subject: Ultrasonic Devices and Uses [print this page] Ultrasonic detection is used in the industries for testing and detection. This is based on the principle that the sound waves, when traveling through some medium i.e., solid, liquid or gas then produce a sound. These sound waves travel in a definite manner and speed through particular medium thereby producing different kinds of vibrations. Detecting the vibrations produced by these waves in a particular medium the testing is performed. This is one of the oldest methods used in practice.
You can go for different types of Ultrasonic Flaw Detector based on your requirements. Earlier big, heavy detectors were used which have been replaced by the modern detectors. These modern detectors are comparatively compacting, small and highly efficient. When used, these detectors generate sound waves which are read and analyzed by the trained staff available. The operator checks the various points of waves formed at different intervals and read the chart. These modern
ultrasonic flaw detectors are of both types i.e., digital and analog as well. Though most of the detectors have been replaced by digital but there are few places where still analog are used.
The main component in an ultrasonic device is transducer which determines the method to be employed for the thickness. The market is full of ultrasonic products whose cost varies from few thousands to lakhs. Few examples of ultrasonic products are ultrasonic transducers, ultrasonic welding machines, ultrasonic cleaner, ultrasonic sensors, ultrasonic solders and soon. The principle of operation in all these ultrasonic devices remains the same i.e., the use of sound waves.
The ultrasonic products come with Ultrasonic Accessories and attachment-Probe Cables and Adapters. An ultrasonic probe has a sensor attached to its head. The sensor head contains a number of transducer elements. The sensor is on the flexible shaft which is free to move in any direction. Probe cables and attachments are used in calibration processes. These cables and adapters should follow quality standards and be manufactured as per the ISO standards. The cable is an integral part of a testing and detection system in control engineering. Generally these cables work under frequency range that varies from 500 kHz to 20 MHz. With the increase in length, a cable loses its electrical strength. Though these losses are small and can be compensated in the system itself though for long run or long distances it is recommended to use preamplifier at the transducers ends of the cable. When the ultrasonic device is used underwater a long cable is used between the gauge and the transducer.
