The laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF)method of additive manufacturing(AM)is increasingly used in various industrial manufacturing fields due to its high material utilization and design freedom of parts.However,the parts ...The laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF)method of additive manufacturing(AM)is increasingly used in various industrial manufacturing fields due to its high material utilization and design freedom of parts.However,the parts produced by L-PBF usually contain such defects as crack and porosity because of the technological characteristics of L-PBF,which affect the quality of the product.Laser ultrasonic testing(LUT)is a potential technology for on-line testing of the L-PBF process.It is a non-contact and non-destructive approach based on signals from abundant waveforms with a wide frequency-band.In this study,a method of LUT for on-line inspection of L-PBF process was proposed,and a system of LUT was established approaching the actual environment of on-line detection to evaluate the method applicability for defects detection of L-PBF parts.The detection results of near-surface defects in L-PBF 316L stainless steel parts show that the crack-type defects with a sub-millimeter level within 0.5 mm depth can be identified,and accordingly,the positions and dimensions information can be acquired.The results were verified by X-ray computed tomography,which indicates that the present method exhibits great potential for on-line inspection of AM processes.展开更多
Despite the success of guided wave ultrasonic inspection for internal defect detection in steel pipes,its application on polyethylene(PE)pipe remains relatively unexplored.The growth of internal cracks in PE pipe seve...Despite the success of guided wave ultrasonic inspection for internal defect detection in steel pipes,its application on polyethylene(PE)pipe remains relatively unexplored.The growth of internal cracks in PE pipe severely affects its pressure-holding capacity,hence the early detection of internal cracks is crucial for effective pipeline maintenance strategies.This study extends the scope of guided wave-based ultrasonic testing to detect the growth of internal cracks in a natural gas distribution PE pipe.Laboratory experiments and a finite element model were planned to study the wave-crack interaction at different stages of axially oriented internal crack growth with a piezoceramic transducer-based setup arranged in a pitch-catch configuration.Mode dispersion analysis supplemented with preliminary experiments was performed to isolate the optimal inspection frequency,leading to the selection of the T(0,1)mode at 50-kHz for the investigation.A transmission index based on the energy of the T(0,1)mode was developed to trace the extent of simulated crack growth.The findings revealed an inverse linear correlation between the transmission index and the crack depth for crack growth beyond 20%crack depth.展开更多
Two dimensional scan for laser welded joint of stainless steel was implemented according to the reflection characteristics of ultrasonic. B-scan imaging technique was applied to characterize the fusion state in the jo...Two dimensional scan for laser welded joint of stainless steel was implemented according to the reflection characteristics of ultrasonic. B-scan imaging technique was applied to characterize the fusion state in the joint and distinguish welding detects such as incomplete penetration. Calculation of weld width at the interface of the two plates and imaging of the weld cross section were accomplished. Experimental results show that rapid nondestructive testing can be achieved by this method with threshold value of 30% attenuation degree. The calculation error is less than 0. 25 mm.展开更多
Ultrasonic testing(UT)is increasingly combined with machine learning(ML)techniques for intelligently identifying damage.Extracting signifcant features from UT data is essential for efcient defect characterization.More...Ultrasonic testing(UT)is increasingly combined with machine learning(ML)techniques for intelligently identifying damage.Extracting signifcant features from UT data is essential for efcient defect characterization.Moreover,the hidden physics behind ML is unexplained,reducing the generalization capability and versatility of ML methods in UT.In this paper,a generally applicable ML framework based on the model interpretation strategy is proposed to improve the detection accuracy and computational efciency of UT.Firstly,multi-domain features are extracted from the UT signals with signal processing techniques to construct an initial feature space.Subsequently,a feature selection method based on model interpretable strategy(FS-MIS)is innovatively developed by integrating Shapley additive explanation(SHAP),flter method,embedded method and wrapper method.The most efective ML model and the optimal feature subset with better correlation to the target defects are determined self-adaptively.The proposed framework is validated by identifying and locating side-drilled holes(SDHs)with 0.5λcentral distance and different depths.An ultrasonic array probe is adopted to acquire FMC datasets from several aluminum alloy specimens containing two SDHs by experiments.The optimal feature subset selected by FS-MIS is set as the input of the chosen ML model to train and predict the times of arrival(ToAs)of the scattered waves emitted by adjacent SDHs.The experimental results demonstrate that the relative errors of the predicted ToAs are all below 3.67%with an average error of 0.25%,signifcantly improving the time resolution of UT signals.On this basis,the predicted ToAs are assigned to the corresponding original signals for decoupling overlapped pulse-echoes and reconstructing high-resolution FMC datasets.The imaging resolution is enhanced to 0.5λby implementing the total focusing method(TFM).The relative errors of hole depths and central distance are no more than 0.51%and 3.57%,respectively.Finally,the superior performance of the proposed FS-MIS is validated by comparing it with initial feature space and conventional dimensionality reduction techniques.展开更多
Separating noise from observed signals was studied.When the small defect in the T-shape laser welding joint was inspected by ultrasonic testing system adopting independent component analysis(ICA)theory to process the ...Separating noise from observed signals was studied.When the small defect in the T-shape laser welding joint was inspected by ultrasonic testing system adopting independent component analysis(ICA)theory to process the signals.The principle of automatic ultrasonic testing signals processing and negentropy law of ICA were introduced.The experimental data were processed using relative analysis tools and results showed that the ICA could separate defects signals from noise effectively in laboratory.展开更多
