On the Use of Advanced UT Phased Array Methodology and Equipment

Phased array UT techniques are being used for inspections in nuclear and conventional power plants for more than 10 years. Applications involving simple linear arrays, using either sectorial scanning or multiple-angle raster scanning, are now commonly used and accepted. But the power generation industry is continuously looking for inspection solutions to more challenging inspection configurations, and this requires advanced software features and state-of-the-art phased array hardware. This paper will present several innovative applications of phased array technology, offering even more flexibility and increased inspection performance to the industry. It will be illustrated how the recently developed DYNARAYTM phased array hardware and the new UltraVision® 3 software can support these innovative phased array inspection concepts. For instance, 2D matrix arrays with a large number of active elements can be used to perform one-pass weld inspections while simultaneously searching for various flaw orientations. Also, position dependant focal law groups can be used to perform high-quality inspections on rough and wavy surfaces. The presented case studies will include considerations about phased array probe design, selection and generation of focal laws, inspection coverage and inspection performance.