Inspection design using 2D phased array, TFM and cueMAP software

Abstract

A simulation suite, cueMAP, has been developed to facilitate the design of inspection processes and sparse 2D array configurations. At the core of cueMAP is a Total Focusing Method (TFM) imaging algorithm that enables computer assisted design of ultrasonic inspection scenarios, including the design of bespoke array configurations to match the inspection criteria. This in-house developed TFM code allows for interactive evaluation of image quality indicators of ultrasonic imaging performance when utilizing a 2D phased array working in FMC/TFM mode. The cueMAP software uses a series of TFM images to build a map of resolution, contrast and sensitivity of imaging performance of a simulated reflector, swept across the inspection volume. The software takes into account probe properties, wedge or water standoff, and effects of specimen curvature. In the validation process of this new software package, two 2D arrays have been evaluated on 304n stainless steel samples, typical of the primary circuit in nuclear plants. Thick section samples have been inspected using a 1MHz 2D matrix array. Due to the processing efficiency of the software, the data collected from these array configurations has been used to investigate the influence sub-aperture operation on inspection performance.

Modelling and characterisation ultrasonic phased array transducers for pipe inspections

“…The performance of phased array technology has been demonstrated in several NDT applications, for example, testing of welds [3], pipe inspection [4] and turbine blade inspection [5]. Moreover, the combination of array technology and advanced signal processing has been applied to complex geometry components [6][7][8]. A key advancement in phased array inspection was the introduction of the full matrix capture (FMC) approach and the accompanying post-processing algorithm, the Total Focusing Method (TFM) [9].…”