Method and system for ultrasonic testing of industrial components
By generating a reference frame and testing program, defining testing and operating parameters, and using a computing unit to verify the conformity of ultrasonic testing, the error problem in the testing of complex-shaped industrial parts is solved, and higher testing reliability is achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- AUBERT ET DUVAL SA
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-19
Smart Images
Figure CN122238480A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to ultrasonic testing methods for industrial components. Background Technology
[0002] Industrial components can be inspected using ultrasonic waves to ensure that there are no internal defects.
[0003] These components sometimes have complex shapes.
[0004] The testing method typically includes the steps of developing an ultrasonic testing plan for industrial components, and the steps of performing ultrasonic testing on the industrial components according to the previously developed testing plan.
[0005] Ultrasonic testing procedures are performed with extreme care, but errors can still occur when applying testing methods.
[0006] Against this backdrop, the present invention aims to provide an ultrasonic testing method to ensure higher reliability in the testing of industrial components. Summary of the Invention
[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention relates to a method for ultrasonic testing of industrial components according to a first aspect, the method comprising: - The step of generating a reference frame, which provides multiple ultrasonic testing operations for industrial parts, and defines a set of testing parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation; - The steps for developing ultrasonic testing procedures for industrial components, which define a set of operating parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation. - The steps for ultrasonic testing of industrial components are based on the ultrasonic testing procedure, and data characterizing the actual ultrasonic testing process is recorded for each ultrasonic testing operation. - Steps for verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing of industrial components, including: The sub-step for verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure, verifying whether multiple standards are met using the testing parameters and operating parameters; The sub-steps for verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing with respect to a reference frame include: for each ultrasonic testing operation, extracting actual parameters from the recorded data, and using the testing parameters and actual parameters to verify whether multiple standards are met.
[0008] The reference framework compiles the requirements that need to be met, which are derived from customer-defined specifications and translated into numerical or descriptive standards, while taking into account feedback experience from ultrasonic testing of similar industrial components.
[0009] The verification process validates the effectiveness of the testing method on two levels: first, it verifies whether the ultrasonic testing procedure conforms to the reference framework; second, it verifies whether the ultrasonic testing operations are performed according to the reference framework during the execution of the procedure. This dual verification improves the reliability of the ultrasonic testing method.
[0010] The detection method may also include one or more of the following features, which may be used individually or in any technically feasible combination: - The sub-steps for verifying the conformity of each ultrasonic testing operation in the ultrasonic testing procedure and / or verifying the conformity of the testing are automatically executed by the calculation unit, and at least one file is generated that lists the unmet standards and the deviations from those standards. - The verification process includes a sub-step whereby a professional analyzes at least one document, analyzes the deviation from the required standards, and determines whether the ultrasonic testing is acceptable based on the deviation. - In the sub-step of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The sub-step includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one testing parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value. - A set of operating parameters must include at least: Incident surfaces in industrial components; Operating parameters related to the detection depth in industrial components; The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface; Operating parameters related to the transducer; Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer; Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface; - The industrial component is a main body that rotates about a rotation axis. The motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface includes multiple rotations about the rotation axis. The multiple rotations have an initial circle, a final circle, and possible intermediate circles that are evenly distributed between the initial circle and the final circle. The operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface include the circumferential offset about the rotation axis between two ultrasonic emission in the same circle and the spatial offset between the two circles. - The sub-step verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame must check the following numerical values at least: Detection depth of the initial loop; The detection depth of the final circle; The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface, and may also include the resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the exit surface; The circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same circle; The degree of overlap between the ultrasonic waves emitted from two adjacent rings; The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; - A set of detection parameters should include at least: Incident surfaces in industrial components; Detection parameters related to detection depth in industrial components; The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface; Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer that generates ultrasonic waves on the incident surface; - In the sub-step of verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The sub-step includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one actual parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value. - The sub-step verifying conformity with the reference frame must check the following numerical values at least: Detection depth; The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface, and may also include the resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the exit surface; The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; The gain applied to each detection operation; - For the following numerical values: The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface, and may also include the resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the exit surface; The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; The sub-steps for verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing relative to the reference frame include: Verify the initial value of the numerical quantity; Verify whether the numerical value is modified from its initial value to a new value during the ultrasonic testing operation; If modifications are made, verify that the new values conform to the reference frame.
