Abstract: A probe inspects steam generator tubing for defects. The probe includes a transducer which generates a localized ultrasonic Lamb wave. The ultrasonic wave is transferred to the tubing by a coupling medium, such as water, that physically couples the transducer and the tubing. Defects in the tubing reflect the ultrasonic wave to the probe which detects the reflections. The results are then used to determine the length and depth of such defects as cracks, pitting, and thinning. The localized ultrasonic wave performs an inspection sensitive enough to detect ligaments between crack segments. This allows highly accurate predictions of tubing integrity and rupture strength.

Abstract: An non-destructive testing method employs an ultrasound generator which provides a beam having an axis which intersects the outer surface of an object to be tested at an angle relative to a line normal to the surface which is in the range of 23.degree. to 28.degree.. A longitudinal mode wave and a shear mode wave are propogated within the object and the shear wave is converted into longitudinal mode waves by reflection from an opposite surface of the object. The propogated and mode converted waves are reflected from different portions of a defect and the echos arrive serially in time at a receiver transducer. The ultrasound generator and receiver transducer are sonically isolated. The received signals have a favorable signal-to-noise ratio and the times of receipt thereof are employed to determine the dimensions of a detected defect.

Abstract: A method and device for ultrasonically inspecting the corner region formed by the joining of a pair of cylindrical conduits is disclosed. Ultrasonic sound beams (62) are transmitted beneath inner surface (12) of the first conduit at an oblique angle resulting in a shallow refracted sound path (74) through the solid corner region (84). Sound energy (76) reflected by the presence of a radially oriented crack (67) within the desired zone of interest (66) passes (80) out of the solid (84) for detection. A device having an ultrasonic transmitter (44) and a directional receiver (60) is disclosed carrying out the inspection method according to the present invention.