This material does not contain any ingredients having
known health hazards in concentrations greater than 1%.
This material does not contain any known or suspected
carcinogens.
SECTION 3
PHYSICAL DATA (nominal)
Boiling Point: >220°F pH: 7.35 – 7.9
Freezing Point: <20°F Acoustic Imp.: 1.726x106
Vapor Pressure: N/A Vapor Density: N/A
Evaporation Rate: N/A Specic Gravity: >1.02
Solubility in Water: complete
Appearance and Odor: water white, opaque gel;
bland odor
SECTION 4
FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA
Flash Point: None
Upper Exposure Limit: None
Lower Exposure Limit: None
Special Fire Fighting Procedures: N/A
Extinguishing media: N/A
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards: None
SECTION 5 – REACTIVITY DATA
Stability: Stable
Conditions to Avoid: None
Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid): None known
Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur
Hazardous Decomposition
or Byproducts: None known
SECTION 6
HEALTH HAZARD AND FIRST AID DATA
Routes of Entry: 1
Skin: not likely
Ingestion: not normally
Eyes: not normally
Inhalation: no
Effects of Overexposure:
Acute: May cause temporary eye
irritation
Chronic: none expected
First Aid Procedures:
Skin: Remove with water if
desired.
Eyes: Flush with water for 15
minutes.
Ingestion: For large quantities, induce
vomiting, call a physician.
Inhalation: N/A
SECTION 7
STORAGE AND HANDLING INFORMATION
Precautions to be taken in handling and storage:
Store between 20°F and 120°F.
Spills are slippery and should be cleaned up
immediately.
Steps to be taken in case material is released or spilled:
Pick up excess for disposal. Clean with water.
Waste disposal method: Dispose of in accordance with
federal, state, and local regulations.
SECTION 8
CONTROL MEASURES
Respiratory Protection: Not required
Ventilation: Not required
Protective Gloves: On individuals
demonstrating
sensitivity to
SOUNDSAFE®
Eye Protection: As required by
working conditions
Other Protective Equipment: Not required
SOUNDSAFE® contains only food grade and cosmetic
grade ingredients.
16.0 Material Safety Data .............................................................................. 104
17.0 Warranty ........................................................................... Inside Back Cover
– 102 –
– 3 –
14.0 APPENDIX A – VELOCITY TABLE
1.0 Introduction
MaterialSound Velocity
in/µs
Aluminum0.25106375
Beryllium0.508012903
Brass0.17304394
Bronze0.13903531
Cadmium0.10902769
Columbium0.19404928
Cooper0.18304648
Glass (plate)0.22705766
Glycerine0.07601930
Gold0.12803251
Onconel0.22905817
Iron0.23205893
Cast iron0.1800approx.4572
Lead0.08502159
Magnesium0.23005842
Mercyry0.05701448
Molybdenum0.24606248
Monel0.21105359
Nickel0.22205639
Nylon0.1060approx2692
Platinum0.15603962
Plexiglas0.10602692
Polystyrene0.09202337
PVC0.09402388
Quartz glass0.22605740
Rubber vulcanized0.09102311
Silver0.14203607
Steel (1020)0.23205893
Steel (4340)0.23305918
Steel Stainless*0.22305664
Sound Velocity
m/s
The Check•Line model TI-CMXDLP is an ultrasonic thickness gauge that measures
with extreme versatility. It has the ability to measure simultaneously measure coatings
and material thicknesses while maintaining the ability to locate pits, aws and defects
in the material. Based on the same operating principles as SONAR, the TI-CMXDLP is
capable of measuring the thickness of various materials with accuracy as high as ± 0.001
inches, or ± 0.01 millimeters. The principle advantage of ultrasonic measurement over
traditional methods is that ultrasonic measurements can be performed with access to
only one side of the material being measured.
1.1 Disclaimer
Inherent in ultrasonic thickness measurement is the possibility that the instrument will
use the second rather than the rst echo from the back surface of the material being
measured. This may result in a thickness reading that is TWICE what it should be.
Responsibility for proper use of the instrument and recognition of this phenomenon
rest solely with the user of the instrument. Other errors may occur from measuring
coated materials where the coating is insufciently bonded to the material surface.
Irregular and inaccurate readings may result. Again, the user is responsible for
proper use and interpretation of the measurements acquired.
– 101 –
– 4 –
13.0 USING THE UTILITY SOFTWARE
2.0 QUICK STARTUP GUIDE
13.1 Computer System Requirements
Datacomm will run on many different operating systems: Windows 98 (1st or
2nd edition), Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 5, Windows ME, Windows XP,
Windows2000 Professional, Windows 2000 Server, or Windows 2000 Advanced Server
operating systems running on Intel or AMD hardware. A Pentium 166MHz or faster
processor with at least 32 megabytes of physical RAM is required. You should have
40 megabytes of free disk space before attempting to install Datacomm. Datacomm
requires an available communications port in order to transfer data to and from the
TI-CMXDLP. Datacomm supports COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4. USB to Serial
Converter. Some newer laptop computers do not have standard serial ports. In this case
it is possible to use a USB to Serial converter. If a serial to USB cable is needed, contact
Electromatic.
13.2 Installing Datacomm
Datacomm comes on a CD-ROM with an automatic installer program. Place the CD
in your computer’s CD tray and close the door. Open the CD-ROM by double clicking
on the My Computer ICON, then double click on the CD. Finally, double click on the
SETUP icon to begin the installation. Refer to the help section in Datacomm software
for the complete operating manual,setup, and operation.
13.3 Using the XFER menu (TI-CMXDLP)
The XFER menu of the TI-CMXDLP will be used in
conjunction with the Datacomm PC software. The steps
below outline the procedure for accessing the XFER menu
and basic operation as follows:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right,
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left,until
the XFER menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until the desire option is
highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to activate the option selected.
4. Once the Backup or Restore function has been
completed, press the MEAS key once to return to the
menu items, or twice to return to the measurement
mode.
Turn the TI-CMXDLP on and off using the switch located on the bottom right corner of
the keypad. When TI-CMXDLP is initially turned on, a ash logo and blinking lights
will be displayed, followed by the identity of the transducer (probe) currently plugged
into the gauge. The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with an “Auto Probe Recognition”
feature that attempts to identify special transducers. If the TI-CMXDLP doesn’t nd a
transducer equipped with this feature, the user will be see a list of transducers and will
need to select a specic transducer type. The following sections outline each scenario.
NOTE: This section is primarily written as a basic startup guide only.
2.1 TI-CMXDLP Overview
The TI-CMXDLP has great features
and tools that will be a benet for the
variety of applications you face on
a continual basis. Let’s have a brief
look at the screens you’ll be looking
at most often:
A. Repeatability/Stability Indicator: This is used in
conjunction with the digital
thickness values displayed.
When all the vertical bars are
fully illuminated and the last digit
on the digital thickness value is
stable, the TI-CMXDLP is
reliably measuring the same
value 3 to 200 times per second,
depending on which measurement mode and features
are enabled.
B. Battery Icon: Indicates amount
o f battery life remaining.
C. Velocity: The material velocity
value the TI-CMXDLP is currently using or calibrated for. It can be set to display in English or Metric units.
D. Feature Status Bar: Indicates the features currently enabled and in use in the following order:
1. Measurement Mode 3. High-Speed Scan Mode 5. Gain Setting
2. Differential Mode 4. Alarm Mode
– 100 –
– 5 –
E. Digital Material Thickness Value: Extra large font size for viewing ease.
F. Scan Bar: Another view of material thickness in a deection style horizontal bar.
This visual tool enables the user the ability to see thickness changes during high
speed scans from aws and pits.
G. Units: The current measurement units being used (English, Metric)
H. Digital Material Thickness Value: Smaller font size when the B-Scan display
view is enabled.
I. Coating Thickness Value: Displays the actual thickness of any coating adhered
to a metallic material surface (PECT Mode), or a coating adhered to anon-metallic
surface (CT Mode).
J. Minimum Material Thickness: Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the minimum
thickness value found during a scan.
K. Maximum Material Thickness: Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the maximum
thickness value found during a scan.
L. B-Scan Display: Cross section view of the material. Provides a graphical view
of the opposite/blind surface (i.e. inside pipe wall surface), to give some idea of the
condition, or integrity of the material being tested.
M. RF A-Scan Display: The actual sound wave reection returned from the detection of the opposite surface of the material being measured. In this view, the entire
sine wave is displayed, showing both the positive and negative half cycles from the
detection/reection. This view is commonly used to “see the big picture” and make
ne adjustments to the scope settings, prior to selecting another view option.
N. Hot Menu items: Items in this menu section are the most commonly adjusted
features. They can be displayed and scrolled by pressing the MEAS key at anytime.
The ESC key is used in conjunction with MEAS key to reverse the direction
scrolled.
O. Reference Note: When the “hot menu” items are displayed/activated, the base
material thickness value shown at reference point “O”. However, when the “hot
menu” items have been deactivated, the current base material velocity value is
displayed, as shown in reference point “P”. When the “hot menus” are deactivated,
the entire “hot menu” section becomes a multiple measurement display area,
allowing the user to simultaneously view: base material, coating,and base material
minimum/maximum thickness values dynamically, as shown in reference point “R”
P. Reference Note: Please refer to “O”, for a detailed explanation.
Q. RECT A-Scan Display: The actual sound wave reection that is returned from the
detection of the opposite surface of the material being measured. In this view, only
half of the sine wave is being displayed (positive or negative). This view is comonly
used as a “aw detection” mode, once the user made all the necessary adjustments
using the RF mode (refer to M).
12.5 Using the Default Setup
The default setup feature was added to the TI-CMXDLP to use, as a last resort, if
there are no setups stored in the gauge –factory or otherwise. The only time this might
possibly occur is if the setup le in the TI-CMXDLP was somehow corrupted, and
the user does not have access to a computer to re-load the factory setups back into the
TI-CMXDLP. This gives the user the ability to load and modify a basic setup as follows:
NOTE: The default le contains no probe zero data.
Therefore, a zero must be performed after loading. Also,
the default setup can be loaded when using the aw mode
feature, to eliminate the probe zero delay value, and start
at the initial pulse or zero.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
SETUP menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until DEFAULT SETUP is
highlighted.
12.6 Selecting a Language
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with a language option.
Currently, the only languages supported are English,
Spanish, and German.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
SETUP menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until LANGUAGE is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
language options.
4. Once the desired language is displayed, press the
MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
– 6 –
– 99 –
7. Press the OK key to return to the Save Setup
Parameters List Box.
8. If both parameters will be edited, repeat steps 4 – 7.
9. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll to and
highlight SAVE SETUP.
10. Press the ENTER key to activate the Setup List
Box.11) Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the setups until the target location to save the
Setup is highlighted.
12. Press the OK key to activate the conrmation screen.
13. Press the OK key to save the Setup, or ESC to cancel
saving the Setup.
14. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
NOTE: The Name and Comments of the Setup can
be edited at any time by simply repeating the Save Setup routine described above.
Therefore, the Save Setup function can also be considered an Edit Function.
12.4 Deleting a Saved Setup
This option allows a user to delete setup les that were
previously saved and no longer needed. It’s a simple
feature to allow the user to do a bit of “house cleaning”.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
SETUP menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until DELETE is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Setups List.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll to the
Setup Name.
5. When the Setup Name is highlighted, press the
ENTER key to display the conrmation screen.
6. Press the OK key to delete the Setup File.
7. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
2.2 Auto Probe Recognition
When the TI-CMXDLP is initially powered up, the gauge will automatically check to
see if the transducer plugged into the gauge can be recognized. The steps that follow
assume the TI-CMXDLP recognized the probe type:
1. Press the OK key once to use the identied probe,
or ESC to display a list of optional transducers.
NOTE: If the TI-CMXDLP recognizes a specic transducer,
the user should always select OK to use the identied probe.
The only time an alternative probe should be selected from a
list is if the user switched probes following initial power up
and recognition
2. Assuming the TI-CMXDLP recognized the probe and
the OK key was pressed, the TI-CMXDLP will advance
to a Zero Probe menu. If the transducer was identied
as a special transducer capable of measuring coating
thickness, a menu will be displayed giving the user the
ability to toggle the coating thickness display on/off as
follows:
3. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to toggle the
coating option on/off.
4. Wipe all couplant from the transducer face and advance
to the Probe Zero & Calibration section.
2.3 Selecting the Transducer Type
If the TI-CMXDLP does not identify a specic transducer
type on initial power up, the user will be required to select
a type from a predened list of types by diameter and
frequency. By selecting a transducer type from a predened
list, the TI-CMXDLP can recall specic properties about the
transducer.
NOTE: Once the transducer has been selected, the
TI-CMXDLP will store and recall this transducer type every
time the TI-CMXDLP is powered on/off. The type will only
change if the user physically selects another transducer type
from the list, or selects a previously saved setup. However,
the TI-CMXDLP will continue to take you through these
steps each time the gauge is powered up. You’ll notice that
the probe type previously selected will be highlighted every
time the probe type screen is displayed. Use the following
steps to select your transducer type:
– 98 –
– 7 –
1. Press the OK or ESC keys to display the factory list of transducer types
(by diameter and frequency).
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the transducer list until the
appropriate type is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to select the transducer type and display overwrite existing
probe screen.
4. Press the OK key to overwrite the existing probe type with the newly selected probe
type. The zero probe screen will be displayed. Proceed to the zero probe section that
follows.
2.4 Probe Zero & Calibration
The next steps are to perform a probe zero and calibrate the TI-CMXDLP to the material
and transducer being used. If the sound velocity is unknown, the TI-CMXDLP can be
calibrated to a known thickness sample. This demo will briey explain both of the set
techniques. The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with two zero options:
1. Off Block Zero (Automatic Probe Zero): When this feature is enabled the
TI-CMXDLP will do an electronic zero automatically, eliminating the need for a
zero disk or block.
2. On Block Zero (Manual Probe Zero): When this feature is enabled the transducer
must be placed on the Probe Zero Disk (battery cover located on the top of the unit.
NOTE: Transducers of the same type will have very slight mechanical and electrical
variations. If it’s discovered that the linearity is off following an initial auto probe
zero and extreme accuracy is required, a manual zero should be performed followed
by an auto zero. This will adjust and eliminate any error. This is only required if
it’s discovered the transducer is non-linear following an initial auto probe zero. The
procedures are outlined as follows:
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the setups until the target setup is highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to activate the conrmation
screen.
6. Press the OK key to load the setup from memory.
7. Press the MEAS key to return to the measure screen.1
12.3 Saving a Setup
Once the TI-CMXDLP parameters and features have be adjusted for an application,
the user may elect to save these setting to a specic setup location for future use. This
can potentially save time and reduce error between users. It is sometimes necessary to
rename a previously saved setup, or add additional comments about a particular setup.
The setup name may have been entered incorrectly, or the user needs to use the setup for
a completely different project. An inspector’s name or other comments about the project
may also be required for additional documentation purposes. The following procedures
outline the necessary steps for saving and editing a setup:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the SETUP menu
is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until SAVE is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the
Save Setup Parameters List Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll the Name and Note parameters.
5. When the parameter to edit is
highlighted, press the ENTER key to
activate the Alpha Edit Box.
6. Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and
RIGHT arrow keys to scroll through
the characters, the ENTER key to
select characters, and the CLR key to
backspace through the characters, until
the Name or Note elds have been
edited.
– 8 –
– 97 –
12.0 SETUPS – CREATE, STORE, EDIT, & RECALL
12.1 Introduction to Setups
Often times, users are faced with a variety of tasks and applications that are sometimes
similar, but often times very different. With a standard thickness gauge,the user would
have to recalibrate for each individual application respectively. With all the features of
the TI-CMXDLP, the number of potential applications also increases based on ability
alone. This is primarily in reference to the addition of those very difcult applications,
where a standard thickness gauge would not be feasible, or capable of accomplishing
the tasks. The increased number of features and parameters also adds to the overall
setup time, or amount of time to set up marginal applications with perfection and
understanding. Because of the additional time involved, the TI-CMXDLP has been
equipped with the ability to save these setups to memory and be recalled at any time.
The TI-CMXDLP can store up to 64 custom setups. These setups can be bidirectionally
transferred to and from a PC. Therefore, the user can save as many setups as necessary
for all their individual applications requirements. This saves a great deal of time and
knowledge for future inspections of the same job or project. This feature also eliminates
error between two or more users during the setup and calibration process.
12.2 Opening a Setup
The TI-CMXDLP is loaded with a number of setups from the factory. These setups
can be opened, edited, and saved to any one of 64 setup locations. If a factory setup
is written over, the user can simply reload the default factory setups at anytime using
the utility software included with the TI-CMXDLP. The
factory setups are general setups Only. However, they
may serve as an excellent starting point, requiring only
minor adjustments to work for custom applications. It
is recommended that user customized setups be saved
to an empty location, and save the factory setups for
the purpose of a general starting point. The following
procedures outline how to open factory and custom
setups:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu
items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab
right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until
the SETUP menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until OPEN is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Setup List Box.
