In this paper a third eddy current benchmark problem is considered. The objective of the eddy current benchmark problem is to determine optimal operating frequency and size of the pancake coil designated for testing tubes made of Inconel. The problem considered in this paper is a true three‐dimensional one and should be modeled using numerical methods, e.g. finite element method, however, because the solution times involved are very large, we present a simplified analytical approach. Moreover, analytical solutions are useful for determining the efficiency of numerical methods and for a qualitative presentation of the role of various system parameters. © 2004 American Institute of Physics