2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

STANDARD GUIDE FOR EVALUATING PERFORMANCE A09

CHARACTERISTICS OF PHASED-ARRAY ULTRASONIC

EXAMINATION INSTRUMENTS AND SYSTEMS

SE-2491

(Identical with ASTM E 2491-06)

1 Scope a system is used repetitively without change or substitution.

1.1 This guide describes procedures for evaluating This guide is not intended to be used as a substitute for
some performance characteristics of phased-array ultra- calibration or standardization of an instrument or system
sonic examination instruments and systems. to inspect any given material.

1.2 Evaluation of these characteristics is intended to 1.7 Required test apparatus includes selected test blocks
be used for comparing instruments and systems or, by and position encoders in addition to the instrument or sys-
periodic repetition, for detecting long-term changes in the tem to be evaluated.
characteristics of a given instrument or system that may 1.8 Precautions relating to the applicability of the pro-
be indicative of impending failure, and which, if beyond cedures and interpretation of the results are included.
certain limits, will require corrective maintenance. Instru-
ment characteristics measured in accordance with this 1.9 Alternate procedures, such as examples described
guide are expressed in terms that relate to their potential in this document, or others, may only be used with customer
usefulness for ultrasonic examinations. Other electronic approval.
instrument characteristics in phased-array units are similar 1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of
to non-phased-array units and may be measured as the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is
described in E 1065 or E 1324. the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish
appropriate safety and health practices and determine the
1.3 Ultrasonic examination systems using pulsed-wave
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
trains and A-scan presentation (rf or video) may be eval-
uated.
1.4 This guide establishes no performance limits for 2. Referenced Documents
examination systems; if such acceptance criteria are 2.1 ASTM Standards:
required, these must be specified by the using parties.
E 317 Practice for Evaluating Performance Characteristics
Where acceptance criteria are implied herein they are for of Ultrasonic Pulse-Echo Examination Instruments and
example only and are subject to more or less restrictive Systems without the Use of Electronic Measurement
limits imposed by customers and end users controlling
Instruments
documents.
E 494 Practice for Measuring Ultrasonic Velocity in Mate-
1.5 The specific parameters to be evaluated, conditions rials
and frequency of test, and report data required, must also
be determined by the user. E 1065 Guide for Evaluating Characteristics of Ultrasonic
Search Units
1.6 This guide may be used for the evaluation of a
E 1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
complete examination system, including search unit, instru-
ment, interconnections, scanner fixtures and connected E 1324 Guide for Measuring Some Electronic Characteris-
alarm and auxiliary devices, primarily in cases where such tics of Ultrasonic Examination Instruments

420.1
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

3. Terminology 4. Summary of Guide

3.1 Refer to Terminology E 1316 for definitions of 4.1 Phased-array instruments and systems have similar
terms in this guide. individual components as are found in traditional ultrasonic
systems that are based on single channel or multiplexed
3.2 Definitions: pulse-echo units. These include pulsers, receivers, probes
3.2.1 angle corrected gain also called ACG. This and interconnecting cables. The most significant difference
is compensation for the variation in signal amplitudes is that phased-array systems form the transmitted ultrasonic
received from fixed depth side-drilled holes (SDHs) during pulse by constructive phase interference from the wavelets
S-scan calibration. The compensation is typically per- formed off the individually pulsed elements of the phased-
formed electronically at multiple depths. Note that there array probes.
are technical limits to ACG, that is, beyond a certain angu- 4.2 Each phased-array probe consists of a series of
lar range, compensation is not possible. individually wired elements that are activated separately
3.2.2 annular array probes phased-array probes using aprogrammable time delay pattern. Varying the num-
that have the transducers configured as a set of concentric ber of elements used and the delay time between the pulses
rings. They allow the beam to be focused to different depths to each element allows control of the beam. Depending on
along an axis. The surface area of the rings is in most cases the probe design, it is possible to electronically vary the
constant, which implies a different width for each ring. angle (incident or skew), or the focal distance, or the beam
dimensions, or a combination of the three. In the receiving
3.2.3 array (phased) a patterned arrangement of mode, acoustic energy is received by the elements and the
elements. Typical arrangements include linear, annular, signals undergo a summation process utilizing the same
two dimensional matrix, and rho-theta. type of time delay process as was used during transmission.
3.2.4 electronic scan also termed an E-scan. The 4.3 The degree of beam steering available is dependent
same focal law is multiplexed across a group of active on several parameters including; number of elements, pitch
elements; electronic raster scanning is performed at a con- of the element spacing, element dimensions, element array
stant angle and along the phased-array probe length. This shape, resonant frequency of the elements, the material into
is equivalent to a conventional ultrasonic probe performing which the beam is directed, the minimum delay possible
a raster scan. Also called electronic scanning. between firing of adjacent pulsers and receivers and the
3.2.5 focal law the entire set of hardware and pulser voltage characteristics.
software parameters affecting the acoustic sensitivity field 4.4 Pulser and receiver parameters in phased-array sys-
of a phased-array search unit, whether a pulse-echo or tems are generally computer controlled and the received
a pitch-catch configuration. Within focal laws, there are signals are typically displayed on computer monitors via
included delay laws in transmitter and delay laws in computer data acquisition systems and may be stored to
receiver, as well as apodization laws, and element activa- computer files.
tion laws.
4.5 Although most systems use piezo-electric materials
3.2.6 linear array probes probes made using a for the elements, electro-magnetic acoustic transducer
set of elements juxtaposed and aligned along a linear axis. (EMAT) devices have also been designed and built using
They enable a beam to be moved, focused, and deflected phased-array instrumentation.
along a single azimuthal plane.
4.6 Most phased-array systems can use encoders for
3.2.7 matrix array probes these probes have an automated and semi-automated scanning.
active area divided in two dimensions in different elements.
This division can, for example, be in the form of a checker- 4.7 Side-drilled holes used as targets in this document
board, or sectored rings. These probes allow the ultrasonic should have diameters less than the wavelength of the pulse
beam steering in more than one plane. being assessed and long enough to avoid end effects from
causing interfering signals. This will typically be accom-
3.2.8 sectorial scan also termed an S-scan or plished when the hole diameter is between about 1.5 mm
azimuthal scan. This may refer to either the beam move- and 2.5 mm and 20 mm to 25 mm in length.
ment or the data display. As a data display it is a 2D view
of all A-scans from a specific set of elements corrected
for delay and refracted angle. When used to refer to the 5. Significance and Use
beam movement it refers to the set of focal laws that sweeps
5.1 This guide is intended to evaluate performance
a defined range of angles using the same set of elements.
assessment of combinations of phased-array probes and
3.2.9 S-scan (q.v. sectorial scan) instruments. It is not intended to define performance and

