TPT September 2012

Technology News

Expanded phased array range BUILDING on the success of its veo phased array product range, Sonatest has launched the new veo 16:128 phased array ultrasonic flaw detector. This new model addresses 128 probe elements for inspection and enables operators to connect larger single probes or multiple probes to the instrument. This increase in power and capability is important for weld inspection applications, where a linear scan from both sides of the weld is needed. The new veo 16:128 can address a pair of 64-element probes, allowing this to be carried out in a single pass, improving both the speed of inspection and positional accuracy, since the two probes are linked together.

Sonatest’s veo 16:128 phased array ultrasonic flaw detector

Efficient and effective scanning can also be achieved when the new veo is partnered with Sonatest’s large Wheel probe, which is capable of scanning a strip of up to 100mm in a single pass. The system is suitable for large area scanning applications and corrosion inspection. Aerospace composite inspection applications are enhanced using the 128-element capability; several inspection techniques for advanced materials such as GLARE have now been developed, which require high resolution probes with 96 or 128 elements. Further benefits to the new 16:128 veo include the capability of pitch-catch inspection techniques, merged c-scan inspections, top views and the included UT Studio viewing and analysis software. Alongside this new instrument, Sonatest has also released a new range of phased array transducers called the X-Series. Within this range there are five application specific series, offering a broad choice in range and frequencies for the operator. These have been selected and constructed to match standard configurations and are compatible with Sonatest’s veo range and other phased array equipment. The veo provides a simple-to-use interface with rugged housing design. A full suite of transducers and accessories is available. The range of applications includes weld inspection, pipeline inspection, corrosion mapping, aerospace and composite testing.

Sonatest Ltd – UK Email: sales@sonatest.com Website: www.sonatest.com

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S eptember 2012