This part of Defence Standard 02-729 defines the minimum requirements for methods of detection of surface and near-surface discontinuities in electronically conductive materials, which may be ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic, using eddy current examination techniques. The requirements for the use of manually operated portable eddy current instruments designed specifically for the detection of surface-breaking cracks in welds are included.

The requirements of this Defence Standard (Def Stan) are applicable to all items for which specifications, standards, drawings, refit or repair instructions require eddy current examination. This Def Stan is also applicable to the Quality Assessment of Examining Authorities who perform eddy current examination.

The extent to which eddy current examination is required is not included herein but will be found in the relevant Contract Documents.

The Def Stan does not contain acceptance criteria for defects and does not apply to the examination of nuclear plant and machinery.

Unless otherwise specified in this Def Stan technical requirements of BS EN ISO 17643 are to apply to all Eddy Current inspections of welding required by the Design Authority.