Performing An Auto Zero (Off Block)
1. Be sure all couplant has been removed
from the face of the transducer.
2. Press the OK key to perform the
automatic probe zero, or ESC key
to cancel the zero operation.
3. The screens illustrated will be
briey displayed followed by the
main measurement screen. The
TI-CMXDLP is ready to be calibrated.
Performing a Manual Probe Zero (On Block)
NOTE: When the zero probe option is set to manual, the Probe
Zero Disk (battery cap) located on the top of the gauge, will be
used as a zero standard and the warning screen illustrated above
will be displayed.
1. Press the OK or ESC keys to enter the main measurement
screen and begin the manual zero process.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the Probe Zero Disk, and
obtain a steady reading.
3. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
PRB menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub menu items until
ZERO PROBE is highlighted.
–96 –
– 9 –
5. Press the ENTER key to display the
conrmation screen.
6. If a coating transducer was identied
use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
toggle coating on/off.
7. Press the OK key to complete the
probe zero function, or ESC key to
cancel the Probe Zero function.
8. Remove the transducer from the Probe
Zero Disk, and proceed to the calibration section.
NOTE: The value that is displayed will change depending on the current velocity setting
in the TI-CMXDLP. Disregard the number that is displayed. It is not important. What is
important is accurately performing the steps outlined above to insure reliability of the
probe zero calculation.
One Point Material Calibration
For the purposes of this quick start section, we’ll only be covering the most common
one point calibration option to determine the sound velocity of the test material. It
would be very handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in conjunction with the
TI-CMXDLP for calibration in the eld.
Using a Known Thickness
NOTE: Be sure that the probe zero procedure has been performed prior to performing
this calibration procedure.
1. Physically measure an exact sample of the material or a
location directly on the material to be measured using a set
of calipers or a digital micrometer.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the sample or actual
test material. Be sure that the reading is stable and the
repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is
fully lit and stable. Press the MENU key once to activate the
menu items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab
right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub menu items until
MATL 1PT is highlighted.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until CLOSE is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to close the active le.
NOTE: Following the keypress, the CLOSE text will
be grayed out indicating the le has been close and is no
longer active.
– 10 –
– 95 –
11.7 Changing the Active File - Open
The user may have transferred grid/
seq templates from a PC to the
TI-CMXDLP, or setup grids/seq using
the TI-CMXDLP at an earlier time.
The name of the currently active le is
always displayed at the top of the Grid/
Seq Box in measurement mode (refer to
photo below). It’s not only important to
recognize what le is currently active,
but also be able to change the active le
at any time. The following procedures
outline this process:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu
items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times
to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to
tab left until the DATA menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until OPEN is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Grid/Seq List
Box.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the grids until the target grid is highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to activate the conrmation
screen.
6. Press the OK key to load the le from memory.
7. Press the MEAS key to return to the measure screen.
11.8 Closing an active File - Close
A user might not have a current requirement to store
measurements, but a le is currently open or active and
needs to be closed. The following procedures outline how
to close an open or active le :
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until
the DATA menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
2.5 Zero Coating
In order to account for very slight electronic differences in transducers of the same type,
frequency, and diameter, the TI-CMXDLP has been equipped with a “zero coating”
feature. This enables the TI-CMXDLP to obtain very accurate readings on coatings,
eliminating potential errors incurred from slight differences in the manufacturing
processes. The procedure is outlined below:
Performing A Coating Zero
1. Press the MULTI MODE key once to activate the
measurement mode options.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until Coating Only (CT) mode is
highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to select the measurement mode
and return to the measurement screen.
4. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the Probe Zero Disk
(battery cover) and obtain a steady reading.
NOTE: The coating measurement displayed will potentially
be a value greater or less than 0.
5. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the PRB menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
6. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until ZERO COATING is highlighted.
7. Press the ENTER key to display the conrmation screen.
8. Press the OK key to zero the coating and return to the
PRB menu, or ESC to cancel the coating zero process.
9. Press the MULTI MODE key once to activate the
measurement mode options.
10. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until Coating On (PECT) is highlighted
11. Press the ENTER key to select the measurement mode
and return to the measurement screen, and begin taking
readings.
–94 –
– 11 –
2.6 Coating Calibration
The TI-CMXDLP has been preset to a default coating velocity of 0.0850 in/sec
(2159m/sec). This will be very close to the most common coating material velocities
used in the eld. If the velocity of the coating is known, and different than the above
default setting, the user can simply enter the coating velocity into the TI-CMXDLP.
However, if the velocity is unknown, the TI-CMXDLP can also be calibrated to a
specic coating sample/type using the 1pt calibration option in PECT (pulse-echo
coating)mode, or a two point calibration is CT (coating only) mode. For the purpose
of this quick start section only the 1pt option PECT (pulse-echo coating) mode will
be covered. Refer to the calibration section of the manual for a complete explanation
on the coating calibration options. The following steps below outline the necessary
steps to either set the velocity of the coating, or perform a one point calibration to
calculate the coating velocity:
Known Coating Velocity
If the coating velocity is known, the user may wish to
simply enter the velocity number into the TI-CMXDLP,
rather than have the TI-CMXDLP calculate the velocity
value using a known thickness on a coating sample. The
steps for entering the velocity are outlined below:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until COATING VEL is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the velocity number is correctly
displayed.
7. Press the OK key to set the coating velocity and return
to the menu screen,or ESC to cancel entering the
coating velocity.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
4. Press the OK key to delete All Files from memory, or the ESC key to abort.
5. Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
11.6 Editing a Grid (File)
Once a grid has been created and saved to memory, the user can edit the Comments or
Increment Direction at a later time. The following procedures outline this process
1. Press the MENU key once to activate
the menu items tab. Press the MENU
key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until
the DATA menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll through the sub menu items until
EDIT is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Edit List Box.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the Edit options until NOTE or INCR. DIR is
highlighted.
NOTE: If editing the INCR. DIR, simply use the LEFT
or RIGHT arrow keys to scroll NONE, NORTH, EAST,
SOUTH, WEST for a Grid, or INC, DEC for a SeqLog.
Proceed to step 10.
5. Press the ENTER key to activate the Alpha Edit box –
Only used when editing the NOTE.
6. Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, & RIGHT arrow keys to
highlight the appropriate alpha characters.
7. Press the ENTER key to select a character and
advance to the next eld of the Comments.
8. Use the CLR key to backspace if necessary.
9. Repeat steps 6 - 8 until the Comments are completed
10. Press the UP or DOWN arrow key to highlight
SAVE CHANGES, and the OK key to activate the
conrmation screen.
11. Press the OK key to save the changes or the ESC key
to cancel editing the le parameters.
12. Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
– 12 –
– 93 –
4. The user may opt to clear a specic reading
and save a new one at anytime. Press the CLR
key in the appropriate cell location to clear the
reading,take a new measurement, and press the
ENTER key to save the new reading.
5. Abort the Grid/Seq Log View Box by pressing
the MEAS key at any time.
11.5 Deleting Grids (Files)
Deleting One File
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu
items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times
to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to
tab left until the DATA menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until DELETE ONE FILE is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the File List
Box.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the stored Files until the target File to
delete is highlighted.
5. Press the OK key to delete the File.
6. Press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
Deleting All Data
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu
items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times
to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to
tab left until the DATA menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until DELETE ALL DATA is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to activate the
conrmation screen.
Known Coating Thickness
When the exact velocity of a coating is unknown, the user has the option of performing
a one point calibration on a sample of the coating with a known thickness to determine
the sound velocity. It would be very handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in
conjunction with the TI-CMXDLP for calibration in the eld:
1. Physically measure a location on a coating sample using a set of calipers or a digital
micrometer.
IMPORTANT NOTE: In PECT (pulse-echo coating) mode, the coating sample must be
coupled to metal in order to calibrate successfully. Simply place a drop of couplant on
a piece of metal, lay the coating sample over the couplant on the metal and proceed to
step 2.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the coating (on metal)
sample or actual test material. Be sure that the reading is
stable and the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner
of the display, is fully lit and stable. Press the MENU
key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU
key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple
times to tab left until the CAL menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the coating velocity and
return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel the one point
calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement
screen and begin taking readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the calibration
point. The coating thickness reading should now match the known coating thickness
sample. If the thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
– 92 –
– 13 –
2.7 Measure
The TI-CMXDLP is now ready to measure. There are four different measurement view
options, each with a specic purpose – Digits, RF, RECT, & B-Scan. The below outline
how to toggle between the different view mode options:
Selecting the Measurement View Option
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the DISP
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until VIEW is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the view
options.
4. Once the view is displayed, press the MEAS key to
return to measurement mode.
DIGITS: Displays the digital thickness value using a large font size. This view is useful
when the TI-CMXDLP is being used as a basic thickness gauge.
RF: Displays the actual waveform signal, much like an oscilloscope, from the reection
of the opposite surface, pit, aw, crack or void. This view shows both the positive and
negative peaks, and is often used to ne tune the scope settings, prior to inspection
RECT: Displays a half waveform signal, either positive or negative, from the reection
of the opposite surface, pit, aw, crack or void. The user can select the polarity or
“phase” displayed. This is typically determined by rst using RF view to select the most
optimal polarity “phase”, to ne tune the scopes settings. The RECT view is commonly
used as the primary “aw detection” view.
BSCAN: The Time Based B-Scan provides the user with a cross sectional view of the
material being tested. This mode is useful when there is concern regarding the prole of
the blind surface. This can also be a useful view when scanning for pits and aws.
Once the view has been selected according to the application requirements, the Delay
and Range of the screen will potentially need to be adjusted, if the view has been set to
RF or RECT. Alternatively, if BSCAN was selected, the B-Start and B-Depth settings
will need to be adjusted. These settings serve the same purpose,with only differences
in terminology. The Delay the same as B-Start, and the Range is the same as B-Depth.
Therefore, these items will be grouped together for the duration of this manual, as
follows: Delay (B-Start) and Range (B-Depth). Use the following steps to adjust these
settings directly from the measurement screen as follows:
NOTE: The Delay (B-Start) and Range (B-Depth) are also used to adjust the parameters
of Scan Bar.
1. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT,
and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll
the target cell cursor to the desired
storage location.
2. Press the ENTER key to save the
current reading in the highlighted
cell location. It’s as simple as that!
3. Press the MEAS key to hide the
GRID/SEQ View Box, or ENTER
to display it as necessary.
Note: Once the le is open, it will remain open until it’s closed or another le is opened
by the user. If the gauge is powered off, the TI-CMXDLP will automatically open
the le when powered on. Simply press the ENTER key to display the le from the
measurement screen.
11.4 Viewing stored readings & A/B Scans
It is sometimes necessary to
go back and view the stored
readings and B-Scans using the
TI-CMXDLP without a PC. The
following procedures outline this
process:
1. Press the MEAS key once to
activate measure menu items. Press
the MEAS key multiple times
to move right and the ESC key
multiple times to move left until the
LOG cell is highlighted.
2. Press the ENTER key to display
the Grid Log Box.
3. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and
RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the stored
readings and corresponding display
view. Notice as the cursor is moved to a
different cell, the display will be updated
with the display view saved with the
reading. Readings stored in memory
are indicated by displaying a MEM in
the top left corner of the measurement
screen.
– 14 –
– 91 –
3. Continue on to the next section “Saving a Grid or Seq File”.
Saving a Grid
Once all the parameters are set, the user
has the option of saving or canceling
the new grid.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow
keys to scroll through the new Grid
or Seq List Items until CREATE GRID or LOG? is highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to accept
the grid or seq log parameters and
activate the conrmation screen
6. Press the OK key to save the New
Grid or Seq Log, or the ESC key
to cancel the New Grid or Seq Log
setup and return to the DATA menu.
7. Press the MEAS key to return to
the measurement screen and begin
storing readings.
11.3 Storing a reading
Now that a grid or sequential log has been created, it’s time to make some measurements
and store the readings. The following procedures outline this process: Storing a Reading
NOTE: Once the gird or sequential log has been created it will automatically be
displayed following the create conrmation screen. It is located at the bottom of the
measurement screen, and can be left open for the duration of the inspection process.
This section assumes the grid or sequential log was just created. Refer to the section on
“opening a grid or seq log” if the le was created at another time.
Key Feature: When the TI-CMXDLP is displaying a “grid log”, pressing the OK key
will initiate an advance to row number option. Use the Left, Right, UP, and DOWN
arrow keys to enter the row number. Once the row number is correctly displayed, press
the OK key to advance directly to that row number in the grid log.
Key Feature: When the TI-CMXDLP is displaying a “grid log”, pressing the ESC key
multiple times, will toggle through the display options: Digits, RF, RECT,and B-SCAN
views.
Adjusting Delay (B-START & Range (B-DEPTH)
1. Press the MEAS key once to activate the measure menu
items. Press the MEAS key multiple times to move right
and the ESC key multiple times to move left, until the
either the DELAY (START) or RANGE (DEPTH) cell is
highlighted.
2. Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, or RIGHT arrow keys
to scroll the DELAY(START) and RANGE (DEPTH)
values.
3. Repeat steps 1 & 2 until the range is correctly being
displayed. Alternatively, the DELAY (START) and RANGE (DEPTH) values can be changed using the Digit
Edit Box as follows:
4. Press the MEAS key once to activate measure menu
items. Press the MEAS key multiple times to move right
and the ESC key multiple times to move left, until the
either the DELAY (START) or RANGE (DEPTH) cell is
highlighted.
1. Press the ENTER key to display the digits edit box.
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
4. Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the DELAY (START) or RANGE (DEPTH) value is correctly displayed.
5. Press the OK key to set the DELAY (START) and WIDTH (DEPTH) value and return to the measure
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the DELAY(START)
or WIDTH (DEPTH) value.
6. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
NOTE: The DELAY (START) & WIDTH (DEPTH) can
also be adjusted from the tabbed menu item DISP. However,
using the hot menu keys is the easiest method.
– 90 –
– 15 –
In the upper left corner of each of the display photos above, is the repeatability indicator.
The repeatability indicator is represented by six vertical bars and represents how
repeatable the measurements are. In regular measurement mode,the TI-CMXDLP makes
8 measurements a second. In scan mode, the TI-CMXDLP makes 200 measurements a
second. If the coating mode option is activated, the TI-CMXDLP makes 3 measurements
a second in regular measurement mode and 65 measurements a second in scan mode.
When the TI-CMXDLP is idle, only the left vertical bar will be displayed. However,
when the TI-CMXDLP is making a measurement,four or ve of the bars should
be displayed on the repeatability indicator. If fewer than four bars are showing, the
TI-CMXDLP is having difculty achieving a stable measurement and the thickness
value displayed is potentially unstable.
4. Press the OK key to select the coordinate or end ID and return to the Grid or Seq
List Items screen, or ESC to cancel the selection and return to the Grid or Seq List
Items menu.
NOTE: If there is not enough memory available to create the grid or sequential log, an
error message box “NOT ENOUGH MEMORY“ will be displayed. Press the OK or
ESC key to return to the Grid or Seq List Items menu. It may be necessary to free some
memory in the TI-CMXDLP at this time. Refer to section 11.5 for more information on
Deleting a File.
Selecting the Auto Increment Direction
The Auto Increment feature gives the user
the ability to specify which direction to
advance the cursor after storing a reading.
5. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to scroll through the new Grid or
Seq List Items until INCR. DIR or
DIRECTION is highlighted.
6. Use the LEFT & RIGHT arrow keys to
toggle the Increment direction NONE,
NORTH, EAST, SOUTH, or WEST for
a grid, or INC, DEC for a sequential
log.
7. When the correct Increment direction is displayed, continue on to the next section
“Graphics”.
Saving Graphics
The TI-CMXDLP provides the user with the ability to save a snapshot of the display
screen and all the current settings of the TI-CMXDLP with every reading, or just save
the reading only. Saving the graphics might be advantageous to the user when the A/BScan views will be used to graphically save a picture of the scanned areas for reporting
purposes. It might also come in handy when user requires backup of all the current
TI-CMXDLP parameters for each reading. However, if neither of these requirements are
necessary, this option should be disabled
in order make more efcient use to the
TI-CMXDLP storage capacity.
1. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to scroll through the new Grid or Seq
List Items until SAVE GRAPHICS
is highlighted.
2. Use the LEFT & RIGHT arrow keys
to toggle the Increment direction to
YES or NO.
– 16 –
– 89 –
Setting the Top Left(Grid) or Start ID(Seq)
1. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll through the new Grid or Seq List
Items until TOP LEFT or START ID is
highlighted.
2. Press the ENTER key to activate the
Coordinate or Start ID Edit Box.
3. GRID LOG: Use the LEFT, & RIGHT
arrow keys to scroll the Columns, and
the UP, DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
Rows.
SEQ LOG: Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT,
& RIGHT arrow keys to highlight the
appropriate alpha characters. Press the
ENTER key to select a character and
advance to the next character eld, in
conjunction with using the CLR key to
backspace if necessary.
