Ultrasonic Testing

Ultrasonic testing is a non-destructive method that is used to determine the location and relative size of internal defects of materials by using the energy changes of ultrasonic propagation waveform reflection and penetration time due to the differences in acoustic properties between materials and their defects. It also can be used to measure the material thickness and analyze the physical properties, grain size or microstructure of the material by using the difference in the penetration of sound waves in the material or the change of sound velocity.

According to the coupling method, ultrasonic testing is divided into contact method and immersion method.

• Contact ultrasonic inspection

The probe directly contacts with the test object. Generally, a coupling agent is added between the two to drive away the air and facilitate the transmission of sound waves into the test object. Contact ultrasonic inspection is suitable for slow-speed or manual detection because the probe is in direct contact with the detection surface, and the friction between the probe hinders the sliding of the probe.

• Immersion ultrasonic inspection (IUT)

Immersion ultrasonic inspection can be used to detect small defects of the materials that is not suitable for contact ultrasonic inspection with probe because of the limitation of shape, the surface is too rough or thin. Submersing a component or material allows for better sound travel from the transducer, and provides accurate reporting of sub-surface irregularities and flaws. Immersion ultrasonic inspection is suitable for high-speed automatic detection because the probe is not in direct contact with the detector. IUT supports a broad range of requirements as it applies to any wall thickness, as well as any material.

Test Material Types

• Carbon steel
• Low alloy steel forgings
• Aluminum and aluminum alloy plates
• Titanium and titanium alloy plates
• Austenitic stainless steel
• Butt welds

For more information about our ultrasonic testing, please contact us.