Developments in ultrasonic recording and analysis for inspections of aerospace components

The author discusses the use of computers in assisting calibration and implementation of pulse echo tests, as well as preparing tabular results and `B´, `C´ or `D´ scan views for first line reporting processes. It is possible to produce algorithms to highlight certain types and sizes of defect. The system can then be programmed such that these potential defects have to be actioned before the inspection is regarded as being complete. These defects can also be `weighted´ depending on their type, location and number. All these steps are precursors to passing or failing the item under test, and for some components it may be cost-effective to bring in specialised inspection techniques to characterise further the potential defect after it has been highlighted. Data processing techniques are also used to reduce the amount of inspection data without degradation of the resulting C-scan outputs. Developments of this kind are the first necessary steps towards producing fully automated systems that require no manual intervention to accept or reject components