Abstract: An inspection system for integral seals includes an ultrasonic transducer configured to ultrasonically scan an integral seal having a rubber sealing member attached to a seal carrier, and a transducer positioning mechanism defining a plurality of translational degrees of freedom and a rotational degree of freedom. An electronic control unit is coupled with the ultrasonic transducer, and may be configured to store data indicative of a defect in the integral seal responsive to a reflection pattern defined by ultrasound reflected by the rubber sealing member and the seal carrier. Related methodology is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a diesel particulate filter includes a step of coupling an acoustic generator directly to the diesel particulate filter via a support fixture. Ash deposited within the diesel particulate filter is dislodged with acoustic energy deposited by the acoustic generator. The ash may fall clear of the diesel particulate filter under the action of gravity and/or via pressurized air flow.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a diesel particulate filter includes a step of coupling an acoustic generator directly to the diesel particulate filter via a support fixture. Ash deposited within the diesel particulate filter is dislodged with acoustic energy deposited by the acoustic generator. The ash may fall clear of the diesel particulate filter under the action of gravity and/or via pressurized air flow.

Abstract: A filter internal flaw test apparatus includes a frame with a filter support and at least one pair of transducer supports. A filter is positioned in the test apparatus, and an ultrasound through transmission test and at least one ultrasound pulse echo test are performed on the filter. Data reliability is increased by positioning the pair of transducers in alignment with one another and pushing them toward one another using a force generator with a predetermined uniform force, such as via a regulated pneumatic actuator. A signal generating/receiving device is in communication with the transducers and provides the ability for analyzing the test results to determine whether the filter has an internal flaw, such as a crack or void that would render it unsatisfactory for use as a particulate filter.

Abstract: A surface treatment system may include a microwave chamber and an insulating cavity located within the microwave chamber. The insulating cavity may be configured to receive an object. The system also may include a supply of solvent gas in selective fluid communication with the insulating cavity and a magnetron configured to emit microwave radiation. The system may further include a waveguide operatively connected to the microwave chamber and the magnetron. The waveguide may be configured to direct microwave radiation into the insulating cavity to form a solvent gas plasma from the solvent gas. The solvent gas plasma may be configured to dissolve surface contamination on the object.

Abstract: Some O-rings can include internal flaws that can eventually lead to failure of the O-rings during use. In order to scan an internal structure of an O-ring, the present disclosure includes an apparatus with an apparatus body to which an O-ring support and a transducer assembly are attached. The transducer assembly includes an ultrasound generator that transmits ultrasound toward the O-ring to generate reflections toward an ultrasound receiver. The apparatus includes a display for comparing ultrasound receiver data with expected data. It is determined whether there are reflections of the ultrasound transmissions off of at least one internal surface within the O-ring.