PCE Instruments PCE-FD 20 Users guide

ULTRASONIC FLAW DETECTOR

PCE-FD 20

Operating Manual

2014

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CONTENTS

1. List of Abbreviations used.………………………………………….2

2. Introduction.………………………………………………………….2

3. Operating Conditions.……………………………………………….3

4. Specifications.…………………………………………………….….4

5. Operating principle.………………………………….…………..….5

6. Operation of the device.…………………………………………….7

7. Basic settings of flaw detector.…………………………………...22

8. Device memory.………………………………………………...….29

9. Calibration of the flaw detector.……………………...………..….30

10. Maintenance.…………………………………………………….....35

11. Precautions and trouble shouting.……………………...….…….35

12. Contact information.……….....……..……..……..……..……..….36

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1. List of Abbreviations used

The manual has the following abbreviations and symbols:
AFS – automatic signaling of defects;

TVG – time varied gain;
NDT – nondestructive testing;
CB – calibration block;
US – ultrasonic.

2. Introduction

2.1. Appointment of flaw detector

Flaw detector is designed for testing of products for the presence of
defects such as discontinuity and homogeneity of materials, semi­finished products and welds for measuring depth and coordinates of
defects, measure the thickness and sound velocity in the material.
Flaw detector implements shadow, echo and mirror-shadow testing
methods. Flaw detector allows user to create, record and stored in
nonvolatile memory temporary implementation of pulsed ultrasonic
signals to subsequent transmitting to the PC for analysis and
presentation in the form of a document. Integrated liquid crystal
display (LCD) provides a mapping of ultrasonic signals in the form of
A-scan, as well as images of cross sections of testing objects in the
form of B-scans.
Flaw detector can be used in mechanical engineering, aerospace,
metallurgy, mounting hardware, power equipment, as well as for the
testing of transportation facilities.

2.2. Testing

For proper ultrasonic testing user must have testing methods for
similar products and special requirements for ultrasonic testing.
These requirements include: the definition of the task of testing,
selection of suitable control techniques (testing schemes), the

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selection of transducers, an assessment of the known conditions of
control in such materials, the selection of the minimum size of the
reflector for this type of product, reject level and so on.

2.3. Velocity of ultrasonic vibrations

Accuracy of measurement of thickness and position of defects
depends on the correct setting of the ultrasonic velocity in the
material. Velocity of ultrasound is dependent on the physical
characteristics of the material and its temperature.

3. Operating Conditions

The device is designed to operate in the following environmental
conditions:

- The temperature from -15 to +50 °C;

- Relative humidity to 95% at a maximum temperature of +35 °C.
The location of the flaw detector must be protected from direct

exposure to dust, moisture and corrosive environments. The field
strength of radio noise at the location of the flaw detector should not
exceed the value of the infringing operation, i.e. creator of the flaw
detector at the amplifier input voltage greater than half the maximum
sensitivity. At high field strength of radio interference must be taken
measures to shielding placements of flaw detector from the external
electromagnetic field.
Operating position of the flaw detector may be any convenient for
the user. To avoid moisture condensation inside the flaw detector
when moving it from a cold to a warm place, it is necessary to
sustain flaw detector for at least 4 hours before turning on in the
premises.

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4. Specifications

Operating Frequency Range

from 1 to 10,0 MHz

The range of measured time intervals
(duration of scanning)

from 6 to 1000 µs
Velocity range

1000 - 9999 m / s

The error of measurement of time
intervals

not exceed ± 0,025 µs

Maximum permissible error of
measurement of the amplitudes of the
signals at the receiver input in the
range from 0 to 110 dB

not exceed ± 0,5 dB;

Testing gain range

125 dB

Averaging over the quantity of starts

from 1 to 16

Digitally reconfigurable bandpass filter with tunable center
frequency of the filter from 1 Hz to 10 MHz

The range of variation of temporal
sensitivity adjustment (TVG)

40 dB
Number of control points TVG

15

The duration of the excitation pulse to
the load

from 0,0 to 0,5 µs

The amplitude of the excitation pulse to
the 50 Ohm load, not less

100, 200, 300

Operating frequency range of the
receiver on the level -3 dB

from 1 to 10 MHz

Deviation of the amplitudes of input
signals in the range from 10 to 100% of
the screen height not more than

1 dB
Scanning

from 1 to 1000 µs

Delay of scanning

from 0 to 2000 µs

Range of measurement of time
intervals

from 0 to 1000 µs
Setting a delay in the prism of the

from 0 to 15 µs

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probe

Automatic signaling of defects (AFS)

dual-gate

Setting range of AFS gates

from 0 to 2000 µs

Adjusting thresholds of AFS gates

from 0 to 100 %
высоты экрана

Detection of signals

positive half-wave, radio
mode

Dimensions (WxHxD)

80х162х38 mm;

Weight, not more

250 g (without batteries)

Mean time between failures

not less than - 3000
hours

Ultrasound probes used - ultrasonic piezoelectric transducers for
pulse flaw detectors.

