A guided wave inspection technique for nuclear steam generator tubing

The utility of guided ultrasonic waves for increasing the efficiency and sensitivity of nuclear steam generator tubing evaluation by nondestructive means is explored. The basic theoretical background of guided waves in tubes is presented with major emphasis placed on those results with direct relevance to NDE applications. The possibility of increasing the inspection range of the guided wave modes as well as their sensitivity to defects by proper choice of mode and frequency is also discussed.