Multi-Angle X-Ray Weld Inspection for Better Depth Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional x-ray weld inspection methods face challenges in obtaining detailed internal structure information of welds, especially when defects like cracks are oriented in a way that makes them difficult to observe, and internal access to pipelines is restricted.
Innovation Solution
The method involves imaging weld sections multiple times with different x-ray angles of incidence using a system where the x-ray source and detector are independently movable, allowing for a range of angles and movement profiles to enhance depth resolution and collect more comprehensive imaging data, which can be reconstructed into two-dimensional or three-dimensional images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single x-ray angle is used for weld inspection, then the inspection process is simple and fast, but the depth resolution and defect detection capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic positioning of the x-ray source and detector along the weld, enabling multiple imaging angles. The system moves the x-ray source and detector to different positions around the weld, capturing images from various angles to improve depth resolution and defect detection capability while maintaining operational efficiency through automated movement control.
2Reliability
If multiple imaging data sets are collected from different angles, then defect detection capability improves, but the inspection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs continuous movement of the x-ray source and detector along the weld without interruption. The system continuously collects imaging data from multiple angles in a single pass, eliminating the need for repeated inspections and reducing total inspection time while maintaining high defect detection capability through comprehensive angle coverage.
3Measurement precision
If internal access to pipeline is obtained for weld inspection, then detailed internal weld structure can be observed, but the pipeline must be shut down and access points created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional inspection approach by performing x-ray imaging from the external side of the pipeline rather than requiring internal access. The x-ray source and detector are positioned outside the pipeline, projecting images through the pipe wall to capture weld details without needing to enter the pipeline, thereby eliminating shutdown requirements and access point creation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides a more detailed understanding of welds by increasing depth resolution and enabling the detection of defects, even when internal access is limited, through the use of multiple imaging data sets and advanced reconstruction techniques.
Implementation Method 1
Conventionally, such welds have been inspected by using a high strength, broad beam radioactive source, such as an x-ray or gamma-ray source
Implementation Method 2
such as an x-ray or gamma-ray source, to penetrate both walls of the pipeline and to expose an x-ray sensitive film plate on the opposite side of the pipeline to the x-ray source
Data Source
AI summary
An x-ray weld inspection apparatus has at least one x-ray source, at least one x-ray detector, a motor arrangement configured to move the at least one x-ray source and the at least one x-ray detector substantially along a weld, and a control device. The control device comprises memory and at least one processing core, configured to control the motor arrangement to move the at least one x-ray source and the at least one x-ray detector during an x-ray weld scan substantially along the direction of the weld. At least one section of the weld is imaged at least twice during a single x-ray scan, producing at least two imaging data sets, respectively. An angle of incidence of x-rays at the at least one section of the weld is different for the imaging data sets.