4. Press the OK key to select the coordinate
or start ID and return to the Grid or Seq
List Items screen, or ESC to cancel the
selection and return to the Grid or Seq
List Items menu.
Setting the Bottom Right (Grid) or END ID (Seq)
1. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll through the new Grid or Seq List
Items until LOWER RIGHT or END ID
is highlighted.
2. Press the ENTER key to activate the
Coordinate or End ID Edit Box.Grid Log
Sequential Log
3. GRID LOG: Use the LEFT, & RIGHT
arrow keys to scroll the Columns,and
the UP, DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
Rows. SEQ LOG: Use the UP, DOWN,
LEFT, RIGHT arrow keys to highlight
the appropriate alpha characters. Press
the ENTER key to select a character and
advance to the next character eld, in
conjunction with using the CLR key to backspace if necessary.
3.0 Keyboard, Menu & Connector Reference
3.1 Menu Key (Operation * Sub Menus)
The Menu key activates the primary menu structure
containing 8 menu tab groups. These tab groups then
contain sub menu items, or functions. The sub menu
items have been organized in tab groups according
to how closely they are related to the individual tab
group names. Let’s rst get familiar with how to move
around in these tabs before continuing on to the sub
menu functions. This procedure is outlined below:
Activating and Getting Around in the Menus Items
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right,
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
desired tab group is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items. The tab groups are illustrated above
(A).
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until the desired
function is highlighted. The sub menu items are
illustrated in the diagram above (B).
3. Depending on which function is highlighted, use
the LEFT, RIGHT, and Enter keys to scroll the
options or activate the Digit Edit and List Box options.
3.2 Probe – Menu
ZERO PROBE: The TI-CMXDLP is zeroed in much the
same way that a mechanical micrometer is zeroed. If the
TI-CMXDLP is not zeroed correctly, all of the measurements
made using the TI-CMXDLP may be in error by some xed
value. The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with an optional automatic or manual zero feature.
Refer to section 6.2, for an explanation of this important procedure.
ZERO COATING: In order to account for very slight electronic differences in
transducers of the same type, frequency, and diameter, the TI-CMXDLP has been
equipped with a “zero coating” feature. This enables the TI-CMXDLP to obtain
very accurate readings on coatings, eliminating potential errors incurred from slight
differences in the manufacturing processes. Refer to section 6.2.
– 88 –
– 17 –
TYPE: Enables the user to select the type of transducer being used from a chart of
transducer types. This provides increased linearity between transducers. Refer to section
6.1 for a further explanation.
FLAW MODE: Activates the aw detection mode and view. This feature is for use with
single element angle beam transducers and used as a general prove-up aw inspection
mode. Refer to section 10.9.
3.3 CAL – Menu
M AT: Select the material velocity from a chart of basic
material types when a known sample thickness, or material
velocity cannot be obtained. Refer to section 6.3.
MATL 1PT: Performs a single point calibration. This option
allows the user to automatically calculate the velocity by
entering a known sample thickness. Refer to
section 6.3.
MATL 2PT: Performs a two-point calibration. This option allows the user to
automatically calculate the velocity by entering a second known sample thickness. Refer
tosection 6.3.
VELOCITY: Function to calibrate the TI-CMXDLP by setting the velocity to a known
material velocity. Refer to section 6.3.
COATING 1PT: Performs a single point coating calibration. This option allows the user
to automatically calculate the velocity by measuring a known coating sample thickness.
Refer to
s
COATING 2PT: Performs a two-point coating calibration. This option allows the user
to automatically calculate the velocity by entering a second known coating sample
thickness. Refer to section 9.6.
COATING VEL: Function to calibrate the TI-CMXDLP to a specic coating material
by entering a coating velocity. Refer to section 2.6 or section 9.3.
3.4 DISP (display) MENU
VIEW: Selectable BSCAN (cross section), and
DIGITS (large digits) views. Refer to section 7.1.
DELAY (B-START): Provides the user the ability
to change the start position of the B-SCAN view.
Refer to section 7.3 for further info.
RANGE (B-DEPTH): Provides the user the
ability to change the overall depth of the viewable
measurement area. It functions a lot like a zoom on
a camera. Refer to section 7.3.
Creating a Note Grid/Seq Log Note:
Can contain a combination of up to 20
numeric, alpha, or special characters
listed in the rst section of this chapter.
Grid Log Sequential Log
1. Assuming the Grid or Seq List
Items are displayed, use the UP
and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the new Grid or Seq List
Items until NOTE is highlighted.
2. Press the ENTER key to activate
the Alpha Edit Box.
3. Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, & RIGHT
arrow keys to highlight the appropriate
alpha characters.
4. Press the ENTER key to select a
character and advance to the next eld of
the Grid or Seq Note.
5. Use the CLR key to backspace if
necessary.
6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 until the Grid or
Seq Note is completed.
7. Press the OK key to save the Grid or Seq Note and return to the Grid or Seq List
Items menu, or ESC to cancel entering the Grid or Seq Note.
Setting the Coordinates or Start & Stop ID’s
Grid: A grid is dened by using coordinates to dene the Top Left and the Bottom
Right corners of the grid. Alpha coordinates are horizontal across the top, and numeric
coordinates are vertical down the side. Therefore, to dene the top left corner of the
grid, there will be an (X,Y) coordinate. Where X is an alpha column location across the
top and Y is a numeric row location down the side. Use the same logic when choosing
the lower right corner. An individual grid can be up to 999 rows and 52 columns.
Sequential: The sequential le format can be viewed as a le as a single column of up
to 512 possible rows (readings), and a column of corresponding identiers associated
with each individual reading. The identier can be a combination of up to 10 numeric,
alpha, or special characters listed above,while the le name can consist of a combination
of up to 20 of the same character set. Note: The identier cannot start or end with a
special character. Once a start and end ID are entered into the TI-CMXDLP and the
log created, the TI-CMXDLP will automatically generate all the identiers within that
range.
– 18 –
– 87 –
Creating a Name
Grid/Seq Log Name : Can contain
a combination of up to 20 numeric,
alpha,or special characters listed in the
rst section of this chapter. Grid Log
Sequential Log
1. Press the MENU key once to
activate the menu items tab. Press
the MENU key multiple times to
tab right, and the ESC key multiple
times to tab left, until the DATA
menu is highlighted and displaying
the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to scroll through the sub menu items
until NEW is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT & RIGHT arrow
keys to toggle the data formats –
GRIGLOG & SEQ LOG.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the
new Grid or Seq Edit Box.
5. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll through the new Grid or Seq List
Items until NAME is highlighted.
6. Press the ENTER key to activate the Alpha
Edit Box.
7. Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, & RIGHT
arrow keys to highlight the appropriate
alpha characters.
8. Press the ENTER key to select a character
and advance to the next eld of the Grid or
Seq Name
9. Use the CLR key to backspace if necessary.
10. Repeat steps 6 thru 9 until the Grid or Seq Name (File Name) is completed.
11. Press the OK key to save the Grid or Seq Name and return to the Grid or Seq List
Items menu, or ESC to cancel entering the Grid or Seq Name (File Name).
Grid Log
Grid Log
Sequential
Log
Sequential
Log
B-SCAN SPEED: (color version only) – Controls the speed of the time based B-Scan
with an arbitrary scale of 0-10, with 10 being the fastest scrolling speed. Default speed
set at 6. Refer to section 7.3.
UNITS: Toggle between English or Metric units. The readout will change from inches
to millimeters. BACKLIGHT: Selectable OFF, ON, AUTO, or INVERT backlight
option.
NOTE: Color version uses an AMOLED display, and ‘Brightness’ is substituted for
Backlight as the menu item label, with an arbitrary scale of 1 to 20, with the brightest
setting at 20. Refer to section 10.5.
CONTRAST: Adjustable display contrast for variable light conditions.
NOTE: This menu item is eliminated in the color version.
VIEW: (color version only) – Provides the user with 12 different color schemes to
select from. There are two schemes for each main color option. Refer to section 10.6.
DIM: (color version only) – Allows the user to conserve battery life by dimming the
display after idle for a specic amount of time – OFF, 30, 60, 90, 120 seconds. Once
dimmed, a single press of any key will restore the screen brightness. Refer to section
10.7.
RECT WAVE: This option provides the user an outlined or lled view option when the
display setting is in RECT (rectied) wave mode only. Refer to section 10.10.
DETECT MARK: Selectable graphics option for the point of detection on the
waveform: Line, Box, Dots, None. Offers the user a graphics preference on how they
prefer to view the detection on the waveform.
3.5 TUNE – Menu
MEASURE MODE: Toggles a variety of unique
measurement modes for different application
requirements: Coating Off (P -E), Coating On
(PECT), Temp Comp(PETP), Thru Coat (E-E),
Thru Verify (E-EV), Coating Only (CT). Refer to
section 4.6.
POLARITY: The TI-CMXDLP operates on a
zero crossing detection principle. This feature
toggles which stroke of the cycle the crossing detection uses, either positive or negative.
Refer to section 10.11.
PULSE: The TI-CMXDLP has an adjustable pulse width for both high penetration and
resolution applications. The pulse width refers to the duration of time the pulser ison.
The options are Spike, Thin, and Wide. Refer to section 10.12.
– 86 –
– 19 –
PULSER VOLTAGE: This feature offers a 50 volt cut/boost to the pulser. The standard
setting is 150 volts. This enables the TI-CMXDLP to offer greater penetration for
difcult material types, or increased resolution on noisy materials. Refer to section 10.3.
DAMPING: (color version only) – Provides the user with multiple input impedances to
match the impedance of the transducer, and optimized overall transducer performance.
Refer to section 10.8.
ATTN: This feature is a 20dB attenuator, as well as a 20dB amplier. The primary
purpose is to is to offer further exibility to the TI-CMXDLP , by either cutting or
boosting signal strength. In instances where the 60 dB range is not enough, or too
much, this feature allows you to increase/decrease the amplier strength by a power
of 10 or(20dB). The standard setting is zero, which is an arbitrary value at a constant
attenuation. The attenuation value is added to the gain value. Therefore, if the attenuator
is increased to 20dB, this value is added to the value of the gain setting. Refer to section
10.4.
GAIN: The TI-CMXDLP has 100dB gain range from (-30 to 70 dB), used in
conjunction with the attenuator feature above. This feature is used to increase/decrease
the power or amplitude of the signal. This might easily be considered as similar to
turning the volume up or down on a stereo receiver. Refer to section 7.4.
AGC: This an automatic gain control used in E-E (echo-echo), and E-EV (echo-echo
verify). The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with an automatic gain control when operating
in -E(echo-echo), and E-EV (echo-echo verify) modes only. This feature automatically
increases/decreases the power or amplitude of the signal, to an optimal input to output
signal ratio. This might easily be considered as similar to turning the volume up or
down on a stereo receiver. Alternatively, the AGC can be manually controlled. The
TI-CMXDLP is equipped with manual override, using an arbitrary range of 1 to 20
clicks. The higher the number the better the dynamic gain range, and visa versa. Refer to
section 7.4.
Grid File Formats
Sequential Log Formats
3.6 GT1 – Menu
GATE1: Gates allow the user to view a specic
measurement range, or sections of the waveform, and
ignore others. The Gate1 feature adjusts the start of the
gate, according to time/distance. Gate 1 can be used
in all pulse-echo and echo-echo measurement modes.
Refer to section 7.6.
GATE1 WIDTH: This feature allows the user to set the overall width of the gate, in
terms of distance, from the starting value of Gate1. Refer to section 7.6 for further info.
THRESHOLD1: Enables the user to set the sensitivity level of Gate1. The amplitude
of the signal must reach or exceed the threshold level before a measurement is
detected. Refer to section 7.6.
– 20 –
IMPORTANT NOTE: For the duration of this chapter, all references to GRIDS and
SEQ LOGS should be considered synonymous with references to FILES.
11.2 CREATING A NEW GRID OR SEQUENTIAL LOG (FILE)
IMPORTANT NOTE: This entire section is a step by step guide to successfully create
a grid or sequential log. The instructions must be used in the sequential order specied,
as follows:
– 85 –
11.0 DATA STORAGE – SETUP, EDIT, & VIEW FILES
11.1 Introduction to Grid and Sequential file formats
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with two data le format options, GRID LOG and SEQ
LOG. The GRID le format is very similar to a spreadsheet format found in popular
software programs like Excel. A GRID is simply a table of readings. A location in a
grid is specied by giving a row and column coordinate. The rows are numbered from
1 to 999 and the columns are labeled from A to ZZ (999 Rows & 52 Columns).The
sequential le format can be viewed as a le as a single column of up to 512 possible
rows (readings), and a column of corresponding identiers associated with each
individual reading. The identier can be a combination of up to 10 numeric,alpha, or
special characters listed above, while the le name can consist of a combination of up to
20 of the same character set.
NOTE: The identier cannot start or end with a special character. Once a start and
end ID are entered into the TI-CMXDLP and the log created, the TI-CMXDLP will
automatically generate all the identiers within that range.
The following character set listed below are all the allowable characters that will be
used for both le formats: GRID & SEQ LOG. Any combination of these character scan
be used for creating a Name and Note regardless of the selected format. The allowable
characters are as follows:
Numeric characters: 0 – 9 Alpha Characters: A – Z
Special Characters: ! ‘ _ # space / . – ( )
Multiple grids can be created and stored until the TI-CMXDLP’s memory is full. If the
user attempts to store a new le in the TI-CMXDLP and the size of the le exceeds the
capacity of memory, the TI-CMXDLP will respond with an error message indicating
that the memory is unable to store the new le.
The TI-CMXDLP can store a total of 16,000+ readings with a corresponding screen
shot of the DIGITS, RF, RECT, or B-SCAN views with every reading , as well as all the
TI-CMXDLP settings for every individual reading. If the graphics option is disabled,
not saving screen shots, the TI-CMXDLP can store a total of 210,000+ readings. The
screen shot stored with the reading will depend on what view the TI-CMXDLP was in at
the time it was saved. For example, if the view was in RECT, then a RECT will be saved
with the reading.
In the sections that follow, the procedures for creating, using, and editing GRID’s
and SEQ LOG’s have been combined together for the purpose of similarity in overall
functionality and structure. The illustrations below are snapshots of typical GRID and
SEQ LOG le formats:
3.7 GT2 – Menu
GATE2 WIDTH: This feature allows the user to set
the overall width of the gate, in terms of distance, from
the starting value of HoldOff2. Refer to section 7.6.
HOLDOFF 2: Provides the user with the ability to
delay the starting point of Gate2, a specic distance from the rst detection point found
inside of the boundaries of the Gate 1 settings. If no detection is found, the Gate1 width
value is used as a starting value for Gate2. Refer to section 7.6.
THRESHOLD2: Enables the user to set the sensitivity level of Gate2. The amplitude of
the signal must reach or exceed the threshold
3.8 GT3 – Menu
GATE3 WIDTH: This feature allows the user to set the
overall width of the gate, in terms of distance, from the
starting value of HoldOff3. Refer to section 7.6.
HOLDOFF 3: Provides the user with the ability to delay
the starting point of Gate3, a specic distance from the
rst detection point found inside of the boundaries of the
Gate 2 settings. If no detection is found, the Gate2 width
value is used as a starting value for Gate3. Refer to section 7.6.
THRESHOLD3: Enables the user to set the sensitivity level of Gate3. The amplitude
of the signal must reach or exceed the threshold level before a measurement is detected.
Refer to section 7.6.
3.9 SETUP – Menu
OPEN: Displays a list of factory and user dened setups
currently stored in memory. These setups can be recalled
and used at any time. Refer to section 12.2.
SAVE: Provides the user with the ability to save a custom
setup that has been modied or created by the user. Refer
to section 12.3.
DELETE: Provides the user with the ability to delete
specic setups previously save in memory. Refer to
section 12.4.
DEFAULT SETUP: Loads a basic default setup. Use only as a last resort when the
setups in the TI-CMXDLP have been corrupted and a computer is not accessible. Refer
to section 12.5.
LANGUAGE: Provides the user the ability to select different languages (section 12.6).
– 84 –
– 21 –
3.10 DATA – Menu
NEW: Allows the user the ability to create a new alpha
numeric grid, or sequential log le with auto identiers.
It is equipped with custom parameters, rows, and
columns depending on the user’s application reporting
requirements. Refer to section 11.2.
EDIT: Gives the user the ability to change parameters of
grid or sequential le previously saved. Note: Pre-dened
coordinates cannot be changed once they have been created. Refer to section 11.6.
OPEN: This function provides the user with the ability to recall grids or sequential log
les that currently exist in memory, from a list of grids. Refer to section 11.7.
CLOSE: Provides the user the ability to close a currently opened grid or sequential log
le. Refer to section 11.8
DELETE ONE FILE: This function provides the user with the ability to delete one
individual grid or sequential log le from a list of multiple grids/les previously saved
in memory. Refer to section 11.5 for further info.
DELETE ALL DATA: This function provides the user with the ability to delete all les
currently stored in memory. Refer to section 11.5 .
