An Experimental and Theoretical Comparison of 3D Models for Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing of Cracks: Part I, Embedded Cracks

Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods are broadly used for detection and characterization/imaging of cracks. Simulation is great interest designing such NDT methods. To model the ultrasonic 3D response a crack, high frequency asymptotic (semi-analytical) models (such as Physical Theory Diffraction—PTD) known to provide accurate predictions most classical configurations, numerical have also emerged more recently. The aim this paper carry out first time an experimental theoretical comparison embedded cracks in configurations. Semi-analytical hybrid FEM strategy—combining high-order spectral Finite Elements Method (FEM) flaw scattering ray beam propagation—have been compared. Both validations comparisons between simulation experiments prove effectiveness PTD numerous configurations but validate demonstrate improvement provided by code, notably small flaws compared wavelength shear waves.