Abstract: There is disclosed a composite fan blade root 100 comprising an outer region 110 comprising composite material and defining an outer inspection surface 120 of the component; an inner region 108 surrounded by the outer region 110; and an internal reflection boundary 102 embedded within the root 100 between the inner region and the outer region. The reflection boundary is configured to change a velocity of a signal emitted into the root from the inspection surface, whereby a signal emitted into the root from the inspection surface 120 may be reflected for detection.

Abstract: There is disclosed a composite fan blade root 100 comprising an outer region 110 comprising composite material and defining an outer inspection surface 120 of the component; an inner region 108 surrounded by the outer region 110; and an internal reflection boundary 102 embedded within the root 100 between the inner region and the outer region. The reflection boundary is configured to change a velocity of a signal emitted into the root from the inspection surface, whereby a signal emitted into the root from the inspection surface 120 may be reflected for detection.

Abstract: An electrode for a plasma carburizing furnace is disclosed which is adapted to provide a dynamic gas shroud for inhibiting the buildup of carbon soot on the insulating elements of the electrode. The reduction of carbon soot buildup on the insulating components dramatically reduces the frequency of electrical short-circuits across the insulating component, thereby increasing the availability of the furnace for processing of workpieces.