10 Aug 2023

Sensitivity of Simulated Flaw-Height Estimates to Phased Array Scan Parameters

Abstract: Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) is a nondestructive testing (NDT) technique for detecting and sizing flaws in welds. Estimates of flaw size are sensitive to a variety of PAUT scan parameters. In this study, estimates of flaw height are simulated using computer software. The sensitivity of these estimates to selected PAUT scan parameters is analyzed to identify those that have the greatest influence on estimates of flaw height. Understanding how varying different parameters within a phased array instrument affects the accuracy of flaw-height estimates helps to validate PAUT scan procedures and improve flaw-height estimates. For this research, a series of permutations on selected flaws were performed to see how certain parameters affect the accuracy in sizing flaw height. In addition, an analysis on how beam spread leads to flaw sizing inaccuracies was also conducted as part of this work.