420.2
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

acceptance criteria, but rather to provide data from which performance criteria for procurement and quality assur-
such criteria may be established. ance, or service evaluation of the operating characteristics
of phased-array systems.
5.2 Recommended procedures described in this guide
are intended to provide performance-related measurements 5.6 Not all assessments described in this guide are
that can be reproduced under the specified test conditions applicable to all systems. All or portions of the guide may
using simple targets and the phased-array test system itself. be used as determined by the user.
It is intended for phased-array flaw detection instruments
operating in the nominal frequency range of 1 MHz to
20 MHz, but the procedures are applicable to measurements 6. Procedure
on instruments utilizing significantly higher frequency 6.1 Procedures for assessment of several parameters in
components. phased-array systems are described in Annexes A1 to A7.
6.1.1 These include; determination of beam profile,
5.3 This guide is not intended for service calibration, beam steering capability, element activity, focusing capa-
or maintenance of circuitry for which the manufacturers bility, software calculations (controls and display of
instructions are available. received signals), compensation for wedge attenuation,
5.4 Implementation of specific assessments may require receiver gain linearity.
more detailed procedural instructions in a format of the
using facility.
7. Keywords
5.5 The measurement data obtained may be employed 7.1 characterization; focal point; phased-array; phased-
by users of this guide to specify, describe, or provide a array probe; sound beam profile; ultrasound

420.3
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. DETERMINATION OF PHASED-ARRAY A1.2.4 Data collection of the entire waveform over
BEAM PROFILE the range of interest shall be made. The display shall repre-
A1.1 Introduction sent amplitude as a color or grayscale. Time or equivalent
distance in the test material shall be presented along one
A1.1.1 This annex describes procedures to determine axis and distance displaced along the other axis. This is a
beam profiles of phased-array probes. Either immersion or typical B-scan as illustrated in Fig. A1.2.
contact probe applications can be addressed using these
procedures. However, it should be cautioned that assess- A1.2.5 Data display for an electronic scan using a
ments of contact probes may suffer from variability greater phased-array probe mounted on a wedge can be similarly
than imposed tolerances if proper precautions are not taken made using simple orthogonal representation of time versus
to ensure constant coupling conditions. displacement or it can be angle corrected as illustrated in
Fig. A1.3.
A1.2 Test Setup
A1.2.6 Resolution along the displacement axis will
A1.2.1 For single focal laws where the beam is fixed be a function of the step size of the electronic scan or, if
(that is, not used in an electronic or sectorial scan mode) the scan uses an encoded mechanical fixture the resolution
and the probe is used in an immersion setup, the ball-target will be dependent on the encoder step-size used for sam-
or hydrophone options described in E 1065 may be used. pling.
For phased-array probes used in a dynamic fashion where A1.2.7 Resolution along the beam axis will be a
several focal laws are used to produce sectorial or elec- function of the intervals between the target paths. For
tronic scanning it may be possible to make beam-profile highly focused beams it may be desirable to have small
assessments with no or little mechanical motion. Where differences between the sound paths to the target paths
mechanical motion is used it shall be encoded to relate (for example, 1 mm or 2 mm).
signal time and amplitude to distance moved. Encoder
accuracy shall be verified to be within tolerances appro- A1.2.8 Beam profiling in the passive plane can also
priate for the measurements made. Descriptions made for be made. The passive plane in a linear-array probe is per-
electronic scan and sectorial scan beam profile assessments pendicular to the active plane and refers to the plane in
will be made for contact probes; however, when assessment which no beam steering is possible by phasing effects.
in water is required the machined targets may be replaced Beam profiling in the passive direction will require
with rods or balls as appropriate. mechanical scanning.

