Unit name | Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing |
---|---|
Unit code | MENGM0019 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Wilcox |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
Computer-based modelling 1 and 2 (MENG11511, MENG21712) or equivalent programming experience, preferably including Matlab. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Engineering Mathematics and Technology |
Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
Ultrasonic methods are the most important tool for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) of engineering components and structures. The material in this unit covers the underlying science of ultrasonic and acoustic wave propagation in elastic media, and the application of this science to NDT. The mathematical equations that govern the propagation of ultrasonic waves are introduced and used as a foundation to develop the techniques used in modelling ultrasonic wave propagation in practical situations. Signal processing techniques for analysing ultrasonic data to elicit structural information (e.g. thickness, speed of sound, attenuation) are also covered in the course. Assessment is via two pieces of coursework covering experimental data analysis, wavefield simulation and inspection system design. The course is taught through a combination of weekly illustrated lectures and computing classes to support the coursework.
On completion of the unit, the student should be able to:
Evaluate: the performance of different imaging algorithms by defining and using metrics appropriate to the relevant NDT requirements (CW2)
The unit will be delivered through a combination of 11 x 1-hour lectures (1 per teaching week in TB1) and 11 x 1-hour computer classes (1 per teaching week in TB1). All lecture notes, together with additional material is provided through Blackboard. The lectures will include demonstrations of state-of-the-art ultrasonic equipment, ranging from single-channel pulse-echo systems to array imaging systems. For the computer classes students will be provided with a structured set of exercises leading into the two assessed pieces of work. The first few computer classes will introduce the basics of ultrasonic simulation using Matlab and will include time for informal feedback to be given at the end of Week 4 on the students’ progress up to that point. CW1 will be submitted at the end of Week 6 and CW2 at the end of Week 12. Formative feedback from CW1 will be provided before the end of Week 9.
Coursework as follows:
CW1. Analysis of experimental ultrasonic data indicating how, e.g., thickness, velocity and attenuation may be deduced in the time and frequency domains - report required (40%)
CW2. Design and modelling of an ultrasonic array to satisfy a given inspection specification - report required (60%)