The dimensions of the operating area of the screen is 48 x 74 mm.;
Electrical power is supplied from the following sources:

- AC power from 100 to 250 V, a frequency of (50 ± 1) MHz;

- AA batteries 1,5 V (3 pcs.).

5 . Operating principle

Operating principle of flaw detector is based on the ultrasonic
contact NDT method, which uses the properties of ultrasonic
vibrations to reflect from the borders between materials with different
acoustic impedance. The ultrasonic transducer emits ultrasonic
impulse into the tested object. Reflected from the defects or the
product surface the echo signals are received by the ultrasonic
transducer. The resulting electrical signals are subject to
amplification, digitization, processing and output to the display.
Displays echoes received by the flaw detector is performing as
scanning of type A (A-scan) as well as images of cross sections of
tested objects in form of B-scan.

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5.1. Electronic unit of flaw detector

Flaw detector makes the formation of electrical pulses to excite the
piezoelectric transducer, gain derived from the piezoelectric
transducer signals, processing and visualization of the formation and
representation measurements in digital form, saving data in non­volatile memory and transfer it to PC.
The appearance of the electronic unit is shown on picture 6.1.
Operation of flaw detector makes by keyboard. Visualization of
signals and display of measurement results, the state of flaw
detector and other information is shown on the LCD.
Connecting the probe is carried out by the coaxial cable through the
connectors LEMO, which are located on top side of the devices
body.
The device is powered by a three batteries type AA, or the included
in set external charger connected to the mini-USB connector located
on the bottom of the electronic unit of the flaw detector.

5.2. Probes

Flaw detector is designed to operate with the contact, dual element
and separated ultrasonic transducers with an operating frequency in
the range from 1 to 10.0 MHz.
The device uses a generator of bipolar sounding pulses with
adjustable duration, which provides compatibility with both probes:
have integrated terminating inductance and without them, allowing
operation operate with most types of probes on the market.
Depending on the type of probe it is used two types of cables and,
correspondingly, two ways to connect the probe:

- Ultrasonic transducers (type S) are connected via single cable
LEMO-LEMO to the left LEMO connector;

- Dual element transducers (type D) are connected by a double
cable 2LEMO-2LEMO. Right connector is used to connect the

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receiver of the piezoelectric element, the left - transmitter of the
piezoelectric element.

6 . Operation of the device

The basis of flaw detector operation is founded on the ability of
ultrasonic vibrations spread into tested object and reflect from
internal defects and object sides. The received signal is amplified
and then converted into digital form processed by the
microprocessor and the graphics and digitally displayed on the
display.
Visualization of signals, display of measurement results, state of the
flaw detector and other information are shown on the LCD. Exterior
of the flaw detector is shown on picture 6.1.

Picture

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6.1 Exterior of the flaw detector

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6.1. Controls

Controls of the flaw detector presents as a keyboard.
The keyboard has 10 keys:

- switching on/off – press and hold for at least 3 seconds to

turn on or off the device.

- "freezing” of the screen.

- screen rotation 90°.

- menu options.

- cancel the action and return to the previous menu.

- cursor movement, decrease the selected parameter.

- cursor movement.

- cursor movement, increase the selected parameter.

- cursor movement.

- enter.

To change the value of the selected parameter use the buttons

or to select the parameter, by key (decrease

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the value of the selected parameter) or (increasing the value
of the selected parameter) to set the required value.

To change the discreteness of the selected parameter value

changes, as well as to confirm the selected action use key .
Selected discreteness displays as one of the icons near
the variable parameter.

6.2. Preparing to work with the device

Read this instruction manual and follow its instructions.
Flaw detector must be protected from direct exposure to dust,
moisture, corrosive environments, and must be sufficiently lit by light
sources.
The field strength of the external interference at the location of the
flaw detector must not exceed values that violate its performance. At
high field strength of external interference must be taken to shielding
placements of the flaw detector, as well as its power supply and
connected cables.
When operating from AC power to the flaw detector must be
supplied mains with voltage from 100 to 250 V and with frequency of
(50 ± 1) Hz.
If in the power supply network arise switching noise in power supply
network of the flaw detector must enable network filter.
To avoid moisture condensation inside the body, when moving from
a cold environment to a warm, device must be hold in the warmth for
4 hours to dry completely.
At air temperatures below 10°C after switching on flaw detector must
be warmed for at least 15 minutes.