A1.2.2 Linear-Array Probes Linear-array probes A1.2.9 Waveform collection of signals using a com-
have an active plane and an inactive or passive plane. bination of electronic scanning in the active plane and
Assessment of the beam in the active plane should be made encoded mechanical motion in the passive plane provides
by use of an electronic scan sequence for probes with data that can be projection-corrected to provide beam
sufficient number of elements to electronically advance the dimensions in the passive plane. Figure A1.4 illustrates a
beam past the targets of interest. For phased-array probes method for beam assessment in the passive plane. This
using a large portion of the available elements to form the technique uses a corner reflection from an end-drilled hole
beam the number of remaining elements for the electronic at depths established by a series of steps.
raster may be too small to allow thebeam to pass over the A1.2.10 Figure A1.5 illustrates an alternative to the
target. In this case it will be necessary to have encoded stepped intervals shown in Fig. A1.4. A through hole may
mechanical motion and assess each focal law along the be arranged perpendicular to the required refracted angle
active plane separately. to provide a continuous transition of path length to the
A1.2.3 Side-drilled holes should be arranged at vari- target.
ous depths in a flaw-free sample of the test material in A1.2.11 A projected C-scan can be used to size
which focal laws have been programmed for. Using the the beam based on either color or grayscale indicating
linear scan feature of the phased-array system the beam is amplitude drop or a computer display that plots amplitude
passed over the targets at the various depths of interest. with respect to displacement. The projected C-scan option
The electronic scan is illustrated schematically in Fig. A1.1. is schematically represented in Fig. A1.6.

--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
420.4

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A1.1 ELECTRONIC SCAN OF SIDE-DRILLED HOLES

FIG. A1.2 B-SCAN DISPLAY OF ELECTRONIC SCAN cautioned that assessments of contact probes may suffer
REPRESENTED IN FIG. A1.1 (DEPTH IS IN THE from variability greater than imposed tolerances if proper
VERTICAL AXIS AND ELECTRONIC-SCAN DISTANCE IS precautions are not taken to ensure constant coupling condi-
REPRESENTED ALONG THE HORIZONTAL AXIS) tions.
A2.1.2 Recommended limits to establish the working
range of angular sweep of a phased-array probe relate to
the divergence of the beam of each element in the probe
array. When used in pulse-echo mode the steering limit is
considered to be within the 6-dB divergence envelope of
the individual elements. It is therefore possible to calculate
a theoretical limit based on nominal frequency and manu-
facturer provided information on the element dimensions.
However, several parameters can affect the theoretical cal-
culations. These are primarily related to the nominal fre-
quency of the probe. Some parameters affecting actual
frequency include; pulse length, damping, use of a delay-
line or refracting wedge and variations in manufacturing
processes on thickness lapping and matching layers.
A2.1.3 For the purposes of this procedure, assess-
ment of beam steering capability will be based on a compar-
ison of signal to noise ratios at varying angular
displacements. Beam steering capability will also be
affected by project requirements of the beam. Applications
A2. DETERMINATION OF PHASED-ARRAY
where focusing is necessary may not achieve the same
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

BEAM STEERING LIMITS

limits as applications where the beam is not focused as
A2.1 Introduction well as steered.
A2.1.1 This annex describes procedures to determine A2.1.4 Steering capability may be specific to a sound
practical limits for beam steering capabilities of a phased- path distance, aperture and material.
array probe and as such applies to the active plane(s) only.
Either immersion or contact probe applications can be A2.2 Test Set-Up Configure the probe focal laws
addressed using these procedures. However, it should be for the conditions of the test. This will include immersion

420.5

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

FIG. A1.3 ANGLE-CORRECTED B-SCAN OF A PHASED-ARRAY BEAM (IN SHEAR WAVE MODE) FROM A
SIDE-DRILLED HOLE (OFF-AXIS LOBE EFFECTS CAN BE SEEN IN THE DISPLAY)

FIG. A1.4 SCANNING END-DRILLED HOLES TO OBTAIN BEAM DIMENSIONS IN PASSIVE PLANE
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

FIG. A1.5 REPRESENTATION OF AN INCLINED HOLE FOR BEAM CHARACTERIZATION IN THE PASSIVE PLANE

420.6

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A1.6 REPRESENTATION OF PROJECTED C-SCAN OF CORNER EFFECT SCAN SEEN IN FIG. A1.4

