ARIA Software Total Focusing Method - Real-Time TFM Imaging - Acquire all FMC data - FMC/TFM Wizard - TFM Viewer - Analysis Mode Several Implementations Standard TFM Migration TFM Advanced TFM TFMp Adaptive TFM
What is FMC? FMC (Full Matrix Capture) is a unique data acquisition sequence implemented by a high performance, advanced ultrasound instrument which captures raw RF wave forms. The resulting acquisition data set is a matrix of A-scans corresponding to all transmit-receive pairs, as shown in the diagrams below. Matrix of Transmit/Receive Raw A-scans What is TFM? TFM (Total Focusing Method) is a signal processing algorithm applied on the raw RF waveform data from performing FMC. The TFM algorithm is used to recreate focus on every point of the reconstructed image. Standard TFM Implementation Now, with the speed of modern computing we can use TFM for real-time imaging. The diagram to the right represents the standard TFM implementation. The image below shows a comparison between TFM and conventional Phased Array UT. Benefits High Resolution Imaging (Both Lateral and Vertical Axes) Completely focused in entire volume Improved Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) in some cases Easier to define setups compared to conventional PA Less risk of making setup mistakes FMC data can be reprocessed without going back to the field. See image from different wave modes with one setup Oriented defects (e.g. cracks) are imaged better Much easier to size flaws accurately Beautiful Image! Easier to understand what you re looking at Conventional PA vs TFM
ARIA GUI & Inspection Example REAL TIME Adaptive TFM Focusing! Image in scan: Steel pipe section with 1 mm SDH
ARIA Wizard The function of the ARIA Wizard is to generate a setup file for a given probe/material configuration. Here are some other key benefits: Supports Linear, Pitch/Catch Probes Compatible with wedges Can be used with immersion UT system ARIA Analysis Loads encoded raw FMC data Zone in on specific areas of scan with cursors Analysis tools available to provide the results you Accurate Flaw Sizing Indicators Shown in Image: Lack of fusion flaw in a girth weld
AFM AFM Uses different waves from generic TFM, possibly different frequencies, this technique allows high speed, low data file size, excellent SNR, and in the range of 20 to 30 db more sensitivity than Generic TFM. Typically more than 20 frame per sec. Non Surface Breaking (1mm from the surface) Flaw AFM Steel Plate with Weld Shown in Image: Lack of Fusion Flaw in Weld AFM Surface Breaking Closed Crack Height < 3 mm Shown in image: Inspection of crack in aluminum bar using 64 element 5 MHz probe
Adaptive method applied on TFM or AFM The Adaptive method is a TFM or AFM method that allows correction of the geometry irregularities without knowing the profile of the surface or the back wall. The FMC data provides all necessary information to correct the TFM or AFM processing in real time. Real Time Detected Surface ATFM Curved Steel Pipe Section With Flaw shown with Flexible Wedge Adaptive method on TFM and AFM ATFM Real Time Detected Surface AAFM
TFMp TFM method based on the inverse problem that works with iterations, and gives improvement of the resolution from 1/10th to 1/20th of a wavelength. An image is processed in a few seconds. TFM TFMp Aluminum Block with Close SDH Wavelength : λ = 2.2mm Depth = 40 mm TFM and TFMp results obtained from the same FMC data file Adaptive method on TFMp ATFMp Real Time Detected Surface Steel Pipe With SDH In Immersion Tank
Comparison of different TFM types Below are a few different examples of types of TFM. There are many more types available. TPAC offers most TFM types available on the market. Generic TFM Aluminum Block With SDH Test Block Conventional Phased Array TFM Generic TFM This recent, popular technique offers similar resolution to SAFT, but with very good SNR. Generic TFM can be implemented in hardware or in software. The amount of data is very high, and the speed is limited. Typically less than 10 frames per sec. SAFT SAFT SAFT This is an old technique from before phased array was technologically dupable, but can be applied to phased array. Fast, the resolution is excellent, but the SNR is very poor. Typically more than 20 frames per sec. Migration TFM Migration TFM Migration Migration is a TFM process that can be applied to any FMC data where the probe is flat and parallel to the surface. Provides better contrast and resolution than generic TFM. Real time. AFM AFM AFM AFM is a TFM process that works using different waves from cylindrical as well as multiframe FMC-like process. The actual reduction of data and increased sensitivity by a factor of more than 10dB makes it very useful for most applications.
SUMMARY OF TFM BENEFITS AND CONSTRAINTS Values are based on FMC/TFM acquisition using OEM-PA device TFM Type Speed * Data Size ** SNR Sensitivity *** Resolution **** SAFT High >20Hz Small 610 Poor 0dB Very Good ~0.5 TFM Average ~5Hz Very Large 39,063 Good - 6dB Very Good ~0.5 AFM High ~20Hz Small 1,831 Good +20dB Very Good ~0.5 ATFM Below Average 2Hz N/A N/A Good N/A Very Good na AAFM Above Average 10Hz N/A N/A Good N/A Very Good na TFMp Below Average 0.5Hz N/A N/A Excellent N/A Excellent <0.1 From File TFM Type Speed * SAFT High ~400Hz TFM Average 12Hz AFM High 400Hz ATFM Below Average 5Hz AAFM Above Average 120Hz TFMp Below Average 2Hz Table Legend * 128 ch, 512x512 grid ** 128ch, 50µs, 5MHz, 2m with 2mm step *** Comparative sensitivity (+ is better than - ) **** In wavelength Pulse Echo Wave Pitch Catch Wave Modes
TFM Software Services What can TPAC do for you? Customize TFM software to fit your application Analyze FMC data Help you design the best PA probe for TFM Feasibility Study: Scan your parts so you can see the benefit of TFM
About TPAC Custom Software Developing the exact application you want Phased Array and Conventional UT Solutions ranging from simple to complex Custom Probe Design Phased Array (Linear, Matrix, Annular, Pitch/Catch) Simulation, Manufacturing, Characterization Selecting the right probe for your application Training and Support Teaching inspection techniques to technicians Supporting all needs even if that means going out into the field Direct line to over 25 years of experience in providing NDT services Consulting Deciding between phased array or conventional ultrasonics Determining the best equipment for the job Utilizing our network of UT equipment suppliers to get the best value Equipment Customization Integrating UT technology into a preexisting system Building custom enclosures for any environment
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