3.11 UTIL (Utilities) – Menu
AUTO FIND: Automatically locates the detection point
if the measurement is out of the viewable display area.
Refer to section 10.1 for further info.
SCAN MODE: This function enables a hi speed scan
mode that increases the overall sample rate from 65 to
200 measurements per second, depending on the current
measurement mode used. Refer to section 10.2.
ALARM: Toggles alarm mode on, off, or audible . Refer to section 10.3.
ALARM HIGH: Gives the user the ability to set the HI limit parameter. If the
measurement exceeds this value, a red light will illuminate and sound the internal
beeper. Refer to section 10.3 for further info.
ALARM LOW: Gives the user the ability to set the LO limit parameter. If the
measurement falls below this value, a red light will illuminate and sound the internal
beeper. Refer to section 10.3 for further info.
DIFFERENTIAL:
TI-CMXDLP will display +/- the the nominal value entered. Refer to section 10.4.
for further info.
Gives the user the ability to set a nominal value and the
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the Pulser Voltage options.
4. Once the desired Pulser Voltage is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen.
10.14 Attenuator
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with a 20dB signal attenuator and amplier. This feature
offers a cut/boost to the overall signal strength. by either cutting or boosting signal
strength. In instances where the 60 dB range is not enough, or too much, this feature
allows you to increase/decrease the amplier strength by a power of 10 or(20dB).
The standard setting is zero, which is an arbitrary value at a constant attenuation. The
attenuation value is added to the gain value. Therefore, if the attenuator is increased to
20dB, this value is added to the value of the gain setting. The procedure to change the
attenuator is outlined below:
Changing the Attenuator Setting
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the
menu items tab. Press the MENU key multiple
times to tab right and the ESC key multiple
times to tab left until the TUNE menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until ATTN is
highlighted
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to
scroll the Attenuator options.
4. Once the desired Attenuation is displayed,
press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
– 22 –
– 83 –
10.12 Pulse Width
The TI-CMXDLP has an adjustable pulse width option. Pulse width, refers to the
duration of time the pulser is left on. This time results in increased energy sent into the
test material. There are three width options (SPIKE, THIN, and WIDE). The SPIKE
setting may be desirable for high resolution and general applications to decrease the
overall noise. This can be considered the normal or standard setting. When additional
energy is needed, more penetration, the THIN and WIDE options may be necessary. The
procedure to change the pulse width is outlined below:
Selecting the Pulse Width
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the
menu items tab. Press the MENU key multiple
times to tab right and the ESC key multiple
times to tab left until the TUNE menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until PULSE is
highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to
scroll the Pulse options.
4. Once the Pulse is displayed, press the MEAS
key to return to the measurement screen.
10.13 Pulser Voltage
The TI-CMXDLP has a 200 volt square wave pulser that can be adjusted for specic
applications and transducers. The Pulser Volt feature offers a 50 volt cut/boost option to
the user. The standard setting is 150 volts. This enables the TI-CMXDLP to offer greater
penetration for difcult material types, or increased resolution on noisy materials. The
procedure to change the pulser voltage is outlined below:
Changing the Pulser Voltage
3.12 XFER (Transfer) – Menu
BACKUP SETUPS: Enables the user the ability to
backup the setups currently stored in the TI-CMXDLP
to a PC via RS232 port. Refer the help section of the
TI-CMXDLP Datacomm software for a complete
electronic manual.
RESTORE SETUPS: Enables the user the ability
to restore the setups currently saved on a PC to an
TI-CMXDLP via RS232 port. Refer the help section of the
TI-CMXDLP Datacomm software for a complete electronic manual
BACKUP DATA: Enables the user the ability to backup grids or sequential log
les currently stored in the TI-CMXDLP to a PC via RS232 port. Refer the help
section of the TI-CMXDLP Datacomm software for a complete electronic manual.
RESTORE DATA: Enables the user the ability to restore grids or sequential log les
currently saved on a PC to an TI-CMXDLP via RS232 port. Refer the help section of
the TI-CMXDLP Datacomm software for a complete electronic manual.
ABOUT: Provides the user contact information and the TI-CMXDLP software version.
Refer to www.checkline.com for information on the latest rmware versions available
for download.
3.13 CLR (Clear) Key
The primary functions of the CLR key, is to clear a measurement from a grid
or sequential log les cell location or set obstruct, and backspace in an Alpha
Edit Box. If a user has already saved a measurement and B-Scan to a cell
location, use this key to clear the measurement at any time.
3.14 MEAS (Measurement Mode) Key
The MEAS key puts the TI-CMXDLP into it’s primary mode of operation. In
this mode,the user has a complete view of the LCD.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the
menu items tab. Press the MENU key multiple
times to tab right and the ESC key multiple
times to tab left until the TUNE menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until PULSER VOLT is highlighted.
– 82 –
3.15 OK Key
The primary function of the OK key is conrmation of a change or selection.
The OK key also toggles the Hot Menu area, while in measurement mode, to
a large digits display area. If the TI-CMXDLP is displaying a grid log, the OK
key toggles an advance to row number option.
3.16 ESC Key
The ESC key is used in the MENU, MEAS, and EDIT functions as a back or
escape function. If the TI-CMXDLP is displaying a grid or sequential log, the
OK key toggles the display options: Digits, RF, RECT, and B-Scan views.
– 23 –
3.17 Arrow Keys
The Arrow Keys are used to navigate through the menus, increase/decrease values,and
toggle specic function keys.
3.18 ENTER key
The ENTER key is used in the menu selection process to activate list
and edit boxes, display and save measurements to grid or sequential les
locations.
3.19 MULTI MODE Key
The MULTI MODE key opens a measurement mode screen, listing all
the modes that are available to the transducer specically selected, or auto
detected. The modes can be all or a combination of the entire set of modes
the TI-CMXDLP offers, depending on which transducer is being used as
follows: Coating Off (P-E), Coating On (PECT),Temp Comp (PETP), Thru
Coat (E-E), Thru Coat Verify (E-EV), and Coating Only(CT).
3.20 ON/OFF Key
The ON/OFF key simply powers the unit either ON or OFF. Note: Unit will
automatically power off when idle for 5 minutes. All current settings are
automatically saved prior to powering off.
3.21 Top & Bottom End Caps
Notice the +/- positions in the diagram. The
positive phase is everything above the horizontal
center line, and the negative everything below
the center line. The TI-CMXDLP uses a zero
crossing (ank) method for detection. Therefore,
the detect line (A) is represented by the broken
vertical dotted line, and is currently detecting
on the negative portion of the waveform (B) at
the zero crossing (C). The signal amplitude (B)
is shown as the negative vertical height at (B) in
the diagram. Refer to the height of the second
negative peak at (G). It’s clear that the amplitude of (G) is much greater than that of
(B). Therefore, if the user was measuring thick attenuative material, and the amplitude
of (B) decreased substantially, the TI-CMXDLP would lose the rst cycle (B) and peak
jump to the second cycle (F). The detect (A), would move to (F), resulting in incorrect
measurements. If the user were to select the positive phase in the diagram above, the
detect would measure at (H). (A) would move to (H). Notice the height of (D) with
respect to the height of (E) in the diagram.
If the user was measuring thick attenuative material using this phase, the signal (E) will
certainly be lost long before (D). Therefore, the positive phase is a much better choice in
the diagram above.
Toggle Polarity (+/–)
NOTE: Before toggling the Polarity, the TI-CMXDLP
should be set to the RF display view option. The RF view
will give the user the best opportunity to correctly view the
positive and negative cycles of the waveform. Please refer to
section 7.1 for information on selecting the Display Views.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left,until the TUNE
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
The top & bottom end panels are where all connections are made to the TI-CMXDLP.
The diagram above shows the layout and description of the connectors:
Transducer Connectors
The transducer connectors, and battery cover/Probe Zero Disk are located on the
TI-CMXDLP’s top end cap. The transducer connectors are of type Lemo“00”.
NOTE: There is no polarity associated with connecting the transducer to the
TI-CMXDLP.
– 24 –
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until POLARITY is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
POLARITY negative or positive.
4. Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement
screen and begin taking readings.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to do a Probe Zero after changing
the polarity!
–81 –
Probe Zero Disk & Battery Cover
The Battery cover is the large round disk shown in the diagram
NOTE: This same disk is also used as a Probe Zero Disk. Simply remove the cover
when replacing the batteries (3 AA cells). When performing a manual probe zero
function, simply place the transducer on disk making rm contact. Important: Be sure to
follow the polarity labels located on the back label of the TI-CMXDLP.
NOTE: Rechargeable batteries can be used, however they must be recharged outside of
the unit in a stand alone battery charger.
RS-232 Connector
The RS-232 connector, located on the bottom end cap, is a 2 pin female Lemo
connector. It is designed to connect directly from the TI-CMXDLP to a standard AT
serial port on a PC. The cable supplied with the TI-CMXDLP is a Lemo to 9 pin serial
cable.
NOTE: This connector is also used to upgrade the TI-CMXDLP with the latest version
of rmware.
USB Serial to USB Converter Cable
A converter cable can be attached to the 9 pin serial cable in needed (part no.
N-402-0510).
Filled
Detect Mark
– 25 –
10.11 Polarity
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with an option to select the polarity, or phase +/-, for the
purpose of detection. The phase can be a very valuable feature to have when the signal
returning from the test material is marginal, a low frequency transducer is being used,
and the user has a very weak positive or negative cycle, while trying to measure very
thick materials. There is a possibility that signal will become so weak that it falls below
the threshold, and peak jumps to the next cycle altogether. This peak jump represents a
shift of the detection further out in time, resulting in correct measurements. The material
being measured will appear thicker than it actually is. Refer to the diagram:
– 80 –
4.0 PRINCIPALS OF ULTRASONIC MEASUREMENT
4.1 Time versus thickness relationship
Ultrasonic thickness measurements depend on measuring the length of time it takes
for sound to travel through the material being tested. The ratio of the thickness versus
the time is known as the sound velocity. In order to make accurate measurements, a
sound velocity must be determined and entered into the instrument. The accuracy of a
thickness measurement therefore depends on having a consistent sound velocity. Some
materials are not as consistent as others and accuracy will be marginal. For example,
some cast materials are very granular and porous and as a result have inconsistent sound
velocities. While there are many different ultrasonic techniques to measure thickness,
which will be discussed below, all of them rely on using the sound velocity to convert
from time to thickness.
5. Once the desired aw mode is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to
measurement mode.
NOTE: All the features previously discussed in this manual can be used to adjust and
ne tune the TI-CMXDLP while in Flaw Mode.
NOTE: When aw mode is activated, a transducer delay will still be congured from
the previously loaded transducer. This will only affect the starting point from the initial
pulse from being at zero. The zero delay can be set to zero by loading the default setup
located in the setup menu. Alternatively,the user can load a factory aw mode setup,
from the setups folder, and begin making any adjustments necessary. Refer to section
10.10 Graphics Options (look & feel)We’ve added a couple of graphic interface features
to the TI-CMXDLP , accommodate customer requests we’ve received in the past.
These features only serve as cosmetic items, and do not change the functionality of the
TI-CMXDLP in any way.
4.2 Suitability of materials
Ultrasonic thickness measurements rely on passing a sound wave through the material
being measured. Not all materials are good at transmitting sound. Ultrasonic thickness
measurement is practical in a wide variety of materials including metals, plastics, and
glass. Materials that are difcult include some cast materials,concrete, wood, berglass,
and some rubber.
4.3 Range of measurement and accuracy
The overall measurement capabilities, based on the wide variety of materials, is
determined by the consistency of the material being measured. The range of thickness
that can be measured ultrasonically depends on the material as well as the technique
being used and the type of transducer. Thickness measurements can be made from a
minimum of 0.010 inch to 9.999” in steel. However, the maximum attainable thickness
is much less for more attenuative materials (materials that absorb sound).Accuracy,
is determined by how consistent the sound velocity is through the sound path being
measured, and is a function of the overall thickness of the material. For example, the
velocity in steel is typically within 0.5% while the velocity in cast iron can vary by 4%.
4.4 Couplant
All ultrasonic applications require some medium to couple the sound from the
transducer to the test piece. Typically a high viscosity liquid is used as the medium. The
sound frequencies used in ultrasonic thickness measurement do not travel through air
efciently. By using a liquid couplant between the transducer and test piece the amount
of ultrasound entering the test piece is much greater.
10.10 Graphics Options (look & feel)
We’ve added a couple of graphic interface features to the TI-CMXDLP , accommodate
customer requests we’ve received in the past. These features only serve as cosmetic
items, and do not change the functionality of the TI-CMXDLP in any way.
RECT Wave: The rectied wave feature is only functional when using RECT wave
view and provides the user the following display options:
Outline – Draws the unlled outline of the waveform.
Filled – Draws a lled version of the waveform.
Detect Mark – The detect mark is another look and feel option for displaying the
detection indicator.
Outline
–26 –
–79 –
Flaw Mode View
Refer to the diagram. The grey grid line, point (A),
corresponds to 100% FSH(Full Screen Height).
The other grid lines correspond to 25% amplitude
increments,in order to calibrate the TI-CMXDLP
in this mode. The digital thickness value has been
replaced by dashed lines at point (B). The digital
thickness value is not applicable while operating in
this mode. Notice at point (D), the vertical grid lines
have simply been given quadrant numbers. Again,
this is because the grid lines do not correspond
to a thickness value based on the delay and width
of the screen. Finally, point (C) is the peak hold
symbol - carrot. The carrot is only displayed if the
aw mode is set to “peak”. The peak hold position
represents the highest amplitude obtained during the
scan. Pressing the CLR key will reset the peak hold
position to zero.
Using the Default Setup
1. Attach the special dual lemo to microdot cable and
angle beam transducer to the TI-CMXDLP.
2. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
PROBE menu is highlighted and displaying the
submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until FLAW MODE is
highlighted.
4. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
aw mode options (off, on, peak).
Off: Disables the Flaw Mode option.
On: Enables the Flaw Mode option and view.
Peak: Enables the Flaw Mode and Peak Hold options and view. When this option
is enabled, a carrot will appear on the right side of the display. The position of the
carrot corresponds to the highest waveform amplitude value detected. In order to
clear the peak hold carrot location and start another scan, press the CLR key. When
pressed, the carrot will be displayed at the baseline, or at zero amplitude.
4.5 Temperature
Temperature has an effect on sound velocity. The higher the temperature, the slower
sound travels in a material. High temperatures can also damage transducers and present
a problem for various liquid couplants. Since the sound velocity varies with temperature
it is important to calibrate at the same temperature as the material being measured.
Normal temperature range
Most standard transducers will operate from 0 °F to 180 °F.
High temperature measurements
Special transducers and couplants are available for temperatures above 180°F up to
E. Digital Material Thickness Value – Extra large font size for viewing ease.
650 °F with intermittent contact. It is necessary to cool the transducer, by submerging
the transducer in water between readings, when measuring high temperatures.
Modes and temperature errors
In addition to errors caused by velocity changing with temperature, some
modes(measurement techniques) are affected more than others. For example, dual
element pulse-echo mode has larger errors due to changes in the temperature of the
delay line. However, multi-echo techniques offer temperature compensation help to
minimize these errors.
4.6 Measurement Modes
In this section we will discuss the different measurements modes the TI-CMXDLP is
capable of operating in, the transducers required, and the reasons for using specic
modes:
Pulse-Echo Mode (Flaw & Pit detection) – Coating Off (P-E)
Pulse-echo mode measures from the initial pulse (sometimes referred to as an articial
zero) to the rst echo (reection). In this mode, either an automatic or manual zero can
be performed depending on the zero probe function setting. If the manual mode has been
selected, the transducer is placed on a reference disk,located on top of the TI-CMXDLP,
and a key is pressed to establish a zero point for the particular transducer. If the Auto
Zero feature is enabled, a simple key press will perform an electronic zero to establish
the same zero point. In this mode errors result from surface coatings and temperature
variations.
Since pulse-echo only requires one reection, it is the most sensitive mode for
measuring weak reections (aws) typically found when measuring heavily corroded
metals.
–78 –
– 27 –
V-Path Correction
Dual element delay line transducers have two piezoelectric
elements mounted at an angle on one end of the delay
line. One element is used for transmitting sound, while
the other element only receives sound. The two elements
and their delay lines are packaged in a single housing but
acoustically isolated from each other with a sound barrier.
This allows the transducer the ability to achieve very high
sensitivity for detecting small defects. Also, the surface
of the test material does not have to be as at in order
to obtain good measurements. Dual element transducers
Dual Element Transducer
showing V-path of signal
are normally used in pulse-echo mode for nding
defects,and in echo-echo mode for through coating measurements. Dual element delay
line transducers are usable over a range of 0.025 inches to 20 inches depending on the
material, frequency, and diameter. A limitation of dual element delay-line transducers
is the V shaped sound path. Because the sound travels from one element to another,
the time versus thickness relationship is non-linear. Therefore, a correction table in the
instruments software is used to compensate for this error.
