Objective
This project has exploited recent developments in real time radioscopy, ultrasonics and signal processing by adapting them for on-line flaw detection during welding
The problems of unfavourable weld geometry, hostile environment and need for automated defect recognition have been overcome. Final demonstration trials were performed in a factory environment.
There would be considerable cost and programme advantages to fabricators of welded steel components over a broad range of industrial sectors in being able to perform effective Non Destructive Testing (NDT) of welds ans an on-line process during automated welding. For example rejectable welds could be identified as such before wasting the time and cost required to complet the weld, repairs can be made much more quickly and economically if performed before further weld build up, and detection of a high incidence of flaws during welding would enable the process parameters to be appropriately adjusted prior to completion of a production run.
Ultrasonic and radiographic techniques are not currently applied due to the temperature of the weld and neighbouring parent material. The partial weld geompetry is a complicating factor. However recent advances in Real Time Radiography, High Temperature contact ultrasonic probes, Time of Flight Ultrasonics and Signal Processing have the potential to be developed for flaw detection and evaluation during welding.
Under this project these techniques will be adapted for aplication on-line during welding, the capability achievable will be quantified by laboratory and shop-floor trials, and the cost effectiveness of fully developed systems will be calculated.
Fields of science
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
CSC - Cost-sharing contracts
Coordinator
PA4 8UW Renfrew
United Kingdom
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Participants (4)
57365 Ennery
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42781 Haan
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54001 Nancy
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GU2 5XH Guildford
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