NM01MMA460
The Sonatest Medium Angle Beam Shearwave Probe is a single-element ultrasonic transducer designed for performing angle beam inspections utilizing shear wave propagation within the test material. This specific probe is characterized by the following key features:
Wave Mode: It generates shear waves (S), which are a type of ultrasonic wave that oscillates perpendicular to the direction of travel. Shear waves are particularly effective at detecting flaws that are not parallel to the surface being inspected, such as vertical cracks, lack of side wall fusion in welds, and other similarly oriented discontinuities.
Refracted Angle: The probe is designed to produce a nominal refracted angle of 60 degrees when the ultrasonic beam enters a steel material. This specific angle is a widely utilized choice in angle beam inspection, offering a different perspective compared to other angles like 45 or 70 degrees, and is often selected based on the expected orientation and location of potential flaws.
Center Frequency: It operates at a center frequency of 4 MHz. This frequency represents a balanced compromise between the depth of penetration achievable in the material and the resolution, or the ability to detect and distinguish small flaws. 4 MHz is a common frequency for general-purpose ultrasonic testing, offering a good level of both penetration and sensitivity for a variety of materials and thicknesses.
Connector Type: The probe is equipped with a Lemo 00 connector. This is a robust and widely accepted coaxial connector type in the ultrasonic testing industry, ensuring a secure and reliable electrical connection between the transducer and the ultrasonic flaw detector or instrument.
Crystal Size: It features a piezoelectric crystal with dimensions of 14 mm x 16 mm. The size and shape of the active element within the transducer play a significant role in determining the characteristics of the ultrasonic beam, including its beam width, focusing capabilities (when used with a lens or wedge), and overall sensitivity. This rectangular crystal size is typical for many standard angle beam probes.
Manufacturer: This probe is manufactured by Sonatest, a globally recognized and reputable company specializing in the development and production of ultrasonic non-destructive testing equipment and transducers. Choosing a Sonatest probe ensures a high standard of quality and performance.
Damping: While not explicitly stated, Sonatest "Medium Angle Beam" probes typically feature medium damping. The damping level influences the bandwidth of the probe (the range of frequencies it effectively transmits and receives) and the duration of the ultrasonic pulse. Medium damping generally provides a good balance between sensitivity and resolution, making it suitable for a broad range of applications.
Applications: Probes with a 60-degree shear wave angle are commonly used for:
Weld inspection: Detecting various types of weld defects, including cracks, lack of fusion, and porosity. The 60-degree angle can be particularly effective for detecting flaws with certain orientations within the weld volume.
Inspection of machined parts: Identifying subsurface flaws in critical components.
Testing of pipes and tubes: Detecting both longitudinal and circumferential defects.
Inspection of castings and forgings: Locating internal discontinuities.