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Controls and indicator of the flaw detector located on the front panel,
as shown in Picture 6.1.

Operating connectors are located at the top and bottom sides of the
devices body.

WARNING! To prevent damage of connectors and cables - follow
the instructions below!

Used in the device connectors consist of two parts: the instrument
socket and the cable plug (Pic. 6.2.).

Picture 6.2. Connector used in the device

A method of connecting and disconnecting the plug and socket
shown on Picture 6.2.1. When connecting user must ensured that
the points of red color (if any) are plotted on the plug and the socket
are jumped together.

CAUTION: When disconnecting the plug from the socket, hold its
body in the dotted area. Do not pull the cable!!

Picture 6.2.1 Manipulations with LEMO connectors

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6.3. Turning on the flaw detector

If operation will be carried out by an external power supply, it is
necessary to connect the power supply unit of the flaw detector to
the power connector, located on the down side of the devices body.
Operation of the device is possible during battery charging.
Before switching on flaw detector connect transducer. Connect the
power adapter supplied with flaw detector to the corresponding
connector. If you connect the battery and power supply, the flaw
detector is powered from the power supply, if the power supply is
disconnected, flaw detector automatically goes to battery supply.

To enable (disable) flaw detector press and hold it for at least
3 seconds to short beep.
When you turn on the device screen of main menu is displayed.

Picture 6.3. Main menu of the flaw detector.

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The main menu of flaw detector is consists of four sections:

- Measurements;

- Archive;

- Setup;

- Information.

6.4. Connecting the transducer to the flaw detector

Combined probe is connected to the left connector on the top panel
of flaw detector and set in parameter group "Probe" parameter
"DUAL" to "OFF".
Dual element transducers connect as follows: emitting plate of dual
probe connect to the left connector, and the receiving plate connect
to the right connector on top side of body of the flaw detector by
inserting the cable connectors until its click. Set the parameter group
"Probe" parameter "DUAL" to "ON".

6.5. The main modes of operation of the flaw detector
"Measurement" mode - goes to the measurement;
"Archive" mode - displays all stored measurement results and

settings;
"Settings" mode - in this mode you can set the following settings:
Time, Date, Language, Brightness, Palette, Sound, Auto off, Clear
SD;
"Information" mode - display information about the manufacturer.

To select the required mode, move cursor by keys to select mode,
and confirm selection by pressing the Enter button.

6.5.1 "Measurement" mode

"Measurement" mode is the main mode (Pic. 6.5.1), designed for
ultrasonic testing.

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Group

Parameters

Main

GAIN

VELOCI
TY

SCALE

RANGE

DELAY

F.FILT

FILTER

REJECT

Puls/recv

GAIN

RANGE

DELAY

RECTIF
Y

POWER

F.FILTE
R

FILTER

REJECT

Gates

GAIN

GATE

START

WIDTH

LEVEL

PARAM.
1

PARAM.
1

PARAM.
1

Functions

GAIN

DSG

TVG

REJECT

PEAK

B-SCAN

AVG

Probe

DUAL

DELAY

ANGLE

X.VAL

FREQ

PULSE

TVG

GAIN

RANGE

DELAY

TVG

CLEAR

POINT

POS.

+dВ

DGS

GAIN

DGS

POINT

POS.

dВ

A LEVEL

mm2

AFS

START

WIDTH

GATE

MEAS.

MODE

CONTR.

SEARC
H

ALLARM

Picture 6.5.1 "Measurement" mode

All parameters for configuring the measuring part of flaw detector
divided into groups, depending on the selected group user gets
access to the various parameters.

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Block 1

PARAM.
1

PARAM.
2

PARAM.
3

Block 2

PARAM.
1

PARAM.
2

PARAM.
3

Block 3

PARAM.
1

PARAM.
2

PARAM.
3

Description of parameters of flaw detector

Groups

Parameters

Description

Main

GAIN

Setting of gain of received path from 0
to 126 dB, in steps of 0.5, 5 dB.

VELOCITY

Display the set velocity of ultrasonic
vibrations in the tested material.
Adjustment range from 1000 to 9999 m
/ s.
Accuracy of the measurement the
depth, coordinates of defects and
thickness are depends on the accuracy
of the velocity settings.

SCALE

Selection of the display unit parameter
settings. Has two meanings:
microseconds (µs) and mm.

