Phased Array Technology

A simple definition is ‘an electronic method of generating, receiving and displaying an ultrasound signal’. The process uses a conventional probe cut into many segments which are individually ‘excited’. It does not change the physics of ultrasonics but can be accurately manipulated to provide precise data about the materials under test.

It would not be an overstatement to describe phased array as one of the great technological advances of recent centuries. In a world now dominated by industries that constantly push the frontiers of scientific capability, complex structures and reliance on new and traditional materials, an NDT process that probes and scrutinizes to exacting tolerances is as an essential a tool as the materials it tests.

What is Phased Array?

A simple definition is ‘an electronic method of generating, receiving and displaying an ultrasound signal’. The process uses a conventional probe cut into many segments which are individually ‘excited’. It does not change the physics of ultrasonics but can be accurately manipulated to provide precise data about the materials under test. Sophisticated technology allows multiple elements to steer, angle, multi-focus and scan beams using a single transducer assembly.
The principles of ultrasonic technology have been known for many years but it is only in the last 50 or so that knowledge been harnessed to great and diverse effect where surface and depth of any description needs to be tested and inspected.
Phased array is also extensively utilised in the food processing, medical, biological, agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors for the same purposes as every other division– the gathering of vital data essential for product performance, health & safety, research and development.

Why use it?

Phased array testing carries huge advantages to previously used manual ultrasonic testing and radiography, both of which are limited in scope; incapable of meeting the higher demands of advanced industries and services. To explain ….

Radiography :

  • Is a dated technology
  • Requires licensing & has safety issues
  • Can disrupt work areas
  • Involves chemical waste
  • Inspections are slower and open to subjective interpretation
  • Cannot size in vertical planes
  • Poor at detecting planar defects

Manual Ultrasonics:

  • Has more reliable performance than radiography but ….
  • Is subject to operator error
  • Inspections remain slow and open to subjective interpretation
  • Leaves no permanent record
  • Has limited threshold levels
  • Manoeuvrability problems in restricted environments
  • Test equipment is bulky

Phased array technology is at the cutting edge of high performance with clear, unequivocal benefits:

  • Highly effective when inspecting components with complex geometry
  • Multiple elements enable steering, scanning and focus within a single unit
  • Beam sweeps can be achieved without moving the probe; ideal for restricted environments
  • High-speed sector scanning with multiple angle sweeps increases anomaly detection
  • Electronic focusing is ultra-precise at multiple depths, reduces signal-to-noise ratio and improves the ability to size defects in volumetric inspections
  • Data is automatically recorded for off-line analysis and life-time benchmarking
  • Large surfaces areas can now be scanned using a rolling wheel device calibrated for consistent high resolution data
  • Newly fabricated welds can be given real-time feedback at the point of welding

The test unit is affixed or placed directly behind the welder or welding machine, giving real-time quality control feedback throughout the process. Similarly in service welds, phased array will accurately monitor for the presence of defects caused by stop / start cycles whilst mapping corrosion pitting and flaw detection.

Does ITCL use Phased Array?

It goes without saying that ITCL technicians are qualified and highly trained in all aspects of phased array testing and this process is now our favoured and recommended approach to meet the rigorous demands of our clients. Our inspection instruments produce accurate, high speed, detailed cross-sectional images of internal structures. Business is tough enough without additional concerns; if you require precision and reliability in all aspects of NDT then this process should be your first choice for peace of mind.

In Summary

Phased array technology will test, inspect, measure, detect, report and record to hitherto unattainable levels of accuracy and detail: on test beds, in workshops, accessible or hard-to-reach locations, at speed and with objectivity. ITCL provides a comprehensive in-house or on-site service 24/7 deploying skilled NDT technicians.

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