In ultrasonic non-destructive testing of high-temperature industrial equipment,sound velocity drift induced by non-uniform temperature fields can severely compromise defect localization accuracy.Conventional approache...In ultrasonic non-destructive testing of high-temperature industrial equipment,sound velocity drift induced by non-uniform temperature fields can severely compromise defect localization accuracy.Conventional approaches that rely on room-temperature sound velocities introduce systematic errors,potentially leading to misjudgment of safety-critical components.Two primary challenges hinder current methods:first,it is difficult to monitor real-time changes in sound velocity distribution within a thermal gradient;second,traditional uniform-temperature correction models fail to capture the nonlinear dependence of material properties on temperature and their effect on ultrasonic velocity fields.Here,we propose a defect localization correction method based on multiphysics coupling.A two-dimensional coupled heat transfer–wave propagation model is established in COMSOL,and a one-dimensional steady-state heat transfer condition is used to design a numerical pulse–echo experiment in 1020 steel.Temperature-dependent material properties are incorporated,and the intrinsic relationship between sound velocity and temperature is derived,confirming consistency with classical theories.To account for gradient temperature fields,a micro-element integration algorithm discretizes the propagation path into segments,each associated with a locally computed temperature from the steady-state heat conduction solution.Defect positions are dynamically corrected through cumulative displacement along the propagation path.By integrating heat conduction and elastic wave propagation in a multiphysics framework,this method overcomes the limitations of uniform-temperature assumptions.The micro-element integration approach enables dynamic tracking of spatially varying sound velocities,offering a robust strategy to enhance ultrasonic testing accuracy in high-temperature industrial environments.展开更多
In dry-coupled ultrasonic thickness measurement,thick rubber layers introduce high-amplitude parasitic echoes that obscure defect signals and degrade thickness accuracy.Existing methods struggle to resolve overlap-pin...In dry-coupled ultrasonic thickness measurement,thick rubber layers introduce high-amplitude parasitic echoes that obscure defect signals and degrade thickness accuracy.Existing methods struggle to resolve overlap-ping echoes under variable coupling conditions and non-stationary noise.This study proposes a novel dual-criterion framework integrating energy contribution and statistical impulsivity metrics to isolate specimen re-flections from coupling-layer interference.By decomposing A-scan signals into Intrinsic Mode Functions(IMFs),the framework employs energy contribution thresholds(>85%)and kurtosis indices(>3)to autonomously select IMFs containing valid specimen echoes.Hybrid time-frequency thresholding further suppresses interference through amplitude filtering and spectral focusing.Experimental results demonstrate the framework’s robustness,achieving 92.3%thickness accuracy for 5 mm steel specimens with 5 mm rubber coupling,outperforming conventional methods by up to 18.7%.The dual-criterion approach reduces operator dependency by 37%and maintainsΔT<0.03 mm under surface roughness up to 6.3μm,offering a practical solution for industrial nondestructive testing with thick dry-coupled interfaces.展开更多
Quantitative detection of sleeve grouting compactness is a technical challenge in civil engineering testing.This study explores a novel quantitative detection method based on ultrasonic time-frequency dual-domain anal...Quantitative detection of sleeve grouting compactness is a technical challenge in civil engineering testing.This study explores a novel quantitative detection method based on ultrasonic time-frequency dual-domain analysis.It establishes a mapping relationship between sleeve grouting compactness and characteristic parameters.First,this study made samples with gradient defects for two types of grouting sleeves,G18 and G20.These included four cases:2D,4D,6D defects(where D is the diameter of the grouting sleeve),and no-defect.Then,an ultrasonic input/output data acquisition system was established.Three-dimensional sound field distribution data were obtained through an orthogonal detection layout and pulse reflection principles.Finally,a novel quantification detection with a comprehensive defect index(DI)was established by comprehensively considering eight feature parameters,such as time-frequency domain Kurtosis factor(KU),Skewness factor(SK),Formfactor(FF),Crest factor(CF),Impulse factor(IF),Clearance factor(CLF),Wavelet packet energy entropy(WPEE),and Hilbert energy peak(HEP).Construct a DI index by quantifying the difference between defect signals and defect free signals in the time-frequency domain.Experimental results show that,under no-defect conditions,the values of feature parameters are significantly lower than those under defect conditions.Among these,the KU,FF,CF,WPEE and HEP exhibit strong correlations with grout sleeve compactness.The proposed DI index in both types of grout sleeves showed good universality with a linear fit goodness of 0.847–0.962.However,G20 the larger inner diameter and length of the sleeve result in a more complex medium effect during ultrasonic propagation,making its DI index more sensitive to defects than the G18 sleeve.Therefore,the presented method is effective for quantitative detection and analysis of the compactness of grouting sleeves.展开更多
Simulation of phased array beams in dovetail and austenitic welds is conducted to optimize the setup of phased array ultrasonic testing（PAUT）.To simulate the beam in such material with complex geometry or with chara...Simulation of phased array beams in dovetail and austenitic welds is conducted to optimize the setup of phased array ultrasonic testing（PAUT）.To simulate the beam in such material with complex geometry or with characteristic of anisotropy and inhomogeneity, firstly,linear phased multi-Gaussian beam（LPMGB） models are introduced and discussed. Then,in the case of dovetail,wedge is designed to maximize the stable amplitude of the beam along the steering path;in the case of austenitic weld,modified focal law are developed to solve the problem of beam screwing and defocusing due to the material properties.To verify the effectiveness of the modified focal law,beam fields are calculated using LPMGB model in austenitic welds.展开更多
The important status of guide ring in large power plants and its manufacturing methods were introduced. The advantages of manufacturing methods including welding and electrolysis were discussed.In order to ensure the ...The important status of guide ring in large power plants and its manufacturing methods were introduced. The advantages of manufacturing methods including welding and electrolysis were discussed.In order to ensure the brazing quality of the guide ring,ultrasonic nondestructive testing(UNDT) method was used in this study.According to the features of the defects that may show up during brazing,the feasibility and reliability of UNDT were proved in theory.Based on the theory,an ultrasonic C-scan imaging test method was developed using a water immersion focusing probe.According to the features of the inspected images,the defects were segmented using a morphology image processing based method.The defects can be localized and sized by employing the algorithm of area reconstruction.At last,the combination ratio of brazing interface can be calculated and the brazing quality of the guide ring can be evaluated.展开更多
A computer simulation technique for ultrasonic propagation is utilized for the simulation of ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT). In this paper, one goal of the simulation is to compute ultrasonic field radiated b...A computer simulation technique for ultrasonic propagation is utilized for the simulation of ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT). In this paper, one goal of the simulation is to compute ultrasonic field radiated by arbitrary transducers into pieces under examination. The other simulates a testing experiment. The simulation approach is based on the model for the computation of the ultrasonic field in isotropic media radiated from actual NDT transducers. After the field is known, remaining to be modeled is the interaction between this field and the scatters (defect) and the echo structure. The model of beam-defect interaction is based on the Kirchhoff’s diffraction approximations theory applied to elastodynamics. We assumed that the incident wave fronts on the defect are plane in the case of a focused immersed transducer and material is isotropic and homogeneous. The simulating results demonstrate that the model in ultrasonic NDT of welds is practical in further research and useful in optimizing testi展开更多
