Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing
Advanced multi-angle scanning for complex geometries, providing detailed imaging of internal flaws.
Overview
Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) is the gold standard of modern volumetric inspection. Multi-element probes electronically steer, focus, and sweep ultrasonic beams through a component — producing high-resolution sectorial and linear images that capture internal flaws with exceptional clarity, often replacing conventional radiography entirely.
How the method works
A PAUT probe contains 16 to 128+ piezoelectric elements that fire in precisely controlled sequences. By varying the firing delays, the system electronically sweeps the beam across multiple angles in a single probe position — producing a real-time S-scan image of the inspected volume.
Encoded PAUT adds a position encoder so the data can be reconstructed as a full C-scan, B-scan, and D-scan with millimetre-accurate flaw mapping. This enables permanent records, fitness-for-service assessment, and confident accept/reject decisions on the most critical welds.
PAUT is faster, safer, and more diagnostic than radiography — no radiation exclusion zones, no shutdowns, and full digital data for engineering review and long-term trending.
Why AUTRESONUS for PAUT
- Level II and Level III PAUT-certified technicians with two decades+ of encoded scanning experience.
- Latest-generation 32:128 and 64:128 phased array systems with full TFM/FMC capability where required.
- Custom wedge design and beam modelling for every challenging geometry.
- Combined TOFD + PAUT inspections — superior coverage versus either method alone.
- Engineering-grade reports with full raw data, ready for fitness-for-service assessment.
Key Benefits
- Multi-angle volumetric coverage in a single encoded scan
- Real-time sectorial imaging plus full data recording
- Ideal for complex geometries, nozzles, and limited access
- Safer alternative to radiographic testing — no exclusion zones
- Quantitative defect characterisation and accurate sizing
- Drastically reduced shutdown duration compared to RT
Our Inspection Process
- 1
Procedure & modelling
Beam simulation and probe/wedge selection to match geometry and target flaws.
- 2
Calibration
Sensitivity, TCG, and wedge-delay calibration on representative reference blocks.
- 3
Encoded scanning
Mechanised scanner with position encoder captures full volumetric data set.
- 4
Data review
Offline analysis of S-scan, C-scan, and B-scan views by Level II/III analysts.
- 5
Reporting
Code-based accept/reject with sized indications and full raw data archive.
Applications
- Critical weld inspections in refineries and process plants
- Nozzle, set-on, and dissimilar metal welds
- Wind turbine structural and bolt inspections
- Aerospace composite and metal structures
- Subsea and offshore pipework and risers
- High-pressure pipework and reactor welds
Codes & Standards
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