Patent ID: 7779695
Filing Date: 2010-08-24
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for determining defects on a constructional element of a turbine using a phased array technique, comprising: dividing a phased array probe into a plurality of virtual probes that are arranged directly one behind the other in linear fashion forming a linear oscillator; transmitting an ultrasonic signal via by at least two of the virtual probes in a directed manner over a fixed radial projection to cover a predetermined area on an individual surface region of the constructional element to be inspected wherein each virtual probe produces a plurality of ultrasonic pulses on the individual surface region to be inspected; receiving the transmitted ultrasonic signal via the phased array probe; wherein the phased array probe is in a fixed position relative to a fixed position of the construction element during the transmitting and receiving of ultrasonic signals; evaluating the position and/or the form of possible defects on the constructional element by combination of the measurement results of the plurality of virtual probes on the predetermined individual surface region to be inspected; and, determining the orientation of a defect on the constructional element by comparison of the measurement results of the plurality of virtual probes on the predetermined individual surface region to be inspected.