Tue, 03 February, 2026
Ultrasonic array inspection techniques have proven to be a reliable and efficient means of non-destructive testing in a range of industries. Methods such as Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT), Full Matrix Capture (FMC)/Total Focusing Method (TFM), Phase Coherence Imaging (PCI) and Plane Wave Imaging (PWI) provide a precise and comprehensive approach for detecting flaws in a wide range of materials.
With an enhanced Probability of Detection, reduced need for multiple probes and scans, better defect sizing and characterisation, plus higher resolution and imaging capabilities compared to conventional ultrasonic inspection methods, these techniques are desirable to a range of industries.
However, structures that include coarse-grained welds, such as those made from from stainless steel or nickel-based alloys, pose significant challenges for ultrasonic testing due to the large grain sizes and the anisotropic nature of these materials. The large grain sizes can lead to scattering, beam bending and high attenuation of the ultrasonic signal, reducing the accuracy of defect detection and flaw characterisation.
To address this challenge and open up the benefits of ultrasonic testing to more users we are launching a joint industry project (JIP) to evaluate and compare a range of advanced ultrasonic array inspection techniques to identify the most effective approaches for detecting and sizing flaws in coarse-grained metallic structures.
The project, ‘Evaluation of Ultrasonic Array Inspection Techniques for Coarse Grain Metallic Structures,’ will provide guidance on the suitability of these techniques, enabling end users to identify suitable ultrasonic testing for their applications.
The JIP’s findings will be underpinned by experimental evidence to support the justification and qualification of ultrasonic procedures and systems, including a range of industry applications for NDT in demanding industry sectors such as power generation, nuclear, defence, and oil and gas. This evaluation will allow us to deliver industrial guidance validated with experimental evidence and ultrasound physical principles.
Our experts will undertake a series of inspection trials on a range of test samples with different geometries and using a range of artificial defect types to provide an insight into the capabilities and limitations of ultrasonic array techniques for inspecting coarse-grained metallic welds.
Why Join?
Industrial Members of TWI are invited to join this project as sponsors, giving you the opportunity to request the production of / provide test samples to match your particular interests and applications.
As a project sponsor, you will also receive a report detailing the outcomes, details of recommended practice and access to test samples produced during this project for future investigations. The outcomes will improve safety standards and manufacturing efficiencies during production of critical structures across a range of industry sectors.
For more information on this project and how you could unlock improved safety and reduced costs through your inspection activities, please see here:
https://www.twi-global.com/what-we-do/research-and-technology/research-programmes/joint-industry-projects/evaluation-of-ultrasonic-array-inspection-techniques-for-coarse-grain-metallic-structures