The detection and sizing of flaws in components from the hot-end of gas turbines using phase-contrast radiography with neutrons: a feasibility study

In this paper we present a feasibility study of the use of phase contrast radiography in the examination of components from the hot-section of gas turbine engines. These components are usually made from dense materials (nickel or cobalt based superalloys) and, consequently, radiographic examination...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:NDT & E international : independent nondestructive testing and evaluation 2003-07, Vol.36 (5), p.289-295
Main Authors: Thornton, J, McMahon, P.J, Allman, B.E, Murphy, J.E, Nugent, K.A, Jacobson, D.L, Arif, M, Werner, S.A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Continuous cycle engines: steam and gas turbines, jet engines
Cross-disciplinary physics: materials science
rheology
Engines and turbines
Exact sciences and technology
Gas turbine engines
Industrial metrology. Testing
Instruments, apparatus, components and techniques common to several branches of physics and astronomy
Materials science
Materials testing
Mechanical engineering. Machine design
Methods of materials testing and analysis
Neutrons
Non-destructive testing: methods and equipments
Phase contrast
Physics
Radiography
X- and γ-ray instruments and techniques
Citations: Items that this one cites
Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:In this paper we present a feasibility study of the use of phase contrast radiography in the examination of components from the hot-section of gas turbine engines. These components are usually made from dense materials (nickel or cobalt based superalloys) and, consequently, radiographic examination requires either high energy X-rays (above 60 keV) or neutrons. The relative merits of employing X-rays and neutrons for phase contrast radiography are compared. It is shown that, for similar penetration, neutrons offer better sensitivity and that it should be possible to detect even micron-wide cracks orientated perpendicular to the incident rays. Simulation shows that, for cracks parallel to the incident rays, crack growth in increments of microns can be resolved by monitoring the development of the Fresnel diffraction pattern. Some preliminary experimental results are also presented that demonstrate an improvement over conventional neutron radiography.
ISSN:0963-8695
1879-1174
DOI:10.1016/S0963-8695(03)00007-0