Advanced Crack Detection and Distance Estimation in Steel Plates Using Phased Array Acoustic Waves and Finite Element Analysis

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) is a highly effective Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) technique extensively utilized for detecting and characterizing structural defects, such as cracks. This study presents a detailed simulation and analysis of longitudinal and shear acoustic wave propagation in a steel plate, conducted using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) with ABAQUS. Acoustic pressure data were collected and averaged across selected nodes, with a focus on significant pressure readings. The distance from the middle of the crack to the middle of the sensor line was estimated by analyzing the time interval between key pressure points and correlating this interval with the known speed of sound in steel. Advanced data processing techniques were utilized to refine the pressure-time data, preserving essential information while minimizing noise. The findings demonstrate the capability of PAUT not only in detecting but also in accurately estimating the distance from the crack to the sensor line. The comparison between predicted values and actual values of the distance from the middle of the crack to the middle of the sensor line utilizes precise dimensional measurements to ensure accuracy, with the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of ۰.۰۰۳۹ and an average error of ۱.۸۵%. The extremely low RMSE indicates minimal deviation between predicted and actual values, reflecting high precision. Additionally, the average error of ۱.۸۵% shows that, on average, predictions are within ۱.۸۵% of the true values. Together, these metrics confirm that the model demonstrates exceptional accuracy and reliability, with both very small absolute and relative errors.

کلیدواژه ها:

Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing ، Crack Detection ، Acoustic Wave Propagation ، Signal Processing.