RANGE

The duration of scanning - depth
sounding along the beam.
Adjustment range from 1 to 1000 µs.
Flaw detector processed only signals
that are under scanning.

DELAY

The "Delay" specifies the time delay
relative to the start of scanning of the
probe pulse.
Setting range from 0 to 1000 µs.

F.FILT

Selecting the central operating
frequency of receiver path (selection of
frequency range receiver path). It can
take values from 1 MHz to 10 MHz.

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FILTER

Turn on / off frequency filter.

REJECT

Parameter allows to set the minimum
level of the signals displayed on the
screen.

Puls/recv

GAIN

Setting of gain of received path from 0
to 126 dB, in steps of 0.5, 5 dB.

RANGE

The duration of scanning - depth
sounding along the beam.
Adjustment range from 1 to 1000 µs.
Flaw detector processed only signals
that are under scanning.

DELAY

The "Delay" specifies the time delay
relative to the start of scanning of the
probe pulse.
Setting range from 0 to 1000 µs.

RECTIFY

Selecting the type of visualization of the
signal. Can take two values: the POS
HW and RADIO.

POWER

Setting the level of the generator
excitation. It can take values 100V, 150
V, 200 V.

F.FILT

Selecting the central operating
frequency of receiver path (selection of
frequency range receiver path). It can
take values from 1 MHz to 10 MHz.

FILTER

Turn on / off frequency filter.

REJECT

Parameter allows to set the minimum
level of the signals displayed on the
screen.

Gates
GAIN

Setting of gain of received path from 0
to 115 dB at 0.1, 1 dB.

GATE

Selecting gate. Takes the values: A or

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B.

START

Coordinate of the beginning of the
selected gate. It can take values from 0
to the maximum value of scanning.

WIDTH

The width of the selected control gate
along the beam. It can take values from
0 to the maximum value of scanning.
The total value of the start and the width
of the gate can not exceed the value of
the maximum scanning.

LEVEL

The threshold level of the selected
control gate. Is given in % of the screen
height, can take values from 0 to 100%
of the screen height.

PARAM.1

Allows to select the measured value in
the first block. **

PARAM.1

Allows to select the measured value in
the first block. **

PARAM.1

Allows to select the measured value in
the first block. **

Functions

GAIN

Setting of gain of received path from 0
to 115 dB at 0.1, 1 dB.

DGS

Turn on / off DGS

TVG

Turn on / off TVG

REJECT

Parameter allows to set the minimum
level of the signals displayed on the
screen.

PEAK

Turn on / off fixing the maximum
amplitude of the echo.

B-Scan

Turn on / off display of a scanning-type
B-scan.

AVG.

Number of echoes which are averaged

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result.

Probe

DUAL

Set the type of the connected ultrasonic
transducer. Has two meanings: the
combined and separate (dual).

DELAY

Setting a delay in the prism of
transducer.

ANGLE

The angle of entry of the ultrasonic
vibrations to the connected transducer.

X.VAL

Allows to specify an arrow of transducer
(set from 0 to 90 mm).

FREQ

Setting the operating frequency of the
ultrasonic transducer. Has a range from
1 MHz to 10 MHz.

PULSE

Setting the duration of the transducer
pulse.

TVG

GAIN

Setting of gain of received path from 0
to 126 dB, in steps of 0.5, 5 dB.

RANGE

The duration of scanning - depth
sounding along the beam.
Adjustment range from 1 to 1000 µs.
Flaw detector processed only signals
that are under scanning.

DELAY

The "Delay" specifies the time delay
relative to the start of scanning of the
probe pulse.
Setting range from 0 to 1000 µs.

TVG

Turn on / off TVG.

CLEAR

Allows to reset the TVG.

POINT

Select point TVG and display the total
number of points. The maximum
number of points TVG - 15.

POS.

Displays coordinates of the position of

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the current point of TVG. The distance
between two neighboring points is not
less than 3 microseconds.

+dВ

Gain of the current point TVG. The total
value of all the points of the TVG not
more 40 dB, accuracy of setting 0.1 dB.

DGS

GAIN

Setting of gain of received path from 0
to 126 dB, in steps of 0.5, 5 dB.

DGS

Turn on / off DGS.

POINT

Select Point TVG and display the total
number of points. The maximum
number of points TVG - 15.

POS.

Displays coordinates of the position of
the current point of TVG. The distance
between two neighboring points is not
less than 3 microseconds.

dВ

Gain of the current point DGS. The total
value of all the points of the DGS not
more 40 dB, accuracy of setting 0.1 dB.

А LEVEL

Allows to set the level / amplitude of the
reference signal.

mm2

Allows to set the value of the equivalent
area of the reflector.

