A Novel, Non-Contact NDT Scanner Case Study
Publication - January 2024
The NDT methods currently used in aviation MRO are predominantly labour-intensive and time-consuming processes performed by human operators throughout the lifespan of an aircraft. These techniques are time-consuming, require perpetual training, and are highly dependent on the operator's skills.
Need for Automated NDT Tools
There is a growing need for more efficient, automated, and accurate NDT tools that will be able to provide faster and less labour-intensive assessments. This study presents a novel, non-contact, automated NDT scanning system under development, which aims to reduce the inspection time significantly.
Thickness Measurement and Defect Detection
The proposed technique uses a non-contact, Lamb wave-based approach. A further essential step during the process is to use an automated positioning system. Thickness mapping and defect detection in metal and composite structures have been performed. A local thickness map in the order of 1 mm has been obtained through a fast-scanning process with comparable resolution to conventional inspection techniques.
Reducing Inspection Time
Overall, it is currently concluded that the proposed NDT scanner is a promising tool that potentially can reduce the inspection time while also having the potential to automate the damage assessment resulting in more efficient MRO inspection processes.
Authors
- Arno Volker
- Konstantinos Stamoulis
- Christiaan Schoemaker
- Asteris Apostolidis
- Donald van Tongeren
- Robert Poppe
- Bart Bekkema
- Quincy Martina
Aviation Engineering research group
The aviation industry must become smarter and more sustainable. The Aviation Engineering research group is ensuring the sector has all the knowledge and insights it needs to transition to, and develop, more-efficient en more-environmentally friendly engineering and operational practices.