Sandia Laboratories
Aircraft Scanner Survey Evaluation
Update

With regard to the findings presented in the subject Sandia Report, please note that the equipment used by ABB AMDATA to perform the testing were a rackmounted IntraSpect/ET and an automated scanning subsystem consisting of a rackmounted Model 5032 scan controller and Model 2090 scanner. The scanning hardware of that earlier generation were based upon stepper motors. Manual scanners also existed at that time but were not brought to the demonstration, nor evaluated by Sandia National Laboratories.

Reviewing the results of the 1994 test, we have since remedied all of the noted shortcomings in the course of our normal product development. Vacuum mounting features are now designed to accommodate a significant loss of suction without catastrophic failure. Low profile configurations are available for both manual and automated scanners. Portable equipment is available for both manual and automated scanning. UNIX based imaging software is available which overcome previous display limitations. Both manual and automated scanning based imaging can be setup and conducted by a single individual.

If a similar evaluation were conducted in 1998, we would use our IntraSpect^TM Bantam^TM imaging system. It can be configured with 4 channels of Ultrasonics and 2 channels of Eddy Current imaging in a single portable enclosure. We would also select one of our three basic types of scanners for the demonstration. Just as with a normal field application, the scanner selection would depend upon the specific technical needs of the inspection, as well as the equipment evaluation criteria.

The three types of scanners include: 1) A manual scanner with vacuum mounts; 2) A servo based automated scanner with magnetic wheels and vacuum track; and 3) A servo based automated scanner with positive drive and vacuum tracks. The latter is the most versatile for aircraft inspections, and is our product known as the Catamaran^TM.

The Catamaran was originally designed to inspect large areas of military aircraft. It is rugged, lightweight and portable. It has the ability to scan and display (via the Bantam) irregular shapes, no longer restricted to only rectangular areas. No magnets are required for mounting, hence it is environmentally friendly to sensitive electronic aircraft components. Minimal labor is required, it can be easily and quickly setup by one person. The Catamaran can attach to and scan surfaces with complex geometries. It has the ability to rapidly scan 6' wide by 4' long areas, and can be expanded by 4' sections in length. Coupled with the IntraSpect Bantam, it can be used to perform high quality ultrasonic and eddy current imaging based inspections of aircraft.

Further details of the Bantam and the Catamaran products are contained in their respective product information bulletins.
(Catamaran on NDTnet)