AFS

START

Coordinate of the beginning of the
selected gate. It can take values from 0
to the maximum value of scanning.

WIDTH

The width of the selected control gate
along the beam. It can take values from
0 to the maximum value of scanning.
The total value of the start and the width
of the gate can not exceed the value of
the maximum scanning.

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GATE

Selecting gate. Takes the values: A or
B.

MEAS.

A method for determining the time of
arrival of the signal in the tested gate:
"by the peak" - on the state of the
maximum signal in the control gate;
"by the flank" - on the first crossing of
the signal with the threshold in the
control gate.

MODE

Determines the mode of operation of
the gate:
MORE - echo level is crossed gate;
LESS - echo signal is below the gate.

CONTR.

Setting the control area. The maximum
value of 20 dB, but can not exceed the
value of the search gate.

SEARCH

Setting the level of the search area. The
maximum value is 20 dB.

ALARM

Turn on / off sound.

Block 1

PARAM.1

Allows to select the measured values in
the first of three blocks. **

PARAM.2

Allows to select the measured values in
the first of three blocks. **

PARAM.3

Allows to select the measured values in
the first of three blocks. **

Block 2

PARAM.1

Allows to select the measured values in
the second of three blocks. **

PARAM.2

Allows to select the measured values in
the second of three blocks. **

PARAM.3

Allows to select the measured values in
the second of three blocks. **

Block 3

PARAM.1

Allows to select the measured values in

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the third of three blocks. **

PARAM.2

Allows to select the measured values in
the third of three blocks. **

PARAM.3

Allows to select the measured values in
the third of three blocks. **

** - Measured values of the received ultrasonic vibration signals:
Ta – time value signal in the gate A, shown in microseconds.
Tb – time value signal in the gate B, shown in microseconds.
Ta-b – the difference between the time values between the signals A
and B in gate.
Aa – value of signal amplitude in gate А.
Ab – value of signal amplitude in gate В.
Aa-b – the difference between the amplitudes of the signal in the A
and B gates.
Xba – the distance from the front edge of the signal in gate А.
Xbb – the distance from the front edge of the signal in gate В.
Xipa – the distance from the input signal in the gate А.
Xipb – the distance from the input signal in the gate В.
Ya – coordinate of signal depth in the gate А.
Yb – coordinate of signal depth in the gate В.
Ya-b – the difference between the values of the coordinate signals
depth A and B.
Sa – equivalent area signal in gate А.
Sb – equivalent area signal in gate В.
La – distance to the reflector along the beam in the gate А.
Lb - distance to the reflector along the beam in the gate В.
dAa – value of the signal level (dB) from the gate A to the maximum
signal.
dAb – value of the signal level (dB) from the gate B to the maximum
signal.
La - Lb - the difference between the values of the distance to the
reflector along the beam in gates A and B.

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Actions

Description

List

Return to the list of stored files

Delete

Delete the selected record

PreView

Viewing stored scanning image

View

Viewing stored result of control with all parameters
of flaw detector

Load meas.

Downloading all the settings for measurements
with previously saved settings

Load probe

Downloading all the parameters of the transducers

Exit

Back to list of all files

For measurement values (except Ta-b, Aa-b, Ya-b and La - Lb) it is
necessary to combine control gates A or B with the signal in which it
is planned to carry out measurements. To determine the Ta-b, Aa-b,
Ya-b and La - Lb is necessary to set control gates A and B on two
adjacent echoes.

6.5.2 . "Archive" mode

This mode allows user to view all previously stored results of testing
and download the selected file to continue working with the required
settings.
Previously stored results are presented in a list and sorted by
creation date.

To operate with the stored files use buttons or to

select required file and press . The drop-down menu offers the
following steps:

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Selection of the action makes with the buttons or ,

and presses the "Enter" , then user will be prompted to confirm
the selected action by pressing "Yes" or cancel by pressing the
"No".

7 . Basic settings of flaw detector

7.1. Initial setup of the device

7.1.1. Selection of A-scan mode

To select the display mode of the signal as A-scan in the menu
"Puls/recv" select the "RECTIFY" and set one of available options:
"POS HW" or "RADIO". Typically, the main mode of A-scan is the
"POS HW".

7.1.2. Selection of basic units
The main flaw detectors units can be µs or mm.
To select the required units it is necessary in the group of
parameters "Main" set the required value of the "Units".

7.2. Setting the transducer parameters
Accuracy of measurement is depend on the correctness settings of
transducer parameters when working with flaw depends. Flaw
detector allows you to work with both combined, and with dual
element transducers..

