
Designed for multipurpose use
Mobile testing often requires a variety of testing systems. FOERSTER’s versatile new TCM serves as a unifying platform for established eddy current testing products. Deep-penetrating low frequency (LF) testing with DEFECTOSCOP for measuring residual wall thickness and high frequency (HF) testing with DEFECTOMETER for detection of the smallest cracks are now integrated in a single device.
The TCM platform also covers conductivity measurement of non-ferromagnetic materials. The intuitive touch interface allows the user to select the individual tasks via corresponding apps. Automatic probe recognition helps you set the optimal test and measurement parameters to achieve the best possible results.
This integration enhances the TCM’s capability as a comprehensive Eddy Current Surface Crack Detection solution, streamlining various testing processes into one efficient platform.
Software modules available
- DEFECTOSCOP: universal eddy current testing with rotating, HF and LF probes.
- SIGMATEST: measures electrical conductivity of non-ferromagnetic metals.
- ECA (Eddy Current Array): eddy current testing via sensor arrays with up to 512 channels
Technical Data
| Display: | 8.0“ touchscreen, 1280 x 800, 800 nits, readable in sunlight Switch between usage with finger or gloves |
| Protection: | IP 66, 1.5 m drop height |
| Weight: | 1.3 kg |
| Dimension: | 227 mm x 150 mm x 51 mm (L x W x H)) |
| Temperature: | -20 °C to +50 °C |
| Power: | Battery time: 6h |
| Camera: | Back camera with 8.0 MP, front camera with 2.0 MP |
| Storage: | 128 GB SSD |
| Connection ports: | 19-pin LEMO, Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen2 (type C), microSD reader |
| Audio: | Audio in/out (combo jack) |
| Documentation: | Save/export raw data, screenshots, reports |
| Embedded Help: | Find information on every setup and dialog for fast and save usage |
| Languages: | English, German, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Czech, Italian, French |
Eddy Current Tube Inspection System for Production Lines
The TCM Product Family provides inline eddy current inspection systems for tubes, bars, and wire products. These systems detect surface and near-surface defects during production without damaging the material.
Manufacturers use eddy current inspection to identify defects early in the production process. Detecting defects during production helps prevent defective material from reaching customers and reduces costly downstream rejection.
TCM systems are designed for continuous inspection in metal manufacturing lines, allowing manufacturers to monitor product quality in real time.
Inline Eddy Current Testing for Tubes, Bars and Wire
Eddy current testing is widely used in the metal industry for non-destructive testing of conductive materials. The technology detects small variations in the electromagnetic field caused by cracks, seams, inclusions, or other material defects.
The TCM inspection systems allow manufacturers to perform automatic defect detection while the product moves through the production line.
Typical inspected materials include:
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Steel tubes and pipes
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Hot rolled bars and billets
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Wire rod and drawn wire
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Non-ferrous metal products
Inspection takes place without interrupting production, making eddy current testing suitable for high-speed manufacturing environments.
Typical Defects Detected in Steel Tubes and Bars
TCM inspection systems help identify several common defects in metal products.
Typical defects detected include:
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Longitudinal cracks in steel tubes
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Surface seams in bars and billets
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Surface defects in wire rod
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Material inclusions and discontinuities
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Manufacturing defects caused during rolling or drawing
Early detection allows manufacturers to separate defective material and maintain consistent product quality.
Industries Using Eddy Current Tube Inspection Systems
Inline inspection systems are widely used across the metal processing industry.
Common industries include:
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Steel tube manufacturing
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Automotive component production
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Wire rod manufacturing plants
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Oil and gas pipe production
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Aerospace material suppliers
In these industries, eddy current inspection plays an important role in maintaining product reliability and meeting strict quality standards.
Advantages of Eddy Current Inspection in Production
Eddy current inspection provides several advantages for metal manufacturers:
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Non-destructive testing without damaging the material
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High-speed inspection during production
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Detection of surface and near-surface defects
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Continuous monitoring of product quality
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Reduced risk of defective material reaching customers
These benefits make eddy current inspection a widely adopted solution for quality control in metal manufacturing.
Discuss Your Inspection Application
If your production line requires tube inspection, bar inspection, or wire rod defect detection, the TCM inspection systems can be configured to match specific manufacturing requirements.
Our engineers can help evaluate your inspection needs and recommend the appropriate system for your application.
Contact us to discuss your eddy current inspection requirements for tubes, bars, or wire products.








