A model for ultrasonic NDE on defect detection

Ultrasonic nondestructive testing for defects is an important technique in the inspection of nuclear power plant components. The present paper describes a way to mathematically model the testing situation. This has several benefits: it shows that all important parameters have been identified, it is easy to perform parametric studies, it can be used in the interpretation of experimental results, it can be used in the development of testing procedures, and it is a good educational tool. Here the focus is on cracks, both internal cracks and surface-breaking ones, in otherwise homogeneous isotropic components. Numerical results are given to the capabilities of the model, and a comparison with experiments and other methods is also done.