Optimisation of sonic thermographic inspection

Kelly A. Tsoi; Khalid Yousif; Nik Rajic; Ian Powlesland

doi:10.1117/12.822728

8 April 2009 Optimisation of sonic thermographic inspection

Kelly A. Tsoi, Khalid Yousif, Nik Rajic, Ian Powlesland

Proceedings Volume 7294, Nondestructive Characterization for Composite Materials, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Infrastructure, and Homeland Security 2009; 729411 (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.822728
Event: SPIE Smart Structures and Materials + Nondestructive Evaluation and Health Monitoring, 2009, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

A versatile and broad-field technique, sonic thermography uses high intensity acoustic waves to induce frictional heating at defect locations and the thermal signature is then detected using IR imaging. Sonic thermography has the potential to be used as a quantitative technique for difficult inspection problems. One example is the inspection of interference fit fasteners. In the case of poorly fitted interference fasteners, the acoustic waves induce relative motion between the fastener and host, causing frictional heating which can then be detected. The preliminary results of an inspection of interference fit levels in fastened metallic plates, reminiscent of the F-111C wing skin, are discussed. By improving the repeatability of the acoustic energy transfer, the heat detected using the IR thermographic system can be correlated to the interference fit levels of the fasteners. The results provide encouragement for the development of a quantitative assessment capability, however one of the remaining critical issues, which has hindered the use of sonic thermography as a quantitative technique, is the poor repeatability of acoustic excitations. This paper will also report on an experimental study which investigates this repeatability issue, in particular the role of the interface material used between the horn tip and the structure to enhance energy transfer.

Citation Download Citation

Kelly A. Tsoi, Khalid Yousif, Nik Rajic, and Ian Powlesland "Optimisation of sonic thermographic inspection", Proc. SPIE 7294, Nondestructive Characterization for Composite Materials, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Infrastructure, and Homeland Security 2009, 729411 (8 April 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.822728

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available