Searching for small defects
Dual element delay line transducers are especially useful in searching for small defects.
In the pulse-echo mode with high amplier gain, very small defects can be measured.
This is very useful during corrosion inspections overall. The dual element style
transducer will nd wall deterioration, pits, and any porosity pockets during tank and
pipeline inspections.
Echo-Echo Mode – Thru Coat (E-E)
The echo-echo mode measures between two reections. This technique is commonly
used to eliminate errors from surface coatings and also to make measurements in
multiple layered materials. The disadvantage is that two echoes are needed which
requires a much stronger echo (reection).
Echo-Echo Verify Mode – Thru-Verify (E-EV
)The echo-echo verify mode measures between 3
reections. Similar to E-E mode,this technique is
commonly used to eliminate errors from surface coatings
and also to make measurements in multiple layered
materials. The primary benet of this mode,is that a
comparison is made, between the 2nd and 3rd echoes,
to verify that a peak jump has not occurred, providing
an additional level of condence to the measurement.
The disadvantage is that 3 reections are needed which
requires the use of gates with controllable thresholds to
adjust for sensitivity over a given measurement range.
Dual Element Transducer in
Echo to Echo mode
10.8 Damping (color version only)
The color version of the TI-CMXDLP has a built-in damping feature to control the
impedance input of the receiver. This enables the user the ability to match and optimize
the transducer for better signal quality at various frequencies. The available settings
are 50, 75, 100, 300, 600 and 1500 ohms. The procedures below outline the steps for
selecting an impedance setting, as follows:
Setting the Damping Value
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left,until the TUNE
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until DAMPING is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll through
the DAMPING values until the correct value is displayed
to the right of the DAMPING menu item.
4. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
10.9 Introduction to Flaw Mode
The Flaw Mode feature was added to the TI-CMXDLP to provide inspectors with
a basic prove-up aw detection mode using an angle beam transducer. This mode
enables inspectors to locate porosity, defects, inclusions, and cracks in a variety
of test materials. Angle beam transducers, are transducers attached to a delay line
wedge at specic angles. Some of the more common angles are 45°, 60°, and 70°.
The sound wave is introduced into the test material at a specic angle, and converted
from a longitudinal wave into a shear wave. The introduction at specic angles enables
inspectors to steer the sound wave in a specic direction according to the position and
location of specic types of defects.
NOTE:
The TI-CMXDLP
AMOLED high speed
color version has a
120 Hz screen redraw
rate and exceeds
the speed found in
conventional digital
aw detectors.
– 28 –
–77 –
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until VIEW is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display a list of the color
scheme options.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the material list until the appropriate material is
highlighted
.5. Press the ENTER key, followed by pressing the OK key,
to overwrite the current color scheme with the selected
scheme.
6. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
10.7 DIM (color version only)
The TI-CMXDLP color version has a built-in DIM feature to manage power more
effectively. This feature has adjustable time durations, until the power of the display
is dimmed and current draw reduced. The timer is constantly reset while the user is
making measurements, and is only activated when the gauge is idle for the duration of
time the DIM value is set for. This feature does not override the preset 5 min idle power
off feature in any way. However, if the gauge is turned on, set for a DIM of 120 sec, and
then left idle for 5 minutes, the TI-CMXDLP will dim in two minutes, then power off in
ve minutes. The procedures for adjusting the DIM time are outlined below:
Setting a DIM Time
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the DISP
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until DIM is highlighted.
Pulse Echo Coating Mode – Coating On (PECT)A
custom hybrid combination mode using properties from
the basic modes along with a group of special techniques
and theoretical wave phenomena’s to measure coating and
material thicknesses at the same time, while still retaining
the ability to locate aws and pits in materials. Therefore,
the best description for this hybrid mode is Pulse-Echo
Coating mode.
Coating Mode – Coating Only (CT)
Once again, this is a custom hybrid combination mode
using special techniques to effectively measure the
Dual Element Transducer in
Echo to Echo mode
thickness of coatings that are either adhered to metallic
surfaces or in stand alone form. In this mode a two point calibration must be performed.
If the user will be measuring coating that has been applied to a metal surface, the
calibration must be performed using coating samples coupled to a metal surface
when calibrating. To explain further, a drop of couplant must be applied in between
the coating samples and metal surface. If the coating has not been applied to a metal
surface, the calibration should be performed accordingly.
Pulse-Echo Temperature Compensated Mode – Temp Comp (PETP)
This is a custom mode that combines pulse-echo and electronic zero techniques
to automatically adjust for temperature changes in the transducer as a result of an
increasing/decreasing temperature gradient in the test material. Note: rough surface
conditions can have an effect on the overall accuracy in this mode. If the surface
condition is in question, the pulse-echo mode should be used in conjunction with
performing an off block automatic zero as the temperature gradient changes.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
DIM time.
4. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
–76 –
– 29 –
5.0 SELECTING THE MEASUREMENT MODE
5.1 The setup library
The TI-CMXDLP contains 64 user congurable preset locations to store custom setups
for easy recall. These setups can be optimized for the user’s specic application needs
and can also be stored on a PC and transferred bi-directionally using Electromatic’s
PC interface software included with the instrument. The setups supplied with the
instrument cover some of the more typical applications commonly used with this type
of instrument. These setups can be recalled, modied,and overwritten to one of 64
setup locations. Therefore, these factory setups can also be considered a good starting
point to be modied for custom applications. The PC software includes a default setup
le that can be uploaded to the gauge at anytime to restore factory settings. However,
it is recommended that the user consider saving modied setups to an empty location
rather than overwriting the factory setups in the TI-CMXDLP. Once again, these factory
settings are excellent starting points for custom setups.
5.2 Which mode & transducer do I use for my application?
High penetration plastics and castings
The most common mode for these types of applications is pulse-echo. The TI-CMXDLP
has been optimized for cast materials. Cast iron applications require 1 to 5 MHz
frequencies, and cast aluminum requires a 10 MHz frequency. Plastics typically require
lower frequencies depending on the thickness and make-up of the material. Larger
diameters offer greater penetration power because of the crystal size, for difcult to
measure materials.
Corrosion & Pit Detection in steel and cast materials
Use pulse-echo mode whenever attempting to locate pits and aws. Typically a 5 MHz
transducer, or higher, will be used for these types of applications. Use low frequencies
for greater penetration and use higher frequencies for better resolution.
Measuring Material & Coatings
The pulse-echo coating mode should be used when both material and coating thickness
are required, while still requiring the ability to detect aws and pits. A special coating
style transducer is required for use in this mode. There are a variety of coating
transducers in various frequencies available from Electromatic.
Thru Paint & Coatings
Often times, users will be faced with applications where the material will be coated
with paint or some other type of epoxy material. Since the velocity of the coating is
approximately 2.5 times slower than that of steel, pulse-echo mode will induce error
if the coating or paint is not completely removed. By using echo-echo mode, the user
is able to successfully measure through both, the coating and steel, and completely
eliminate the thickness of the paint or coating. Therefore, the steel can be
10.5 Brightness (color version only)
The TI-CMXDLP color version is equipped with a
brightness feature to adjust the display visibility and
optimize battery life. It has an arbitrary scale with a values
from 1 to 20, with 20 representing the brightest setting. The
procedures for adjusting the brightness are outlined below:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the DISP
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until BRIGHTNESS is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
value. When the correct brightness value is being
displayed, proceed to step 8.
4) Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the
Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the brightness number is correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to set the brightness and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel entering the brightness.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
10.6 VIEW (color version only)
The TI-CMXDLP color version has a variety of display
color options to select from. These will change the look and
feel of the according to the users preference. The procedures
for changing the VIEW, are outlined below:
Selecting a Color Scheme
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the DISP
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
– 30 –
– 75 –
measured without having to remove the coating prior to measuring. Users will often use
pulse echo mode and echo-echo mode in conjunction when performing inspections on
coated materials.
Thru coating measurements require special high damped transducers. The most common
transducers are the 3.5, 5, and 7.5 MHz hi-damped transducers. These transducers are
suitable for use in both pulse-echo and echo-echo modes. This conveniently enables the
user to accurately measure overall material thickness using the thru Coating mode, and
then conveniently switch to pit detection mode without changing transducers. The ¼”
5 MHz hi-damped transducer is the most commonly used transducer for standard thru
coating applications.
Coating Only
The coating only mode should be used when the application calls for coating
measurements only and the user is not interested in the thickness of the material the
coating has been applied to. This mode can also be used as a stand alone coating
thickness gauge, where the coating has not been applied to another material surface. An
auto identied coating probe must be attached to the TI-CMXDLP in order to enable
this mode.
Thin materials
Use pulse echo mode and a high frequency transducer for these types of applications.
The most common transducers are the 7.5 MHz and 10 MHz models with extra
resolution. The higher frequencies provide greater resolution and a lower minimum
thickness rating overall.
High temperature
Use and select a special 2.25 MHz and 5 MHz High temperature transducer for these
types of applications. Both pulse-echo and echo-echo modes will also work for these
applications. However, echo-echo mode will eliminate error caused by temperature
variations in the delay line of the transducer.
Noisy Material
Materials such as titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum may have inherent surface
noise issues. This is a signal that appears at the surface of the material when using a
dual element delay line probe. Select a higher frequency transducer to reduce this
oise – 7.5 MHz and higher for better resolution.
Restricted access
Measuring materials with extreme curvatures or restricted access, higher frequencies
with smaller diameters should be considered. The smallest diameter uses 3/16”crystals
with a contact area of .250”. Custom transducers are available on request.
10.4 Differential Mode
The Differential Mode of the TI-CMXDLP provides the user with the ability to set
a nominal value, according to what the expected thickness should be, and measure
the+/- difference from the nominal value entered. This feature is typically used in QA,
incoming inspections on pipes, plate stock, coils, etc. The steps below outline how to
enable and enter the nominal value to use this feature:
Toggle Differential Off
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the UTIL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until DIFFERENTIAL is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
DIFFERENTIAL on. A value will appear to the right of
DIFFERENTIAL.
4. Continue on to the next section “Setting the Differential Value”.
Setting the Differential Value
1. Assuming DIFFERENTIAL has been enabled
and a value is being displayed to the right of the
DIFFERENTIAL label, press the ENTER key to display
the Digits Edit Box.
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll
the digit locations.
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 until the DIFFERENTIAL value
is correctly displayed.
5. Press the OK key to set the DIFFERENTIAL value
and return to the menu screen.
6. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
– 31 –
– 74 –
5.3 Factory Setup Chart
NumNameComment 1Gn/AGC Velocity
1Enter Custom Name
2
3
4
5
6
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the ALARM on/off/audible.
4. Continue on to the next section “Setting the Alarm Low Limit”.
Setting the Low Alarm Limit
1. Assuming the ALARM is ON, use
the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll through the sub menu items
until ALARM LOW is highlighted.
2. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow
keys to scroll the value. When
the correct alarm value is being
displayed, proceed to step 7 .
3. Alternatively, press the ENTER
key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow
keys to scroll the highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow
keys to scroll the digit locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the
ALARM LOW value is correctly
displayed.
7. If only one limit will be used,
press the MEAS key to return
to the measurement screen and
begin taking readings. Otherwise,
continue on to set the ALARM HIGH limit using the same
procedures.
– 32 –
– 73 –
10.2 High Speed Scan
The High Speed Scan feature of the CMXDL+ increases the overall repetition rate
to a maximum of 140Hz with a high speed screen refresh rate of 25 times a second.
This feature enables a user to make scanned passes over an arbitrary length of the
test material, while still maintaining a reasonable representation of thickness over the
scanned area or region. This feature can be used in conjunction with High and Low
alarm limits features to dynamically keep track of both values. The feature is typically
used to provide a better representation of the area scanned, by taking more readings at a
faster rate repetition rate. The procedure to use the High Speed Scan feature is outlined
below:
Using the Scan Mode
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the UTIL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until SCAN MODE is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
SCAN MODE on/off.
4. Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement
screen.
10.3 Alarm Mode
The Alarm Mode feature of the TI-CMXDLP provides the user with a method of
setting tolerances, or limits, for a particular application requirement. This feature may
be used for a variety of applications to verify the material is within the manufacturer
specications. There are two limits, or alarm values, that can be setup in the
TI-CMXDLP– ALARM LOW and ALARM HIGH limits. However, the user may
choose to activate and utilize only one of the limit values, depending on their specic
application requirements. The procedures to use the ALARM MODE feature are
outlined below:
Toggle Alarm On and Off
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the UTIL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until ALARM is highlighted.
6.0 MAKING MEASUREMENTS
The steps involved in making measurements are detailed in this section. The following
sections outline how to setup and prepare your TI-CMXDLP for eld use. An automatic
or manual zero must always be performed. The auto zero is an off block electronic zero
that does not require a zero reference block. This will most always be the zero option of
choice, as it makes the zeroing process very easy and convenient to perform. However,
If the manual zero option is enabled, the probe zero must be measured on the reference
disk (battery disk) attached to the top of the instrument. The zero compensates for
variations in the transducer. In all modes the sound velocity must be determined. The
sound velocity is used to convert the transit time to a physical length. The sound velocity
can be selected from a material chart in the manual, selected from a material list in the
TI-CMXDLP, or for greater precision determined from a sample of the test material that
has been mechanically measured. To enter the velocity from a table, look up the material
on the chart in the appendix of this manual and refer to the section below on Calibration
to a Known Velocity. To determine the velocity of a single sample, refer to the Material
Calibration section .
When measuring curved materials, it is more accurate to calibrate from two test points,
one at the minimum limit of the target thickness and one at the maximum limit. In this
case the reference disk mounted to the TI-CMXDLP is not used. This is called two-point
calibration and is described in section 6.3.
6.1 Auto Probe Recognition & Selecting The Transducer Type
The rst step in using the TI-CMXDLP is to plug the transducer into the gauge and
power the unit up. The TI-CMXDLP has a special built-in automatic probe recognition
feature that will check to see if the probe plugged into the gauge is an auto recognized
probe type. If so, the TI-CMXDLP will display a message indicating the transducer
type and ask the user for conrmation to use the identied probe. If the transducer is
not an auto recognized probe, the TI-CMXDLP will display a message indicating the
transducer type has not been recognized, and force the user to select a transducer type
from a list of transducers according to frequency and diameter. Whether the transducer
is auto recognized or selected from a predened list, the TI-CMXDLP will recall
specicproperties about the transducer.
NOTE: Once the transducer has been selected, the TI-CMXDLP will store and recall
this transducer type every time the TI-CMXDLP is powered on/off. The type will only
change if the user physically selects another type from the list, or selects a previously
saved setup. Therefore, if you have previously gone through this section and selected the
transducer you are using, proceed to the next section. Use the following steps to select
your transducer type.
NOTE: If the transducer is not identied on power up, be sure the transducer type
selected is the same as the transducer plugged into the TI-CMXDLP. Failure to do this
will result in erroneous measurements:
– 72 –
– 33 –
Probe Automatically Recognized
1. Press the OK key once to use the identied probe, or
ESC to display a list of optional transducers. Note: if the
TI-CMXDLP recognizes a specic transducer, the user
should always select OK to use the identied probe. The
only time an alternative probe should be selected from a list
is if the user switched probes following initial power up and
recognition, or the TI-CMXDLP has somehow identied the
probe in error..
2. Assuming the TI-CMXDLP recognized the probe and the
OK key was pressed,the TI-CMXDLP will advance to
a Zero Probe menu. If the transducer was identied as a
special transducer capable of measuring coating thickness,
a menu will be displayed allowing the user the ability to
toggle the coating thickness display on/off as follows :
3. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to toggle the coating
option on/off.
4. Wipe all couplant from the transducer face and proceed to
the Probe Zero section.
Selecting the Transducer Type
1. Press the OK or ESC keys to display the factory list of
transducer types (by diameter and frequency).
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
transducer list until the appropriate type is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to select the transducer type and
display overwrite existing probe screen.
4. Press the OK key to overwrite the existing probe type with
the newly selected probe type.
The zero probe screen will be
displayed. Proceed to the Probe
Zero section.
10.0 ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE TI-CMXDLP
10.1 Auto Find
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with a very handy feature for locating the detection point
of a back wall echo that is not currently in the viewable region of the display. Suppose
the TI-CMXDLP is currently setup with a delay of 0.0” and a width of 1.0”, and the
user is measuring material thickness of 2.5”. The TI-CMXDLP will make the correct
measurement and display it digitally. However, the waveform will not show up at all
in both A-Scan views, and incorrectly in the B-Scan view without adjusting the range
of the Delay and Width accordingly. The AUTO FIND feature is a convenient way to
let the TI-CMXDLP nd the detection point and bring the waveform signal into view
automatically. The user can then make small adjustments to the range once the signal
is displayed on the screen. The procedure to use the AUTO FIND feature is outlined
below:
Using Auto Find
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the UTIL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until AUTO FIND is highlighted.
3. Place the transducer on the test material and obtain a
reading.
