Phased-Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT)
Definition
Advanced ultrasonic inspection using a multi-element probe whose beam angle and focal depth are electronically controlled to scan a weld volume systematically. Produces a cross-sectional image of the weld comparable to a CT scan, with quantified defect sizing.
- Probe type
- Multi-element ultrasonic probe
- Control
- Electronically steered beam angle and focal depth
- Output
- Cross-sectional image of the weld volume
- Field
- Weld and manufacturing defect analysis
Common questions
What advantage does PAUT offer over conventional single-crystal ultrasonic testing?+
PAUT electronically sweeps the beam through a range of angles and depths from a fixed probe position, producing a full cross-sectional image in one scan where conventional UT needs multiple manual probe placements and gives only point readings.
Can PAUT quantify the size of a detected weld defect?+
Yes, because the technique produces a calibrated cross-sectional image, defect dimensions such as length and through-wall extent can be measured directly from the scan rather than only being flagged as present or absent.
Related terms
- Hot Cracking
- Solidification cracking or liquation cracking that occurs at elevated temperature during or just after welding. Driven by liquid films of low-melting impurity...
- Hydrogen Cold Cracking (HCC)
- Delayed intergranular cracking in the heat-affected zone or weld metal, caused by atomic hydrogen absorbed during welding, susceptible martensite microstructure, and residual...
- Lack of Fusion (LOF)
- A planar weld defect where the weld metal fails to fuse to the base metal or to the adjacent weld pass. Essentially...
- Laminar Tearing
- Step-like fracture in the base plate beneath a restrained weld, propagating along planes of MnS inclusion stringers aligned with the rolling direction...
- Porosity
- Gas-filled voids in weld metal or castings, spherical or elongated (wormhole/piping), caused by dissolved gas evolving during solidification. Reduces cross-section and acts...