Evaluation of Ultrasonic Array Inspection Techniques for Coarse Grain Metallic Structures
Status: Proposal
Date Announced: April, 2025
Project reference: PROP313016
Summary
Ultrasonic array inspection techniques have become a reliable and efficient method of non-destructive testing in industrial applications. These techniques provide a precise and comprehensive approach for detecting flaws in a wide range of materials. Advanced ultrasonic techniques, including Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT), Full Matrix Capture (FMC)/Total Focusing Method (TFM), Phase Coherence Imaging (PCI) and Plane Wave Imaging (PWI) offer enhanced Probability of Detection, reduced need for multiple probes and scans, better defect sizing and characterisation, higher resolution and imaging capabilities compared to conventional ultrasonic inspection methods. However, ultrasonic inspection in coarse-grained metallic structures presents significant challenges due to signal attenuation, scattering, and reduced resolution caused by the grain structure. Moreover, despite advances in ultrasonic array techniques, uncertainties remain regarding their consistent advantages and limitations for coarse grain materials.
This Joint Industry Project (JIP) will 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. With a wide range of new ultrasonic techniques appearing on mainstream PAUT equipment, this project will provide guidance on the suitability of these techniques underpinned with experimental evidence on a range of industry applications of NDT in demanding industry sectors, such as Power Generation, Nuclear, Defence and Oil & Gas.
Objectives
The key objectives of this project are to:
- Evaluate performance of FMC, PCI, PWI and PAUT for detection and characterisation of defects in coarse grain materials.
- Underpin the results with ultrasound physical principles and experimental evidence.
- Provide recommendations relating to the suitability of individual techniques and set-up/procedural parameters for given coarse grain material inspection applications.
If you are interested in finding out more, download the PDF Summary Outline using the following link.