Ultrasonic evaluation of co-cured composite structures

In recent years, significant emphasis in the aerospace industry has been placed upon the development of new composite manufacturing methods. One approach that has shown a great deal of promise in the aerospace industry is the 'Co-curing' of composites. A multi-scan ultrasonic testing (UT) approach for the evaluation of composite co-cured structure has been developed and is being implemented at Boeing. The general approach will be described, as will the specific techniques, each of which is essential to full inspection coverage for these unique structures.