4. Press the ENTER key to automatically adjust the display
settings and bring the waveform into view.
5. Once the signal is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to measurement mode.
– 34 –
– 71 –
Two Point Calibration
NOTE: Use the minimum coating sample for the two point
calibration.
1. Physically measure the thinner of the two samples of the
coating, as close as possible to the minimum expected
coating measurement range, using a set of calipers or a
digital micrometer.
VERY IMPORTANT: If coating measurements will be
made with the coating applied to a metal surface, the
calibration must be done in the same manner,with the
samples coupled to a metal surface. However, if the coating
will be measured as a stand alone material, the calibration
must be performed the same way.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady
contact with the thinner of the two coating and samples. Be sure that the reading
is stable and the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully
lit and stable. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the
MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left
until the CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING 2PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to
the menu screen, or ESC to cancel the coating one point
calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on both calibration
points. The coating thickness readings should now match the known thickness values of
each sample. If the thickness is not correct, repeat these steps above.
6.2 Probe Zero
The next step is to perform a probe zero. The zero function is a very important and
necessary function that must be done prior to calibration. It should be done on a regular
basis. In fact, the TI-CMXDLP has been programmed to force this issue at regular
intervals during operation if it hasn’t been done. If the TI-CMXDLP is not zeroed
correctly, all the measurements taken may be in error by some xed value. When the
TI-CMXDLP is using the auto zero (electronic zero), the TI-CMXDLP can be in any
measurement mode. However, when the manual zero is being used, the TI-CMXDLP
must be in pulse-echo mode in order to perform the zero. The TI-CMXDLP will also see
to it that this occurs by simply forcing the gauge into this mode when zero. Therefore,
if the TI-CMXDLP is in the echo-echo measurement mode and a manual zero is being
performed, the TI-CMXDLP will put the gauge into pulse-echo mode automatically
before performing the zero. While this is a very convenient feature of the TI-CMXDLP,
the user should be sure to check the measurement mode following calibration to be
sure the TI-CMXDLP is in the desired mode. The following steps outline both of these
techniques.
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with two zero options:
1. Off Block Zero (Automatic Probe Zero) – When this feature is enabled the
TI-CMXDLP will do an electronic zero automatically, eliminating the need for a
zero disk or block.
2. On Block Zero (Manual Probe Zero) – When this feature is enabled the transducer
must be placed on the Probe Zero Disk (battery cover located on the top of the unit.
Both zero procedures are outlined as follows:
Performing an Auto Probe Zero (Off Block)
1. Be sure all couplant has been removed from the face of the transducer.
2. Press the OK key to perform the automatic probe zero, or ESC key to cancel the
zero operation.
3. The screens illustrated above will be briey displayed followed by the main
measurement screen. The TI-CMXDLP is ready to be calibrated.
– 70 –
Coating Probe IdentifiedCoating Probe Not Identified
– 35 –
Performing a Manual Probe Zero (On Block)
NOTE: When the zero probe option is set to manual, the
Probe Zero Disk(battery cap) located on the top of the
gauge will be used as a zero standard and the warning
screen illustrated above will be displayed.
1. Press the OK or ESC keys to enter the main
measurement screen and begin the manual zero process.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place
the transducer in steady contact with the Probe Zero
Disk and obtain a steady reading.
3. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the PRB
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub menu items until
ZERO PROBE is highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to display the conrmation screen.
6. If a coating transducer was identied use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to toggle
coating on/off.
7. Press the OK key to complete the probe zero function, or ESC key to cancel the
probe zero function.
8. Remove the transducer from the Probe Zero Disk, and proceed to the calibration
section.
NOTE: The value that is displayed will change depending on the current velocity
setting. Disregard the number that is displayed. It is not important. What is important
is accurately performing the steps outlined above to insure reliability of the probe zero
calculation.
One Point Calibration
NOTE: Use the maximum coating sample for the one point
calibration rst.
1. Physically measure the thicker of the two samples of
coating, as close as possible to the maximum expected
coating measurement range, using a set of calipers or a
digital micrometer.
VERY IMPORTANT: If coating measurements will be
made with the coating applied to a metal surface, the
calibration must be done in the same manner,with the
samples coupled to a metal surface. However, if the coating
will be measured as a stand alone material, the calibration
must be performed the same way.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady
contact with the thicker of the two coating and samples st. Be sure that the reading
is stable and the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully
lit and stable. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the
MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left
until the CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to
the menu screen, or ESC to cancel the coating one point
calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings
Coating Probe
Identified
– 36 –
Coating Probe
Not Identified
–69 –
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel the coating one point calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the calibration
point. The coating thickness reading should now match the known thickness. If the
thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
9.5 Introduction to Coating Measurement (CT)
In the previous sections we’ve discussed how to setup and use the coating feature for
use in conjunction with material thickness for aw and pit detection. The TI-CMXDLP
also has the capability to be used for general coating measurements. This measurement
mode is called Coating (CT) and can be enabled using the same methods as described in
a previous section above.
When the Coating Only (CT) mode is enabled, a two point calibration on the coating
samples must be performed. This is to ensure linearity over the coating measurement
range will be achieved.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If coating measurements will be made with the coating applied
to a metal surface, the calibration must be done in the same manner, with the samples
coupled to a metal surface. However, if the coating will be measured as a stand alone
material, the calibration must be performed the same way.
6.3 Material Calibration
In order for the TI-CMXDLP to make accurate measurements, it must be set to the
correct sound velocity of the material being measured. Different types of materials have
different inherent sound velocities. For example, the velocity of sound through steel
is about 0.233 inches per microsecond, versus that of aluminum, which is about 0.248
inches per microsecond. If the gauge is not set to the correct sound velocity, all of the
measurements the gauge makes will be erroneous by some xed percentage.
The One Point calibration is the simplest and most commonly used calibration method
—optimizing linearity over large ranges. The Two Point calibration allows for greater
accuracy over small ranges by calculating the probe zero and velocity. The TI-CMXDLP
provides four simple methods for setting the sound-velocity outlined below:
Using A Known Material Velocity
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until VELOCITY is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the velocity number is correctly displayed.
7. Press the OK key to set the velocity and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel
entering the velocity.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin
taking readings.
9.6 Two Point Coating Calibration (CT)
Known Thickness
The following section will demonstrate the two-point coating calibration procedure.
This example demonstrates a coating thickness range of .040” to .120” (1 to 3mm) as
follows:
NOTE: It’s always handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in conjunction
with the TI-CMXDLP for calibration in the eld:
– 68 –
Using A Known Material Thickness
Sometimes the sound velocity of a material is unknown. In this case a sample with one
or two known thicknesses can be used to determine the sound velocity. As previously
discussed, the TI-CMXDLP has a one or two point calibration option. The one point
calibration option is most suited for linearity over large ranges, as noted above. The user
should also consider calibrating on high side of the intended measurement range, when
using the one point option, minimize overall error. For example, if the measurement
– 37 –
range is .100” (2.54mm) to 1.0” (25.4mm), the user should calibrate on a known
thickness sample close to 1.0” (25.4mm).
NOTE: It’s always handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in conjunction
with the TI-CMXDLP for calibration in the eld.
One Point Calibration
NOTE: Be sure that the probe zero procedure has been performed prior to performing
this calibration procedure.
1. Physically measure an exact sample of the material or a location directly on the
material to be measured using a set of calipers or a digital micrometer.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady
contact with the sample or actual test material. Be sure that the reading is stable
and the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner
of the display, is fully lit and stable. Press the MENU
key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the
MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC
key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until MATL 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return
to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel the one point
calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the
transducer back on the calibration point. The thickness reading should now match the
known thickness. If the thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the velocity number is correctly
displayed.
7. Press the OK key to set the velocity and return to the
menu screen, or ESC to cancel entering the velocity.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
Known Thickness
Sometimes the sound velocity of a coating material is
unknown. In this case a sample with a known thickness can
be used to determine the sound velocity of the coating. As previously discussed, the
TI-CMXDLP offers a one point calibration option for coating in PECT measurement
mode. It is also import to reiterate that the coating sample must be coupled to a metallic
material in order to perform the calibration. The calibration should also consider
calibrating on high side of the intended measurement range, when using the one point
option, minimize overall error. For example, if the measurement range of the coating
will be from .040” - .080” (1.0mm – 2.3mm), a coating closest to .080 (2.0mm)
should be used. Note: It’s always handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in
conjunction with the TI-CMXDLP for calibration in the eld:
One Point Calibration
NOTE: Be sure that the probe zero procedure has been performed prior to performing
this calibration procedure.
1. Physically measure an exact sample of the coating using a set of calipers or a digital
micrometer.
NOTE: The coating sample must be coupled to a metallic
material in order to be calibrated.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on a piece of metal and place
the coating sample on the metal over the couplant. Apply a
drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer
in steady contact with the coating and sample or actual
test material. Be sure that the reading is stable and the
repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display,
is fully lit and stable. Press the MENU key once to activate
the menu items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to
tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
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– 67 –
NOTE: The coating measurement displayed will potentially be a value greater or less
than 0.
5. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the PRB menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
6. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until ZERO COATING is highlighted.
7. Press the ENTER key to display the conrmation screen.
8. Press the OK key to zero the coating and return to the
PRB menu, or ESC to cancel the coating zero process.
9. Press the MULTI MODE key once to activate the
measurement mode options.
10. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until Coating On (PECT) is
highlighted.
11. Press the ENTER key to select the measurement mode
and return to the measurement screen, and begin taking
readings. Proceed to the coating calibration section.
9.4 Coating Calibration (PECT)
Known Velocity
If the coating velocity is known, the user may wish to simply enter the velocity number
into the TI-CMXDLP, rather than have the TI-CMXDLP calculate the velocity value
using a known thickness on a coating sample(s). The steps for entering the velocity are
outlined below:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING VEL is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit locations.
At some point there may become a requirement for improved accuracy over a smaller
measurement range. In this case, a two point calibration would be most suited for the
job. For example, if the measurement range was .080” (2.03mm) to .250”(6.35mm), the
user would perform a one point calibration on a known thickness sample close to .250”
(6.35mm), followed by a two point calibration close to .080”(2.03mm). When a two
point calibration is performed, the TI-CMXDLP calculates the zero and the velocity.
The following steps outline this procedure:
Two Point Calibration
1. Physically measure an exact sample of the material or a location directly on the
material to be measured using a set of calipers or a digital micrometer.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady
contact with the sample or actual test material. Be sure that the reading is stable and
the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable.
Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until MATL 2PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return
to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel the one point
calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the
transducer back on the calibration point. The thickness
reading should now match the known thickness. If the
thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
– 66 –
– 39 –
Basic Material Type
If the material velocity is unknown, and a sample thickness cannot be taken from the
material, the user may opt to choose a basic material type from a list with approximate
velocity values according to various material types. It’s important to note that these
velocities will not always be an exact representation of the material being tested. Use
these values only if a close approximation is acceptable. Follow the steps below to select
a basic material type:
Selecting a Basic Material Type
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until MAT is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the list of material
types.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the material list until the appropriate material is
highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to overwrite the material type
and display the menu items with the new material type
selected.
6. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
To calibrate the TI-CMXDLP for a specic type of coating
using samples with known thicknesses, please refer to
Section 9.0 – Pulse-Echo Coating (PECT) or Coating (CT)
for a complete explanation of using the TI-CMXDLP for
coating measurements
Measure Mode (Tabbed Menus) – (PECT & CT)
1. Press the MENU key once
to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU
key multiple times to tab
right, and the ESC key
multiple times to tab left,
until the TUNE menu is
highlighted and displaying
the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN
arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu
items until MEASURE
Applied to Metals
MODE is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the modes.
4. When the correct MODE is being displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
9.3 Zero Coating
In order to account for very slight electronic differences in transducers of the same
type, frequency, and diameter, the TI-CMXDLP has been equipped with a “zero
coating”feature. This enables the TI-CMXDLP to obtain very accurate readings
on coatings,eliminating potential errors incurred from slight differences in the
manufacturing processes. The procedure is outlined below:
Performing A Coating Zero
1. Press the MULTI MODE key once to activate the
measurement mode options.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until Coating Only (CT) mode is
highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to select the measurement mode
and return to the measurement screen.
4. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the Probe Zero Disk
(battery cover) and obtain a steady reading.
– 40 –
– 65 –
Probe Automatically Recognized (PECT only)
1. Press the OK key once to use the identied probe, or
ESC to display a list of optional transducers.
NOTE: if the TI-CMXDLP recognizes a specic transducer,
the user should always select OK to use the identied probe.
The only time an alternative probe should be selected from a
list is if the user switched probes following initial power up
and recognition.
2. Assuming the TI-CMXDLP recognized the probe and
the OK key was pressed,the TI-CMXDLP will advance
to a Zero Probe menu. If the transducer was identied
as a special transducer capable of measuring coating
thickness, a menu will be displayed allowing the user the
ability to toggle the coating thickness display on/off as
follows:
3. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to toggle the
coating option on/off.
Multi Mode Key Pressed (PECT & CT)
1. Press the MULTI MODE key located on bottom left of
the keypad to display the MEASURE MODE options
menu.
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to highlight the
COATING ON (PECT ) or COATING ONLY (CT) menu option
3. Press the ENTER key to enable the coating option, or ESC to cancel
changing the measure mode, and return to the main measurement screen.
7.0 USING THE DISPLAY OPTIONS
A key feature of the TI-CMXDLP is the ability to toggle between four different
display options; Digits, RF, RECT and B-Scan. All views provide a digital readout of
base material and coating thickness measurements, while also displaying the alarm
tolerances, if active. A key feature of the TI-CMXDLP is the waveform display.
The waveform is a graphical representation of the sound reections returning to the
transducer. Consider standing at the base of a canyon and screaming “Hello There”.
After a brief delay, you will here multiple echoes, “Hello There’s” repeated back to you.
The waveform display shows the amplitude of the signal received on the vertical(Y)
axis and time (shown in units of thickness) on the horizontal (X) axis. The waveform
display is very useful for viewing and adjusting the location of the gates. The gates
are typically used to eliminate potential surface noise by adjusting the starting point in
single echo modes, for multi echo measurement modes, as well as to adjust the threshold
(sensitivity) in either mode. The waveform display is also very useful for locating pits
and internal aws in materials.
The B-Scan display is also very useful when scanning surfaces and viewing the
cross section of the test material. It provides a convenient way of visually proling,
or drawing a picture of, the blind surfaces during a scan. The B-Scan display is also
equipped with a scan bar representing the overall thickness. The scan bar gives the user
a visual indication when a aw or defect passed over during the scan process. The scan
bar will deect off of the defect and return back to the overall thickness. Visually, this is
much easier to notice than watching for changes in the digital value displayed. The scan
bar has also been included in the large digits display mode for the same purpose.
NOTE: The following chapter outlines some of the ne adjustment features of the
TI-CMXDLP. The TI-CMXDLP has four different display options (RF A-Scan,
Rectied A-Scan,B-Scan, and Large Digits). We’ll take a better look at these options in
this chapter.
NOTE: In order to recall and use the new adjustments made to the TI-CMXDLP at a
later time, the user must save the modied settings in one of the setup locations prior to
powering off the unit. Refer section 12.0 for more information on setups.
– 64 –
– 41 –
7.1 Display Views
DIGITS
The Digits view is a basic digital thickness gauge
look and feel. The larger digits make it much
easier for the operator to monitor the thickness
readings. The Scan Bar has also been added to the
Digits view to provide the user with yet another
visual tool for easily monitoring changes in
thickness readings due to internal aws or defects.
The following is a list of the viewable features on
the display:
A. Repeatability/Stability Indicator – This indicator should be commonly used in
conjunction with the digital thickness values displayed. When all the vertical
bars are fully illuminated and the last digit on the digital thickness value is stable,
the TI-CMXDLP is reliably measuring the same value 3 to 200 times per second,
depending on which measurement mode and features are enabled.
B. Battery Icon – Indicates the amount of battery life the TI-CMXDLP has remaining.
C. Velocity – The material velocity value the TI-CMXDLP is currently using or
calibrated for. Displayed in English or Metric units, depending on the what units the
gauge is set for.
D. Feature Status Bar – Indicates the features currently enabled and in use in the
following order:·
E. Digital Material Thickness Value – Extra large font size for viewing ease.
F. Scan Bar – Another view of material thickness in a deection style horizontal bar.
This is another visual tool that would enable the user the ability to see thickness
changes during high speed scans from aws and pits.
G. Units – The current measurement units being used (English, Metric).
H. Coating Thickness Value – Displays the actual thickness of any coating adhered to
a metallic material surface (PECT Mode), or a coating adhered to anon-metallic
surface (CT Mode).
I. Minimum Material Thickness – Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the minimum
thickness value found during a scan.
J. Maximum Material Thickness – Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the maximum
thickness value found during a scan.