[0011] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to an ultrasonic testing assembly for industrial components, the testing assembly comprising: - A reference frame that provides multiple ultrasonic testing operations for industrial components. The reference frame defines a set of testing parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation, which includes at least the following: Incident surfaces in industrial components; Detection parameters related to detection depth in industrial components; The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface; Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer that generates ultrasonic waves on the incident surface; - For ultrasonic testing procedures of industrial components, a set of operating parameters is defined for each ultrasonic testing operation. This set of operating parameters includes at least: Incident surfaces in industrial components; Operating parameters related to the detection depth in industrial components; The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface; Operating parameters related to the transducer that generates ultrasonic waves; Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer; Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface; - An ultrasonic testing device that tests industrial components according to an ultrasonic testing procedure, configured to record data characterizing the actual ultrasonic testing process performed for each ultrasonic testing operation. - A computing unit configured to perform conformity verification of ultrasonic testing of industrial components, the verification including: Verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure, verifying whether multiple standards are met using the testing parameters and operating parameters; Verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing with respect to a reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation, extracting actual parameters from the recorded data, and using the testing parameters and actual parameters to verify whether multiple standards are met.
[0012] The detection component may also include one or more of the following features, which may be used individually or in any technically feasible combination: - In the process of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The verification includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one testing parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value. - A set of operating parameters must include at least: Incident surfaces in industrial components; Operating parameters related to the detection depth in industrial components; The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface; Operating parameters related to the transducer that generates ultrasonic waves; Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer; Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface; - The industrial component is a main body that rotates about a rotation axis. The ultrasonic testing device of the industrial component is configured such that the motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface includes multiple rotations about the rotation axis. The multiple rotations have an initial rotation, a final rotation, and possibly intermediate rotations evenly distributed between the initial rotation and the final rotation. The operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface include the circumferential offset about the rotation axis between two ultrasonic emission in the same rotation and the spatial offset between the two rotations. - Verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame should at least cover the following numerical values: Detection depth of the initial loop; The detection depth of the final circle; The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface, and may also include the resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the exit surface; The circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same circle; The degree of overlap between the ultrasonic waves emitted from two adjacent rings; The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; - A set of detection parameters should include at least: Incident surfaces in industrial components; Detection parameters related to detection depth in industrial components; The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface; Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer that generates ultrasonic waves on the incident surface; - In the process of verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The verification includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one actual parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one test parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value. - The standards used to verify compliance with the reference frame shall at least cover the following numerical quantities: Detection depth; The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface, and may also include the resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the exit surface; The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; Gain applied to each detection operation. Attached Figure Description
[0013] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are illustrative only and not restrictive, in which: Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating the detection method according to the present invention is provided. Figure 2 An axial cross-sectional view of an industrial component that can be detected by the method according to the present invention; Figure 3 Superimposed on B-scan images Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of the industrial component shown, the B-scan image representing the geometric echo present in the cross-section; Figure 4 For applicable execution Figure 1 A simplified schematic diagram of the ultrasonic testing component of the method shown. Figure 5This is a simplified schematic diagram of an A-scan image, showing the change in amplitude of the ultrasonic signal returned by the component over time during an ultrasonic testing operation. Detailed Implementation
[0014] Figure 1 The method shown in the steps is used for ultrasonic testing of industrial components.
[0015] The testing is usually conducted in an immersion state, during which the industrial parts are submerged in a container filled with liquid, typically water.
[0016] Industrial components are typically made of metal, such as steel, titanium, or aluminum, and often of alloys based on Fe, Al, Ti, Ni, or Co. Alternatively, they may be made of high-temperature alloys based on Ni or Co.
[0017] Alternatively, industrial components may be made of composite materials, such as metal matrix composites (MMC).
[0018] Industrial components are typically bodies that rotate about a rotation axis X, which is located in... Figure 2 As shown in the image.
[0019] Figure 2 A cross-section of the industrial component 10 to be inspected is shown, containing the axis of rotation X in the plane.
[0020] Industrial parts are typically designed for mass production, meaning they are mass-produced. Therefore, this method is used to inspect multiple batches of identical industrial parts.
[0021] This component is designed, for example, to be integrated into an aircraft or aircraft engine, or into other types of industrial equipment.
[0022] The industrial component 10 that uses this testing method is typically a pre-processed component, such as one obtained by forging metal ingots.
[0023] In this case, it is intended to be machined by the end customer to form a finished part for the end customer's use.