7.2.1. Selecting the type of transducer
To select the type of the transducer in the parameter group "Probe"
set the required value of the "DUAL": "ON" or "OFF".

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7.2.2. Setting the frequency of transducer

To set the frequency of transducer in the group of parameters
"Probe" set the required value of the parameter "FREQ".

7.2.3. Setting the input angle of transducer
To set the input angle of transducer in the group of parameters
"Probe" set required value of the parameter "ANGLE".

7.2.4. Setting delay in the transducers prism
Typically, during the ultrasonic testing piezoceramic plates are not in
contact with the tested object, and are protected by a layer of
protective material (protector) or (in the case of angle-beam
transducer) is mounted on a corner prism.
For correct calculation of the coordinates, it is necessary to
compensate the moving time of ultrasonic vibrations through the
protector / prism.

7.2.5. Installation of transducers arrow
During testing with angle-beam transducer coordinates is calculated
from the output point of the beam. In order to be able to take a
measurement from the front face of transducer must be set arrow of
probe. To install arrow of transducer in the group of parameters
"Probe" set the required value of the "X.VAL".

7.3. Setting the display of signal

7.3.1. Setting the gain

To adjust the gain in parameter group "Main" select "GAIN" and set
the required gain value.

7.3.2. Setting the duration of the scanning
To adjust the duration of the scanning in the group of parameters
"Main" set required value of the parameter "RANGE".

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7.3.3. Setting the scanning delay

To adjust duration of delay in parameter group "Main" set the
required value of the parameter "DELAY".

7.3.4. Setting cut-off of signal

In some cases it is convenient to use cut-off signal on the vertical
axis to enhance the perceptual quality of the signal. This method
allows to remove from the screen of the flaw detector noise, as well
as other small amplitude signals, preventing the identification of
useful signals.
To set the cut-off signal, in parameter group "Main" set the required
value of the "REJECT". The cut-off is a percentage of the screen
height.

7.3.5. Envelope of the signal mode
In some cases it may be necessary to detect the maximum of signal,
and get an envelope signal during scanning of reflectors.
To activate the envelope in group settings "Functions" set the
required value of the "PEAK": "ON" or "OFF".

7.4. Setting of the flaw detector for measurements

7.4.1. Basic settings of control areas (Gates)

Flaw detector has two independent gates - A and B. Configure of
gates is basic operation, that allow configure the flaw detector for
measuring the signal amplitudes, the depth of the reflector,
thickness measurements etc.
For each of the control gates can be set independently:

- The level of the gate as a percentage of the screen height of the

flaw detector;

- The start coordinates of the control gate;

- The width of the control gate (gate length);

- Signal (audio alarm when signal cross the control gate).

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7.4.1.1. Setting the level of the control gate

To adjust the control gate level in a group of parameters "Gates" in
parameter "GATE" set required strobe (A or B) and change the
parameter "LEVEL" to set required value.

7.4.1.2. Setting start of control gate

To set the start of the control gate in a group of parameters "Gates"
in parameter "GATE" set required strobe (A or B) and change the
parameter "Start" to set the required value.

7.4.1.3. Setting the width of the control gate

To adjust the width of the control gate in a group of parameters
"Gates" in parameter "GATE" set required strobe (A or B) and
change the parameter "width" to set required value.

7.4.1.4. Enable sound alarm

To enable / disable the sound alarm when the level crossing control
gate in the parameter group "AFS" in the parameter "GATE" set
required strobe (A or B) and change the parameter "ALARM" to
enable or disable the alarm.

7.4.1.5. Setting the measurement mode in the control gate

To set the measurement mode in the control gate in a group of
parameters "AFS" select the menu "GATE" and set required value of
the parameter "MEAS.". The "MEAS." can take one of two values
"PEAK" and "FLANK". If you select "FLANK" measurement will be
made on the front of the signal entering the control gate. If you
select the "PEAK" measuring will be for the maximum of the signal
entering the control gate.

7.4.1.6. Setting the trigger gate

In flaw detector implemented the ability of activation of defects alarm
for the signal above the level of the control gate (alarm is triggered if

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the signal is above the level of the control gate, the mode of
"MORE"), and for signal lower than the level of the control gate
(alarm is triggered if the signal is less than the level of the control
gate, the mode of "LESS").
To set the trigger control area in the group of parameters "AFS"
change parameter "MODE" to set the required mode in the alarm
gate.

7.4.1.7. Setting additional levels of control in the area

In flaw detector is possible to set additional levels in the control
area: control and search. Additional levels are set in dB relative to
the main level of the control gate independently for each control
gate.
To set additional levels of control in parameter group "AFS" set the
required parameters "CONTR." and "SEARCH" for the required
control gate.
On the display of the device will appear additional levels of control
and search control gate below basic level area.

