NONMANDATORY APPENDIX P

PHASED ARRAY (PAUT) INTERPRETATION

P-410 SCOPE

This Nonmandatory Appendix is to be used as an aid for the interpretation methodology

using (PAUT) images. The flaw signal interpretation methodology using PAUT is very
similar to that of conventional ultrasonics; however, PAUT has improved imaging
capabilities that aid in flaw signal interpretation. This interpretation guide is primarily
aimed at using shear wave angle beams on but welds. Other possibilities include

a) Longitudinal waves

b) Zero degree scanning

c) Complex inspections, e.g., nozzles, fillet welds

P-420 GENERAL

P-421 PAUT IMAGES-DATA VISUALIZATION

PAUT data is routinely displayed using a rainbow color palette, with the range of colors
representing a range of signal amplitude. Generally , White represents 0% signal
amplitude, blue (or lighter colors) represents low amplitudes, and red (or darker
colors) represents above reject signal amplitude (see Figure P-421-1).

(a) PAUT has the ability to image the data in the same format as conventional
ultrasonics-A-scans, and time or distance encoded B-scan, D-scan, and C-scans.
(see figure P-421-2.)

NOTE: The examples shown here are not necessarily typical of all defects due to
differences in shape,size, defect orientation, roughness, etc.
(b) The PAUT primary image displays are an E-scan or S-scan, exclusive to the
PAUT technique. Both the E-scan and S-scan display the data in a 2D view, with
distance from the front of the wedge on the X-axis, and depth on the Y-axis.
This view is also considered an end view. E-scans and S-scans are composed
of all of the A-scans (or focal laws) in a particular setup. The A-scan for each
beam (or focal law) is available for use in flaw signal interpretation.

(c) An-Escan (also termed an electronic raster scan) is a single focal law
multiplexed, across a group of active elements, for a constant angle beam
stepped along the phased array probe lenght in defined increments.Figure 423
shows an example of an E-scan.
 .

(d) An S-scan (also termed a Sector, Sectorial, Swept Angle, or Azimuthal scan)
may refer to either the beam movement or the data display (see Figure P-421-
4.
P-450 PROCEDURE

P-451 MEASUREMENT TOOLS

PAUT instruments typically have flaw sizing aids contained within the software.
These sizing aids are base don using multiple sets of horizontal and vertical cursors
overlaid on the various image displays. PAUT instruments rely on the accuracy of
the user input informacin (such as component thickness) and calibration to
accurately display flaw measurements and locations.

P-452 FLAW SIZING TECHNIQUES

Flaw sizing can be performed using a variety of industry accepted techniques,

such as amplitude drop (e.g., -6 dB Drop) techniques and/ or tip diffraction
techniques. Different flaw types may require different sizing techniques.

P-452.1 Flaw Length. Flaw lengths parallel to the surface can be measured from
the distance encoded D- or C-scan images using amplitude drop techniques by
placing the vertical cursors on the extents of the flaw displayed on the D- or C-scan
display. Figure P-452.1 shows an example of cursors used for length sizing.

P-452.2 Flaw Height .

Flaw height normal to the surface can be measured from the B-,E-, or S-scan
images using amplitude drop or tip diffraction techniques .

(a) Using amplitude drop techniques, the horizontal cursors are placed on the
displayed flaws upper and lower extents. Figure P-452.2-1 shows an example of
cursors used for height sizing with the amplitude drop technique.
(b) Using tip diffraction techniques the horizontal cursors are placed on the upper
and lower tip signals of the displayed flaw. Figure P-452.2-2 shows an example of
cursors used for height sizing with the tip diffraction technique.

P-480 EVALUATION

This section shows a variety of PAUT images and the interpretation/explanation.

There are significant variations amongst flaws and PAUT setups and displays, so
the following images should be used as a guide only. Evaluator experience and
analysis skills are very important as well.
P-481 ID (INSIDE DIAMETER) CONNECTED CRACK

These typically show multiple facets and edges visible in the A-scan and S-scan.
There is a distinct start and stop on the A-scan, and a significant echodynamic
travel to the signal as the probe is moved in and out from the weld (if the crack has
significant vertical extent). The reflector is usually detectable and can be plotted
from both sides of the weld. The reflector should plot to the correct I.D. depth
reference or depth reading, as shown in Figure P-481.

P-481.1 Lack of Sideall Fusion. LOF (Lack of Fusion)

plots correctly on the weld fusion line, either through geometrical plotting or via
weld overlays. There may be a significantly different response from each side of
the weld. LOF is usually detected by several of the angles in an S-scan from the
same position. The A-scan shows a fast rise and fall time with short pulse duration
indicative of a planar flaw. There are no multiple facets or tips.

Skewing the probe slightly does not produce multiple peaks or jagged facets as in a
crack. There may be modeconverted multiple signals that rise and fall together and
maintain equal separation. Figure P-481.1 shows an example.
P-481.2 Porosity.

Porosity shows multiple signal responses, varying in amplitude and position. The
signals plot correctly to the weld volume. The signals start and stop positions
blend with the background at low amplitude.The A-scan slow rise and fall time
with long pulse duration is indicative of a non-planar flaw. Porosity may or may not
be detected from both sides of the weld, but should be similar from both sides.
Figure P-481.2 shows an example of porosity.
P-481.3 OD (Outside Diameter) Toe Crack .

Toe cracks typically show multiple facets and edges visible in the A-scan and S-
scan. There is significant echodynamic travel to the signal as the probe is moved in
and out from the weld. The reflector is usually detectable and can be plotted from
at the correct O.D. depth reference line or depth reading. Normally, toe cracks are
best characterized on S-scans and lower angle E-scan channels. Figure P-481.3
shows an example.

P-481.4 (Incomplete Penetration).

Incomplete Penetration (IP) typically shows high amplitude signals with significant
echodynamic travel or travel over the I.D. skip line. IP will typically respond and
plot from both sides of the weld in common weld geometries near centerline
reference indicators. Generally, IP is detected on all channels, with highest
amplitude on a high angle E-scan. The A-scan shows a fast rise and fall time with
short pulse duration indicative of a planar flaw. Figure P-481.4 shows an IP signal.
Note that IP must be addressed relative to the weld bevel. For example, a double V
weld will have IP in the midwall, whereas a single V bevel will be surface-breaking.
However, the rise-fall time of the signal is similar to that for toe cracks and other
root defects. This requires extra care on the part of the operator. Note that
incomplete penetration can look similar to surface lack of sidewall fusion.

P-481.5 Slag.

Slag typically shows multiple facets and edges visible in the A-scan and S-scan. The
A-scan shows a slow rise and fall time with long pulse duration, indicative of a non-
planar flaw. Typically slag shows lower amplitude than planar flaws, and may be
difficult to distinguish from porosity, or from some smaller planar defects.

Slag is typically detectable from both sides, can be plotted from both sides of the
weld and is often best characterized using an S-scan. A slag reflector will typically
plot to the correct depth area and reference lines that coincide to the weld
volume. Figure P-481.5 shows an example.