Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing
An example of a semi-automated Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PA-UT) would be the inspection of stainless steel pipe long seam welds.
AIT developed a semi-automated scanner to inspect long seam welds from both sides simultaneously. The inspection utilized two sixteen element probes to effectively cover 100% of the weld and Heat Affected Zone (HAZ). This inspection met the requirements of Code Cases 2235 and 181.
An example of PA-UT would be the inspection of piping spool welds at a fabricator whose delivery time was improved by using PA-UT in lieu of RT.
The welds were inspected during the day without affecting production. A calibration scan is depicted below and the 3% deep ID notch is clearly visible.
