Ultrasound NDT (non-destructive testing)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the setup and feasibility of using an Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG) and a USB oscilloscope for non-destructive testing (NDT) with ultrasound transducers. Participants explore the technical aspects of the proposed setup, including the roles of various components and the challenges faced in sourcing appropriate equipment.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster (OP) seeks advice on building a device for NDT testing using a transducer, amplifier, and USB oscilloscope.
  • Some participants suggest that the setup proposed by the OP may not align with industry standards, which typically use a pulser-receiver instead of an AWG and amplifier.
  • There is a discussion about the meaning of "AWG wave," with participants expressing confusion and providing links to clarify the term.
  • Some participants speculate on the potential for the OP's approach to be unconventional, likening it to "reinventing the wheel."
  • There is uncertainty about whether the OP meant "oscillator" instead of "oscilloscope" when referring to the generation of AWG waves.
  • Participants share their experiences with different equipment, including the HP/Agilent 33120A, and express a mix of confusion and interest in the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the feasibility of the OP's proposed setup. There are competing views regarding the use of AWG and amplifier versus traditional pulser-receiver systems in NDT applications.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the information provided by the OP, particularly regarding the specifications and compatibility of the equipment mentioned. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of technical terms, which may affect understanding.

Rhap
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Hi all,

I've a question and I hope that I can get some answers here.

As what my project has tasked, and what my lecturer had said. He needs me to build a device for NDT Testing.

Currently the set up is that I would source for a transducer via olympus coupled with a USB oscilloscope capable of generating an AWG wave.

So the set up would be Transducer > Amplifier <> USB Oscilloscope > Laptop

USB oscilloscope : http://www.tiepie.com/en/products/Oscilloscopes/Handyscope_HS5
Ultrasound Transducer : http://www.olympus-ims.com/en/ultrasonic-transducers/immersion/

I've gotten in touch with the specialist from Olympus and he told me it isn't going to work since the USB oscilloscope coupled with a high gain amplifier is capable of powering and driving the transducer. I've feed-backed to my lecturer and he told me that this certainly can be done without the pulser-receiver.

I can't really find any source of this type of project or set-up on the net and I really hope someone here can advise me and if possible, providing some sort of aid or help since I am pretty helpless now.
 
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Reverse engineer a commercial product. UT is an industry standard.
 
Hi,

I don't see a commercial product that uses AWG and amplifier to drive a UT. Those in the market are using pulser-receiver.
 
Maybe the market is teaching.

Like reinventing the wheel, so far they've all been quite round. A three cornered wheel might not be a success.
 
What's an AWG wave?
 
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Ah, I think you're right, Dave. I use Arbitrary Function Generators often, but was confused when the OP mixed the term in with "oscilloscope":

Rhap said:
USB oscilloscope capable of generating an AWG wave.
 
its not a term I have come across before
yeah maybe he meant USB oscillator ?? :)
 
This is the AFG that I use most of the time, the HP/Agilent 33120A:

http://webhw.unca.edu/bennett_phys222/Content/labs/oscope/images/hp33120a.gif
hp33120a.gif
 
  • #10
berkeman said:
Ah, I think you're right, Dave. I use Arbitrary Function Generators often, but was confused when the OP mixed the term in with "oscilloscope":
Na. Acoustic waveguide
 
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  • #11
Ah, huh! That does sound more likely, but I suppose you can use either in an ultrasonic imaging application. Thanks for the link. :-)
 
  • #12
berkeman said:
Ah, huh! That does sound more likely, but I suppose you can use either in an ultrasonic imaging application. Thanks for the link. :)
Maybe. Dang acronyms.
 
  • #13
dlgoff said:
Na. Acoustic waveguide

Don,
I saw and did consider that one and thought ... No he said generator and I was thinking waveguide as just a transmission medium for that generated signal
but looking at some of the links your link gave suggest its an all in one solution :)

Isnt it fun speculating when we don't get all the info up front ;)

Ya got to love the HP/Agilent gear, Mike :)

Dave
 
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  • #14
davenn said:
Isnt it fun speculating when we don't get all the info up front ;)
I wasted way too much time. :headbang:
davenn said:
Ya got to love the HP/Agilent gear, Mike :)
I do indeed. :oldlove: