SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “Phased Array”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

SourceResearch connectionFrom yearThrough year

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 55 records · Page 3

All sources NASA NTRS DOE OSTI

DOE OSTI2011

Evolutionary Adaptive Discovery of Phased Array Sensor Signal Identification

Tomography, used to create images of the internal properties and features of an object, from phased array ultasonics is improved through many sophisiticated methonds of post processing of data. One approach used to improve tomographic results is to prescribe the collection of more data, from different points of few so that data fusion might have a richer data set to work from. This approach can lead to rapid increase in the data needed to be stored and processed. It also does not necessarily lead to have the needed data. This article describes a novel approach to utilizing the data aquired as a basis for adapting the sensors focusing parameters to locate more precisely the features in the material: specifically, two evolutionary methods of autofocusing on a returned signal are coupled with the derivations of the forumulas for spatially locating the feature are given. Test results of the two novel methods of evolutionary based focusing (EBF) illustrate the improved signal strength and correction of the position of feature using the optimized focal timing parameters, called Focused Delay Identification (FoDI).

97 MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTING↗

DOE OSTI2015

Ultrasonic Phased Arrays and Interactive Reflectivity Tomography for Nondestructive Inspection of Injection and Production Wells in Geothermal Energy Systems (Quarterly Research Performance Progress Report (2015 Q3))

For the past quarter, we have placed our effort in implementing the first version of the Model-Based Iterative Reconstruction (MBIR) algorithm, assembling and testing the electronics, designing transducers mounts, and defining our laboratory test samples. We have successfully developed the first implementation of MBIR for ultrasound imaging. The current algorithm was tested with synthetic data and we are currently making new modifications for the reconstruction of real ultrasound data. Beside assembling and testing the electronics, we developed a LabView graphic user interface (GUI) to fully control the ultrasonic phased array, adjust the time-delays of the transducers, and store the measured reflections. As part of preparing for a laboratory-scale demonstration, the design and fabrication of the laboratory samples has begun. Three cement blocks with embedded objects will be fabricated, characterized, and used to demonstrate the capabilities of the system. During the next quarter, we will continue to improve the current MBIR forward model and integrate the reconstruction code with the LabView GUI. In addition, we will define focal laws for the ultrasonic phased array and perform the laboratory demonstration. We expect to perform laboratory demonstration by the end of October 2015.

15 GEOTHERMAL ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2023

Development of an advanced ultrasonic phased array for the characterization of thick, reinforced concrete components (Final Scientific/Technical Report)

There are no nondestructive evaluation (NDE) tools capable of characterizing microscale damage throughout the thickness of concrete components, due to the multiphase, heterogeneous and multiscale nature of concrete. Ultrasound is only scattered by features at the same length scale, or smaller, than the wavelength of a wave’s dominant frequency. Successful imaging of microscale damage using ultrasound requires that the ultrasonic wavelength be on the order of a few millimeters (or smaller), yet the heterogeneous microstructure of concrete, with its fine and coarse aggregates, is on this same (and higher) micrometer/millimeter length scale, causing excessive ultrasonic wave scattering even in “good” concrete. The proposed solution applies non-collinear wave mixing to spatially image microscale damage, while still maintaining penetration through thick concrete components. This microscale imaging is possible by combining nonlinear wave mixing, with advanced phased array hardware and software to develop a breakthrough tool that will bring revolutionary changes in NDE of concrete infrastructure in terms of image resolution and depth of penetration. This work uses non-collinear wave mixing which exploits the physics that material nonlinearities such as microscale damage, cause interactions between two intersecting ultrasonic waves due to cross-mixing, which can lead to the generation of a third wave with a frequency and wave number of the sum or difference of the incident waves. The concrete material volume at this mixing point is characterized/imaged. This project delivered a single-sided nonlinear ultrasonic phased array imaging device, that can image microscale damage (microcracks of 100 micrometers) through a 0.5 m thick concrete component and assessed the commercial feasibility of such arrays for improved crack detection.

42 ENGINEERING↗

DOE OSTI2025

Evaluation and Development of Phase Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) System for Additively Manufactured Parts

This research focuses on the application of advanced ultrasonic testing techniques developed by The Phased Array Company (TPAC) for inspecting defects in additive manufacturing (AM) parts. Traditionally, X-ray computed tomography is the standard for inspecting AM components. Although, the long inspection and analysis time, along with relatively high cost make implementation difficult. Thus, an alternative nondestructive evaluation (NDE) approach is necessary to support quality assurance efforts within the field of AM. TPAC is recognized as a leader in ultrasonic testing innovation, deploying sophisticated algorithms such as Total Focusing Method (TFM) and Phased Wave Imaging (PWI) for ultrasonic data processing and interpretation. This work will explore how the TFM and PWI algorithms can assist defect detection within polymer AM parts. The AM field is seeking novel NDE methods to provide support within quality control and assurance efforts. Advanced ultrasonics inspection have the potential to fulfill this need.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2025

Evaluation and Development of Phase Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) System for Additively Manufactured Parts

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2013

LONG-TERM CALIBRATION STABILITY OF A RADIO ASTRONOMICAL PHASED ARRAY FEED

There are many challenges associated with the implementation of a phased array feed for radio astronomy applications. Among these is the need to have an adequate set of calibration measurements so that reliable beamformers can be computed. Changes in the operating environment and temporal gain drift in the electronics contribute to calibration drift, which affects the beamformer performance. We will show that calibration measurements are relatively stable over a 5 day period and may remain so for up to 70 days or longer. We have incorporated the use of a calibration update system that has the potential to refresh a set of old calibrators, specifically correcting for electronic gain drift. However, the long-term variations that are present with fresh, current calibrators are greater than the degradation due to using an old calibration set, suggesting that, at this time, there is not a need for sophisticated calibration update systems or algorithms.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

DOE OSTI2021

Assimilation of X-band Phased-Array Radar Data with EnKF for the Analysis and Warning Forecast of a Tornadic storm

The impact of assimilating China's operational X-band Phased-Array radar's (X-PAR) data on the analysis and warning forecast of the vortex structure and intensity of the June 8, 2018 Foshan, Guangdong province, tornadic storm was investigated for the first time using an Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) data assimilation system. Both radar radial velocity (Vr) and reflectivity (Z) from two S-band operational radars and one X-PAR were assimilated. Deterministic forecasts were launched every 6 min from 05:42 UTC (20 min before the tornado touched down) to 06:00 UTC from the EnKF mean analysis field. Five experiments were conducted to examine the added capability of Z assimilation of the EnKF system, and to investigate the impact of assimilating X-PAR data on the analysis and prediction of the tornadic storm. Compared to the experiment without Z assimilation, the assimilation of Z reduced the analysis error and greatly reduced the forecast error of Z. Furthermore, the assimilation of X-PAR data greatly improved the vortex structure of the tornadic storm at low levels, and improved the intensity of the rear inflow of the tornadic storm, especially with a higher assimilation frequency. Compared to the experiments without X-PAR data assimilation, assimilating X-PAR data improved the predictability of tornadic storm.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

DOE OSTI2014

Phased array performance evaluation with photoelastic visualization

New instrumentation and a widening range of phased array transducer options are affording the industry a greater potential. Visualization of the complex wave components using the photoelastic system can greatly enhance understanding of the generated signals. Diffraction, mode conversion and wave front interaction, together with beam forming for linear, sectorial and matrix arrays, will be viewed using the photoelastic system. Beam focus and steering performance will be shown with a range of embedded and surface targets within glass samples. This paper will present principles and sound field images using this visualization system.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

DOE OSTI2011

An Evaluation of Signal Processing Tools for Improving Phased Array Ultrasonic Weld Inspection

Cast austenitic stainless steel (CASS) commonly used in U.S. nuclear power plants is a coarse-grained, elastically anisotropic material. The coarse-grained nature of CASS makes ultrasonic inspection of in-service components difficult. Recently, low-frequency phased array ultrasound has emerged as a candidate for the CASS piping weld inspection. However, issues such as low signal-to-noise ratio and difficulty in discriminating between flaw and non-flaw signals remain. This paper discusses the evaluation of a number of signal processing algorithms for improving flaw detection in CASS materials. The full paper provides details of the algorithms being evaluated, along with preliminary results.

automated flaw detection↗

DOE OSTI2011

Improvements in 500-kHz Ultrasonic Phased-Array Probe Designs for Evaluation of Thick Section Cast Austenitic Stainless Steel Piping Welds

