Abstract:
A key element in developing a quantitative NDE technique is to be able to confidently predict the behavior of the structure being inspected. One method of doing this is through numerical modeling. Finite element models provide a cost efficient method for optimizing thermal techniques by varying parameters such as the time of application of heat. Optimization of the technique is easier since exact control can be exercised over the different parameters of interest. Examination of the sensitivity of the technique to defects which are difficult to fabricate can be simulated with relative ease. These simulations facilitate the definition of parameters difficult to determine experimentally, such as the minimum air gap required for a delamination to be detected.
At NASA Langley Research Center, thermal finite element models have been developed and are routinely implemented to assist in optimizing experimental procedures and determining the limits of detectability for various defects. Modeling is a valuable tool to evaluate the viability of a thermal technique prior to the expense of sample fabrication and experimental testing. The functional dependence of thermal contrast is easily evaluated by simulation for a range of heating protocols, processing techniques, defect size and depth, and material property variations. An overview of thermal NDE simulations is presented for various composite structures.
Source: Proceedings of the 'NDE applied to Process Control of Composite Fabrication' - Conference, 4-5 Oct 1994 St. Louis, Missouri. Publisher and Organizer: Nondestructive Testing Information Analysis Center (NTIAC) Texas Research Institute Austin, Inc. Austin, Texas [http://www.ntiac.com] [Buying the Proceedings]
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