[0024] Figure 2 In the image, the finished component is shown in dashed lines inside the industrial component 10 undergoing ultrasonic testing.
[0025] Ultrasonic testing methods include: - Step S10: Generate a reference frame that provides multiple ultrasonic testing operations for industrial component 10; - Step S20: Develop an ultrasonic testing procedure for industrial component 10; - Step S30: Perform ultrasonic testing on industrial component 10 according to the ultrasonic testing procedure; - Step S40: Verify the compliance of the ultrasonic testing of industrial component 10.
[0026] These different steps will be explained in detail below.
[0027] In step S10, the reference frame is generated based on the technical testing standards that industrial components must meet.
[0028] The reference framework is derived from the component's testing scheme, which was negotiated with and approved by the component's end customer.
[0029] The generation of the reference frame takes into account the geometry of the component, the constituent materials, relevant feedback experience of such geometry and materials, and the equipment intended to be used to perform the ultrasonic testing process.
[0030] The reference framework brings together all the standards that ultrasonic testing must meet to verify that it complies with quality requirements.
[0031] Conformity to the standards in the reference framework can verify the inspection results, but does not guarantee that the parts are free of defects.
[0032] The reference frame is the database.
[0033] The reference framework defines a set of testing parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation.
[0034] This set of detection parameters includes at least: - Incident surface 12 in industrial component 10; - Detection parameters related to the detection depth in industrial component 10; - The incident direction I of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface 12 ( Figure 3 ); - Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer 14 generating ultrasonic waves on the incident surface 12 ( Figure 3 ).
[0035] The incident surface 12 is the surface of the industrial component through which the incident ultrasonic beam emitted by the transducer 14 penetrates.
[0036] Each incident surface 12 is typically a surface that rotates about the axis of rotation X.
[0037] Figure 2 The different incident surfaces used in the ultrasonic testing of the components shown are marked UA to UI.
[0038] Some incident surfaces are cylindrical and coaxial with the rotation axis X, such as the UA, UC, UE and UH surfaces shown in the figure.
[0039] Other incident surfaces are annular surfaces centered on the rotation axis X, such as the UB, UD, UF, UG and UI surfaces shown in the figure.
[0040] In addition, a conical surface coaxial with the rotation axis X may also exist.
[0041] These surfaces are connected to each other through rounded or angular joints.
[0042] The motion trajectory of transducer 14 on incident surface 12 includes multiple rotations around rotation axis X.
[0043] For a toroidal surface, the rotational trajectory can be, for example, a concentric circle or a spiral coil.
[0044] For a cylindrical surface, the rotational trajectory is either a circle that is axially offset from each other, or a coil of a helix.
[0045] For a conical surface, the rotation trajectory is either a circle with increasing or decreasing diameter that is axially offset from each other, or a coil of a spiral inscribed in the conical surface with increasing or decreasing diameter.
[0046] It should be noted that not all outer surfaces of the industrial component 10 are necessarily used as the incident surface 12 for a particular ultrasonic testing operation, but the same incident surface 12 can be used multiple times for different testing operations performed under different conditions to provide different information.
[0047] The trajectory of the transducer on the incident surface includes an initial loop, a final loop, and possibly intermediate loops that are evenly distributed between the initial and final loops.
[0048] The detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer 14 on the incident surface 12 include, in particular, the following parameters: - The circumferential offset around the rotation axis X between two ultrasonic wave emissions in the same loop; - Spatial offset (radial and / or axial) between the two rings.
[0049] - The detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer 14 on the incident surface 12 preferably also include: - Axial position of the first end of the incident surface 12; - The axial position of the second end of the incident surface 12 opposite to the first end.
[0050] The incident direction I of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface 12 corresponds to the angle between the normal of the incident surface and the propagation direction of the incident ultrasonic beam emitted by the transducer 14. The incident direction is usually perpendicular to the incident surface (incident angle 0°); or, the incident direction is inclined relative to the incident surface (incident angle 1.6°, 2.4°, 3.6°, 4.8°, etc.).
