Simulation of 3-D radiation beam patterns propagated through a planar interface from ultrasonic phased array...

Area of Science:

• Non-destructive testing
• Ultrasonic testing
• Phased array systems

Background:

• Phased array transducers are commonly used with solid wedges for inspecting thin plates (<10 mm) and convex welds.
• Accurate characterization of the radiation beam pattern is vital for reliable phased array ultrasonic testing.
• Existing methods may not fully capture the complexities of beam patterns in solid media.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a systematic approach for calculating full 3-D radiation beam patterns.
• To provide a tool for understanding beam characteristics in solid media for phased array applications.
• To aid in the reliable application of phased array techniques in industrial inspections.

Main Methods:

• Development of a computational method for full 3-D radiation beam pattern calculation.
• Simulation of phased array transducers mounted on solid wedges.
• Analysis of beam patterns for a 7.5 MHz array on an acrylic wedge (15.45 degrees) with varying steering and focal parameters.

Main Results:

• The study successfully calculated full 3-D radiation beam patterns.
• Simulation results provide insights into beam behavior under different steering and focusing conditions.
• The method allows for detailed analysis of beam characteristics in steel.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a systematic way to determine radiation beam patterns.
• This understanding is essential for optimizing phased array ultrasonic inspection setups.
• The findings contribute to the reliable use of phased array techniques in critical applications.