Manual ultrasonic testing is one of the most widely used inspection methods. It is applicable to a variety of applications such as:

• Metal plate thickness gauging
• Cast and forged metals quality control (flaw detection)
• Weld inspection for various welding geometries
• Polymer composite materials (FRP) defects detection

The method is based on the transmission and reflection of high frequency sound. A typical UT inspection system consists of the transducer, a pulser/receiver unit and a display. The pulser drives the transducer to produce high frequency ultrasonic sound waves.

Discontinuities in the material examined cause reflections and subsequent path differences. The time it takes for waves to travel in the material can be linked to distance travelled and this information is useful for the localization of the discontinuities in the examined material. The signals acquired by the receiver are converted to electrical signals and are displayed on the screen for evaluation by the suitably qualified and certified operator.

Testing is performed according to ISO 17640, ASTM E164 and ASME V-4.

Prior to the inspection it is necessary to perform a surface preparation-coating removal.