[0051] The detection depth is the depth of the component to be detected below the incident surface, which typically corresponds to the entire thickness of the component between the incident surface 12 and the exit surface 15. Figure 3 The depth P1 in the text refers to the exit surface 15, which is the outer surface area of the component after the ultrasonic beam penetrates the entire thickness of the component. The ultrasonic waves are mainly reflected on the exit surface. In some cases, the detection depth corresponds to the depth between the incident surface 12 and the geometric echo 16 generated by the reflection of the incident ultrasonic beam. Figure 3 The depth P2 in the image is used. When the thickness of the component is large from the incident surface, the detection depth corresponds to the maximum detectable depth of the component material given the ultrasonic beam characteristics (intensity, polarization, frequency, etc.). Figure 3 (Depth P3 in the middle).
[0052] Inspection parameters related to inspection depth in industrial components typically include the inspection depth of the initial ring, the inspection depth of the final ring, and an indication of the change in inspection depth between the initial and final rings.
[0053] This instruction is typically selected from the following values: - No change (the detection depth of all loops is constant); - Linear variation (detection depth increases periodically between the first and last loops); - Stepwise changes, which correspond to multiple consecutive linear changes.
[0054] The detection depth is expressed as the sound path (the length of the ultrasonic wave propagation path) or the depth perpendicular to the incident surface. These two depth values are not the same, especially when the angle of incidence is not zero.
[0055] The detection parameters related to the depth of industrial component inspection preferably also include incident resolution and exit resolution. Incident resolution corresponds to the thickness of the industrial component that cannot be detected below the incident surface 12, and it depends particularly on the material of the component being inspected, the surface condition of the component, and the transducer used.
[0056] Figure 3 The undetectable thickness 18 shown corresponds to the incident resolution.
[0057] The emission resolution corresponds to the thickness of the ultrasonic wave that cannot be detected directly in front of the emitting surface. When the detection depth is too large, the transducer cannot receive the echo from the emitting surface, so the emission resolution is zero.
[0058] A set of detection parameters preferably includes one or more of the following parameters: - The frequency of the ultrasonic waves emitted by transducer 14, for example, 10MHz or 20MHz; - Polarization of the incident ultrasonic beam (longitudinal or transverse wave). - Whether to use a correction factor and the value of the correction factor (the correction factor is used when the incident surface is uneven).
[0059] A preferred set of detection parameters includes the following parameters: - The degree of overlap between two consecutive ultrasonic emissions belonging to the same circle; - The degree of overlap between two consecutive ultrasonic wave emissions.
[0060] These overlaps are expressed as a percentage of the area covered by each ultrasonic wave on the incident surface 12, i.e., the overlap rate between emissions.
[0061] In practice, along the same circle, transducer 14 emits incident ultrasonic beams at a set frequency as it moves. The coverage areas of these beams on the incident surface 12 must overlap to ensure that the entire area of the incident surface 12 is scanned.
[0062] The overlap rate is a set parameter that depends on the size of the coverage area of the incident ultrasonic beam on the incident surface 12, the moving speed of the transducer 14, and the transmission frequency of the transducer 14.
[0063] It should be noted that the transducer 14 maintains a constant distance from the incident surface 12.
[0064] Similarly, the axial offset between the two loops is selected such that there is an overlap between the coverage area formed by the incident ultrasonic beam on the same loop and the coverage area formed by the incident ultrasonic beam on the next loop. The degree of overlap depends on the size of the coverage area formed by the incident ultrasonic beam on the incident surface and the axial spatial offset between the two loops.
[0065] A set of detection parameters also includes an evaluation threshold, expressed as a percentage of full scale, below which echoes are not considered to correspond to significant indications.
[0066] In step S20, an ultrasonic testing procedure for industrial component 10 is developed. This procedure defines a set of operating parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation.
[0067] This set of operational parameters includes at least: - Incident surface 12 in industrial components; - Operating parameters related to detection depth in industrial components; - The direction of ultrasonic wave incident relative to incident surface 12; - Operating parameters related to the transducer 14 that generates ultrasonic waves; - Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by transducer 14; - Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of transducer 14 on incident surface 12.
[0068] The incident surface and incident direction are as defined above.
[0069] The operating parameters related to the depth of industrial component inspection are usually the same as the inspection parameters related to the depth of industrial component inspection.
[0070] The operating parameters associated with transducer 14 include, for example, one or more of the following parameters: - The number of transmitter-receiver elements in the transducer; - Transducer geometry: sphere and radius of curvature of the sphere, circular surface and radius of the circular surface, rectangular surface, etc.; - The frequency at which ultrasonic waves are emitted; - The height of the water layer between the transducer and the incident surface; - The emission frequency of ultrasound, that is, the time interval between two ultrasound emissions.
