecarry
inputs for
most of information regarding the original data, which can be used for image reconstruction and
PCA processing because the cracks show higher thermal response than those of surrounding sound
defect feature enhancement [21].
areas in these IR image frames. Generally, the first four principal components obtained by PCA carry
most of information regarding the original data, which can be used for image reconstruction and defect
feature enhancement [21].
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 9 of 12
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 9 of 12

The reconstructed images by the first two principal components are shown in Figure 8, which
shows thethe enhanced
enhanced features
features ofofthethecracks.
cracks.Compared
Compared to the
to the original
original IR image
IR image in Figure
in Figure 7d,
7d, the
the background
background noise
noise has has
been been greatly
greatly eliminated
eliminated in Figure
in Figure 8a, but
8a, but the the location
location andand geometry
geometry of
of the
the segments
segments of Crack
of Crack I and
I and Crack
Crack II are
II are notnotgreatly
greatlyenhanced.
enhanced.The Themain
mainreason
reasonmaymay come
come from
from the
remaining effect
effect of
ofnon-uniform
non-uniformheating
heatingalong alongthe
theannular
annular coil.
coil. However,
However, fromfrom Figure
Figure 8b, 8b,
we we
can can
see
see that
that CrackCrack I and
I and Crack
Crack II are
II are wellseparated
well separatedfromfromthe thesurrounding
surroundingareas areasbecause
because thethe effect
effect of
non-uniform heating is almost eliminated. Hence, it is easy to characterize the important features of
the segments of the two cracks from Figure 8b. Besides, with the help of the PCA method, the crack
information can
information canbebeautomatically
automatically obtained
obtained fromfrom
an IRanimage sequence
IR image to avoidtothe
sequence trouble
avoid theoftrouble
manually of
identifying defect information from a large number of IR image frames. Therefore,
manually identifying defect information from a large number of IR image frames. Therefore, the PCA the PCA method
is provenisas
method one ofas
proven theoneeffective
of the methods to improve
effective methods to the detectability
improve of ECPT for
the detectability of surface
ECPT for cracks on
surface
matrix on
cracks of PDC
matrixbitofby
PDCgreatly
bit byenhancing the features
greatly enhancing theof cracks of
features from the from
cracks imagethereconstructed with the
image reconstructed
second
with theprincipal component.
second principal component.

(a) (b)

Figure
Figure 8.8.Image reconstructed
Image by (a) theby
reconstructed first(a)
principal component
the first andcomponent
principal (b) the secondand
principal component.
(b) the second
principal component.
4.4. Crack Reconstruction for ECPT in Successive Scanning Mode
4.4. Crack Reconstruction
As mentioned above,for ECPT
using in Successive
ECPT Scanning Mode
in a successive scanning approach, different segments of
surfaceAs cracks
mentioned can be detected
above, using byECPT
sequentially movingscanning
in a successive the coil to differentdifferent
approach, positions. Considering
segments that
of surface
only one segment of each crack can be recognized in an IR image sequence
cracks can be detected by sequentially moving the coil to different positions. Considering that only captured at a certain coil
position,
one segment of each crack can be recognized in an IR image sequence captured at a certain coilI
it is necessary to reconstruct a crack with all segments in different IR images. Here, Crack
is taken asit example
position, is necessary to illustrate the process
to reconstruct of crack
a crack reconstruction.
with all In order to
segments in different IRreconstruct
images. Here,the Crack
entire
shape of Crack I, the original IR images obtained under five coil positions
I is taken as example to illustrate the process of crack reconstruction. In order to reconstruct the are cut into some image
patches. These
entire shape of patches
Crack I,containing
the original the
IRdistinct
imagessegments
obtained features
under five of coil
Crack I are then
positions areselected
cut intoto put
some
together in sequence, which finally obtains the reconstructed image of Crack
image patches. These patches containing the distinct segments features of Crack I are then selected I, as shown in Figure 9a.
As a comparison, the images reconstructed by using the PCA processing
to put together in sequence, which finally obtains the reconstructed image of Crack I, as shown in method are also used to
reconstruct
Figure 9a. As Crack I in the same
a comparison, theapproach above and theby
images reconstructed integrated
using theimage
PCA of Cracks I is
processing shownare
method in
Figure 9b. It is found that the whole shape of Crack I is quite rough
also used to reconstruct Crack I in the same approach above and the integrated image of Cracks and broken in Figure 9a, but
Figure 9b shows
I is shown in Figuremore 9b.distinct features
It is found that of
theCrack
wholeI. shape
It demonstrates
of Crack I isthequite
effectiveness
rough and ofbroken
the PCA in
method
Figure 9a, onbut theFigure
enhancement
9b shows of more
detectability
distinct for ECPT.ofCompared
features Crack I. It with the true shape
demonstrates of Crack I
the effectiveness
shown in Figure
of the PCA method 4c, we can enhancement
on the find that Crack ofIdetectability
has been reconstructed in a more continuous
for ECPT. Compared with the trueandshape
precise
of
manner, as shown in Figure 9b. Therefore, with the help of crack reconstruction,
Crack I shown in Figure 4c, we can find that Crack I has been reconstructed in a more continuous
we can obtain the
necessary information to characterize the whole crack based on the detailed detection results of crack
and precise manner, as shown in Figure 9b. Therefore, with the help of crack reconstruction, we can
segments, which further prove the feasibility of using ECPT to detect surface cracks on the matrix of
obtain the necessary information to characterize the whole crack based on the detailed detection results
PDC bit in the proposed successive scanning mode. However, there is still a shielding effect from the
of crack segments, which further prove the feasibility of using ECPT to detect surface cracks on the
annular coil in Figure 9b, which interferes with the complete shape restoration of the crack. The
matrix of PDC bit in the proposed successive scanning mode. However, there is still a shielding effect
problem may be solved by designing a new coil with special geometry, which will be achieved in our
from the annular coil in Figure 9b, which interferes with the complete shape restoration of the crack.
future investigation.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 10 of 12