PNNL has been studying and performing confirmatory research on the inspection of piping welds in coarse-grained steels for over 30 years. More recent efforts have been the application of low frequency phased array technology to this difficult to inspect material. The evolution of 500 kHz PA probes and the associated electronics and scanning protocol are documented in this report. The basis for the probe comparisons are responses from one mechanical fatigue crack and two thermal fatigue cracks in large-bore cast mockup specimens on loan from the Electric Power Research Institution. One of the most significant improvements was seen in the use of piezo-composite elements in the later two probes instead of the piezo-ceramic material used in the prototype array. This allowed a reduction in system gain of 30 dB and greatly reduced electronic noise. The latest probe had as much as a 5 dB increase in signal to noise, adding to its flaw discrimination capability. The system electronics for the latest probe were fully optimized for a 500 kHz center frequency, however significant improvements were not observed in the center frequency of the flaw responses. With improved scanner capabilities, smaller step sizes were used, allowing both line and raster data improvements to be made with the latest probe. The small step sizes produce high resolution images that improve flaw discrimination and, along with the increased signal-to-noise ratio inherent in the latest probe design, enhanced detection of the upper regions of the flaw make depth sizing more plausible. Finally, the physical sizes of the probes were progressively decreased allowing better access to the area of interest on specimens with weld crowns, and the latest probe was designed with non-integral wedges providing flexibility in focusing on different specimen geometries.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2022

A Primer on Phased Array Radar Technology for the Atmospheric Sciences

The scientific community has expressed interest in the potential of phased array radars (PARs) to observe the atmosphere with finer spatial and temporal scales. Although convergence has occurred between the meteorological and engineering communities, the need exists to increase access of PAR to meteorologists. Here, we facilitate these interdisciplinary efforts in the field of ground-based PARs for atmospheric studies. We cover high-level technical concepts and terminology for PARs as applied to studies of the atmosphere. A historical perspective is provided as context along with an overview of PAR system architectures, technical challenges, and opportunities. Envisioned scan strategies are summarized because they are distinct from traditional mechanically scanned radars and are the most advantageous for high-resolution studies of the atmosphere. Further, open access to PAR data is emphasized as a mechanism to educate the future generation of atmospheric scientists. Finally, a vision for the future of operational networks, research facilities, and expansion into complementary radar wavelengths is provided.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

DOE OSTI2012

Phased Array Ultrasonic Sound Field Mapping through Large-Bore Coarse Grained Cast Austenitic Stainless Steel (CASS) Components

A sound field beam mapping exercise was conducted to assist in understanding the effects of coarse-grained microstructures found in cast austenitic stainless steel (CASS) materials on acoustic longitudinal wave propagation. Ultrasonic laboratory measurements were made on three specimens representing four different grain structures. Phased array (PA) probes were fixed on each specimen surface and excited in the longitudinal mode at specific angles while a point receiver was scanned in a raster pattern over the end of the specimen, generating a transmitted sound field image. Three probes operating at nominal frequencies of 0.5, 0.8, and 1.0 MHz were used. A 6.4 mm (0.25-in.) thick slice was removed from the specimen end and beam mapping was repeated three times, yielding four full sets of beam images. Data were collected both with a constant part path for each configuration (probe, specimen and slice, angle, etc.) and with a variable part path (fixed position on the surface). The base specimens and slices were then polished and etched to reveal measureable grain microstructures that were compared to the sound field interactions and scattering effects seen in the collected data.

cast austenitic stainless steel↗

DOE OSTI2011

Ultrasonic Phased Array Evaluation of Control Rod Drive Mechanism (CRDM) Nozzle Interference Fit and Weld Region

In this investigation, non-destructive and destructive testing were used to evaluate potential boric acid leakage paths around an Alloy 600 CRDM penetration (Nozzle 63) from the North Anna Unit 2 reactor pressure vessel head that was removed from service in 2003. For this investigation, Nozzle 63 was examined using phased array ultrasonic testing. Prior to examining Nozzle 63, a CRDM penetration mockup with known notches and boric acid deposits was used to assess probe sensitivity, resolution and calibration. Following the non-destructive testing of Nozzle 63, the nozzle was destructively examined to visually assess the leak paths. These destructive and nondestructive results are compared and results are presented. The results of this investigation may be used by NRC to evaluate licensees’ volumetric leak path assessment methodologies and to support regulatory inspection requirements.

Ultrasonic, Phased Array, NDE, CRDM, Nozzle, Inter↗

DOE OSTI2015

FY15 Status of Immersion Phased Array Ultrasonic Probe Development and Performance Demonstration Results for Under Sodium Viewing

This Technical Letter Report (TLR) describes work conducted at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) during FY 2015 on the under-sodium viewing (USV) PNNL project 58745, Work Package AT-15PN230102. This TLR satisfies PNNL’s M3AT-15PN2301027 milestone, and is focused on summarizing the design, development, and evaluation of a two-dimensional matrix phased-array probe referred to as serial number 3 (SN3). In addition, this TLR also provides the results from a performance demonstration of in-sodium target detection trials at 260°C using a one-dimensional 22-element linear array developed in FY14 and referred to as serial number 2 (SN2).

