Ultrasonic testing (UT) uses high frequency sound energy to conduct examinations and make measurements. Ultrasonic inspection can be used for flaw detection/evaluation, dimensional measurements, material characterization, and more.

A typical UT inspection system consists of several functional units, such as the pulser/receiver, transducer, and display devices. A pulser/receiver is an electronic device that can produce high voltage electrical pulses. Driven by the pulser, the transducer generates high frequency ultrasonic energy. The sound energy is introduced and propagates through the materials in the form of waves. When there is a discontinuity (such as a crack) in the wave path, part of the energy will be reflected back from the flaw surface. The reflected wave signal is transformed into an electrical signal by the transducer and is displayed on a screen. In the applet, the reflected signal strength is displayed versus the time from signal generation to when a echo was received. Signal travel time can be directly related to the distance that the signal travelled. From the signal, information about the reflector location, size, orientation and other features can sometimes be gained.

Advantages of Ultrasonic Testing

• It is sensitive to both surface and subsurface discontinuities.

• The depth of penetration for flaw detection or measurement is superior to other NDT methods.

• Only single-sided access is needed when the pulse-echo technique is used.

• It is highly accurate in determining reflector position and estimating size and shape.

• Minimal part preparation is required.

• Electronic equipment provides instantaneous results.

• Detailed images can be produced with automated system.