or contact, refracting wedge or delay-line, unfocused or a sweep limit in the two directions when using this style of
defined focal distance and the test material to be used. block requires that the probe be assessed in one direction
A2.2.1 Prepare a series of side-drilled holes in the first and then rotated 180 deg and the opposite sweep
material to be used for the application at the distance or assessed.
distances to be used in the application. The side-drilled- A2.2.4 Angular steps between A-scan samples will
hole pattern should be as illustrated in Fig. A2.1. Holes have an effect on the perceived sweep limits. A maximum
indicated in Fig. A2.1 are at 5 deg intervals at a 25-mm of 1 deg between S-scan samples is recommended for
and 50-mm distance from a center where the probe is steering assessment. Angular steps are limited by the sys-
located. tem timing-delay capabilities between pulses and element
A2.2.2 Similar assessments are possible for different pitch characteristics. Most of the targets illustrated in
applications. When a set of focal laws is arranged to provide Fig. A2.1 and Fig. A2.2 are separated by 5 deg; however,
resolution in a plane instead of a sound path distance, the greater or lesser intervals may be used depending on the
plane of interest may be used to assess the steering limits required resolution.
of the beam. The block used for assessment would be A2.2.5 Assessment of steering limits shall be made
arranged with side-drilled holes in the plane of interest. using the dB difference between the maximum and mini-
Such a plane-specific block is illustrated in Fig. A2.2 where mum signal amplitudes between two adjacent side-drilled
a series of holes is made in a vertical and horizontal plane holes. For example, when a phased-array probe is config-
at a specified distance from the nominal exit point. ured to sweep +45 deg on a block such as illustrated in
Side-drilled holes may be arranged in other planes (angles) Fig. A2.1, the higher of the pair of the SDHs which achieves
of interest. a 6-dB separation shall be considered the maximum steer-
A2.2.3 Assessments are made placing the probe such ing capability of the probe configuration.
that the center of beam ray enters the block at the indicated
A2.2.6 Acceptable limits of steering may be indi-
centerline. For analysis of a probe where all the elements
cated by the maximum and minimum angles that can
in a single plane are used without a delay line or refracting
achieve a prespecified separation between adjacent holes.
wedge the midpoint of the element array shall be aligned
Depending on the application a 6dB or 20 dB (or some
with the centerline. For focal laws using only a portion of
other value) may be specified as the required separation.
the total available elements the midpoint of the element
aperture shall be aligned with the centerline. When delay A2.2.7 Steering capabilities may be used as a pre-
lines, refracting wedges or immersion methods are used requisite; for example, a phased-array system is required
corrections will be required to compensate for movement to achieve a minimum steering capability for 5 deg resolu-
of the apparent exit point along the block entry surface. tion of 2-mm diameter side-drilled holes of plus and minus
When a probe is used in direct contact with a verification 20 deg from a nominal mid-angle. Conversely, a system
block as illustrated in Fig. A2.2 the lack of symmetry either may be limited to S-scans not exceeding the angles assessed
side of the centerline prevents both positive and negative to achieve a specified signal separation, for example,
sweep angles being assessed simultaneously. To assess the 20 dB between 2-mm diameter SDHs separated by 5 deg.

420.7

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

FIG. A2.1 BEAM STEERING ASSESSMENT BLOCKCONSTANT SOUND PATH

A2.3 An alternative assessment may use a single SDH A3.2 Test Set-Up
at a specified depth or sound path distance. Displaying the A3.2.1 Connect the phased-array probe to be tested
A-scan for the maximum and minimum angles used would to the phased-array ultrasonic instrument and remove any
assess the steering capability by observing the S/N ratio delay line or refracting wedge from the probe.
at the peaked response. Steering limit would be a pre-
defined S/N ratio being achieved. Caution must be taken A3.2.2 Acoustically couple the probe to the 25-mm
when using this method so as to not peak on grating lobe thickness of an IIW (International Institute of Welding)
signals. This method will also require confirmation that block with a uniform layer of couplant. This may be accom-
the SDH is positioned at the calculated refracted angle. plished by a contact-gap technique such that the probe-to-
block interface is under water (to ensure uniform coupling).
Alternatively an immersion method using a fixed water
path may be used and the water-steel interface signal moni-
A3. DETERMINATION OF PHASED-ARRAY
tored instead of the steel wall thickness.
ELEMENT ACTIVITY
A3.1 Introduction A3.2.3 Configure an electronic scan consisting of
one element that is stepped along one element at a time
A3.1.1 This assessment is used to determine that all for the total number of elements in the array. (This should
elements of the phased-array probe are active and of uni- ensure that the pulser-receiver number 1 is used in each
form acoustic energy. Because, during normal operation focal law or if the channel is selectable it should be the same
in a timed sequence, each of the elements is addressed by channel used for each element). Set the pulser parameters to
a separate pulser and receiver, a method must be used that
optimize the response for the nominal frequency of the
ensures the electronic performance of the phased-array
probe array and establish a pulse-echo response from the
instrument is identical from element to element and any
block backwall or waterpath to 80% display height for
differences are attributable to the probe itself. To ensure
each element in the probe.
that any variation of element performance is due only
to probe construction, a single pulser-receiver channel is A3.2.4 Observe the A-scan display for each element
selected to address each element. in the array and record the receiver gain required to achieve

420.8
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A2.2 BEAM STEERING ASSESSMENT BLOCKSINGLE PLANE

--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
420.9

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

TABLE A3.1
PROBE ELEMENT ACTIVITY CHART: ENTER RECEIVER GAIN FOR 80% FSH
Element 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Gain
Active ([sqcap])
Inactive (x)

