Full Matrix Capture with Total Focusing Method - FMC/TFM

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Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) is a well-established ultrasonic testing technique that uses a multi-element probe that allows control of the angle, raster and focal properties of the ultrasound. It is used for multiple applications where engineering the ultrasound beam to the specific application is advantageous.

PAUT has multiple techniques for pulsing multi-element probes and algorithms for processing the ultrasound returned to the receivers. Full matrix capture (FMC) is a process of individually pulsing transducer elements in a sequence, and total focusing method (TFM) is an imaging algorithm that reconstructs ultrasound as it received by receiving elements. The combination of FMC/TFM allows for accurate reconstruction of the internal volume of materials and welds based on a projected 3D model.

IRISNDT APPLIES FMC/TFM FOR:

  • Welds and weld overlays, piping, pressure vessels, clad material, storage tanks and structural steel; FMC/TFM can be performed for code inspections, however it is normally limited to in-service inspections
  • Crack sizing, complex weld joint configurations, ERW weld inspection, and as a validation for other ultrasonic techniques or NDT methods

ADVANTAGES

  • Increased probability of detection of indications orientated oblique to the ultrasound wave
  • A large selection of imaging modes allows for better indication resolution and reconstruction based on the indication’s orientation
  • Portable, battery operated testing device
  • Inspection can be performed on in-service equipment
  • Multiple modes can be used at once

LIMITATIONS​

  • Probes are often larger than those used for conventional UT
  • Higher temperature probes are not currently available (in development)
  • Data acquisition speed is slow
  • FMC/TFM data file size is large