Crack detection and assessment using a novel ultrasonic wave mode conversion technique

An ultrasonic single probe inspection method, based upon mode conversion, was developed for the detection of perpendicularly oriented cracks. In comparison to the cumbersom Tandem technique this "LLT-Technique" has about the same sensitivity but has advantages in manual as well as automated inspection with regard to handling and applicability. Besides, the LLT-Technique stands out for an improved accessibility of the inspection regions, a reduced crack inclination dependency and less disturbances at cladded components.