the 80% signal amplitude for each element. Results may A3.2.11 Prior to removing the probe from service
be recorded on a table similar to that in Table A3.1. the cable used for the test should be exchanged with another
A3.2.5 Note and record any elements that do not cable, when possible, to verify that the inactive elements
provide a backwall or waterpath signal (inactive elements). are not due to a bad cable.
Results may be recorded on a table similar to that in A3.2.12 Cable continuity adapters can be made that
Table A3.1. allow the multi-strand connectors to be tested indepen-
A3.2.6 If a prepackaged program is available for dently. These adaptors can be connected to the
checking element activity, this can be used as an alter- phased-array instrument directly to verify that all output
native. channels are active or they can be connected to the probe-
end of the cable to indicate the continuity of the individual
A3.2.7 Data collected is used to assess probe uni- co-axial connectors in the interconnecting cable.
formity and functionality. Comparison to previous assess- Figure A3.1 illustrates an example of a display used to
ments is made using the same instrument settings identify inactive channels in a phased-array instrument
(including gain) that were saved to file. The receiver gain or cable.
to provide an 80% response should be within a range of
2 dB of any previous assessments and within 2 dB of
each other. A4. ASSESSMENT OF PHASED-ARRAY
A3.2.8 The total number of inactive elements and FOCUSING ABILITY
number of adjacent inactive elements in a probe should be A4.1 Introduction
agreed upon and identified in a written procedure. This A4.1.1 Focusing of ultrasonic beams is based on
number may be different for baseline and in-service verifi- well known principles. However, unlike single element
cations. Some phased-array probes may have several hun- probes, phased-array systems can be configured to focus
dred elements and even new phased-array probes may be over a range of sound paths and in both transmit and receive
found to have inactive elements as a result of manufactur- modes. Effectiveness of the focusing algorithms can be
ing difficulties ensuring the electrical connections to ele- assessed by determining the beam response dimensions.
ments with dimensions on the order of a fraction of a This is similar to the beam profiling described in Annex
millimetre. A1. Limits of focusing are intrinsic in the probe parameters
A3.2.9 The number of inactive elements allowed and subject to the minimum timing-delay capabilities of
should be based on performance of other capabilities such the phased-array ultrasonic instrument.
as focusing and steering limits of the focal laws being
A4.2 Test Set-Up
used. No simple rule for the number of inactive elements
can be made for all phased-array probes. Typically, if more A4.2.1 Configure the phased-array system for the
than 25% of the elements in a probe are inactive, sensitivity focusing focal laws to be assessed and acoustically couple
and steering capabilities may be compromised. Similarly, the phased-array probe to a block with inclined side-drilled
the number of adjacent elements allowed to be inactive holes as illustrated in Fig. A1.1. Compression modes with
should be determined by the steering and electronic raster or without a delay-line and shear modes using a refracting
resolution required by the application. wedge can be assessed by this method.
A3.2.10 Stability of coupling is essential for the A4.2.2 Focusing at a single refracted angle is
comparison assessment. If using a contact method and the assessed by this method. Where several angles are used it
assessment of elements produces signals outside the 2 dB will be necessary to assess the focusing ability for each
range the coupling should be checked and the test run angle separately.
again. If still outside the acceptable range the probe should A4.2.3 Using either an electronic scan or encoded
be removed from service and corrected prior to further use. mechanical scan in the plane of interest, the full waveforms
The test using a fixed water path to a water/steel interface are collected and displayed in a depth corrected B-scan
will reduce coupling variations. projection image as illustrated in Fig. A4.1.
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
420.10

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A3.1 CONTINUITY DISPLAY FOR PHASED-ARRAY INSTRUMENT OR CABLE

FIG. A4.1 B-SCAN PROJECTED IMAGE OF DYNAMIC of the oversizing of the side-drilled hole diameter. For
DEPTH FOCUSING ALGORITHM example, if 2-mm diameter SDHs are used and the 6-dB
drop is used to gauge diameter from the B-scan, the work-
ing range can be defined as the depth or sound-path distance
that the B-scan can maintain the 6-dB dimension to less
than twice the actual diameter.
A4.2.6 Practical limits for hole diameters and focal
spot sizes are required. Practical focal spots for focused
beams cannot be made smaller that about 1.5 times the
wavelength used. For a 5-MHz compression wave in steel
this is about 1.7 mm. The focal spot size is also a function of
sound path; the deeper the holes, the weaker the focusing.
A4.2.7 In order that the diameter assessment be
meaningful, the sample interval must be small compared
to the target assessed. It is recommended that at least four
samples per hole diameter be used. For example, for a
2-mm diameter SDH target the sample interval of a mecha-
nized encoded scan should be 0.5 mm or for an electronic
scan the step between each focal law should not exceed
0.5 mm (this will be limited by the element pitch of the
probe).
A4.2.4 Effectiveness of the focusing algorithm is
assessed by sizing the diameter of the projected image A5. ASSESSMENT OF PHASED-ARRAY
based on a dB drop from maximum amplitude and compar- COMPUTER CONTROL OF PARAMETERS
ing that dimension to the actual machined diameter of the AND DATA DISPLAY
side-drilled hole. A5.1 Introduction
A4.2.5 Working range of the focusing algorithm may A5.1.1 Phased-array beam control is based on the
be determined by agreement as to the maximum dimension Fermat principles which implies that sound follows the