[0071] The operating parameters associated with the ultrasonic beam generated by transducer 14 include, for example, one or more of the following parameters: - The waveform generated by transducer 14 is selected from longitudinal waves and / or transverse waves; - The size of the area covered by the incident ultrasonic beam on the incident surface.
[0072] The operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of transducer 14 on incident surface 12 include, for example, all detection parameters related to the motion trajectory of transducer 14 on incident surface 12 mentioned above.
[0073] The operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer 14 on the incident surface 12 also include the moving speed of the transducer 14 relative to the incident surface 12.
[0074] The operating parameter set also includes an evaluation threshold, which, along with the evaluation thresholds for a set of detection parameters, is described above.
[0075] During step S30 of the ultrasonic testing of industrial components, data characterizing the actual ultrasonic testing process is recorded for each ultrasonic testing operation.
[0076] Ultrasonic testing steps are usually in Figure 4 The ultrasonic testing device 20 shown is used for the operation. The ultrasonic testing device 20 includes: - Transducer 14, configured to emit ultrasonic waves and detect ultrasonic echoes returned by industrial component 10; - Rotary support 24, on which industrial component 10 is fixed; - Operator 26, causing transducer 14 to move at a predetermined distance from industrial component 10; - The computing unit 28 controls the transducer 14, the rotating support 24 and the manipulator 26. The computing unit is programmed to execute the ultrasonic testing scheme.
[0077] Industrial component 10 is immersed in container 30 containing liquid medium 32. Typically, rotating support 24 is also immersed in liquid medium, which is usually water.
[0078] Industrial component 10 is fixed on rotating support 24 such that the rotation axis X coincides with the rotation axis of rotating support 24.
[0079] The manipulator 26 is, for example, a manipulator arm.
[0080] The manipulator 26 has appropriate degrees of freedom, and in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating bracket 24, it allows the transducer 14 to move on the incident surface 12 according to the trajectory planned for each ultrasonic detection operation.
[0081] The manipulator 26 maintains the transducer 14 at a predetermined distance from the incident surface 12 as set in the ultrasonic testing scheme.
[0082] The recorded data consists of the echo returned by the industrial component 10 and the operating parameters of the detection device 20.
[0083] The echo returned by the industrial component 10 is measured by the transducer 14 and recorded by the computing unit 28. The operating parameters of the detection device 20 are recorded by the computing unit 28.
[0084] The operating parameters of the detection device 20 correspond to all the operating parameters of the transducer 14, the manipulator 26, and the rotating support 14.
[0085] If the industrial component is not the main body, other ultrasonic testing devices can be used, such as devices without a rotating platform.
[0086] Alternatively, industrial components can be tested in the air without being submerged in a liquid bath.
[0087] The S40 steps for verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing of industrial components include: - S41 Sub-step: Verify the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame; - S42 Sub-step: Verify the conformity of the ultrasonic test relative to the reference frame.
[0088] The S41 sub-step for verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure, verifying whether multiple standards are met using the testing parameters and operating parameters.
[0089] The S42 sub-step for verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation, extracting actual parameters from the recorded data, and using the testing parameters and actual parameters to verify whether multiple standards are met.
[0090] The extraction of actual parameters is performed automatically.
[0091] The S41 sub-step for verifying the conformity of each ultrasonic testing operation in the ultrasonic testing procedure and / or the S42 sub-step for verifying the conformity of the test are automatically executed by the calculation unit, and at least one file is generated that lists the unmet standards and the deviations from those standards.
[0092] Typically, sub-steps S41 and S42 are executed automatically by the computation unit, and the list of unmet criteria and corresponding deviations are compiled in the same file.
[0093] In addition, verification step S40 includes sub-step S43 in which a professional analyzes at least one document.
[0094] Professionals analyze the deviations from the required standards and determine whether the ultrasonic testing is acceptable based on these deviations.
[0095] Typically, a master testing procedure exists, which is copied before execution. The procedure is logged during execution, and the logged procedure (for all standards) is validated relative to a reference frame.
[0096] Preferably, at least one of the standards to be verified in the S41 sub-step of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity.
[0097] The S41 sub-step then includes: calculating a first value representing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value representing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value.
[0098] The numerical standard to be verified is, for example, that the deviation between the first value and the second value is less than a predetermined maximum value, which is the predetermined standard.
