A mosaic of transducer elements in which the timing of the elements excitation
can be individually controlled is used to produce certain desired effects, such as
steering the beam axis or focusing the beam.
Since the number of elements used can be increased, thus increasing
sensitivity by reducing beams spread and sharpening the focus.
High inspection speeds.
Increased signal to noise ratio using focused beams.
Software is readily available for post-processing capabilities.
Phased array instruments can be 10-20 times more costly.
Requires trained operators.
Grating lobes are similar to side lobes which may be interfering in the time
base display.
Dead elements in an array may inhibit constructive interference and beam
forming.
Sweep angle restrictions must be practiced.
Not well accepted like conventional methods.
1.4 WHY PHASED ARRAY?
• High speed electronic scanning without moving parts
• Improved inspection capabilities through software control of beam
characteristics
• Inspection with multiple angles with a single electronically controlled probe
• Many configurations: P/E, T/R, TOFD, Tandem
• Greater flexibility for inspection of complex geometries
- Optimized focusing
- Optimized beam angle
Chapter 1: Introduction to Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing P a g e |1