High temperature magnetic characterisation of structural steels using Epstein frame

Electromagnetic non-destructive testing techniques provide an attractive solution to the problem of monitoring microstructural changes in steels undergoing heat treatment as they are non-contact, have a short response time and are relatively inexpensive. However, to take full advantage of these techniques it is necessary to be able accurately measure the magnetisation characteristics of the materials of interest at temperatures up to the Curie point. This paper details the development of a novel high temperature Epstein frame for installation in a furnace with the design informed and results validated by finite element modelling. Hysteresis loop characteristics are successfully measured for a dual phase steel up to the Curie point for heating and cooling. Results show the developed system has the potential to provide valuable data to inform online electromagnetic monitoring systems.