Because the UT （ultrasonic testing） flexible probe technology may be an appropriate answer to examine components with uneven surface, AREVA has developed an industrial application of the CEA＇s （French Atomic Energ...Because the UT （ultrasonic testing） flexible probe technology may be an appropriate answer to examine components with uneven surface, AREVA has developed an industrial application of the CEA＇s （French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies） flexible phased arrays sensors. As a ＂first of a kind＂ project, the challenges faced were significant, including developing a phased array smart probe suitable for industrial use on rather simple but large scale geometries, permitting UT propagation within a constraining media structure and then targeting a qualification according to ENIQ （European Network for Inspection Qualification） methodology. A prototype flexible probe, designed for UT validation, and final flexible linear array probes permitting the UT behavior （as, e.g., detection and sizing from diffraction type echoes） to be maintained on wavy coupling surfaces, have been manufactured. These probes include a profilemeter with optical sensors control and a specifically designed coupling circuit （avoiding probe housing tightness issues）. Qualification has been performed using open test blocks, （where known ＂defects＂ exist, for procedure qualification）, and blind test blocks, （where ＂defects＂ are unknown, for qualification of testing personnel）. One open test bloc was customized to represent a ＂real＂ surface condition, with gaps up to 2.5 mm under the regular rigid probes. AREVAI/BGSI in Germany was selected to lead the project, with assistance in development and manufacturing sub-contracted to ＂CEA/LIST＂ laboratory, and the companies ＂IMASONIC＂ and ＂M2M＂. This paper describes the development of these probes and explains a few features （ENIQ qualification objectives fulfilled, UT data acquired on actual perturbed surface） that made their industrial implementation successful.展开更多
The loaded rock experiences multiple stages of deformation.It starts with the formation of microcracks at low stresses(crack initiation,CI)and then transitions into unstable crack propagation(crack damage,CD)near the ...The loaded rock experiences multiple stages of deformation.It starts with the formation of microcracks at low stresses(crack initiation,CI)and then transitions into unstable crack propagation(crack damage,CD)near the ultimate strength.In this study,both the acoustic emission method(AEM)and the ultrasonic testing method(UTM)were used to examine the characteristics of AE parameters(b-value,peak frequency,frequency-band energy ratio,and fractal dimension)and ultrasonic(ULT)properties(velocity,amplitude,energy attenuation,and scattering attenuation)of bedded shale at CI,CD,and ultimate strength.The comparison involved analyzing the strain-based method(SBM),AEM,and UTM to determine the thresholds for damage stress.A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model(FCEM)was created to describe the damage thresholds and hazard assessment.The results indicate that the optimal AE and ULT parameters for identifying CI and CD stress are ringing count,ultrasonic amplitude,energy attenuation,and scattering attenuation of the S-wave.Besides,damage thresholds were detected earlier by AE monitoring,ranging from 3 MPa to 10 MPa.CI and CD identified by UTM occurred later than SBM and AEM,and were in the range of 12 MPa.The b-value,peak frequency,energy ratio in the low-frequency band(0e62.5 kHz),correlation dimension,and sandbox dimension showed low values at the peak stress,while the energy ratio in a moderate-frequency band(187.5e281.25 kHz)and amplitude showed high values.The successful application of FCEM to laboratory testing of shales has demonstrated its ability to quantitatively identify AE/ULT precursors of seismic hazards associated with rock failure.展开更多
This study explores the feasibility of electromagnetic acoustic transducers(EMATs)for ultrasonic rail inspection,focusing on bulk wave generation from the rail head and on defect detection at the central part of the r...This study explores the feasibility of electromagnetic acoustic transducers(EMATs)for ultrasonic rail inspection,focusing on bulk wave generation from the rail head and on defect detection at the central part of the rail foot.As a contactless method,EMATs could overcome some known limitations of conventional ultrasonic techniques,but require further validation.Differ-ent campaigns of experimental tests were performed,evaluating,by means of a probability of detection approach,the response of the technique to several artificial semi-elliptical flaws of increasing size and by considering two sensors characterized by different working frequencies.In contact,static tests allowed to assess the basic feasibility of the inspection technique and showed a linear response to defect size,saturating when defect width exceeded the rail web thickness.Dynamic tests allowed to introduce the effects of lift-off on signal responses.During all tests,the higher-frequency sensor outperformed the lower-frequency one.Finally,full-scale bogie tests on an indoor permanent track installation,comprehensive of defec-tive rails,confirmed the higher flaw detection rates of the higher-frequency sensor,with minimal detection failures despite occasional false alarms.EMATs showed encouraging results for in-motion rail inspection:with further technical development and optimization,this technique could enhance ultrasonic rail inspection by diagnostic trains.展开更多
The steel-epoxy-steel sandwich structures provide enhanced corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance,making them suitable for pipeline rehabilitation with effective repair and long-term durability.However,the repair...The steel-epoxy-steel sandwich structures provide enhanced corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance,making them suitable for pipeline rehabilitation with effective repair and long-term durability.However,the repair quality can be compromised by disbond between the steel and epoxy layers,whichmay result frominsufficient epoxy injection.Conventional ultrasonic testing faces challenges in accurately locating disbond defects due to aliased echo interference at interfaces.This paper proposes a signal processing algorithm for improving the accuracy of ultrasonic reflection method for detecting disbond defects between steel and epoxy layers.First,a coati optimization algorithmvariational mode decomposition(COA-VMD)is applied to adaptively decompose the ultrasonic signals and extract the intrinsic mode function components that show high correlation with the defect-related signals.Then,by calculating the relative reflectance at the interface and establishing a quantitative evaluation index based on acoustic impedance discontinuity,the locations of disbond defects are identified.Experimental results demonstrate that this method can effectively detect the locations of disbond defects between steel and epoxy layers.展开更多