[0099] Numerical quantities include, for example, the following: - Detection depth of the initial loop; - Detection depth of the final circle; - The resolution at the horizontal level of the incident surface of the ultrasonic wave, and may also include the resolution at the horizontal level of the exit surface of the ultrasonic wave; - Circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same circle; - The degree of overlap between the ultrasonic waves emitted from two adjacent rings; - Allows for the detection of evaluation thresholds that indicate significant indicators.
[0100] The second value can be read directly from the reference frame, or calculated using the detection parameters in the reference frame.
[0101] The first value can be read directly from the ultrasonic testing program of the corresponding testing operation, or calculated using the operating parameters in the testing program.
[0102] For example, for the circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same ring, the second value is read directly from the reference frame, while the first value is calculated using the following operating parameters: - The transducer's transmission frequency; - The circumferential velocity of the incident surface below the transducer; - The size of the area covered by the ultrasonic beam at the horizontal level of the incident surface.
[0103] Numerical values can also be correction factors.
[0104] The S41 substep then includes a double test: - First, if the reference frame does not provide a correction factor for this test operation, then the verification ultrasound test program has not set a correction factor for this operation (the correction factor box is not checked). - If the reference frame provides a correction factor for the detection operation, then the correction factor of the reference frame is numerically compared with the correction factor of the detection procedure. The value of the correction factor is read directly from the reference frame and the detection procedure.
[0105] Similarly, at least one of the standards to be verified in sub-step S42, which verifies conformity of ultrasonic testing, is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. This sub-step then includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one actual parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value.
[0106] The numerical standard to be verified is, for example, that the deviation between the first and second values is less than the predetermined maximum value provided in the reference frame.
[0107] Numerical quantities include, for example, the following: - Detection depth per lap; - The resolution at the horizontal level of the incident surface 12 of the ultrasonic wave, and may also include the resolution at the horizontal level of the exit surface 15 of the ultrasonic wave; - An evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; - Gain applied to each detection operation.
[0108] The first value directly corresponds to the actual parameter extracted from the recorded data, or is calculated from one or more actual parameters. For example, for incident resolution, exit resolution, evaluation threshold, and gain, the first value directly corresponds to the actual parameter extracted from the data.
[0109] The first value of the detection depth is calculated using the following actual parameters: gate delay and gate range.
[0110] These parameters are as follows Figure 5 As shown, this figure characterizes the change in signal amplitude recorded by transducer 14 over time. The origin of the time axis corresponds to the emission of the incident ultrasonic signal. The gate delay parameter corresponds to the time interval between the emission of the incident ultrasonic signal and the reception of the echo at the incident surface; this parameter corresponds to the position of the first peak on the time axis.
[0111] Gate range parameters correspond to Figure 5 The time interval between the two peaks shown is illustrated. The second peak corresponds to the moment when transducer 14 records the return echo from the exit surface. The first value is calculated as follows: V1 = Gate delay + Gate range The second value is read directly from the reference frame of the corresponding detection operation, or calculated using the detection parameters in the reference frame.
[0112] For example, for incident resolution, exit resolution, evaluation threshold, and gain, the second value is read directly from the reference frame.
[0113] The second value of the detection depth is calculated as follows: V2 = Sound path depth - Output resolution in the sound path The path depth and the exit resolution in the path are parameters that appear directly in the reference frame.
[0114] For example, for the circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same ring, the second value is read directly from the reference frame, while the first value is calculated using the following actual parameters: - The transducer's transmission frequency; - The circumferential velocity of the incident surface below the transducer; - The size of the area covered by the ultrasonic beam at the horizontal level of the incident surface.
[0115] Advantageously, the S42 sub-step of verifying the conformity of the inspection with respect to the reference frame also includes testing whether certain actual parameters have been modified during the ultrasonic inspection step. If the actual parameters have been modified, it is likely that the operator made the modification, and that the modification caused the actual parameters to exceed the acceptable range provided in the reference frame.
[0116] This verification is specifically performed on the following numerical values: - The resolution at the horizontal level of the incident surface of the ultrasonic wave, and may also include the resolution at the horizontal level of the exit surface of the ultrasonic wave; - Allows for the detection of evaluation thresholds that indicate significant indicators.
[0117] For these numerical values, the sub-steps for verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing relative to the reference frame include: - Verify the initial value of the numerical quantity; - Verify whether the numerical value is modified from its initial value to a new value during the ultrasonic testing operation; - If modifications are made, verify that the new values conform to the reference frame.
