Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge Tutorial
Ultrasonic thickness gauging is a widely used nondestructive technique for measuring the thickness of a material from one side. Just about anything made out of metal, plastic, composite, ceramic, glass, fiberglass, or rubber can be measured. This tutorial provides a basic introduction to the theory and practice of ultrasonic thickness gauging, for both newcomers and more experienced users who would like a review. It covers basic ultrasonic theory, how ultrasonic gauges work, and how they are used, and discusses a number of specific gauge applications. Additional reference information including a glossary can be found in the Appendix.
1.0 Introduction to Ultrasonic Thickness Gauging
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Benefits of Ultrasonic Gauging
1.3 History of Ultrasonic Thickness Gauging
1.4 Types of Equipment
1.5 Theory of Operation
2.0 Ultrasonic Transducers for Thickness Gauging
2.1 Transducers for Thickness Gauging
2.2 Transducer Construction
2.3 Beam Characteristics
2.4 Transducer Selection
3.0 Modes of Measurements
3.1 How do Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges Work?
4.0 Calibrating an Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge
4.1 What Is Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge Calibration?
4.2 Velocity and Zero Calibration
4.3 Calibration Certification
5.0 Gauge Setup Considerations
5.1 Overview of Thickness Gauge Setup
5.2 Typical Thickness Gauge Adjustments
6.0 Measurements Through Coatings
6.1 Precision Ultrasonic Gauging for Measuring Coatings
7.0 Factors Affecting Measurement
7.1 Factors That Can Impact Testing
8.0 Special Conditions
8.1 How to Use Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges in Special Conditions
9.0 Typical Ultrasonic Gauging Applications
9.1 Ultrasonic Gauging - Metals
9.2 Ultrasonic Gauging - Corrosion
9.3 Ultrasonic Gauging - Plastics
9.4 Ultrasonic Gauging - Other Materials
10.0 Appendices
10.1 Material Sound Velocities
10.2 Transducer Range Charts
10.3 Thickness Gauging Glossary