To address the difficulty in testing and calibrating the stress gradient in the depth direction of mechanical components, a new technology of nondestructive testing and characterization of the residual stress gradient...To address the difficulty in testing and calibrating the stress gradient in the depth direction of mechanical components, a new technology of nondestructive testing and characterization of the residual stress gradient field by ultrasonic method is proposed based on acoustoelasticity theory. By carrying out theoretical analysis, the sensitivity coefficients of different types of ultrasonic are obtained by taking the low carbon steel（12%C） as a research object. By fixing the interval distance between sending and receiving transducers, the mathematical expressions of the change of stress and the variation of time are established. To design one sending-one receiving and oblique incidence ultrasonic detection probes, according to Snell law, the critically refracted longitudinal wave（LCR wave） is excited at a certain depth of the fixed distance of the tested components. Then, the relationship between the depth of LCR wave detection and the center frequency of the probe in Q235 steel is obtained through experimental study. To detect the stress gradient in the depth direction, a stress gradient LCR wave detection model is established, through which the stress gradient formula is derived by the relationship between center frequency and detecting depth. A C-shaped stress specimen of Q235 steel is designed to conduct stress loading tests, and the stress is measured with the five group probes at different center frequencies. The accuracy of ultrasonic testing is verified by X-ray stress analyzer. The stress value of each specific depth is calculated using the stress gradient formula. Accordingly, the ultrasonic characterization of residual stress field is realized. Characterization results show that the stress gradient distribution is consistent with the simulation in ANSYS. The new technology can be widely applied in the detection of the residual stress gradient field caused by mechanical processing, such as welding and shot peening.展开更多
Based on quantitative microscopic examinations of welds and welding rate for different steels(40Cr and T10A) joint,which possess the ultra-fine microstructure after high frequency hardening(HFH) and salt-bath cyclic q...Based on quantitative microscopic examinations of welds and welding rate for different steels(40Cr and T10A) joint,which possess the ultra-fine microstructure after high frequency hardening(HFH) and salt-bath cyclic quenching(SCQ),the suitable defect grey scale threshold value was determined,and the welding rate of superplastic solid-state welding of different steels(40Cr and T10 A steel) was systematically inspected and analyzed by means of self-made ultrasonic imaging inspection system.The experimental results showed that the superplastic solid-state weld of different steels can be inspected more accurately,reliably and quickly by this system,and the results were in good accordance with that of metallographic observation.The welding rate of superplastic welding is in linear relation with tensile strength of joint.展开更多
Composite materials are increasingly used in the aerospace industry.To fully realise the weight saving potential along with superior mechanical properties that composites offer in safety critical applications,reliable...Composite materials are increasingly used in the aerospace industry.To fully realise the weight saving potential along with superior mechanical properties that composites offer in safety critical applications,reliable Non-Destructive Testing(NDT)methods are required to prevent catastrophic failures.This paper will review the state of the art in the field and point to highlight the success and challenges that different NDT methods are faced to evaluate the integrity of critical aerospace composites.The focus will be on advanced certificated NDT methods for damage detection and characterization in composite laminates for use in the aircraft primary and secondary structures.展开更多
Ambiguity function （AF） is proposed to represent ultrasonic signal to resolve the preprocessing problem of different center frequencies and different arriving times among ultrasonic signals for feature extraction, a...Ambiguity function （AF） is proposed to represent ultrasonic signal to resolve the preprocessing problem of different center frequencies and different arriving times among ultrasonic signals for feature extraction, as well as offer time-frequency features for signal classification. Moreover, Karhunen-Loeve （K-L） transform is considered to extract signal features from ambiguity plane, and then the features are presented to probabilistic neural network （PNN） for signal classification. Experimental results show that ambiguity function eliminates the difference of center frequency and arriving time existing in ultrasonic signals, and ambiguity plane features extracted by K-L transform describe the signal of different classes effectively in a reduced dimensional space. Classification result suggests that the ambiguity plane features obtain better performance than the features extracted by wavelet transform （WT）.展开更多
The ultrasonic attenuation coefficient is one of the most important acoustic parameters to character the performance of a thin layer media, but it can not be measured due to mutual superposition of multiple reflected ...The ultrasonic attenuation coefficient is one of the most important acoustic parameters to character the performance of a thin layer media, but it can not be measured due to mutual superposition of multiple reflected waves at the same interface in ultrasonic testing. Ultrasonic pulse echo and lamb wave to evaluate the thin layer media can not obtain attenuation coefficient at present. In this paper, analytical method was used to study the acoustics characteristic of thin layer media with the ultrasonic echo testing. Meanwhile, the process of ultrasonic attenuation measurement was presented. Simulation and experimental investigation is focused on a thin layer of rubber. Attenuation coefficient was introduced and evaluation mathematics model was established by the two echoes cross-correlation with and without the thin layer media based on the time delay spectrum. It involved the parameters related to the acoustic properties of the thin layer media. Through calculating the sound velocity and acoustic impedance with the evaluation model, it can deduce the relation between the attenuation coefficient and the frequency. Through analyzing the simulation results, it indicated that the attenuation coefficients were invariable with the varying of the frequency. However, the attenuation coefficients increased with the frequency increasing by ultrasonic testing the thin layer of rubber. The reason was that the attenuation factor was not taken into account during the simulation. This method overcomes shortcomings that the traditional ultrasonic testing can not evaluate the thin layer media whose thickness is less than motivation wavelength. It is a new solution to study the attenuation characteristic and on-line nondestructive evaluation in the thin layer media.展开更多
基金the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2018YFB1106100)。
文摘The laser powder bed fusion(L-PBF)method of additive manufacturing(AM)is increasingly used in various industrial manufacturing fields due to its high material utilization and design freedom of parts.However,the parts produced by L-PBF usually contain such defects as crack and porosity because of the technological characteristics of L-PBF,which affect the quality of the product.Laser ultrasonic testing(LUT)is a potential technology for on-line testing of the L-PBF process.It is a non-contact and non-destructive approach based on signals from abundant waveforms with a wide frequency-band.In this study,a method of LUT for on-line inspection of L-PBF process was proposed,and a system of LUT was established approaching the actual environment of on-line detection to evaluate the method applicability for defects detection of L-PBF parts.The detection results of near-surface defects in L-PBF 316L stainless steel parts show that the crack-type defects with a sub-millimeter level within 0.5 mm depth can be identified,and accordingly,the positions and dimensions information can be acquired.The results were verified by X-ray computed tomography,which indicates that the present method exhibits great potential for on-line inspection of AM processes.
