Mini-PAUT. Fast, compact phased array ultrasonic testing system

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Since 2003 MEV, in collaboration with Belltech have developed a small range ofconventional Ultrasonic NDT systems that are among the most accurate and compact systemsin the world. We achieved this by applying the latest technology and expertise in custom logicdesign, embedded software, analogue and digital electronics. We aim to grow from being aniche, specialist supplier to a major international supplier.Ultrasonic NDT systems have been in existence for over twenty-five years. They useultrasound signals to inspect the interior structure of objects made of Metal and othermaterials. This can detect defects in service before they cause problems and identify faultyparts before installation. We supply a vast number of systems that are adapted to workunderwater, for instance in nuclear installations and to inspect subsea oil pipelines andcommunication cables. In this application, the system is generally enclosed in a remotelyoperated vessel (ROV). Small size (to reduce size, complexity and cost of ROV) is critical.Fast processing (to reduce time needed for specialist ROV operation) is also essential to keepNDT inspections cost-effective.Phased Array Ultrasonic NDT (PAUT) systems have been in existence approximately adecade. They use more signals from multiple probes, ‘fired’ sequentially to produce images inreal time. The use of multiple probes allows the field of view of the system to be steeredwithout moving the probe assembly. The increasing use of composite materials needs thehigher testing performance of PAUT systems.The aim of the proposed project is to develop a PAUT system that is systematically superiorto existing systems. We will employ new techniques and components to simplify the signalchain. This will improve accuracy, reduce size (two fold improvement) and speed upoperation (eight fold improvement).