Fundamental Ultrasonic Inspection Techniques
Conventional Ultrasonic Testing (UT) forms the foundation of ultrasonic inspection methods. It employs single-element transducers that transmit and receive high-frequency sound waves to detect flaws and measure material thickness. The technique is extensively applied in welds, forgings, castings, and corrosion assessments.
The pulse-echo principle is central: sound waves are introduced into the material, and reflections from boundaries or discontinuities are recorded and analyzed. These reflections help determine flaw position, size, and nature, using A-scan (time-based), B-scan (cross-section), or C-scan (plan view) presentations.
BQCIS employs certified technicians performing pulse-echo, angle beam, and through-transmission methods following industry standards (ASME, AWS, API). Conventional UT remains indispensable for precise, on-site evaluation of metallic and composite components.
Key Conventional UT Activities
Key Benefits of Conventional UT
Detects Internal & Surface Flaws
Sensitive to both volumetric and planar discontinuities such as cracks, porosity, and lack of fusion in welds and base materials.
Accurate Thickness Measurement
Provides precise wall-thickness data critical for corrosion assessment and long-term asset integrity evaluation.
Portable & Flexible
Compact, field-ready instruments allow on-site ultrasonic inspection of varied geometries and materials.
Instant Feedback
Provides immediate A-scan and echo displays for real-time flaw evaluation and decision-making on acceptance or repair.
Success Story
Angle Beam UT Detects Weld Root Crack
A structural weld passed visual inspection but required volumetric NDT to confirm internal soundness near the root area.
BQCIS Level II technicians applied AWS D1.1-compliant manual angle beam UT scanning from both sides of the joint.
A clear, repeatable echo corresponding to a root crack was identified and flagged for repair. Post-repair UT confirmed the weld was defect-free and compliant.