For the operation of chemical plants, coal-fired and nuclear power stations or within the aerospace industry, quality control plays a major role. Material defects like cracks, weld flaws, corrosion and residual stress are just few examples of factors that might lead to material failure even before the expected operational life span ends. In order to implement testing solutions in an economical way, state-of-the-art testing techniques and methods are necessary, especially when public safety is concerned.
EMAT technology (Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers) is combined with phased array technology, which means that horizontally polarized shear waves are used to create virtual transparency of materials which makes it easier to test austenitic welds, welds of different metals, coatings, etc. These and other components can thus be tested in their entirety regardless of the coupling. The EMAT technology enables us to test materials for hard-to-detect flaws with unrivalled precision, like for example the development of cracks in grain boundaries due to weld corrosion.
EMAT (Phased Array) systems comprising of two portable components (front end and main module) are designed for a multitude of applications. Control function, data collection and evaluation are realised by an integrated computer. Standard and customized EMAT (Phased Array) testing systems are developed and produced by Fraunhofer IZFP.