In the field of NDT, industrial ultrasonic testing (UT) is a long-established method. However, new materials and components are finding their way into the industry, requiring continuous technological advances. With stricter regulations, workforce shortages, and rising inspection needs worldwide, the urgency for smarter, more efficient inspection methods is critical.

In this article, I will explore the basic principles of phased array ultrasonic inspection and predominantly its applications within the aerospace sector.

Offering a major advantage over conventional ultrasonic testing, PAUT provides 2D image representations of flaws in a weld as opposed to a mere A-scan signal that could be challenging to interpret.

Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) has been steadily supplanting conventional ultrasonic testing since its introduction in the early 2000s.

While PAUT is becoming a popular approach for nondestructive inspections, it is important that users understand this technology, its limitations and how it should be applied.

Ultrasonic testing technology has improved dramatically and continuously, now offering advanced imaging power with high resolution.

There are multiple ways to speed up a TFM inspection. But there’s one novel and unique method that speeds up data collection while maintaining the sensitivity and meeting the amplitude fidelity requirements for TFM code compliance.

Ultrasonic technology has been used for testing ERW welded pipe at various points in the manufacturing process for many years. 

Friction stir weld (FSW) inspections in aerospace manufacturing are challenging for ultrasound technicians not necessarily because they require specialized computations or complex techniques but because scanning with conventional probe setups can be so time consuming.