9.0 PULSE-ECHO COATING & COATING TECHNIQUES
9.1 Introduction to Pulse-Echo Coating Measurement (PECT)
In the previous sections we’ve discussed the need for detecting pits and aws (pulse
echo) in materials, along with the requirement to measure through and eliminate errors
caused by coated materials (echo-echo). Until now, both modes were needed in order
accomplish both tasks. Pulse-echo mode was used for aw detection, and echo-echo
mode was used to eliminate the coating thickness and provide a nominal material
thickness only. With this in mind, it often became cumbersome toggling between both
modes respectively.
In a majority of applications involving coated materials, inspectors are often interested
in monitoring both the thickness of the material, as well as the thickness of the coating
. Therefore, the TI-CMXDLP has been designed to provide the user with the ability to
measure the material and coating thicknesses simultaneously, while maintaining the
ability to detect aws and pits all in a single mode called Pulse-Echo Coating (PECT).
This is accomplished by using a custom hybrid combination mode utilizing properties
from the basic modes along with a group of special techniques and theoretical wave
phenomena’s. The TI-CMXDLP is preset to a coating velocity of 0.0850 in/sec (2159
m/sec) from the factory. This velocity is a very close approximation of the common
coating velocities found in the eld. However, the TI-CMXDLP also has a built-in one
and two point calibration options to calibrate to coating samples with a known known
thickness. There are two coating modes built into the TI-CMXDLP:
1. Pulse-Echo Coating (PECT): Used during inspections where both the material and
coating thicknesses are required.
2. Coating Only (CT): Used during inspections where only the coating thickness is
required.
When the TI-CMXDLP is initially powered up, the gauge will automatically check
to see if the transducer plugged into the gauge can be recognized. All Electromatic
Ultrasonics coating enabled transducers are equipped with the auto recognition feature.
If the TI-CMXDLP doesn’t recognize that a special coating enabled transducer is
plugged into the gauge, the coating feature will be disabled entirely. There are a number
of coating enabled transducers available from Electromatic. Please contact us with
your application requirements for additional information on frequencies and diameters
currently offered. The coating modes can be enabled in three different ways:
1. On Power up and probe recognition.
2. By pressing MULTI MODE keypad.
3. From the tabbed menus under TUNE,MEASURE MODE.
The steps that follow will demonstrate all three methods in the order listed above:
– 42 –
– 63 –
The adjustment considerations in the example above will typically be used for
all thrupaint applications respectively. In some applications the hold -off may be
sufcient,while a gain(AGC) or thresholds adjustment will solve the problem. A
similarprocess of elimination should be considered for all thru paint applications.
B-Scan.
The B-Scan displays a time based cross section
view of test material. This view is commonly
used to display the contour of the blind, or
underside, surface of a pipe or tank application.
It is very similar to a sh nder. If a aw or pit
is located during a scan, the B-Scan will draw
the pit on the screen. The solid black rectangle
in the diagram at location K represents the cross
section, or side view of the material. The B-Scan
view draws at a rate of 7 seconds per screen
from right to left. Also notice at location K, the
pits and corroded bottom surface of the material.
It’s important to note that the measurement range on the display be set wide enough,so
that the maximum thickness of the material can be viewed on the display. Using the
diagram above, if the material thickness was actually 1.75”, the underside of the
material would not be viewable according to the current range at 0.00” – 1.00”. All the
user would see is a black screen from 0.00” – 1.00” with no view of the bottom contour
at 1.75”. The following is a list of the viewable features on the display:
A. Repeatability/Stability Indicator – This indicator should be commonly used
in conjunction with the digital thickness values displayed. When all the vertical
bars are fully illuminated and the last digit on the digital thickness value is stable,
the TI-CMXDL is reliably measuring the same value 3 to 200 times per second,
depending on which measurement mode and features are enabled.
B. Battery Icon – Indicates the amount of battery life the TI-CMXDL has remaining.
C. Velocity – The material velocity value the TI-CMXDL is currently using or
calibrated for. Displayed in either English or Metric units, depending on what units
the gauge is set for.
D. Feature Status Bar – Indicates the features currently enabled and in use in the
following order:· Measurement Mode (P-E, PECT, PETP, E-E, COAT)· Differential Mode (ON/OFF)· High Speed Scan Mode (ON/OFF)· Alarm Mode
(ON/OFF/AUDIBLE)· Gain Setting (VLOW, LOW, MED, HI, VHI)
E. Digital Material Thickness Value – Smaller font size Smaller font size when the
B-Scan display view is enabled.
F. Scan Bar – Another view of material thickness in a deection style horizontal bar.
This is another visual tool that would enable the user the ability to see thickness
changes during high speed scans from aws and pits.
G. Units – The current measurement units being used (English, Metric).
– 62 –
– 43 –
H. Coating Thickness Value – Displays the actual thickness of any coating adhered to
a metallic material surface (PECT Mode), or a coating adhered to a non-metallic
surface (CT Mode).
I. Minimum Material Thickness – Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the minimum
thickness value found during a scan.
J. Maximum Material Thickness – Part of the Scan feature. Displays the maximum
thickness value found during a scan.
K. B-Scan Display – Cross section view of the material. Provides the user with
graphical view of the opposite/blind surface (i.e. inside pipe wall surface), to give
the user some idea of the condition, or integrity of the material being tested.
Rectified (RECT) A-Scan
The RF mode shows the waveform in a similar fashion to an oscilloscope. It shows both
the positive and the negative peaks. The peak (either positive or negative)selected for
measurement is shown in upper portion of the display.
It’s important to note that a measurement must
fall inside the displays viewable range in order
to see the waveform. However, even if the
waveform is outside of the viewable range of
the display, a measurement can be taken and
viewed on the digital readout. If the wave is
outside of the display range, you can manually
change the range by adjusting the Delay
and Width values, or you can use the Auto
Find feature located in the UTIL menu of
the tabbed menu items. Refer to section 10.1
for additional information on the Auto Find
feature. The following is a list of the viewable
features on the display:
A. Repeatability/Stability Indicator – This indicator should be commonly used
in conjunction with the digital thickness values displayed. When all the vertical
bars are fully illuminated and the last digit on the digital thickness value is stable,
the TI-CMXDLP is reliably measuring the same value 3 to 200 times per second,
depending on which measurement mode and features are enabled.
B. Battery Icon – Indicates the amount of battery life the TI-CMXDLP has remaining.
C. Detect Indicator – The broken vertical line displays the zero crossing (ank)
detection point on the waveform where the measurement has been obtained. Notice
that the digital thickness readout is the same as the location of the detect indicator
according to the measurements labels F, also in the diagram.
When conguring the TI-CMXDLP for specic thru paint applications, all of the scope
parameters will potentially be needed. The delay, range, gain (AGC), thresholds,gates,
and hold-offs will be subject to change. For this reason, they have all been added to Hot
Menu elds located directly beneath the A-Scan display for quick and easy access.
NOTE: Once the values of the elds have been changed or modied,these changes must
be saved to a setup location prior to powering the TI-CMXDLP off. Failure to do so will
result in losing your changes. Refer to section 12.0 for additional information on setups.
Refer to the incorrect diagram above. Point (A) represents the detection on the rst
back wall echo. The true, second back wall, reection should be detecting at point (D).
Thru-Paint (Incorrect)Thru-Paint (Correct)
However, the hold-off (C) is setup incorrectly and the TI-CMXDLP is detecting the ring
down noise of the transducer, on the rst reection, rather than the true second back wall
reection shown at (D).
Before we look at the diagram with the correct conguration, let’s consider all of our
options on how to x the problem beforehand. Our delay and Range will simply change
the view options of the screen – not needed in this example. Will again (AGC) or
threshold adjustment x the problem? Unfortunately, not. Why?
Notice the amplitude of the cycle just to the left of (B). If we tried to increase the
threshold level above the height of the cycle, we would lose our detection for both
echoes resulting in no reading at all. If we decrease our gain(AGC), reducing the signal
amplitudes, we would also lose our detection of both back wall echoes. Notice that the
amplitude of the cycle just to the left of (C). The amplitude of the cycle, at (C), is less
than the amplitude of the cycle at (B), in terms of overall height. If we decreased our
gain(AGC), we would lose the rst cycle (C) long before losing the second cycle (B).
Therefore, adjusting the gain(AGC) or threshold levels will not help us in this example.
Our nal option is adjusting the GATE2 hold-off, shown at point (C) in the incorrect
diagram, to point (B) in the correct diagram. If we adjust the GATE2 hold-off further
to the right of the rst reection, the ring down noise from the rst back wall echo no
longer interferes with the true detection (D), shown in the correct diagram.
– 44 –
– 61 –
8.0 Thru Paint Measurement Technique
8.1 Introduction to Thru Paint Measurement
The principle behind thru paint measurement is by measuring the time between
twobackwall echoes returning from the test material. Since both of these backwall
echoes travel the same path through the paint or coating, the thickness of the coating
is subtracted out of the measurement so that only the actual material thickness can be
measured. This feature saves the user a great deal of time scraping and removing the
coating from tanks and pipes during the inspection process.
The TI-CMXDLP also has a special echo-echo verify option, or triple echo mode.
This measurement mode is identical to the echo-echo mode described above, with an
additional third echo measurement performed to verify the measurement between the
rst 2 echoes. By doing this, the TI-CMXDLP can conrm that a peak jump has not
occurred, and the measurement made is stable and correct. This mode is only suitable
for thin materials and coatings, as the ability to achieve 3 reections is not always
possible.
The primary purpose of thru paint measurement is to determine actual or overall
material thickness by eliminating the coating thickness. Thru paint mode cannot be
used for aw or pit detection. Therefore, inspectors may need to use echo-echo thrupaint mode in conjunction with the standard pulse-echo aw detection mode for some
applications. The combination applications. The combination of using both modes is
ideal for the advanced inspectors needs.
8.2 Using Thru Paint Mode
The rst thing to note in this section, is that by selecting the transducer type from the
list of probes stored in the TI-CMXDLP, a basic echo-echo thru paint conguration
is recalled from memory. Each of the transducers in the list contains pre-congured
echo-echo settings. However, ne adjustments may be necessary in order to be suitable
for your specic applications. These congurations are general setups only. Once the
transducer has been selected, or auto detected, and the appropriate calibration procedure
completed, the TI-CMXDLP can toggle between pulse-echo (aw &pits), and echo-echo
(thru-paint) modes by simply pressing the MULTI MODE key located on the keypad.
The standard transducer that will be used for common steel applications is a ¼” 5MHz
high damped transducer (1/4IN – 5.0MHZ HD). However, any of the transducers with
the HD label have been optimized for echo -echo thrupaint applications. Any of the
auto recognition coating transducers are also highdamped transducers, and will work in
echo-echo mode as well.
NOTE: When a transducer is selected for use, all of the measurement modesavailable
for use with this transducer can easily be determined by pressing the multi mode button
on the keypad. The TI-CMXDLP has been programmed to identify the modes available
to a specic transducer.
D. Baseline - The horizontal trace across the A-scan presentation for a no signal
condition. It represents time and is generally related to material distance or thickness.
E. Gate – An electronic feature that allows the user to monitor signals inside the
boundaries of the gate settings. The height of the gate from the baseline is known as
the threshold, and controls the sensitivity of the reections that trigger a detection
from the opposite surface of the material.
F. Measurement Scale – Represents thickness values over a dened measurement
range, and labeled at the calibrated hash marks on the display (X) axis.
G. Digital Material Thickness Value – The thickness of the base material.
H. Minimum Thickness Value – Dynamically updates the value during a scan,and
displays the minimum thickness value found.
NOTE: Only visible when high speed scan mode is enabled.
I. Units – The current measurement units being used (English, Metric)
J. Velocity – The material velocity value the TI-CMXDLP is currently using or
calibrated for. Displayed in either English or Metric units, depending on what units
the gauge is set for.
K. RECT waveform – The half cycle, either positive or negative, of the RF sine wave,
created by the reected sound, or oscillation, from the material being measured.
This view is typically considered as “aw” view.
L. Coating Thickness Value – Displays the actual thickness of any coating adhered
to a metallic material surface (PECT Mode), or a coating adhered to anon-metallic
surface (CT Mode).
M. Minimum Thickness Value – Dynamically updates the value during a scan,and
displays the minimum thickness value found.
NOTE: Only visible when high speed scan mode is enabled.
N. Feature Status Bar - Indicates the features currently enabled and in use in the
following order:·
• Measurement Mode (P-E, PECT, PETP, E-E, COAT)·
• Differential Mode (ON/OFF)·
• High Speed Scan Mode (ON/OFF)·
• Alarm Mode (ON/OFF/AUDIBLE)·
• Gain Setting (VLOW, LOW, MED, HI, VHI)
– 60 –
– 45 –
7.2 Changing Display Options
The following procedure outlines how to select or toggle display options:
1. Press the MENU key once
to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right,
and the ESC key multiple
times to tab left,until the
DISP menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu
items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN
arrow keys to scroll through
the sub menu items until
VIEW is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the view options. Once the
appropriate view is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement
screen and begin taking measurements.
7.3 Adjusting the display
This section will cover the procedures for adjusting the viewable range, or area, of the
display, in terms of thickness. A basic overview of this section would be as follows:
Suppose we had a 50” wide screen television set. Assume that you’re watching the
television for rest of this explanation. The left side of the television screen is considered
the Delay for all view options other than B-Scan. In B-Scan view, it’s called B-Start.
Therefore, Delay (B-Start) are identical, with the exception of the terminology used, and
represent the left side of the television screen.
The right side of the television screen is considered the Range + Delay, in all view
options with the exception of B-Scan, once again. In B-Scan view, it would be
considered B-Depth + B-Start. Therefore, the following should be considered: Delay
(B-Start) + Range (B-Depth) = right side of the screen, depending on what view option
is active.
Now, by adjusting the left and right side of the television screen, to control the viewable
area/range, we can zoom in and out of any part of the 50” screen we’d like,and focus on
only the specic areas of the screen we need to. Therefore, if I am measuring a part, and
am only interested in viewing the thickness range/area from .500” – 1.0”, and I’d like to
zoom in a bit to get a close up look at things, I’d set my Delay (B-Start) to .500” and my
Range (B-Depth) to .500”. This would make the left side of my screen start at .500”, and
the right side of the screen at 1.0”.
6. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the highlighted value.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 until all the (?) values are correctly adjusted.
The user can also access and adjust the (?) from the tabbed menus. However, this
method is more tedious than making the adjustments using the Hot Menus. The
procedure for using the tabbed menus is outlined below:
Adjusting the Features of the Gates using the Tabbed Menus
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the
menu items tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right, and the ESC
key multiple times to tab left, until the
(?) menu is highlighted and displaying
the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll through the sub menu items until
(?) is highlighted
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys
to scroll the value. When the correct (?)
is being displayed, proceed to step 8.
4. Alternatively, press the ENTER key to
display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll the highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys
to scroll the digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the (?) number
is correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to set the (?) and return
to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel
entering the (?).
9. Repeat steps 1-8 to set any additional (?)
level.
10. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to
the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
– 46 –
– 59 –
located inside the dimensions of GATE1 (B). Therefore, the TI-CMXDLP cannot
see (A)at all, with respect to the starting point of (B). Also notice, the position of the
threshold level with respect to the baseline (D), which represents the sensitivity setting
of the threshold. Extreme sensitivity is indicated by the bottom of the range(D) at the
baseline, and less sensitivity indicated by the top of the range at (D).Therefore, the
vertical height of GATE1 from the baseline, is the threshold level. The threshold level
can be increased to decrease sensitivity, or visa versa.
If the threshold level was increased in the Noise diagram, so that the vertical position of
GATE1 was higher than the amplitude of the noise (A), the TI-CMXDLP would have
detected on the true back wall (C). Alternatively, if the gain level was decreased, the
signal amplitude of the noise (A) would have decreased below the threshold level,and
the TI-CMXDLP would have also detected the true back wall (C). This example brings
all the ne adjustments into consideration, and demonstrates the versatility of having a
fully functional scope rather than a basic digital thickness gauge.
The procedures to adjust all of the features associated with the Gates are outlined below:
NOTE: This is a combined procedure that works the same for any of the features
associated with the gates, regardless of which feature and gate number that is being
adjusted. Therefore (? ) = Gate1, Hold-Off, and Width respectively. Finally, the
illustrations may not be applicable to the exact feature being adjusted, but the concepts
relevant.
Adjusting the Features of the Gates Using the Hot Menus
GateHoldoffsWidths
1. Press the MEAS key once to activate measure menu items. Press the MEAS key
multiple times to move right and the ESC key multiple times
to move left, until the (? ) cell is highlighted.
2. If the correct (? ) is displayed, press the UP, DOWN,
LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
3. Alternatively, if the correct (? ) is not being displayed,
press the ENTER key to display the List Box.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
List Box items until the correct (? ) is highlighted.
5. Press the MEAS key to return to the measure screen and
Hot Menu items.
Setting the Delay (B-Start)
The Delay (B-Start) represents the left side of the display, and can be adjusted to start
at any thickness value within the overall range of the TI-CMXDLP. The value the Delay
(B-Start) is set too, is the minimum thickness value that will be displayed on the screen
NOTE: Once the delay is set, it will remain the same for the views: Digits, RF, RECT.
