Defect detection using ultrasonic arrays: The multi-mode total focusing method

Ultrasonic arrays allow a given scatterer to be illuminated from a wide range of angles and hence are capable of extracting significant information about the scatterer. In this paper a general imaging methodology, termed multi-mode total focusing method, is proposed in which any combination of modes...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:NDT & E international : independent nondestructive testing and evaluation 2010-03, Vol.43 (2), p.123-133
Main Authors: Zhang, Jie, Drinkwater, Bruce W., Wilcox, Paul D., Hunter, Alan J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Arrays
Cross-disciplinary physics: materials science
rheology
Exact sciences and technology
Focusing
Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications)
Imaging
Inclusions
Inspection
Materials science
Materials testing
Mathematical models
Non-destructive testing
Physics
Position (location)
Scattering coefficient matrix
Solid mechanics
Structural and continuum mechanics
Ultrasonic arrays
Vibration, mechanical wave, dynamic stability (aeroelasticity, vibration control...)
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Summary:Ultrasonic arrays allow a given scatterer to be illuminated from a wide range of angles and hence are capable of extracting significant information about the scatterer. In this paper a general imaging methodology, termed multi-mode total focusing method, is proposed in which any combination of modes and reflections can be used to produce an image of the test structure. Like the total focusing method, this approach is implemented by post-processing the full matrix of array data to achieve a synthetic focus at every pixel in the image. A hybrid model is used to predict the array data and demonstrate the performance of the multi-mode imaging concept. This hybrid model combines far field scattering coefficient matrices with a ray-based wave propagation model. This allows the inclusion of longitudinal waves, shear waves and wave mode conversions. It is shown that, with prior knowledge of likely scatterer location and orientation, the mode combination and array location can be optimised to maximise the performance of array inspections. A practically relevant weld inspection application is then described and its optimisation is discussed.
ISSN:0963-8695
1879-1174
DOI:10.1016/j.ndteint.2009.10.001