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND ↗

DOE OSTI2019

Manufacture of the Transceiver Housing for an Active Phased Array Antenna with Built-In Cooling Channels by Selective Laser Melting

A cooled transceiver housing of an active phased array antenna is produced by 3D printing from aluminum, on the basis of selective laser melting (SLM). The housing walls contain cooling channels, whose geometry ensures effective heat transfer from the active electronic components of the transceiver and also permits the manufacture of high-quality samples on existing 3D printing systems and facilitates cleaning of the channels after printing. The housing is made of AlSi10Mg aluminum, with an acceptable content of closed pores (no more than 1%). Its physicomechanical properties correspond to those of regular aluminum alloys used in the traditional manufacturing technology for such components. This housing may be used in advanced radar systems. The research permits recommendations for further development of the technology.

3D PRINTING↗

DOE OSTI2019

Nondestructive Ultrasonic Inspection of Composite Materials: A Comparative Advantage of Phased Array Ultrasonic

Carbon- and glass fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP and GFRP) composite materials have been used in many industries such as aerospace and automobile because of their outstanding strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The quality of these materials is important for safe operation. Nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques are an effective way to inspect these composites. While ultrasonic NDT has previously been used for inspection of composites, conventional ultrasonic NDT, using single element transducers, has limitations such as high attenuation and low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Using phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) techniques, signals can be generated at desired distances and angles. These capabilities provide promising results for composites where the anisotropic structure makes signal evaluation challenging. Defect detection in composites based on bulk and guided waves are studied. The capability of the PAUT and its sensitivity to flaws were evaluated by comparing the signal characteristics to the conventional method. The results show that flaw sizes as small as 0.8 mm with penetration depth up to 25 mm can be detected using PAUT, and the result signals have better characteristics than the conventional ultrasonic technique. In addition, it has been shown that guided wave generated by PAUT also has outstanding capability of flaw detection in composite materials.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

DOE OSTI2010

Improvements in Low-Frequency, Ultrasonic Phased-Array Evaluation for Thick Section Cast Austenitic Stainless Steel Piping Components

Research is being conducted for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) to assess the effectiveness and reliability of advanced nondestructive examination (NDE) methods for the inspection of light water reactor (LWR) components. A primary objective of this work is to evaluate various NDE methods to assess their ability to detect, localize, and size cracks in coarse-grained steel components. This particular study focused on the evaluation of custom-designed, low-frequency (500 kHz) phased-array (PA) probes for examining welds in thick-section cast austenitic stainless steel (CASS) piping. In addition, research was conducted to observe ultrasonic sound field propagation effects from known coarse-grained microstructures found in parent CASS material. The study was conducted on a variety of thick-wall, coarse-grained CASS specimens that were previously inspected by an older generation 500-kHz PA-UT probe and acquisition instrument configuration. This comparative study describes the impact of the new PA probe design on flaw detection and sizing in a low signal-to-noise environment. The set of Pressurized Water Reactor Owners Group (PWROG) CASS specimens examined in this study are greater than 50.8-mm (2.0-in.) thick with documented flaws and microstructures. These specimens are on loan to PNNL from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) NDE Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The flaws contained within these specimens are thermal fatigue cracks (TFC) or mechanical fatigue cracks (MFC) and range from 13% to 42% in through-wall extent. In addition, ultrasonic signal continuity was evaluated on two CASS parent material ring sections by examining the edge-of-pipe response (corner geometry) for regions of signal loss.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

DOE OSTI2012

Comparison of an Ultrasonic Phased Array Evaluation with Destructive Analysis of a Documented Leak Path in a Nozzle Removed from Service

Non-destructive and destructive testing methods were employed to evaluate a documented boric acid leakage path through an Alloy 600 control rod drive mechanism (CRDM) penetration from the North Anna Unit 2 reactor pressure vessel head that was removed from service in 2002. A previous ultrasonic in-service-inspection (ISI) conducted by industry prior to the head removal, identified a probable leakage path in Nozzle 63 located in the interference fit between the penetration tube and the vessel head. In this current examination, Nozzle 63 was examined using phased array (PA) ultrasonic testing with a 5.0-MHz, eight-element annular array; immersion data were acquired from the nozzle inner diameter (ID) surface. A variety of focal laws were employed to evaluate the signal responses from the interference fit region. These responses were compared to responses obtained from a mockup specimen that was used to determine detection limits and characterization capabilities for wastage and boric acid presence in the interference fit region. Nozzle 63 was destructively examined after the completion of the ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation (NDE) to visually assess the leak paths. These destructive and nondestructive results compared favorably

CRDM↗