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A Complementary Fusion-Based Multimodal Non-Destructive Testing and Evaluation Using Phased-Array Ultrasonic and
Muhammet E Torbali1, Argyrios Zolotas1, Nicolas P Avdelidis1
1School of Aerospace, Transportation and Manufacturing, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 27, 2024
Summary
Combining phased-array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) and pulsed thermography (PT) improves defect detection in multilayer structures. Complementary fusion offers a more complete understanding of flaws throughout the material thickness.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Non-Destructive Testing and Evaluation (NDT & E)
- Structural Health Monitoring
Background:
- Unimodal non-destructive testing methods have limitations in inspecting multilayer structures.
- Phased-array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) struggles with surface anomalies, while pulsed thermography (PT) has limited depth penetration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the integration of PAUT and PT for enhanced inspection of multilayer structures.
- To address the complementary challenges of surface-level detection and deep penetration.
Main Methods:
- A center-of-mass-based registration method was used to align inspection data.
- Complementary fusion techniques including maximum, weighted-averaging, depth-driven combination (DDC), and wavelet decomposition were applied.
Main Results:
- Complementary fusion significantly improved the total number of defect detections across multiple layers compared to individual methods.
- While individual methods showed higher MAE, fused images provided a more comprehensive defect overview.
- Individual inspection methods tended to overestimate defect sizes.
Conclusions:
- Complementary fusion of PAUT and PT enhances defect identification in multilayer structures.
- This integrated approach provides a more thorough assessment of flaws throughout the material thickness.
- Leveraging multiple NDT modalities is crucial for improved structural analysis and integrity.
