Advanced Array Techniques for Ultrasonic Nondestructive Testing
Abstract: Ultrasonic Nondestructive Testing (NDT) is one important method for ensuring safe operation of infrastructure, including nuclear facilities. One method of NDT that is gaining interest within the community is Ultrasonic Full-Matrix Capture (FMC). FMC offers several advantages over traditional phased array methods. Some of these include the ability to focus through an a priori unknown surface, the ability to focus everywhere simultaneously within an inspection region, and the ability to re-process ultrasonic data arbitrarily for different angles, focal points, and even wave modes. The basics of FMC and some of these advantages will be discussed, as well as BWXT’s history with the technique.
Bio: Steven Younghouse received his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics from Cornell University in 1994. He received his Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (Physical Acoustics) from the University of Texas at Austin in 1998, as well as a Ph.D. in 2002. He is currently an engineer with BWXT in Lynchburg, Virginia, focusing on ultrasonic nondestructive testing.
