Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
PAUT is the same concept as shear wave, except instead of using a single sound wave at a single degree, it introduces multiple sound waves (around 65) at multiple angles (such as 30, 35, 40, 45, 50). This increases the probability of a return/reflection of sound. Size, length, and depth of flaws are measured with this type of technique.
Advantages of the PAUT testing
- Non-radioactive inspection method
- Allows crew to work alongside of welders, eliminating downtime and the need for “shoot windows” to perform an inspection
- Cost-effective method for pump station and facility construction
- Fast scan results with no pipe size/wall thickness limitations
- Production rates on larger diameter pipe is as high as 4X RT, often accomplishing the same amount of production as two RT crews
- No film associated costs (digital imaging) ⇒ reduced inspection cost
- Eliminates the cost for an on-site auditor ⇒ all digital imaging captured is stored in a cloud.
APPLICATIONS
- Widely used NDT inspections in construction, pipelines, and power generation
- Can detect discontinuities, i.e. cracks or flaws and thereby determine component quality, as well as wall thickness during corrosion testing
- Has the ability to control parameters such as beam angle and focal distance
- Efficient, accurate and fast testing method