Phased array in practice: new expertise for modern ultrasonic testing
27. August 2018
Sector scan of a reference block using a UT-PA instrument
Ultrasonic testing (UT) using phased array technology significantly extends the capabilities of conventional ultrasonic testing. Electronic control of array elements allows the sound field to be adjusted specifically to complex testing tasks. Key advantages include flexible adaptation to complex test geometries, improved flaw detection through targeted sound field control, and comprehensive documentation of test results, for example using position encoders.
With this in mind, W.S. Werkstoff Service GmbH provided in-house Level 2 training in phased array testing for six employees. Over several days, experts from the Dortmund training centre of the German Society for Non-Destructive Testing (DGZfP) taught both the theoretical principles and practical application of array technology.
Intensive training with modern testing equipment
Practical exercises were carried out using testing equipment from Karl Deutsch. In addition to the company’s own MANTIS, GEKKO systems from the DGZfP and Karl Deutsch were used.
The large number of available instruments enabled particularly intensive practical training. Each participant had their own instrument, probes and position encoders for the exercises. This intensive practical phase paid off: participants gained substantial knowledge during the course, and all successfully passed the final qualification examination.
Putting the new expertise into practice
The newly acquired phased array knowledge will be used in several areas of the company:
- at the W.S. MaterialtestCenter to handle complex testing tasks
- at the W.S. ExpertCenter for damage analysis of plant and components
- at the W.S. RailwayCenter for acceptance testing of mechanised phased array testing systems and special testing of railway components
- at the W.S. TrainingCenter to demonstrate modern and non-conventional testing techniques in practice
Transferring knowledge into continuing education
Some of the newly gained experience feeds directly into the W.S. TrainingCenter’s continuing education programmes. In particular, participants in the nine-day NDT course Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (UT-PA) benefit from recent practical experience and first-hand technical information from both equipment manufacturers and the DGZfP.
Further information about our NDT courses is available here: https://www.werkstoff-service.de/en/trainingcenter/kurse-und-seminare-buchen/kategorie/non-destructive-testing-courses/.