7.4.2. Setting the display of the measured parameters

7.4.2.1. Basic principles of the display of the measured
parameters

All parameters measured by flaw detector, can be displayed in a
special area on the display.
Area with a display parameter consists of three blocks separated
vertically. In each of these blocks can be displayed one to three of
the measured parameters.

7.4.2.2. Installation of the displayed parameters

To adjust the output to the screen of the flaw detector measured
parameters of ultrasonic impulse in the group of parameters select
any of the three blocks "Block 1", "Block 2" or "Block 3" and set the
measured value in the line "PARAM.1", "PARAM.2", "PARAM.3"

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displayed in the selected block. If set "---" for the string "PARAM. 1",
"PARAM. 2", "PARAM. 3", area of the screen corresponded this line
will remain blank.
In one block can be displayed one to three parameters. If selected
only one parameter for display, it will be displayed in large font
(recommended for displaying the main parameter being measured).
If display two or three parameters in a block, font will be reduced
(recommended for the secondary display of measured values).

7.5. Setting the sound velocity in the tested object

To properly coordinate measuring defects and measuring the
thickness of the tested object it is necessary to set the speed of
propagation of ultrasonic vibrations in the material of tested object.
To set the velocity of ultrasonic vibrations in the tested object in the
group of parameters "Main" select "VELOCITY" and set the required
value.

7.6. The display mode signal as B-Scan

Presentation the results of ultrasonic testing in the form of a cross­section of the tested object, perpendicular to the surface and parallel
to the direction input sounding. To estimate the amplitude of the
echo signals amplitude there is correlation between echo signals
and color of images. The right side of the display of measurement
results presented color scheme estimates the amplitude echo signal,
where blue is the smallest and red is the highest echo signal
amplitude.
When operating in any of the possible types of scanning user is able
to adjust all the parameters required for optimum performance and
ease visualization of the received echoes. When changing scanning
type A to type B (and vice versa), all settings remain saved.

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7.7. Measurement mode with averaging of signal

In some cases, during testing materials with high damping, when
controlling of large tested objects and operating at high scanning
duration, noise amplitude can be compared with the amplitude of the
useful signal and on the background of strong noise useful signal is
difficult to detect.
For these cases, in the device is implemented the averaging mode,
which can be done by 2, 4, 8 and 16 signals. To activate the
averaging in the group of parameters "Functions" select and activate
the parameter "AVG." and set required number of averaging.
Caution, when the averaging mode activated it is reduced frequency
of refreshing of signal on the display.

7.8. Measurement mode with signal accumulation

In some cases it may be necessary to detect the maximum of signal,
and get an envelope of signal during scanning.
To activate the envelope mode in group settings "Functions" select
the "PEAK" and set the required parameter - on or off.

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8 . Device memory

8.1. Saving the results of test and device settings

To save the current settings, in measurement mode press the

"frozen" key , on the devices display image will be fixed
(frozen), also all current settings are saved. After pressing the button

the user will be asked to save the current measurement and
settings. After entering the name, the measurement is saved as a
separate file.
Enter the file name by using the virtual keyboard.
Moving the cursor over the keyboard is carried out by pressing

, selecting the required symbol is carried

out by pressing the button . After entering the file name, press

.

8.2. Downloading the configuration settings of the device or
transducers from the archive

To load a previously saved device settings (configuration) or
transducer settings go to the "Archive".

With keys or select from list required file and press

. In the dropdown menu select the "Load meas." for the loading
instrument settings or select "Load probe" to download transducer

parameters by pressing , and "Enter" . Next, the

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user will be asked to confirm the selected action by pressing "Yes"
or cancel by pressing "No".

9 . Calibration of the flaw detector

9.1. Measuring of prism delay for direct transducer

During operation with the direct transducer abrasion occurs with
prism, it cause to changes of delay of the signal in transducer. Given
that the propagation of time in the prism transducer significantly
affect the accuracy of calculation of the coordinates of the reflectors
it is very important to accurately measure the delay in the prism and
periodically update this parameter.
Measurement of prism delay of direct transducer made using a
standard sample SO-2.
To measure delays in the prism of transducer it is necessary to get a
first reflected signal (the first ground signal) on a standard sample
SO-2 on the side of 59 mm and put this signal into one of the control
gates, for example gate A.
Configure the display of the measured parameters - display the
value of the propagation time along the beam or propagation time
required for the control gate, in this example - La and Ta
accordingly.
Time of propagation of ultrasonic vibrations in the prism of direct
transducer in microseconds equals:

2t = t1 – 20 µs,

where t1 - the time between excitation pulse and the echo from the
surface of the standard sample SO-2 at the side 59 mm with
transducer position corresponding to the maximum amplitude of the
echo signal, for this example - the value La or Ta;
20 µs - the propagation time of the ultrasonic vibration in the
standard sample on the side of 59 mm.