[0118] The verification of the initial and new values of the numerical quantities is as described above.
[0119] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to an ultrasonic testing assembly for industrial components.
[0120] This detection component is particularly suitable for performing the detection methods described above. Conversely, the detection methods described above are designed to be performed by the detection components detailed below.
[0121] The detection components include: - Reference frame, providing multiple ultrasonic testing operations for industrial components, the reference frame defines a set of testing parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation; - The ultrasonic testing program for industrial component 10 defines a set of operating parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation; - An ultrasonic testing device 20 that tests industrial components according to an ultrasonic testing procedure is configured to record data characterizing the actual ultrasonic testing process performed for each ultrasonic testing operation. - Computation unit 28, configured to verify the conformity of ultrasonic testing of industrial components, the verification including: Verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure, verifying whether multiple standards are met using the testing parameters and operating parameters; Verifying the conformity of ultrasonic testing with respect to a reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation, extracting actual parameters from the recorded data, and using the testing parameters and actual parameters to verify whether multiple standards are met.
[0122] The reference framework is as described above.
[0123] A set of detection parameters is described above.
[0124] The ultrasonic testing procedure for industrial components is as described above.
[0125] A set of operating parameters is described above.
[0126] As described above, the ultrasonic testing device 20 for industrial components records data via a computing unit 28.
[0127] The calculation unit configured to verify the conformity of ultrasonic testing of industrial components is either the calculation unit 28 of the ultrasonic testing device 20 or a separate calculation unit.
[0128] The computing unit 28 is configured to verify the conformity of ultrasonic testing of industrial components according to the above method.
Claims
1. An ultrasonic testing method for industrial components (10), the method comprising: The step of generating a reference frame (S10) provides multiple ultrasonic testing operations on the industrial component (10), and the reference frame defines a set of testing parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation; The step (S20) of developing an ultrasonic testing procedure for the industrial component (10) defines a set of operating parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation. According to the ultrasonic testing procedure, the industrial component (10) is subjected to ultrasonic testing (S30), and data characterizing the actual ultrasonic testing process is recorded for each ultrasonic testing operation. The step (S40) of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic test of the industrial component (10) includes: The sub-step (S41) of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure, verifying whether multiple criteria are met using the testing parameters and the operating parameters; The sub-step (S42) of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic test with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic test operation, extracting actual parameters from the recorded data, and using the test parameters and the actual parameters to verify whether multiple criteria are met.
2. The detection method according to claim 1, wherein, The sub-step (S41) verifying the compliance of each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure and / or the sub-step (S42) verifying the compliance of the testing are automatically executed by the calculation unit, and at least one file is generated, which lists the unmet standards and the deviations from the standards.
3. The detection method according to claim 2, wherein, The verification steps include a sub-step whereby a professional analyzes the at least one document, the professional analyzes the deviation from the standard to be met, and determines whether the ultrasonic test is acceptable based on the deviation.
4. The detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the sub-step (S41) of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The sub-step includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value.
5. The detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The set of operating parameters includes at least: Incident surface (12) in the industrial component (10); Operating parameters related to the detection depth in the industrial component (10); The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface (12); Operating parameters related to the transducer (14); Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer (14); Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12).
6. The detection method according to claim 5, wherein, The industrial component (10) is a main body that rotates about a rotation axis (X). The motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12) includes multiple rotations about the rotation axis (X). The multiple rotations have an initial rotation, a final rotation, and possible intermediate rotations evenly distributed between the initial rotation and the final rotation. The operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12) include the circumferential offset about the rotation axis (X) between two ultrasonic emission in the same rotation and the spatial offset between the two rotations.
7. The detection method according to claim 6, wherein, In the sub-step (S41) verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The sub-step includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value; and The sub-step (S41) verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame checks the standard covering at least the following numerical values: The detection depth of the initial circle; The detection depth of the final circle; The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface (12); The circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same circle; The degree of overlap between ultrasonic emissions from two adjacent rings; An evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators.
8. The detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The set of detection parameters includes at least: Incident surface (12) in the industrial component (10); Detection parameters related to the detection depth in the industrial component (10); The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface (12); Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) that generates the ultrasonic wave on the incident surface (12).
9. The detection method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the sub-step (S42) of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic test, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The sub-step includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one actual parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value.