The problem may be solved by designing a new coil with special geometry, which will be achieved in
our future
Appl. investigation.
Sci. 2017, 7, 429 10 of 12

(a)

(b)

Figure 9. Crack
Figure 9. Crack reconstruction
reconstruction using
using (a)
(a) raw
raw IR
IR images
images and
and (b)
(b) aa reconstructed
reconstructed image
image by
by the
the second
second
principal component.
principal component.

5. Conclusions
5. Conclusions
The feasibility of eddy current pulsed thermography (ECPT) on surface crack detection for
The feasibility of eddy current pulsed thermography (ECPT) on surface crack detection for
polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit is investigated in this paper. A successive scanning
polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit is investigated in this paper. A successive scanning
detection mode is proposed to make ECPT with low heating excitation power and small-size coil
detection mode is proposed to make ECPT with low heating excitation power and small-size coil
suitable for surface crack detection on the tungsten carbide matrix of a PDC bit. Experiments using
suitable for surface crack detection on the tungsten carbide matrix of a PDC bit. Experiments using
ECPT were conducted for detecting two cross surface cracks on the tungsten carbide matrix of a PDC
ECPT were conducted for detecting two cross surface cracks on the tungsten carbide matrix of a
bit. Based on the gray contrast calculated from IR images, the optimum excitation duration is
PDC bit. Based on the gray contrast calculated from IR images, the optimum excitation duration is
determined as 500 ms for the used heating excitation system and the PDC bit. With the coil
determined as 500 ms for the used heating excitation system and the PDC bit. With the coil successively
successively moving from one position to another, all the segments of each are detected. The principal
moving from one position to another, all the segments of each are detected. The principal component
component analysis (PCA) is then introduced to enhance the features of cracks in IR images, which is
analysis (PCA) is then introduced to enhance the features of cracks in IR images, which is demonstrated
demonstrated as a useful approach to improve the detectability of ECPT for surface crack detection
as a useful approach to improve the detectability of ECPT for surface crack detection on the matrix of
on the matrix of the PDC bit. Finally, by integrating the reconstructed images from the second
the PDC bit. Finally, by integrating the reconstructed images from the second principle component
principle component that contain the information of varied segments of the crack, the entire shape of
that contain the information of varied segments of the crack, the entire shape of the crack can be
the crack can be approximately restored, which further demonstrates the feasibility of ECPT to detect
approximately restored, which further demonstrates the feasibility of ECPT to detect surface cracks
surface cracks on the matrix of PDC bits in a successive scanning mode. Consequently, ECPT
on the matrix of PDC bits in a successive scanning mode. Consequently, ECPT provides a promising
provides a promising technique to detect surface cracks on the matrix of PDC bits. It is noted that the
technique to detect surface cracks on the matrix of PDC bits. It is noted that the latest development of
latest development of a novel pulse-compression technique would be very useful for further
a novel pulse-compression technique would be very useful for further improvement of the proposed
improvement of the proposed detection technique [23]. In the future, we will conduct a further
detection technique [23]. In the future, we will conduct a further investigation on improving the
investigation on improving the detectability of ECPT for the surface defect detection of PDC bits,
detectability of ECPT for the surface defect detection of PDC bits, which mainly focuses on numerical
which mainly focuses on numerical simulation to reveal the optimization mechanisms of detection
simulation to reveal the optimization mechanisms of detection parameters, designing a new coil with
parameters, designing a new coil with special geometry, and the integration with the novel pulse-
special geometry, and the integration with the novel pulse-compression techniques.
compression techniques.
Acknowledgments:
Acknowledgments: This This work
work was
was financially
financially supported
supported by by the
the National
National Key
Key Research
Research and
and Development
Development
Program (No. 2016YFC0303803), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China
Program (No. 2016YFC0303803), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China
(No. 14CX02077A) and the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (No. ZR2013EEQ028).
(No. 14CX02077A) and the Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (No. ZR2013EEQ028).
Author Contributions: Changhang Xu developed the original concept and wrote the paper. Xumei Gong
Author Contributions:
performed Changhang
experiments. Wuyang Xuconducted
Zhang developedexperimental
the originaldata
concept and Guoming
analysis. wrote theChen
paper. Xumeiadvices
provided Gong
for results discussion.
performed experiments. Wuyang Zhang conducted experimental data analysis. Guoming Chen provided
advices
Conflictsfor
ofresults discussion.
Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7, 429 11 of 12

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