420.11
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

path of least time. This principle is used in ray-tracing of For the side-drilled holes at 50-mm radius use the results
sound paths of transmitted wavefronts from the elements of the focal laws configured for 50-mm focus and for the
of a phased-array probe to calculate the delays required in holes at 25-mm radius use the focal laws configured for
the timing electronics to direct a beam to a specified loca- 25 mm.
tion. Using the Fermat Principle, refracted angles and focal A5.2.8 Compare the values assessed using the soft-
positions are calculated by entering the acoustic velocities ware to the physical positions of the holes in the block.
of the materials through which the sound propagates. If the Sound path distances indicated on the computer display
material acoustic velocities are accurate then the calculated should indicate hole positions within 0.5 mm. Depth and
position of the beam will also be accurate. Accuracy of off-set positions of holes should be within 0.5 mm and
the calculations is therefore a function of several variables all angles to the holes should be within 1.0 deg.
including; acoustic velocity of the materials used, dimen-
sions of the probe components (element size, dominant
frequency, divergence, travel distance in the delay line or A6. ASSESSMENT OF PHASED-ARRAY WEDGE
wedge) and pulser timing accuracy to affect the necessary ATTENUATION AND DELAY
phase interference patterns. If all the variables are accu- COMPENSATIONS
rately entered in the appropriate equations the beam should A6.1 Introduction
be accurately positioned. In a computer controlled system
the only evidence available to the operator is the data A6.1.1 When an electronic or sectorial scan is used
display. This provides a coordinate system that positions the variations between the electronics of each pulser and
the response from a target in two or three dimensions. receiver and variations between probe elements may result
Relating the theoretical plotted position on the display to in small gain variations from one focal law to the next.
actual known positions of specific targets is the only effec- Also, the efficiency of generation varies with angle, and
tive method of assessing the validity of the combination declines away from the natural angle of the wedge. When
of variables and the computer algorithms for the display. a delay line or refracting wedge is used, variations in path
distances within the wedge will result in some focal laws
A5.2 Test Set-Up requiring more or less amplifier gain. A method of compen-
A5.2.1 Using a contact linear phased-array probe, sating for gain variations so as to normalize the set of
nominally 5 MHz and having at least 16 elements with a focal laws in an electronic or S-scan is required.
pitch not greater than 1 mm, configure the software for A6.1.2 When a phased-array probe is used on a delay
two separate S-scans, one at 30 deg with a focal distance line or refracting wedge, calculations for beam steering
of 25 mm in steel (that is, focused at a sound path of and projection displays rely on the Fermat principle. This
25 mm in steel), the other at 30 deg with a focal distance requires that the operator identify the position in space of
of 50 mm in steel (that is, focused at a sound path of the probe elements. This ensures that the path lengths
50 mm in steel). For both sets of focal laws program an to the wedge-steel interface are accurately known. It is
angular step interval of 0.5 deg and all focal laws shall necessary to verify that the coordinates used by the operator
use 16 adjacent elements. provide correct depth calculations. This ensures that the
A5.2.2 Ensure that the digitizing frequency for data display software correctly positions indications detected.
collection is at least 80 MHz. A6.1.3 Compensation for attenuation variations and
A5.2.3 Prepare a series of side-drilled holes in a delay times may be made one focal law at a time or software
steel block that has acoustic velocity determined in accor- can be configured to make the compensations dynamically.
dance with E 494. This velocity value will be used in the a tabular form. For the side-drilled holes at 50-mm radius
focal laws. use the results of the focal laws configured for 50-mm
A5.2.4 Acoustically couple and align the probe on focus and for the holes at 25-mm radius use the focal laws
the block illustrated in Fig. A2.1 such that the centre of configured for 25 mm.
the element array aligns with the centerline of the hole A6.2 Wedge-Attenuation Compensation
pattern. A6.2.1 This guide applies to assessments of
A5.2.5 Scan and save the S-scan for the 25-mm focal wedge-attenuation compensations for E-scan or electronic
distance. raster scans where 1D linear array probes are used.
A5.2.6 Scan and save the S-scan for the 50-mm focal A6.2.2 Configure the phased-array system for the
distance. focal laws to be used in the electronic raster scan appli-
A5.2.7 Using the computer display coordinate cur- cation.
sors assess and record the depths, off-sets from the center- A6.2.3 Acoustically couple the phased-array probe
line and angles to the side-drilled holes in a tabular form. to the block with a side-drilled hole at a known depth. The
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
420.12

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

1.5-mm diameter SDH in the IIW block is a convenient 100-mm radius of the IIW block is a convenient target for
target for this purpose. this purpose.
A6.2.4 Select the A-scan display for the first focal A6.3.4 Select the A-scan display for the first focal
law configured and move the probe forward and backward law configured and move the probe forward and backward
to locate the maximum amplitude signal from the SDH. to locate the maximum amplitude signal from the radius
A6.2.5 Adjust the response from the SDH to 80% selected.
full screen height (FSH) and save the parameters in the A6.3.5 Adjust the delay settings to indicate the sound
focal law file. path in the metal to correctly indicate the radius used and
A6.2.6 Repeat the process of maximizing the signal save the focal law parameters.
from the SDH and setting it to 80% FSH for each focal law A6.3.6 Repeat the maximization of the radius
and saving the set-up file after each focal law is completed. response for each focal law in the scan set and save the
A6.2.7 Alternatively, this process may be computer- parameter setting after each delay has been adjusted.
ized so that a dynamic assessment of sensitivity adjustment
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

