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Overview
Long seam welds are challenging to inspect using conventional phased array ultrasound testing (PAUT) because of their thin wall thicknesses, the vertical weld bevel orientation, and the pipe curvature. The ultrasonic beam orientation is along the pipe curvature, which greatly affects the acoustic focusing capabilities and hence reduces the probability of detection and the ability to correctly characterize a flaw. This paper presents a new long seam weld scanner, the Olympus AxSEAMTM scanner, that facilitates the mechanical setup and scanning action for long seam weld inspection. Some guidelines for scan planning are given herein, both for conventional phased array and for total focusing method (TFM) imaging. The Acoustic Influence Map (AIM) scan planning tool for TFM is also presented, which enables the operator to properly select the probe, wedge, and acoustic imaging path in function of the flaws to be detected. Experimental results are also given showing a comparison between PAUT and TFM imaging.
Key features of the AxSEAMTM scanner include the following:
- Four probe holders accommodate both phased array (PA) and time of flight diffraction (TOFD) probes to execute a multitechnology inspection, including TFM
- Patented dome-shaped wheels adapt to pipes without adjustment between changes in diameter
- Magnetic wheels and a brake system help maintain the scanner’s position on the pipe
- Intuitive tool-free adjustment mechanisms and controls
- Convenient cable management sleeve
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