Thesis

Mapping totally-focused flaw signal variation introduced by interface curvature in ultrasonic array inspection

Downloadable Content

Download PDF
Creator
Rights statement
Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2019
Thesis identifier
  • T15479
Person Identifier (Local)
  • 201385909
Qualification Level
Qualification Name
Department, School or Faculty
Abstract
  • This thesis documents the use of the Total Focusing Method (TFM) for performing ultrasonic C-scans of components with irregular and curved surfaces. Ultrasonic inspection depends on an understanding of the link between an ultrasonic indication and flaw size. Some existing methods at Rolls-Royce use target defects of a known size and metal path through flat surfaces to create a Distance Amplitude Curve (DAC) that can be used to accurately size flaws. This study investigated a DAC equivalent for surface-adaptive TFM techniques applied through non-planar surfaces. There was business interest in development of this technique, and also in its delivery by use of general purpose robotic manipulators. Firstly, a robotic inspection process was developed, and a C-scan was conducted on an irregular titanium plate. cueART, software developed by the University of Strathclyde was adapted to create a TFM C-scan. Results were found to be comparable to an existing production inspection process. A series of curved test pieces were manufactured and target Flat-Bottomed Hole (FBH) defects were added. BRAIN, software developed by Bristol university, was adapted and used with equipment at Rolls-Royce to conduct TFM C-scans. DAC curves were generated experimentally for a test inspection, showing convex radii from 10 to 40 mm led to a drop of 2 dB, and concave 10 dB. This was repeated at various depths to produce multiple DAC curves. Modelling techniques for these experimental cases were developed, finding that a 2D finite element model, and 3D CIVA model followed a similar trend to the DAC. Modelling was used to extend results to produce a map of peak flaw signal through a curved surface. An experimental study of flat, rough surfaces showed that an Ra of 12 μm led to a 6.4 dB reduction in peak TFM signal, and13.2 dB reduction in signal to noise ratio.
Advisor / supervisor
  • Pierce, Gareth
Resource Type
Note
  • "Engineering Doctorate in Non-Destructive Evaluation" -- title page.
DOI
Date Created
  • 2019
Former identifier
  • 9912813089802996

Relations

Items

Thumbnail Title Date Uploaded Visibility Actions
file details PDF of thesis T15479 2021-07-02 Public Download