A6.3.7 Alternatively, this process may be computer-

is calculated by the computer. A dynamic assessment
ized so that a dynamic assessment of delay adjustment is
would simply require the operator to move the probe back
calculated by the computer. A dynamic assessment would
and forth over the SDH ensuring that all the focal laws
simply require that the operator move the probe back and
used have the SDH target move through the beam. Wedge
forth over the center of the radius assuring that all the focal
attenuation corrections would then be calculated by the
laws used have the center of beam ray peak on the radius
phased-array system to ensure that the amplitude of the
appropriate for their angle.
SDH detected by each focal law would be adjusted to the
same amplitude. A6.3.8 Small angle compression wave focal laws
A6.2.8 Assessment of wedge-attenuation compensa- may require a custom block to carry out this compensation.
tion requires a constant steel path to ensure that only the A6.3.9 Probe motion for the various wedge and scan
effect wedge variations are assessed. For S-scans where type configurations are illustrated in Fig. A6.2.
1D linear array probes are used, a single SDH results in
a changing steel path for each angle making it unsuitable
for this task. A recommended target is a radius similar to A7. ASSESSMENT OF PHASED-ARRAY
that of the 100-mm radius of the IIW block. For S-scans INSTRUMENT LINEARITIES
steps A6.2.2 to A6.2.6 are used replacing the SDH with a A7.1 Introduction
suitable radius. Use of the radius for S-scan configurations
also provides correction for echotransmittance effects A7.1.1 The individual pulser and receiver compo-
intrinsic in angle variation. nents of phased-array ultrasonic instruments operate essen-
tially the same as any single channel ultrasonic instrument.
NOTE 6.1 If appropriate compensation cannot be achieved, for exam- Conformance to linearity requirements as described in
ple, if the angular range is so large that the signal amplitude cannot
E 317 may be carried out. However, due to the digital-
effectively be compensated, then the range must be reduced until it is
possible to compensate. control nature of all phased-array instruments and the fact
that multiple pulsers and receivers are used, it is required
A6.2.9 Probe motion for the various wedge and
that phased-array instruments be assessed for linearity dif-
scan-type configurations are illustrated in Fig. A6.1.
ferently than traditional single-channel units.
A6.3 Wedge-Delay Compensation
A7.2 Test Set-Up
A6.3.1 When an angled refracting wedge is used for
E-scans or S-scans, or when a fixed thickness delay line A7.2.1 The phased-array instrument is configured to
is used for S-scans, the sound path in the wedge material display an A-scan presentation.
varies from one focal law to the next. Compensation for A7.2.2 Adjust the time-base of the A-scan to a suit-
this delay time difference is required so as to ensure that able range to display the pulse-echo signals selected for
indications detected are correctly positioned in the projec- the linearity verifications. A linearity block similar to that
tion scan displays, that is, depth and angle within the test described in E 317 is selected to provide signals to assess
piece are correctly plotted. linearity aspects of the instrument. Such a block is shown
A6.3.2 Configure the phased-array system for the in Fig. A7.1 with a single element probe mounted on it.
focal laws to be used in the S-scan or electronic raster scan A7.2.3 Pulser parameters are selected for the fre-
application. quency and bandpass filter to optimize the response from
A6.3.3 Acoustically couple the phased-array probe the pulse-echo (single element) probe used for the linearity
to a block with known radius of curvature. The 50-mm or verifications.

420.13

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

FIG. A6.1 SCAN MOTION MAXIMIZING RESPONSE FROM SDH TO COMPENSATE FOR WEDGE ATTENUATION
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

420.14

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A6.2 DELAY ADJUSTMENT SCANS USING CURVED SURFACES

--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

420.15

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

FIG. A7.1 CUSTOM LINEARITY BLOCKS FOR PHASED-ARRAY INSTRUMENT AND PROBE ASSESSMENTS

A7.2.4 The receiver gain is set to display non-saturat- A7.3.6 The results are recorded on an instrument
ing signals of interest for display height and amplitude linearity form.
control linearity assessments. A7.4 Amplitude Control Linearity
A7.3 Display Height Linearity A7.4.1 A 1664 phased-array instrument has 16 pulsers
A7.3.1 With the phased-array instrument connected and receivers that are used to address up to 64 elements.
to a probe (shear or longitudinal) and coupled to any block Each of the pulser-receiver components is checked to deter-
that will produce two signals as shown in Fig. A7.2 adjust mine the linearity of the instrument amplification capabil-
the probe such that the amplitude of the two signals are ities.
at 80% and 40% of the display screen height. If the phased- A7.4.2 Select a flat (normal incidence) linear array
array instrument has provision to address a single element phased-array probe having at least as many elements as
probe in pulse-echo mode then the two flat bottom holes the phased-array ultrasonic instrument has pulsers.
with adjustable acoustic impedance inserts in the custom A7.4.3 Using this probe, configure the phased-array
linearity block shown in Fig. A7.1 provides such signals. ultrasonic instrument to have an electronic raster scan.
A7.3.2 Increase the gain using the receiver gain Each focal law will consist of one element and the scan
adjustment to obtain 100% of full screen height of the larger will start at element number 1 and end at the element
response. The height of the lower response is recorded at number that corresponds to the number of pulsers in the
this gain setting as a percentage of full screen height. phased-array instrument.
A7.4.4 Couple the probe to a suitable surface to
NOTE A7.1 For 8-bit digitization systems this value should be 99%,
as 100% would provide a saturation signal.
obtain a pulse-echo response from each focal law. The
backwall echo from the 25-mm thickness of the IIW block
A7.3.3 The height of the higher response is reduced or the backwall from the 20-mm thickness of the custom
in 10% steps to 10% of full screen height and the height linearity block illustrated in Fig. A7.1 provides a suitable
of the second response is recorded for each step. target option. Alternatively, immersion testing can be used.
A7.3.4 Return the larger signal to 80% to ensure A7.4.5 Select Channel 1 of the pulser-receivers of
that the smaller signal has not drifted from its original 40% the phased-array instrument. Using the A-scan display,
level due to coupling variation. Repeat the test if variation monitor the response from the selected target. Adjust the
of the second signal is greater than 41% or less than gain to bring the signal to 40% screen height. This is
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

39% FSH. illustrated in Fig. A7.3.

