Abstract: A phased array ultrasonic testing system is for examining turbine disc bores and blade attachments for discontinuities, such as stress corrosion cracking. The system is particularly suited to perform an accurate and efficient inspection of components despite their having a relatively complex geometry, such as axial entry blade attachments and bores of associated discs. The system includes a control system with a computer and a controller for programming, emitting, and steering an ultrasonic beam via at least one two-dimensional phased array probe, thereby precisely inspecting the area of interest while simultaneously accommodating the aforementioned complex geometry of the disc or blade attachment. Computer control of the beam permits the number of inspection locations and the number of different probe wedges to be reduced providing for an efficient, timely inspection. Methods of profiling and examining turbine components of known and unknown geometries, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A virtual-tight-wire system is provided for determining a centerline in a large rotary machine (10). The virtual-tight-wire system includes a columnar light source (30) that is positioned at one end of the rotary machine (10). A columnar beam of light (32) is emitted from the light source (30) toward light receivers (26) in a first and second centering tool (24). The beam of light (32) is adjusted to impact the center of the light receivers (26). Once the beam (32) has been aligned, the beam acts as a virtual tight-wire for identifying a centerline of the rotary machine (10).

Abstract: An ultrasonic inspection tool (100) for inspecting the brazed joint (76) between two generator stator coils (18A and 18B) and an interconnecting copper bar (74). The inspection tool (100) is automatically serially positioned at a plurality of inspection sites on the surface of the copper bar (74). At each site an ultrasonic signal is emitted from the tool (100) and the return echo is sensed. Analysis of the return echo at each of the plurality of sites determines the characteristics of the brazed joint (76) at the site, from which a determination can be made as to the quality of the joint between coils (18A and 18B) and the copper bar (74).