A practical technique for quantifying the performance of acoustic emission systems on plate-like structures

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Non-destructive Testing

Background:

• Acoustic emission (AE) testing is a valuable non-destructive technique for structural health monitoring.
• Quantifying the performance of AE systems, particularly on plate-like structures, is crucial for reliable defect detection and localization.
• Existing methods often lack quantitative performance metrics, hindering consistent application and interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a quantitative model for assessing the performance of acoustic emission systems on plate-like structures.
• To provide efficient measurement techniques for essential input parameters like phase velocity and attenuation.
• To demonstrate the model's utility in evaluating different AE system configurations and sensor placements.

Main Methods:

• A linear transfer function approach is employed to model AE system performance.
• Efficient measurement techniques are presented for obtaining phase velocity and attenuation.
• Experimental measurements on isotropic and anisotropic plates are conducted and compared with numerical solutions.
• Quantitative system metrics are derived by inputting experimental data into the model.

Main Results:

• The model is applicable to both isotropic and anisotropic materials.
• The study demonstrates the ability to measure AE system performance by analyzing areas of hit success and source location error.
• Quantitative metrics allow for the examination of different threshold values and sensor locations.
• The model provides a foundation for placing AE testing on a more solid, quantitative basis.

Conclusions:

• The developed model offers a quantitative framework for evaluating AE system performance on plate structures.
• The efficient measurement techniques facilitate the practical application of the model.
• This quantitative approach enhances the reliability and industrial applicability of acoustic emission testing.