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Electronic scanning

Electronic scanning is a technique in phased-array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) where a sub-aperture—a small, active group of elements within a larger array—is electronically translated along the probe. Each sub-aperture acts as a virtual probe, enabling controlled beam transmission and reception across the array without moving the probe physically. This method ensures uniform coverage, increases inspection speed, and improves data repeatability.

Sources

  1. Lhémery, A., Calmon, P., Chatillon, S. (2002). Simulation of Ultrasonic NDT with Phased Arrays, Ultrasonics, 40(1–8), 209–213.
  2. Chassignole, B. et al. (2014). Advanced Ultrasonic Techniques for In-Service Inspection of Nuclear Components, Nuclear Engineering and Design, 280, 22–31.
  3. CEA LIST & EDF R&D. (2018). Applications of Phased Array Techniques in Industrial Contexts, Journées COFREND Proceedings.

Figure 1: L0 degree electronic scanning (without focusing)

Figure 2: Linear scanning can also be combined with depth focusing