A7.3.5 For an acceptable tolerance, the responses A7.4.6 Add gain to the receiver in the increments
from the two reflectors should bear a 2-to-1 relationship of 1 dB, then 2 dB, then 4 dB and then 6 dB. Remove the
to within 3% of full screen height throughout the range gain added after each increment to ensure that the signal
10% to 100% (99% if 100% is saturation) of full screen has returned to 40% display height. Record the actual
height. height of the signal as a percentage of the display height.

420.16

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A7.2 DISPLAY HEIGHT LINEARITY

--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

FIG. A7.3 A-SCAN DISPLAY OF BACKWALL ECHO ON CHANNEL 1 OF A PHASED-ARRAY INSTRUMENT

A7.4.7 Adjust the signal to 100% display height, NOTE A7.2 An example of amplitudes greater than 100% display
remove 6-dB gain and record the actual height of the signal height is seen in Fig. A7.4 where gate A% indicates a 200% signal and
gate B% indicates 176%.
as a percentage of the display height.
A7.4.8 Signal amplitudes should fall within a range
of 3% of the display height required in the allowed height A7.5 Time-Base Linearity (Horizontal Linearity)
range of Table A7.1. A7.5.1 Configure the phased-array instrument to dis-
play an A-scan presentation.
A7.4.9 Repeat the sequence from A7.4.5 to A7.4.7
for all other pulser-receiver channels. A7.5.2 Select any compression wave probe and con-
A7.4.10 For instruments having 10- or 12-bit ampli- figure the phased-array instrument to display a range suit-
tude digitization and configured to read amplitudes in a able to obtain at least ten multiple back reflections from a
gated region to amplitudes greater than can be seen on the block of a known thickness. The 25-mm wall thickness of
display, a larger range of check points can be used. For the IIW block is a convenient option for this test.
these instruments the gated output instead of the A-scan A7.5.3 Set the phased-array instrument analog-to-
display would be verified for linearity. digital conversion rate to at least 80 MHz.

420.17

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 ARTICLE 23, SE-2491 2009b SECTION V

TABLE A7.1
LINEARITY VERIFICATION REPORT FORM
Location: Date:
Operation: Signature:
Instrument: Couplant:
Pulser Voltage (V): Pulse Duration (ns): Receiver (band): Receiver smoothing:
Digitization Frequency (MHz): Averaging:
Display Height Linearity Amplitude Control Linearity
Large (%) Small Allowed Range Small Actual (%) Ind. Height dB Allowed Range
100 4753 40 +1 4247
90 4248 40 +2 4852
80 40 40 40 +4 6066
70 3238 40 +6 7783
60 2733 40 6 4753
50 2228
40 1723
30 1218
20 713
10 28

Amplitude Control Linearity Channel Results: (Note any channels that do not fall in the allowed range)
Channel (Add more if required for 32 or 64 pulser-receiver units)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Time-Base Linearity (for 25-mm IIW blocks)

Multiple 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Thickness 25 50 75 100 125 150 175 200 225 250
Measured Interval
Allowed deviation 0.5 mm
(Yes/No)

420.18
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 2009b SECTION V ARTICLE 23, SE-2491

FIG. A7.4 HORIZONTAL LINEARITY A-SCAN

A7.5.4 With the probe coupled to the block and the A7.5.7 Acceptable linearity may be established by
A-scan displaying 10 clearly defined multiples as illus- an error tolerance based on the analog-to-digital conversion
trated in Fig. A7.4, the display software is used to assess rate converted to a distance equivalent. For example, at
the interval between adjacent backwall signals. 100 MHz each sample of the timebase is 10 ns. For steel
at 5900 m/s each sample along the timebase (10 ns) in
A7.5.5 Acoustic velocity of the test block, deter-
pulse-echo mode represents 30 m. A tolerance of 3
mined using the methods described in E 494, is entered
timing samples should be achievable by most analog-to-
into the display software and the display configured to read digital systems. Some allowance should be made for veloc-
out in distance (thickness). ity determination error (~1%). Typically the errors on the
A7.5.6 Using the reference and measurement cursors multiples should not exceed 0.5 mm for a steel plate.
determine the interval between each multiple and record A7.5.8 A sample recording table for the linearity
the interval of the first 10 multiples. checks is indicated in Table A7.1.
--`,,,,``,,``,`,`,,```,,```````-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

420.19

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT
 INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

420.20

Provided by IHS Licensee=BP International/5928366101

No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale, 08/14/2009 15:04:06 MDT