基金the financial support provided by USDOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)through the Competitive Academic Agreement Program (CAAP)。
文摘Despite the success of guided wave ultrasonic inspection for internal defect detection in steel pipes,its application on polyethylene(PE)pipe remains relatively unexplored.The growth of internal cracks in PE pipe severely affects its pressure-holding capacity,hence the early detection of internal cracks is crucial for effective pipeline maintenance strategies.This study extends the scope of guided wave-based ultrasonic testing to detect the growth of internal cracks in a natural gas distribution PE pipe.Laboratory experiments and a finite element model were planned to study the wave-crack interaction at different stages of axially oriented internal crack growth with a piezoceramic transducer-based setup arranged in a pitch-catch configuration.Mode dispersion analysis supplemented with preliminary experiments was performed to isolate the optimal inspection frequency,leading to the selection of the T(0,1)mode at 50-kHz for the investigation.A transmission index based on the energy of the T(0,1)mode was developed to trace the extent of simulated crack growth.The findings revealed an inverse linear correlation between the transmission index and the crack depth for crack growth beyond 20%crack depth.
文摘Two dimensional scan for laser welded joint of stainless steel was implemented according to the reflection characteristics of ultrasonic. B-scan imaging technique was applied to characterize the fusion state in the joint and distinguish welding detects such as incomplete penetration. Calculation of weld width at the interface of the two plates and imaging of the weld cross section were accomplished. Experimental results show that rapid nondestructive testing can be achieved by this method with threshold value of 30% attenuation degree. The calculation error is less than 0. 25 mm.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.U22B2068,52275520,52075078)National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2019YFA0709003).
文摘Ultrasonic testing(UT)is increasingly combined with machine learning(ML)techniques for intelligently identifying damage.Extracting signifcant features from UT data is essential for efcient defect characterization.Moreover,the hidden physics behind ML is unexplained,reducing the generalization capability and versatility of ML methods in UT.In this paper,a generally applicable ML framework based on the model interpretation strategy is proposed to improve the detection accuracy and computational efciency of UT.Firstly,multi-domain features are extracted from the UT signals with signal processing techniques to construct an initial feature space.Subsequently,a feature selection method based on model interpretable strategy(FS-MIS)is innovatively developed by integrating Shapley additive explanation(SHAP),flter method,embedded method and wrapper method.The most efective ML model and the optimal feature subset with better correlation to the target defects are determined self-adaptively.The proposed framework is validated by identifying and locating side-drilled holes(SDHs)with 0.5λcentral distance and different depths.An ultrasonic array probe is adopted to acquire FMC datasets from several aluminum alloy specimens containing two SDHs by experiments.The optimal feature subset selected by FS-MIS is set as the input of the chosen ML model to train and predict the times of arrival(ToAs)of the scattered waves emitted by adjacent SDHs.The experimental results demonstrate that the relative errors of the predicted ToAs are all below 3.67%with an average error of 0.25%,signifcantly improving the time resolution of UT signals.On this basis,the predicted ToAs are assigned to the corresponding original signals for decoupling overlapped pulse-echoes and reconstructing high-resolution FMC datasets.The imaging resolution is enhanced to 0.5λby implementing the total focusing method(TFM).The relative errors of hole depths and central distance are no more than 0.51%and 3.57%,respectively.Finally,the superior performance of the proposed FS-MIS is validated by comparing it with initial feature space and conventional dimensionality reduction techniques.
文摘Separating noise from observed signals was studied.When the small defect in the T-shape laser welding joint was inspected by ultrasonic testing system adopting independent component analysis(ICA)theory to process the signals.The principle of automatic ultrasonic testing signals processing and negentropy law of ICA were introduced.The experimental data were processed using relative analysis tools and results showed that the ICA could separate defects signals from noise effectively in laboratory.
基金supported by the following projects:National Natural Science Foundation of China[U24A20135]Science and Technology Program of the State Administration for Market Regulation[2024MK016]+9 种基金Basic Scientific Research Fund Project for Higher Education Institutions of Inner Mongolia(2024YXXS057)Key Project of Natural Science Foundation of Inner Mongolia[2023ZD12]2023 Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key R&D and Achievement Transformation Program[2023YFHH0090]Natural Science Foundation of Inner Mongolia[2022MS05006]Talent Development Fund of Inner Mongolia Autonomous RegionFundamental Research Funds for Universities[2023RCTD012]Fundamental Research Funds for Universities[2023QNJS075]Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Postgraduate Research Innovation Project[KC2024053B]Fundamental Research Funds for Universities[2024YXXS012]Open Project of the National Key Laboratory of Special Vehicle Design and Manufacturing Integration Technology[GZ2023KF012].
