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High temperature integrated ultrasonic shear and longitudinal wave probes
1Department of Systems and Computer Engineering, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario KIS 5B6, Canada.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|June 21, 2007
Summary
New ultrasonic shear wave probes were developed for high-temperature nondestructive testing. These probes, utilizing mode conversion, successfully operated at 150°C, enhancing material characterization capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nondestructive Testing
- Ultrasonic Transducers
Background:
- Nondestructive testing (NDT) and characterization at elevated temperatures present significant challenges for conventional ultrasonic probes.
- Existing technologies often struggle with material degradation and signal integrity under high thermal stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and develop integrated ultrasonic shear wave probes capable of operating at elevated temperatures.
- To leverage mode conversion theory for efficient shear wave generation and detection in harsh environments.
- To introduce novel designs for simplified fabrication and enhanced functionality, including simultaneous longitudinal and shear wave capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Development of probes using metallic substrates and high-temperature piezoelectric thick films applied via a paint-on method.
- Implementation of mode conversion theory by reflecting longitudinal waves within specifically shaped substrates to generate shear waves.
- Design and fabrication of probes for simultaneous longitudinal and shear wave generation/reception.
- Creation of a shear wave probe utilizing a clad buffer rod (aluminum core with stainless steel cladding).
Main Results:
- Successful design and fabrication of integrated ultrasonic shear wave probes.
- Demonstration of shear wave generation through mode conversion at elevated temperatures.
- Development of a novel probe design reducing machining time and fabrication complexity.
- Successful operation and testing of all developed probes at 150°C.
- Validation of a probe capable of simultaneously generating and receiving both longitudinal and shear waves.
Conclusions:
- The developed integrated ultrasonic shear wave probes are effective for nondestructive testing and characterization at elevated temperatures.
- The novel design schemes offer practical advantages in terms of fabrication efficiency and probe functionality.
- These advancements provide robust solutions for inspecting materials in high-temperature industrial applications.