10. The detection method according to claim 9, wherein, The sub-step (S42) verifying the conformity of the test with respect to the reference frame checks the criteria that at least cover the following numerical values: Detection depth; Resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface (12); The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; Gain applied to each detection operation.
11. The detection method according to claim 10, wherein, For the following numerical quantities: The resolution at the horizontal level of the incident surface (12) of the ultrasonic wave; The evaluation threshold allows for the detection of significant indicators; The sub-steps for verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing with respect to the reference frame include: Verify the initial value of the numerical quantity; Verify whether the numerical value has been modified from its initial value to a new value during the ultrasonic testing operation; and If modifications are made, verify that the new values conform to the reference framework.
12. An ultrasonic testing system for industrial components, wherein, The detection system includes: A reference frame is provided to provide multiple ultrasonic testing operations for the industrial component (10), the reference frame defining a set of testing parameters for each ultrasonic testing operation, the set of testing parameters including at least: Incident surface (12) in the industrial component (10); Detection parameters related to the detection depth in the industrial component (10); The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface (12); Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) that generates the ultrasonic wave on the incident surface (12); For the ultrasonic testing procedure of the industrial component (10), a set of operating parameters is defined for each ultrasonic testing operation, the set of operating parameters including at least: Incident surface (12) in the industrial component (10); Operating parameters related to the detection depth in the industrial component (10); The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface (12); Operating parameters associated with the transducer (14) that generates the ultrasonic waves; Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer (14); Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12); An ultrasonic testing device (20) that tests the industrial component (10) according to the ultrasonic testing procedure is configured to record data characterizing the actual ultrasonic testing process performed for each ultrasonic testing operation. The computing unit (28) is configured to perform a conformity verification of the ultrasonic testing of the industrial component (10), the verification including: Verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic testing operation of the ultrasonic testing procedure, verifying whether multiple criteria are met using the testing parameters and the operating parameters; Verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic test with respect to the reference frame includes: for each ultrasonic test operation, extracting actual parameters from the recorded data, and using the test parameters and the actual parameters to verify whether multiple criteria are met.
13. The detection system according to claim 12, wherein, In the process of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity, and the verification includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value.
14. The detection system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The set of operating parameters includes at least: Incident surface (12) in the industrial component (10); Operating parameters related to the detection depth in the industrial component (10); The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface (12); Operating parameters associated with the transducer (14) that generates the ultrasonic waves; Operating parameters related to the ultrasonic beam generated by the transducer (14); Operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12).
15. The detection system according to claim 14, wherein, The industrial component (10) is a main body that rotates about a rotation axis (X). The ultrasonic detection device (20) of the industrial component (10) is configured such that the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12) includes multiple rotations about the rotation axis (X), the multiple rotations having an initial rotation, a final rotation, and possible intermediate rotations evenly distributed between the initial rotation and the final rotation. The operating parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) on the incident surface (12) include the circumferential offset about the rotation axis between two ultrasonic emission in the same rotation and the spatial offset between the two rotations.
16. The detection system according to claim 15, wherein, In verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity. The verification includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one operating parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value; and The verification of the conformity of the ultrasonic testing procedure with respect to the reference frame includes at least the following numerical values: The detection depth of the initial circle; The detection depth of the final circle; The resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal plane of the incident surface; The circumferential overlap between two adjacent ultrasonic wave emissions within the same circle; The degree of overlap between ultrasonic emissions from two adjacent rings; An evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators.
17. The detection system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The set of detection parameters includes at least: Incident surface (12) in the industrial component (10); Detection parameters related to the detection depth in the industrial component (10); The incident direction of the ultrasonic wave relative to the incident surface (12); Detection parameters characterizing the motion trajectory of the transducer (14) that generates the ultrasonic wave on the incident surface (12).
18. The detection system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, In the process of verifying the conformity of the ultrasonic test, at least one of the standards to be verified is a numerical standard applied to a numerical quantity, and the verification includes: calculating a first value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one actual parameter; calculating a second value characterizing the numerical quantity using at least one detection parameter; and comparing the first value with the second value.
19. The detection system according to claim 18, wherein, The criteria used to verify the conformity of the test with respect to the reference frame shall at least cover the following numerical values: Detection depth; Resolution of the ultrasonic wave at the horizontal level of the incident surface (12); The evaluation threshold that allows for the detection of significant indicators; Gain applied to each detection operation.