文摘In ultrasonic non-destructive testing of high-temperature industrial equipment,sound velocity drift induced by non-uniform temperature fields can severely compromise defect localization accuracy.Conventional approaches that rely on room-temperature sound velocities introduce systematic errors,potentially leading to misjudgment of safety-critical components.Two primary challenges hinder current methods:first,it is difficult to monitor real-time changes in sound velocity distribution within a thermal gradient;second,traditional uniform-temperature correction models fail to capture the nonlinear dependence of material properties on temperature and their effect on ultrasonic velocity fields.Here,we propose a defect localization correction method based on multiphysics coupling.A two-dimensional coupled heat transfer–wave propagation model is established in COMSOL,and a one-dimensional steady-state heat transfer condition is used to design a numerical pulse–echo experiment in 1020 steel.Temperature-dependent material properties are incorporated,and the intrinsic relationship between sound velocity and temperature is derived,confirming consistency with classical theories.To account for gradient temperature fields,a micro-element integration algorithm discretizes the propagation path into segments,each associated with a locally computed temperature from the steady-state heat conduction solution.Defect positions are dynamically corrected through cumulative displacement along the propagation path.By integrating heat conduction and elastic wave propagation in a multiphysics framework,this method overcomes the limitations of uniform-temperature assumptions.The micro-element integration approach enables dynamic tracking of spatially varying sound velocities,offering a robust strategy to enhance ultrasonic testing accuracy in high-temperature industrial environments.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,grant number U24A20135Inner Mongolia Natural Science Foundation major project,grant number 2023ZD12+7 种基金Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region key research and development and achievement transformation plan project,grant number 2023YFHH0090Natural Science Foundation of Inner Mongolia,grant number 2022MS05006Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Talent Development FundUniversity basic research business expenses,grant number 2023RCTD012University basic research business expenses,grant number 2023QNJS075Postgraduate Research Innovation Program and of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,grant number KC2024053BUniversity basic research business expenses,grant number 2024YXXS012National Key Laboratory of Special Vehicle Design and Manufacturing Integration Technology,grant number GZ2023KF012.
文摘In dry-coupled ultrasonic thickness measurement,thick rubber layers introduce high-amplitude parasitic echoes that obscure defect signals and degrade thickness accuracy.Existing methods struggle to resolve overlap-ping echoes under variable coupling conditions and non-stationary noise.This study proposes a novel dual-criterion framework integrating energy contribution and statistical impulsivity metrics to isolate specimen re-flections from coupling-layer interference.By decomposing A-scan signals into Intrinsic Mode Functions(IMFs),the framework employs energy contribution thresholds(>85%)and kurtosis indices(>3)to autonomously select IMFs containing valid specimen echoes.Hybrid time-frequency thresholding further suppresses interference through amplitude filtering and spectral focusing.Experimental results demonstrate the framework’s robustness,achieving 92.3%thickness accuracy for 5 mm steel specimens with 5 mm rubber coupling,outperforming conventional methods by up to 18.7%.The dual-criterion approach reduces operator dependency by 37%and maintainsΔT<0.03 mm under surface roughness up to 6.3μm,offering a practical solution for industrial nondestructive testing with thick dry-coupled interfaces.
基金supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China Grant 11962006the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province of China Grant 20232BAB204067.
文摘Quantitative detection of sleeve grouting compactness is a technical challenge in civil engineering testing.This study explores a novel quantitative detection method based on ultrasonic time-frequency dual-domain analysis.It establishes a mapping relationship between sleeve grouting compactness and characteristic parameters.First,this study made samples with gradient defects for two types of grouting sleeves,G18 and G20.These included four cases:2D,4D,6D defects(where D is the diameter of the grouting sleeve),and no-defect.Then,an ultrasonic input/output data acquisition system was established.Three-dimensional sound field distribution data were obtained through an orthogonal detection layout and pulse reflection principles.Finally,a novel quantification detection with a comprehensive defect index(DI)was established by comprehensively considering eight feature parameters,such as time-frequency domain Kurtosis factor(KU),Skewness factor(SK),Formfactor(FF),Crest factor(CF),Impulse factor(IF),Clearance factor(CLF),Wavelet packet energy entropy(WPEE),and Hilbert energy peak(HEP).Construct a DI index by quantifying the difference between defect signals and defect free signals in the time-frequency domain.Experimental results show that,under no-defect conditions,the values of feature parameters are significantly lower than those under defect conditions.Among these,the KU,FF,CF,WPEE and HEP exhibit strong correlations with grout sleeve compactness.The proposed DI index in both types of grout sleeves showed good universality with a linear fit goodness of 0.847–0.962.However,G20 the larger inner diameter and length of the sleeve result in a more complex medium effect during ultrasonic propagation,making its DI index more sensitive to defects than the G18 sleeve.Therefore,the presented method is effective for quantitative detection and analysis of the compactness of grouting sleeves.
基金supported by the Korea Science and Engineering Foundation(KOSEF) grant funded by the Korea government(MOST)(2006-01653)NSFC-NRF,and by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)
文摘Simulation of phased array beams in dovetail and austenitic welds is conducted to optimize the setup of phased array ultrasonic testing（PAUT）.To simulate the beam in such material with complex geometry or with characteristic of anisotropy and inhomogeneity, firstly,linear phased multi-Gaussian beam（LPMGB） models are introduced and discussed. Then,in the case of dovetail,wedge is designed to maximize the stable amplitude of the beam along the steering path;in the case of austenitic weld,modified focal law are developed to solve the problem of beam screwing and defocusing due to the material properties.To verify the effectiveness of the modified focal law,beam fields are calculated using LPMGB model in austenitic welds.
