Internal flaws in welds and industrial components may remain hidden during visual examination. Linear phased array inspection uses ultrasonic sound waves to investigate these areas without cutting into the component.
The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (ATS FoC) provides linear phased array inspection as part of our nondestructive testing and inspection services. We help industrial clients evaluate welds, investigate suspected discontinuities, and gather information for maintenance decisions. Our technicians plan examinations around the material, component geometry, and applicable inspection requirements.
How Does Linear Phased Array Inspection Examine Internal Features?
A linear phased array probe contains multiple ultrasonic elements arranged in a row. The instrument controls their firing sequence to shape, steer, and focus the sound beam within the inspection plane. This electronic control allows technicians to examine selected areas using different beam angles or positions. Reflected signals provide information about internal features and potential discontinuities. Unlike a visual inspection, ultrasonic examination can investigate material below the accessible surface. However, inspection coverage depends on the setup, sound path, and component characteristics.
Our technicians select suitable probes, wedges, and scan arrangements for the examination. Calibration and sensitivity checks help establish the inspection response before evaluating the component.
Which Industrial Applications Can Benefit from Linear Phased Array Inspection?
Weld examination is a common application. Linear phased array inspection can help locate and characterize indications associated with cracking, incomplete fusion, and other weld discontinuities. The technique may also support examinations of base material and selected in-service components. Suitability depends on material structure, thickness, access, and the suspected damage mechanism. Our clients include but are not limited to:
- Power generation facilities
- Chemical and petrochemical plants
- Industrial equipment manufacturers
- Fabrication shops
- Pulp and paper facilities
- Plant maintenance and reliability teams
At ATS, linear phased array ultrasonic testing also forms part of our high-energy piping inspection capabilities. These examinations can contribute to a broader evaluation of critical piping welds. Inspection findings help clients identify areas requiring further attention. Additional examination or engineering assessment may be necessary before making repair or continued service decisions.
What Can Affect Phased Array Inspection Coverage?
A successful examination requires more than access to the general inspection area. Technicians need suitable scanning surfaces and sound paths through the region of interest. Several factors can influence coverage and interpretation:
- Weld profile and component curvature
- Material grain structure and sound attenuation
- Surface condition and acoustic coupling
- Available scanning space
- Flaw orientation relative to the sound beam
- Component temperature and inspection conditions
We review these considerations when defining the scope. Drawings, material specifications, and previous inspection records can help identify potential challenges. Some geometries or materials may require another ultrasonic technique or a complementary NDT method. We communicate relevant coverage limitations so clients can interpret the findings appropriately.
What Will ATS Inspection Results Help You Evaluate?
Our reporting documents the examination scope, relevant indications, and applicable limitations. Depending on project requirements, records may include scan images, indication locations, and estimated dimensions.
An indication does not automatically establish that a component requires repair. Evaluation depends on the applicable acceptance criteria and, where needed, further engineering review. We discuss the governing procedure, specified criteria, and reporting needs before inspection. This preparation helps keep conclusions aligned with the agreed scope.
Contact Us
Contact ATS by calling +1 (888) 287-5227 or submit a request form on this page to discuss linear phased array inspection for your welds, piping, or industrial components. Share your material details, inspection objectives, and access conditions and let our proven experts handle the rest.
