Application of a Methodology for Measuring Aerospace Parts by Ultrasonic Considering the Measurement Uncertainty through Analytical and Monte Carlo Simulation Method

1310402-9595-IJET-IJENS © April 2013 IJENS I J E N S  Abstract— The purpose of this work is to present a methodology to ensure the metrological confidence during measurement of aerospace parts by ultrasonic, focusing the thickness measurement of an airplane wing skin. This methodology involves from the criteria used to perform the selection of a proper measurement system (ultrasonic) to the establishment of a conformity zones, using the Monte Carlo simulation for the uncertainty measurement determination. It will be shown, through experimental analysis, that minor variations in the steps of the proposed methodology could reflect in relevant quality loss of the measurement result and, in addition, by not to considering a realistic conformity zone, the aerospace industry will be subjected to two possible mistakes: the approval of wing skin thickness out of the allowable limits, compromising, therefore, the passengers, crew and airplane safety; or the rejection (repair requested) of a wing skin thickness within specification limits, mistakenly affecting in the maintenance costs. Based on the above mentioned context, the methodology proposed in this work objects to prevent that both situations may occur in the inspection practice, in realistic costs.