基金the Fund of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Welding and Joining,Harbin Institute of Technology(No.welding 10-013)
文摘The important status of guide ring in large power plants and its manufacturing methods were introduced. The advantages of manufacturing methods including welding and electrolysis were discussed.In order to ensure the brazing quality of the guide ring,ultrasonic nondestructive testing(UNDT) method was used in this study.According to the features of the defects that may show up during brazing,the feasibility and reliability of UNDT were proved in theory.Based on the theory,an ultrasonic C-scan imaging test method was developed using a water immersion focusing probe.According to the features of the inspected images,the defects were segmented using a morphology image processing based method.The defects can be localized and sized by employing the algorithm of area reconstruction.At last,the combination ratio of brazing interface can be calculated and the brazing quality of the guide ring can be evaluated.
基金supported by the Doctoral Degree Fund of Xi’an Jiaotong University
文摘A computer simulation technique for ultrasonic propagation is utilized for the simulation of ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT). In this paper, one goal of the simulation is to compute ultrasonic field radiated by arbitrary transducers into pieces under examination. The other simulates a testing experiment. The simulation approach is based on the model for the computation of the ultrasonic field in isotropic media radiated from actual NDT transducers. After the field is known, remaining to be modeled is the interaction between this field and the scatters (defect) and the echo structure. The model of beam-defect interaction is based on the Kirchhoff’s diffraction approximations theory applied to elastodynamics. We assumed that the incident wave fronts on the defect are plane in the case of a focused immersed transducer and material is isotropic and homogeneous. The simulating results demonstrate that the model in ultrasonic NDT of welds is practical in further research and useful in optimizing testi
文摘Because the UT （ultrasonic testing） flexible probe technology may be an appropriate answer to examine components with uneven surface, AREVA has developed an industrial application of the CEA＇s （French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies） flexible phased arrays sensors. As a ＂first of a kind＂ project, the challenges faced were significant, including developing a phased array smart probe suitable for industrial use on rather simple but large scale geometries, permitting UT propagation within a constraining media structure and then targeting a qualification according to ENIQ （European Network for Inspection Qualification） methodology. A prototype flexible probe, designed for UT validation, and final flexible linear array probes permitting the UT behavior （as, e.g., detection and sizing from diffraction type echoes） to be maintained on wavy coupling surfaces, have been manufactured. These probes include a profilemeter with optical sensors control and a specifically designed coupling circuit （avoiding probe housing tightness issues）. Qualification has been performed using open test blocks, （where known ＂defects＂ exist, for procedure qualification）, and blind test blocks, （where ＂defects＂ are unknown, for qualification of testing personnel）. One open test bloc was customized to represent a ＂real＂ surface condition, with gaps up to 2.5 mm under the regular rigid probes. AREVAI/BGSI in Germany was selected to lead the project, with assistance in development and manufacturing sub-contracted to ＂CEA/LIST＂ laboratory, and the companies ＂IMASONIC＂ and ＂M2M＂. This paper describes the development of these probes and explains a few features （ENIQ qualification objectives fulfilled, UT data acquired on actual perturbed surface） that made their industrial implementation successful.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.U20A20266 and 12302503)Scientific and technological research projects in Sichuan province(Grant No.2024NSFSC0973).
文摘The loaded rock experiences multiple stages of deformation.It starts with the formation of microcracks at low stresses(crack initiation,CI)and then transitions into unstable crack propagation(crack damage,CD)near the ultimate strength.In this study,both the acoustic emission method(AEM)and the ultrasonic testing method(UTM)were used to examine the characteristics of AE parameters(b-value,peak frequency,frequency-band energy ratio,and fractal dimension)and ultrasonic(ULT)properties(velocity,amplitude,energy attenuation,and scattering attenuation)of bedded shale at CI,CD,and ultimate strength.The comparison involved analyzing the strain-based method(SBM),AEM,and UTM to determine the thresholds for damage stress.A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model(FCEM)was created to describe the damage thresholds and hazard assessment.The results indicate that the optimal AE and ULT parameters for identifying CI and CD stress are ringing count,ultrasonic amplitude,energy attenuation,and scattering attenuation of the S-wave.Besides,damage thresholds were detected earlier by AE monitoring,ranging from 3 MPa to 10 MPa.CI and CD identified by UTM occurred later than SBM and AEM,and were in the range of 12 MPa.The b-value,peak frequency,energy ratio in the low-frequency band(0e62.5 kHz),correlation dimension,and sandbox dimension showed low values at the peak stress,while the energy ratio in a moderate-frequency band(187.5e281.25 kHz)and amplitude showed high values.The successful application of FCEM to laboratory testing of shales has demonstrated its ability to quantitatively identify AE/ULT precursors of seismic hazards associated with rock failure.
基金funded in the frame of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) Trasporti, established at Fondazione Politecnico di Milano, through contract C40/2019 “JRC Trasporti-Metodologie per l’ispezione delle rotaie nei riguardi della formazione di cricche”
文摘This study explores the feasibility of electromagnetic acoustic transducers(EMATs)for ultrasonic rail inspection,focusing on bulk wave generation from the rail head and on defect detection at the central part of the rail foot.As a contactless method,EMATs could overcome some known limitations of conventional ultrasonic techniques,but require further validation.Differ-ent campaigns of experimental tests were performed,evaluating,by means of a probability of detection approach,the response of the technique to several artificial semi-elliptical flaws of increasing size and by considering two sensors characterized by different working frequencies.In contact,static tests allowed to assess the basic feasibility of the inspection technique and showed a linear response to defect size,saturating when defect width exceeded the rail web thickness.Dynamic tests allowed to introduce the effects of lift-off on signal responses.During all tests,the higher-frequency sensor outperformed the lower-frequency one.Finally,full-scale bogie tests on an indoor permanent track installation,comprehensive of defec-tive rails,confirmed the higher flaw detection rates of the higher-frequency sensor,with minimal detection failures despite occasional false alarms.EMATs showed encouraging results for in-motion rail inspection:with further technical development and optimization,this technique could enhance ultrasonic rail inspection by diagnostic trains.
基金supported by the Research Funding of Hangzhou International Innovation Institute of Beihang University(Grant No.015731201-2024KQ126)National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2023YFF0716600)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.62271021).
