Ultrasonic/Ultrasound Inspections

    Uses the transmission of high frequency sound waves into a material to detect imperfections within the material or changes in material properties.

     The most commonly used ultrasonic testing technique is pulse echo wherein sound is introduced into the test object and reflections (echos) are returned to a receiver from internal imperfections or from geometrical surfaces of the part.

Ultrasonic Inspection is a very useful and versatile NDT method. Some of the advantages of ultrasonic inspection that are often cited include:

• It is sensitive to both surface and subsurface discontinuities
• The depth of penetration for flaw detection or measurement is superior to other NDT methods
• Only single-sided access is needed when the pulse-echo technique is used
• It is highly accurate in determining reflector position and estimating size and shape
• Minimal part preparation is required
• Electronic equipment provides instantaneous results
• Detailed images can be produced with automated systems
• It has other uses, such as thickness measurement, in addition to flaw detection