What Does
Ultrasonic Beam Mean?
Ultrasonic beams are used in phased array (PA) ultrasonic testing, which is considered to be an advanced method of ultrasonic testing. This technology finds applications in the medical sciences and non-destructive testing. This method is good for finding flaws in manufactured materials such as those in welds. The ultrasonic beam in a phased array probe can be focused and swept electronically without moving the probe. The beam is controllable because a phased array probe consists of multiple small elements, each of which can be pulsed individually at a set timing.
Corrosionpedia Explains Ultrasonic Beam
The ultrasonic beams in the phased array (PA) instrument are controlled by a software program that determines the acoustic characteristics such as the refracted angle, focal distances and aperture without moving the probe. When compared to conventional ultrasonic testing (UT) methods, this technology allows for new possibilities, such as:
- Multiple refracted angles and focal distances can be generated simultaneously by a single search unit.
- Ultrasonic beams can be electronically moved over the length of the phased array probe, without any mechanical movement.
- By using multiple ultrasonic beams, the probability of detection can be increased.
- Automated or semi-automated inspection methods can be implemented more efficiently.