Time of Flight Diffraction 2D Simulation to Detect Crack

The TOFD method of ultrasonic testing is typically used for the inspection of weld joints. A TOFD system consists of a pair of ultrasonic probes that are sat on either side of the weld. One of the probes acts as a transmitter whilst the other acts purely as a receiver, the transmitter emits an ultrasonic pulse. Signals picked up by the receiver wave are from two different waves produced by the transmit probe, a surface wave (lateral wave) and a reflection from the back wall. 

When a crack is present, there is a diffraction (hence the name of the method) of the ultrasound from the top an bottom tips of the crack. By using the measured time of flight the depth of the crack tips can be calculated.

This video demonstrates the importation and inspection of a 2D steel block containing a defect. The acoustic pressure on the receiver is analysed to detect the crack.

The video covers the following:

  • CAD importation
  • Material assignment
  • Load definition
  • Output requests
  • Simulation set-up
  • Running on the cloud
  • Downloading/post processing results

Try For Yourself

Download: Time of Flight Diffraction 2D - CAD