Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
APPLICATION SECTORS
of Non-Destructive Ultrasonic Testing
Volumetric checks of all materials provided with sufficiently limited attenuation; cracks in welds, verification of the efficiency of the joints.
The applications are many, here are some components that are usually checked with ultrasound for the search for defects:
Rolled components; rollers, shafts, drives, press columns
Power equipment: forced turbine parts, generator rotors, pressure conduits, welded part assays, pressure containers, reactor components
Aircraft components
Machine materials
Vehicle parts
Military objects
Railway parts
COMPONENTS
METALLURGICAL
AERONAUTICS
AUTOMOTIVE
RAILWAY
DETECTABLE FEATURES
with Ultrasonic Control
Sound impedance variations generate by surface and/or internal defects such as: cracks, inclusions, etc
FUNCTIONALITY
of the Ultrasonic Control
Quick use – high thickness can be inspected – high sensitivity
NOTATIONS
Ultrasonic Test
Need for transducer/part acoustic coupling – high attenuation materials cannot be tested
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ULTRASONIC TEST
Advanced Ultrasonic Testing
PAUT & TOFD
Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) and Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) represent a new generation of high-tech non-destructive testing. They were developed for high thicknesses and are designed to offer more detailed, reliable and traceable results than conventional methods.
Unlike traditional ultrasonic testing (manual UT), these automatic or semi-automatic techniques use advanced digital instrumentation that allows for visual representation of defects and complete recording of the inspection, offering more objective and repeatable, fast and high-quality control.
Why choose advanced UT inspections such as PAUT and TOFD?
Greater precision and reliability in defect detection
Graphical display and storage of inspected data
Full traceability for auditing, quality and regulatory purposes
Faster and less invasive checks compared to other methods (e.g. X-rays)
Compliance with the latest international standards (EN ISO, ASME, API)
These technologies are ideal for inspecting welds, pipes, pressure vessels, critical components or wherever maximum accuracy is required in the assessment of defects.
At our centre, we perform PAUT and TOFD inspections using certified portable equipment and qualified personnel (level II and III – UNI EN ISO 9712), both at our premises and directly at the customer’s site.
Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) is an advanced non-destructive testing method that allows metal materials to be inspected with extreme precision, generating detailed images of the interior of the component. Using a multi-element probe, it is possible to dynamically vary the angle and focus of the ultrasonic wave, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis than traditional ultrasonics. It is ideal for applications in the most demanding industrial sectors, such as energy, aerospace, petrochemicals and plant construction.
Purpose of Phased Array testing
To detect internal defects such as cracks, lack of fusion, porosity or inclusions within welds, forgings or other metal components, with the possibility of displaying them in graphic form (B-Scan, C-Scan).
What problem does PAUT testing solve?
PAUT testing reduces the risk of failing to detect critical defects, especially in complex areas or those with irregular geometries, where traditional methods may be limited. It is particularly useful for those who need to certify the integrity of high-responsibility welds or components subject to high stress without resorting to radiographic techniques.
Advantages of PAUT testing
Our latest generation Phased Array equipment allows us to offer high-tech testing, with numerous advantages:
- More comprehensive and detailed inspection than conventional ultrasonic testing.
- Real-time visualisation of internal defects, with intuitive graphic representation.
- Reduced downtime: rapid results without the need for shielding (as with X-rays).
- More accurate inspection of complex welds (angular, full penetration, pipes, etc.).
- High reliability and traceability: each inspection is documented with images, digital reports and data storage.
- Compliance with international standards (EN ISO 13588, ASME, AWS D1.1, etc.).
RESULTS FOR THE CUSTOMER
The customer obtains a high-precision, safe and non-invasive inspection, also suitable for critical components subject to strict regulations.
We offer the service both at our premises and on site, thanks to portable equipment and qualified Level II and III personnel (UNI EN ISO 9712).
Request a Quote or Specialised Consultation for a
PAUT (Phased Array) ULTRASONIC INSPECTION
TOFD Ultrasonic Testing
(Time of Flight Diffraction)
TOFD (Time of Flight Diffraction) testing is an advanced non-destructive ultrasonic testing technique that is particularly effective for the detection and precise dimensional evaluation of internal defects in metallic materials, especially in welds. It is particularly suitable for industrial testing where high standards of quality and safety are required.
Unlike traditional ultrasonic testing, TOFD is based on the detection of diffracted waves generated at the edges of defects, allowing accurate measurement of the height and position of internal discontinuities
Purpose of Time of Flight Diffraction testing
Identify with extreme precision cracks, lack of fusion, inclusions and volumetric defects present inside welded joints or in thick components, even in the absence of surface indications.
What problem does TOFD testing solve?
The Time of Flight Diffraction testing allows the limitations of traditional techniques to be overcome, minimising uncertainties in defect assessment. It is particularly useful in highly critical areas, where reliable quantification of defect size is required in order to decide on the acceptability of the component according to codes and standards.
Advantages of TOFD testing
Thanks to our professional TOFD equipment and the experience of our qualified staff, we offer a high-tech service with several advantages:
- Extremely high sensitivity in detecting cracks and narrow defects.
- Precise quantification of defect dimensions (height, depth, location).
- Rapid inspection even on long welds or thick components.
- Digital recording and storage of data, useful for audits, subsequent analysis or comparison over time.
- No radiation or shielding required, so it can be carried out in operational areas.
- Compliant with international standards (EN ISO 10863, ASME V, API 1104, etc.).
Result for the customer
The customer receives a precise and documented technical assessment of the internal condition of the component, with a detailed report and supporting TOFD images. The inspection is carried out by Level II or III personnel (UNI EN ISO 9712), using portable equipment that allows the service to be performed either at our premises or at the customer’s site.
