The advancements in probe and controller hardware are expected to enable a new generation of phased array applications in a broad spectrum of industries. Ultrasonic phased arrays have come into their own in the past 10 years and have replaced conventional ultrasonics in many industrial applications. Recent advancements in phased-array technology, including massively parallel systems, a broader frequency range, conformable arrays and a variety of matrix probes, are creating unprecedented possibilities for maximizing resolution and inspection speed. At the same time, rapidly improving computer performance and powerful modeling capabilities allow 3-D displays in real time that greatly ease data interpretation. These advancements represent a leap in inspection flexibility that is enabling new applications.
In contrast to conventional ultrasonic probes that use a single active element, phased array probes are composed of several piezoelectric crystals that can transmit and receive independently at different times. To focus and steer the ultrasonic beam, time delays are applied to the elements to create constructive interference of the wavefronts, allowing the energy to be focused at any point in the test specimen undergoing inspection.