However, in B-Scan view, the B-Start is an independent setting from Delay, and allow
the user to store two independent settings respectively. The procedures to adjust the
Delay (B-Start) are outlined below:
1. Press the MEAS key once to
activate measure menu items.
Press the MEAS key multiple
times to move right and the
ESC key multiple times to
move left, until the DELAY
cell is highlighted
2. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT,
and RIGHT arrow keys to
scroll the highlighted value.
3. Alternatively , press the
ENTER key to display the
Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN
arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT
arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the
DELAY value is correctly
displayed.
7. Press the OK key to return to the measurement screen, or ESC to cancel entering the
DELAY.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
– 58 –
– 47 –
Adjusting the Range (B-Depth)
Once again, just to reiterate, the Range (B-Depth) + Delay (B-Start) equals the right
side of the screen. Therefore, the Range (B-Depth) is the overall area, from the delay,
that will be viewable on the screen. The TI-CMXDLP digitizer will round up from the
Range (B-Depth) that’s entered. Therefore, if the Range (B-Depth) is set at 1.0”, the
digitizer will round this value up to the next adjustment available. The procedures to
adjust the overall thickness range viewed Range (B-Depth) are outlined below:
1. Press the MEAS key once to
activate measure menu items.
Press the MEAS key multiple
times to move right and the
ESC key multiple times to move
left, until the WIDTH cell is
highlighted.
2. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT,
and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll
the highlighted value.
3. Alternatively , press the ENTER
key to display the Digits Edit
Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow
keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT
arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the
WIDTH value is correctly
displayed.
7. Press the OK key to return to the
measurement screen, or ESC to
cancel entering the WIDTH.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to
return to the measurement screen
and begin taking readings.
aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. This can also be a function of using a low
frequency transducer, which are known to be inherently noisy off the initial pulse. The
start feature of the gate is also used in multiple echo modes to control measurements
between 2 or more echoes. As we saw in previous section,the threshold can be used
to control the sensitivity level, and used in combination with the width, control the
sensitivity over a specic range.
Gate 2 & 3
These gate options will most commonly be used for multiple echo measurement modes,
to measure between 2 or more echoes ( E-E and E-EV). They are also handy to use in
a stand pulse echo mode, to create a pseudo time corrected gain feel. As the thickness
of the material increases, the signal amplitude of the reection decreases. Why not just
turn up the gain? Well, this is certainly something to consider, but is not always the
best answer. As the gain is increased, the noise level is also increased. At some point,
increasing the gain provides little or no benet to the quality of the signal, and the
additional noise introduced makes things worse. By activating another gate, optimizing
the gain level, setting the thresholds, and adjusting the widths of the gates to cover
specic thickness ranges, a tough application might not be so bad after all. These gates
have the following features set assigned to them; holdoff (delay), width, and threshold.
Example of Surface or Transducer Noise
NoiseBlocked
The diagrams above illustrate a typical surface noise condition. Refer to the Noise
diagram: (A) refers to the noise in front of the actual back wall signal (C). Notice the
start position of the gate. As a result, the TI-CMXDLP is detecting on the noise (A) as
shown at point (B). However, the true measurement should be taken at point (C). Given
the start, threshold, and gain levels, the amplitude from the noise is sufcient enough
to cause the TI-CMXDLP to detect, or measure the noise rather than the true back wall
thickness.
– 48 –
Now refer to the Blocked diagram. The horizontal line at the top of (D), is GATE1. The
start of GATE1 has been moved just beyond the noise (A) to block the noise and detect
on the correct signal (C). Note: the TI-CMXDLP will only detect on signals that are
– 57 –
Activating the gates:·
Automatically:
The gates are automatically activated, when a measurement
mode is selected. Gate1 is active in all measurement modes.
These modes have been internally setup at the factory.
Therefore, if the user selects the Thru Coat (E-E) option, an
internal setup will be loaded, and 2 gates will automatically
be activated. This setup will work ne for the majority of all
common applications. The user has the ability to ne adjust
the gates settings, which will be further explained in the
sections that follow.·
Manually:
The gates can also be activated
manually by using the Hot or Tabbed
menus. For example: If any of
the pulse echo modes (PE, PECT,
PETP), shown in diagram 1, have
been selected, only gate 1 will have
been activated from the factory
setup. However, the user may have
a requirement to activate and utilize
more than one gate, depending on the application.
7.7 Gates
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with 3 gates, as explained in the previous section. One
gate is active at all times in every measurement mode, with the exception of coating
mode. These gates are full featured and completely adjustable. They can be ne tuned
by the user to accommodate a variety of application scenarios. Diagram 1 in the
previous section outlines the gates and features available for all measurement modes.
Refer to the previous section for additional information. These features are described in
more detail below:
NOTE: In order to adjust the gates they must be activated. The gates are automatically
activated depending upon the measurement mode selected. If a gate is inactive, it will
be grayed out in the hot and tabbed menus. The explanations thatfollow, assume that the
proper measurement mode has been selected. Refer to section 5.2 for more information
on selecting measurement modes.
Gate 1
Is used in all measurement modes, and has the following features assigned to it;start,
width, and threshold. A gate can be used to overcome a great deal of application
scenarios. Surface noise, for instance, close to the initial pulse can cause the erroneous
measurements as the transducer receives reections from the noise. By adjusting the
start position of the gate, the noise can be blocked and eliminated. This is typical in
Tabbed MenuHot Menu
Adjusting the B-Scan Speed (color version only)
The color version of the TI-CMXDLP has the
capability to adjust the scrolling speed of the time
based B-Scan displayed in the gauge. The procedures
to adjust the speed are outlined below:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu
items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times
to tab right, and the ESC key multiple times to
tab left,until the DISP menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll
through the sub menu items until B-SCAN SPEED is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the speed from 0-10.
NOTE: 10 representing the fastest scroll time.
Once the appropriate speed is displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin the B-Scan process.
4. Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the SPEED is correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to set the speed and return to the DISP menu., followed by
pressing the MEAS key to begin the B-Scan process.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin the
scanning process.
7.4 Gain
The gain, or amplication of the return echoes, can be adjusted in the TI-CMXDLP
to accommodate a variety of applications. The setting of the gain is crucial in order to
obtain valid readings during the measurement process. Too much gain may result in
erroneous measurements, by detecting on noise rather than the actual material back wall
itself. Not enough gain may result in intermittent detection. It may also result in lack
of detection on internal aws, pits, or porosity. The gain can easily be compared to the
volume control of a home stereo system. If you turn it up too much, you can’t hear the
music clearly. If it’s turned down too much, you can’t hear it.
– 56 –
– 49 –
The TI-CMXDLP has 110dB gain range, but has been limited to a 60dB gain range (-10
to 50 dB), for thickness gauge applications. The common starting point for standard
thickness gauge applications is 46dB. This feature is used to increase/decrease the
power or amplitude of the signal. When used in conjunction with the attenuator feature,
it has a limited overall gain range of -30dB to 70dB.
The gain can be adjusted to accommodate a variety of material types. Having this
feature available, provides the user with a great deal of exibility. Some applications
may require the lower or higher gain settings. When? The low settings may be necessary
for noisy or granular cast materials.
How do I know when to lower the gain? If the reading becomes sporadic and won’t
settle down or resolve on a thickness value, the user can assume that the material is
either very noisy aluminum,or granular cast iron. This would be a good time to change
the TI-CMXDLP to lower gain setting and see if the reading settles down and become
stable. How do I know when to increase the gain? Often times the user will be trying to
measure a material that is hard to penetrate or pass sound through. This may be due to
the material type, or overall thickness of the material. When a material is hard to pass
sound through because of the thickness or general make-up, it would be a good time to
consider increasing the TI-CMXDLP to a higher gain setting. Another example might
be the need to increase overall sensitivity for locating ne pits or aws. In any case, the
adjustable gain feature offers the user some additional options to resolve and overcome
application issues
NOTE: When the echo-echo thru-paint, or echo-echo-verify measurement modes are
selected, the manual gain feature is disabled and grayed out in the menu items. In this
mode, the TI-CMXDLP switches to an automatic gain mode (AGC) that optimizes the
gain setting automatically in the hardware of the TI-CMXDLP. The procedures to adjust
the Gain are outlined below:
Adjusting the Gain using the Hot Menus
1. Press the MEAS key once to activate measure
menu items. Press the MEAS key multiple times
to move right, and the ESC key multiple times to
move left until the cell is highlighted.
2. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow
keys to scroll the highlighted value.
Hold-Off:
The hold-off is the starting point of the left side of gates 2 & 3, and is used only if a
detection is found inside the previous gate. It should be considered a delay from the
detection point of the previous gate. When the hold-off is off, or 0, the gate will start at
the point of detection from the previous gate. As the value of the hold-ofs increased, it
is further delaying the start of the gate to the right of the detection of the previous gate.
NOTE: Although we’ve used the terminology of hold-off for gate 3,it is actually a
“hold-back” from the detection of the second echo. Therefore, as the value is increased,
the “hold -back” moves closer to the second detection. Just the opposite of the operation
of gate 2 hold-off. See diagram 2.
Width:
The width determines the physical length of the gate. Therefore, the width –start (hold
-off) equals the length of the gate, as the start (hold -off) value is not equal to zero. If no
detection is located inside the boundaries of a gate, the width value is used to start the
next available gate. Key point: When the width is activated for agate, giving it a value,
the next available gate is also activated. Therefore, activating width1 of gate1, activates
gate2, and activating width2 of gate2, activates gate3. See diagram 2.
Thresh:
The threshold controls the level of sensitivity of the signal amplitude required to trigger
a detection, or measurement. It is represented by the distance from the baseline, and
displayed as the vertical position of a gate. The further the vertical position is from the
baseline, the less sensitive the threshold is, and visa versa. This allows the user to have
further control over the size of the defects considered critical, or the ability to get a
detection, from the opposite surface, in very attenuative materials. This feature is used
in conjunction with gain. Increasing the threshold has a similar effect of decreasing the
gain, and visa versa.
– 50 –
– 55 –
7.6 Understanding the features of the Gate
IMPORTANT: It is recommended to spend some time in this section. The sections that
follow are procedures for using the features associated with the Gates, in some way.
There are 3 gates in the TI-CMXDLP, and as a result, operating and setting them up
can become somewhat convoluted, to say the least. However, a thorough understanding
of the functionality presented in this section, will reveal how easy they actually are to
operate overall. The following diagrams illustrate the features of all 3 gates,according to
the measurement mode selected:
NOTE: This is a general overview and should be referred to in conjunction with the
detailed feature sections that follow.
In diagram 1, the gates have been associated with the measurement modes, along with
the features available to every gate. For example, echo-echo mode (EE) has 2 gates
available, while echo-echo verify (EEV) has 3. These gates have been designed to work
in order, from 1 to 3, and cannot be used any other way. Therefore, the user must be
using gate 2 before they can activate and use gate 3.
NOTE: Gate 1 is on at all times, as a gate must be activated to get a measurement. Each
gate has a given set of features to ne adjust the settings of the gate. Let’s have a look
at the feature set:
Start (Gate1):
This feature is only available to gate 1, and determines the start value of the left side
of the gate. For example, if there’s a great deal of noise from the initial pulse, or in the
material, the gate can be moved to the right of the noise and block the unwanted noise.
Gates 2 and 3 will automatically start from the end of gate 1, or from a detection found
inside of the boundaries of gate 1. Therefore, we use a hold-off delay as a start feature
for gates 2 and 3. See Diagram 2.
3. Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the
igits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the GAIN value is correctly
displayed.
7. Press the OK key to return to the measurement screen,
or ESC to cancel entering the GAIN.
The user can also access and adjust the gain from the tabbed menus. However, this
method is more tedious than making the adjustments using the Hot Menus. The
procedure using the tabbed menus is outlined below:
Adjusting the Gain using the Tabbed Menus
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right, and the ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the
TUNE menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until GAIN is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
value. When the correct Gain is being displayed, proceed
to step 8 .
4. Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the
Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the Gain value is correctly
displayed.
8. Press the OK key to set the Gain and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the Gain.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
– 54 –
– 51 –
7.5 Threshold
The Threshold is the level (sensitivity) of the signal amplitude required to trigger
the thickness reading. This level can be used in conjunction with the gain. Example:
suppose the user can visually see a potential aw on the display, but the TI-CMXDLP
is not detecting on the aw because the Gain is too low, or the Threshold to high. The
Threshold level can be decreased (lower sensitivity) in order to detect signals with lower
amplitudes. This will allow the amplitude from the reection of the aw to reach and
exceed the Threshold level, and enable the TI-CMXDLP to detect on the aw or defect.
This can also be accomplished by increasing the Gain, allowing the signal to exceed the
current Threshold level. Lowering the Threshold (increases sensitivity),and raising the
Threshold decreases the sensitivity respectively.
The TI-CMXDLP is equipped with 3 independent gates, each with an adjustable
threshold level. All three gates can be enabled in any of the pulse echo modes, and in
echo-echo verify mode, and the thresholds set at varying levels of sensitivity. The allows
the user to create a pseudo make-shift “time corrected gain” function, by increasing
the sensitivity of each gate at different thickness values. A visual example would bean
upside down stair case, where each step represented a separate gate, for a specic
thickness range. The procedures to adjust the Thresholds are outlined below:
Adjusting the Thresholds using the Hot Menus
1. Press the MEAS key once
to activate measure menu
items. Press the MEAS key
multiple times to move right
and the ESC key multiple
times to move left, until
the THRESH(1-3) cell is
highlighted.
2. If the correct THRESHOLD
is displayed, press the UP,
DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT
arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
3. Alternatively, if the correct Threshold is not being displayed, press the ENTER key
to display the List Box.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the List Box items until the
correct THRESHOLD is highlighted.
5. Press the MEAS key to return to the measure screen and Hot Menu items.
6. Press the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
7. Repeat steps 3 thru 6 until all the THRESH values are correctly adjusted.
The user can also access and adjust the Threshold from the tabbed menus. However,
this method is more tedious than making the adjustments using the Hot Menus. The
procedure for using the tabbed menus is outlined below:
Adjusting the Thresholds using the Tabbed Menus
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items
tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and
the ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the GT1
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub menu items until
THRESHOLD1 is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
value. When the correct threshold is being displayed,
proceed to step 8 .
4. Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the
Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the
digit locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the Threshold number is correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to set the Threshold and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel entering the Threshold.
9. Repeat steps 1-8 to set any additional Threshold level.
10. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
– 52 –
– 53 –
17.0 WARRANTY
ELECTROMATIC Equipment Co., Inc. (ELECTROMATIC) warrants to the original
purchaser that this product is of merchantable quality and conrms in kind and quality
with the descriptions and specications thereof. Product failure or malfunction arising
out of any defect in workmanship or material in the product existing at the time of
delivery thereof which manifests itself within one year from the sale of such product,
shall be remedied by repair or replacement of such product, at ELECTROMATIC’s
option, except where unauthorized repair, disassembly, tampering, abuse or
misapplication has taken place, as determined by ELECTROMATIC. All returns
for warranty or non-warranty repairs and/or replacement must be authorized by
ELECTROMATIC, in advance, with all repacking and shipping expenses to the address
below to be borne by the purchaser.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR
PURPOSE OR APPLICATION. ELECTROMATIC SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE
NOR LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE, OF ANY KIND OR
NATURE, RESULTING FROM THE USE OF SUPPLIED EQUIPMENT, WHETHER
SUCH DAMAGE OCCURS OR IS DISCOVERED BEFORE, UPON OR AFTER
REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR, AND WHETHER OR NOT SUCH DAMAGE IS
CAUSED BY MANUFACTURER’S OR SUPPLIER’S NEGLIGENCE WITHIN ONE
YEAR FROM INVOICE DATE.
Some State jurisdictions or States do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages, so the above limitation may not apply to you. The duration
of any implied warranty, including, without limitation, tness for any particular
purpose and merchantability with respect to this product, is limited to the duration of
the foregoing warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied
warranty lasts but, not withstanding, this warranty, in the absence of such limitations,
shall extend for one year from the date of invoice.
ELECTROMATIC Equipment Co., Inc.
600 Oakland Ave. Cedarhurst, NY 11516—USA
Tel: 1-800-645-4330/ Tel: 516-295-4300/ Fax: 516-295-4399
Every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual. Electromatic Equipment Co., Inc., assumes
no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of
information contained herein. Any brand or product names mentioned herein are used for identication purposes
only, and are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
CHECK•LINE
BY ELECTROMATIC
Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge
Models TI-CMXDLP & TI-CMXDLP-C
®
CHECK•LINE
INSTRUMENTS
®
ELECTROMATIC
E Q U I P M E N T C O., I N C.
600 Oakland Ave., Cedarhurst, NY 11516 – USA
TEL: 516-295-4300 • FAX: 516-295-4399
Operating Manual
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