Math and Physics for NDT: Electromagnetic Testing 12 November 2025

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive foundation in mathematical principles essential for ET applications. 

It is split into two sections, the first is a pre-requisite section where learners will strengthen essential mathematical skills by mastering numerical formatting, unit conversions, exponents, and logarithms while applying the order of operations to solve equations. You will also explore trigonometric principles, including right triangle properties, Pythagorean theorem, and sine functions, to build a strong foundation for technical and engineering applications. 

The second part of the course relates to math and physics concepts that ET technicians may encounter. Learners will master unit conversions between CGS and SI systems, as well as conductivity and resistivity calculations. The course explores electromagnetic induction, AC generation, frequency significance, and electromotive force (EMF) calculations. Participants will analyze eddy current generation, resistance, impedance, and phase relationships in inductive and resistive circuits, using Ohm’s Law and vector-based calculations. Key topics include depth of penetration, permeability, Q factor, and impedance plane analysis, with a focus on real-world applications such as discontinuity detection and material evaluation. By the end of the course, learners will be equipped with enhanced mathematical skills to perform electromagnetic testing procedures. 

*Students will need access to a Casio FX-260 Solar or other non-programmable scientific calculator for use during the course

Upon Completion, Learners Will Be Able To:

• Convert between CGS and SI units for electrical and magnetic measurements  
• Convert between conductivity and resistivity units  
• Define electromagnetic induction and describe factors influencing it  
• Explain how alternating current (AC) is generated and represented graphically  
• Define AC frequency and its significance 
• Define electromotive force (EMF) and apply calculations based on coil parameters 
• Explain how eddy currents are generated and their impact on test parts 
• Define and measure electrical current and potential difference 
• Differentiate between resistance and specific resistance 
• Use Ohm’s law to establish relationships among voltage, resistance, and current 
• Perform resistance and conductance calculations in SI and traditional units 
• Explain the principle of self-inductance and define phase lag 
• Diagram phase relationships in purely inductive and resistive circuits 
• Define impedance and represent impedance-current relationships graphically 
• Use vector addition and the Pythagorean theorem to determine impedance 
• Calculate phase angles and explain impedance-based discontinuity detection 
• Define permeability and calculate magnetic permeability from flux density and magnetizing force 
• Identify standard depth of penetration using graphical representations 
• Calculate depth of penetration based on frequency, permeability, and conductivity 
• Calculate the fill factor for encircling and bobbin coils based on object and coil dimensions 
• Define Q factor and calculate it using inductive reactance and resistance 
• Construct impedance plane diagrams from coil impedance or electrical properties 
• Describe the effects of liftoff, edge effect, frequency changes, and material thickness on impedance plane diagrams 
• Analyze how frequency variations affect depth of penetration 

Meet the Instructor

Questions? Contact us at education@asnt.org