Ultrasonic Examination
Most ultrasonic testing concentrates on the interior of the component. The most common method is to utilize a transducer to send ultrasonic vibrations through the test object. The transducer converts electrical signals, sent from an oscilloscope, into ultrasonic vibrations. Interior defects show up in the sound waves reflected back to the transducer. The transducer converts the sound energy back to an electrical signal for display on the oscilloscope. Examining a weld or component can be quick and economical, but the skill of the inspector, coupled with the expense of his training and equipment are limiting factors.