methods for the determination of the wear of a passive layer covered metallic parts.

摘要

A method and apparatus for testing, in situ, for imperfections in an inert coating (2) of a moving metal component (1) of an apparatus (e.g. a metal basket of a centrifuge) involves covering the inert coating (2) with an electrically conductive liquid (33), applying an electical voltage across the inert coating (2) while the apparatus is operational, monitoring the current or applied voltage, and utiling the measured current or voltage to provide an indication of the condition of the inert coating. If the coating is defective, the conductive liquid will find its way into any flaws or imperfections, thereby providing a path of lower electrical resistance.