文摘The steel-epoxy-steel sandwich structures provide enhanced corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance,making them suitable for pipeline rehabilitation with effective repair and long-term durability.However,the repair quality can be compromised by disbond between the steel and epoxy layers,whichmay result frominsufficient epoxy injection.Conventional ultrasonic testing faces challenges in accurately locating disbond defects due to aliased echo interference at interfaces.This paper proposes a signal processing algorithm for improving the accuracy of ultrasonic reflection method for detecting disbond defects between steel and epoxy layers.First,a coati optimization algorithmvariational mode decomposition(COA-VMD)is applied to adaptively decompose the ultrasonic signals and extract the intrinsic mode function components that show high correlation with the defect-related signals.Then,by calculating the relative reflectance at the interface and establishing a quantitative evaluation index based on acoustic impedance discontinuity,the locations of disbond defects are identified.Experimental results demonstrate that this method can effectively detect the locations of disbond defects between steel and epoxy layers.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51275042)
文摘To address the difficulty in testing and calibrating the stress gradient in the depth direction of mechanical components, a new technology of nondestructive testing and characterization of the residual stress gradient field by ultrasonic method is proposed based on acoustoelasticity theory. By carrying out theoretical analysis, the sensitivity coefficients of different types of ultrasonic are obtained by taking the low carbon steel（12%C） as a research object. By fixing the interval distance between sending and receiving transducers, the mathematical expressions of the change of stress and the variation of time are established. To design one sending-one receiving and oblique incidence ultrasonic detection probes, according to Snell law, the critically refracted longitudinal wave（LCR wave） is excited at a certain depth of the fixed distance of the tested components. Then, the relationship between the depth of LCR wave detection and the center frequency of the probe in Q235 steel is obtained through experimental study. To detect the stress gradient in the depth direction, a stress gradient LCR wave detection model is established, through which the stress gradient formula is derived by the relationship between center frequency and detecting depth. A C-shaped stress specimen of Q235 steel is designed to conduct stress loading tests, and the stress is measured with the five group probes at different center frequencies. The accuracy of ultrasonic testing is verified by X-ray stress analyzer. The stress value of each specific depth is calculated using the stress gradient formula. Accordingly, the ultrasonic characterization of residual stress field is realized. Characterization results show that the stress gradient distribution is consistent with the simulation in ANSYS. The new technology can be widely applied in the detection of the residual stress gradient field caused by mechanical processing, such as welding and shot peening.
基金Item Sponsored by Provincial Natural Science Foundation of Henan(984040900)State Key Laboratory of Laser Technology([2001]0110)
文摘Based on quantitative microscopic examinations of welds and welding rate for different steels(40Cr and T10A) joint,which possess the ultra-fine microstructure after high frequency hardening(HFH) and salt-bath cyclic quenching(SCQ),the suitable defect grey scale threshold value was determined,and the welding rate of superplastic solid-state welding of different steels(40Cr and T10 A steel) was systematically inspected and analyzed by means of self-made ultrasonic imaging inspection system.The experimental results showed that the superplastic solid-state weld of different steels can be inspected more accurately,reliably and quickly by this system,and the results were in good accordance with that of metallographic observation.The welding rate of superplastic welding is in linear relation with tensile strength of joint.
基金the support of NVIDIA Corporation with the donation of the Titan Xp GPU used for this researchsupported by EPSRC grant EP/R002495/1the European Metrology Research Programme through grant 17IND08。
文摘Composite materials are increasingly used in the aerospace industry.To fully realise the weight saving potential along with superior mechanical properties that composites offer in safety critical applications,reliable Non-Destructive Testing(NDT)methods are required to prevent catastrophic failures.This paper will review the state of the art in the field and point to highlight the success and challenges that different NDT methods are faced to evaluate the integrity of critical aerospace composites.The focus will be on advanced certificated NDT methods for damage detection and characterization in composite laminates for use in the aircraft primary and secondary structures.
文摘Ambiguity function （AF） is proposed to represent ultrasonic signal to resolve the preprocessing problem of different center frequencies and different arriving times among ultrasonic signals for feature extraction, as well as offer time-frequency features for signal classification. Moreover, Karhunen-Loeve （K-L） transform is considered to extract signal features from ambiguity plane, and then the features are presented to probabilistic neural network （PNN） for signal classification. Experimental results show that ambiguity function eliminates the difference of center frequency and arriving time existing in ultrasonic signals, and ambiguity plane features extracted by K-L transform describe the signal of different classes effectively in a reduced dimensional space. Classification result suggests that the ambiguity plane features obtain better performance than the features extracted by wavelet transform （WT）.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 50802009)Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China (Grant No. 20070151024)
文摘The ultrasonic attenuation coefficient is one of the most important acoustic parameters to character the performance of a thin layer media, but it can not be measured due to mutual superposition of multiple reflected waves at the same interface in ultrasonic testing. Ultrasonic pulse echo and lamb wave to evaluate the thin layer media can not obtain attenuation coefficient at present. In this paper, analytical method was used to study the acoustics characteristic of thin layer media with the ultrasonic echo testing. Meanwhile, the process of ultrasonic attenuation measurement was presented. Simulation and experimental investigation is focused on a thin layer of rubber. Attenuation coefficient was introduced and evaluation mathematics model was established by the two echoes cross-correlation with and without the thin layer media based on the time delay spectrum. It involved the parameters related to the acoustic properties of the thin layer media. Through calculating the sound velocity and acoustic impedance with the evaluation model, it can deduce the relation between the attenuation coefficient and the frequency. Through analyzing the simulation results, it indicated that the attenuation coefficients were invariable with the varying of the frequency. However, the attenuation coefficients increased with the frequency increasing by ultrasonic testing the thin layer of rubber. The reason was that the attenuation factor was not taken into account during the simulation. This method overcomes shortcomings that the traditional ultrasonic testing can not evaluate the thin layer media whose thickness is less than motivation wavelength. It is a new solution to study the attenuation characteristic and on-line nondestructive evaluation in the thin layer media.
