Examination of Nozzle Welded Joints in Heavy Walled Reactor By Using PAUT Technology

This article describes the latest international trend of ultrasonic phased array technology(PAUT)used in examination and flaw measuring of heavy walled reactor nozzles.A comparison is made between PAUT and conventional UT techniques.PAUT has 2-D and 3-D image displays.And an added combined display is especially helpful in the presentation of results and reporting.The precise flaw data determined by PAUT can meet the Engineering Critical Assessment requirements for a fracture mechanics based acceptance criteria.The intention is to provide a useful reference for in-manufacture and in-service inspection of nozzle welded joints conforming to the international code requirements.