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9.2. Measuring of prism delay for angle-beam transducer

During operation with the angle-beam transducer abrasion occurs
with prism, it cause to changes of angle and delay of the signal in
transducer. Given that the propagation of time in the prism
transducer significantly affect the accuracy of calculation of the
coordinates of the reflectors it is very important to accurately
measure the delay in the prism and periodically update this
parameter.
Measurement of prism delay of angle-beam transducer made using
a standard sample SO-3.
To measure delay in the prism it is necessary to get the reflected
signal from the radiused surface at the standard sample SO-3 and
put this signal into one of the control gates, for example gate A.
Configure the display of the measured parameters - display the
value of the propagation time along the beam for the required
control gate, in this example - La.
Time of propagation of ultrasonic vibrations in the prism of angle­beam transducer in microseconds equals:

2t = t1 – 33,7 µs,

where t1 - the total time between the excitation pulse and the echo
signal from the concave cylindrical surface in the standard sample
SO-3 when the transducer is installed in a position corresponding to
the maximum amplitude of the echo signal, for this example - the
value La;
33,7 µs - the propagation time of the ultrasonic vibration in the
standard sample, calculated for the parameters: the radius of the
sample - 55 mm, the propagation velocity of the transverse wave in
the material sample - 3,26 mm/µs.

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9.3. Measurement of input angle of transducer

Measuring of the input angle of the beam of angle-beam transducer
in position A or B in Picture 10.3. Moving of angle-beam transducer
near these positions user seek maximum of the echo signal from the

reflector (cylindrical hole Ø 6 mm. located at a depth of 44 mm or 15

mm for the various positions of probes). Value of the angle is
specified on the marks of the corner scale opposite the output point
of ultrasonic beam.

Picture 10.3 Standard sample SO-2

9.4. Measurement of transducers arrow
To find output point 0 of ultrasonic beam of angle-beam transducer
put probe on central mark "0" (Pic. 10.4) and with small movements
find position corresponding to the maximum echo signal. Output
point is located exactly above the center mark of the sample.
Arrow of transducer in millimeters defined as the distance from the
output point of the ultrasonic beam to the end of the transducer body
in the direction of sounding (measured along the lateral scale is
marked in millimeters).

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Picture 10.4 Standard sample SO-3

9.5. Measurement the velocity of ultrasonic vibrations in the
tested object

Measurement the velocity of ultrasound can be performed directly
on the tested object or with the samples made from the same
material.
Before the measurement of ultrasonic velocity in the material of the
tested object it is necessary to make setting of the transducers (set
the correct delay value in the prism and set the angle for the angle­beam transducer) described above.
Select the place on the product (or on sample of the same material)
in which can be made thickness measurement of the sample using
appropriate transducer. Set the control gate, adjust the display the
thickness of tested object. Mechanically with satisfying accuracy
make measurement of real thickness at the point of control.
Measurement (setting) of the ultrasonic velocity in the material of
tested object (or a sample of similar material) is produced by
adjusting the value of the parameter "VELOCITY" in the "Main" to
align the measured values of the thickness of the object (sample)
with the real (obtained by measuring the mechanical method).

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9.6. Calculations of the equivalent area of the reflector

α – input angle of ultrasonic vibrations in the material;
v – velocity in the material;
f – frequency of transducer;
R – radius of lateral drilling;
x – depth of the defect;
r – length of the passage of ultrasonic vibrations to the defect along
the beam;
λ = v/f – the length of the wave in the material;
r0 – the length of near gate of transducer;
π = 3,1415 – constant;
Sp – effective area of transducer;
Lpr – length of the path in the prism;
vpr – velocity of ultrasonic vibrations in a prism.

Equivalent area of the reflector:
for lateral drilling

to the plane (angle)

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10. Maintenance

Maintenance of flaw detector is carrying out for preventive
maintenance to ensure the normal operation of flaw detector during
its using. Recommended periods for the following types of
maintenance operation:

- visual inspection - every month;

- exterior cleaning - after each exploitation.
At visual inspection of the external state of flaw detector is
recommended to check the absence of chips and cracks, clarity of
the controls, mounting parts on the device. Dust on the body of the
device cleared by soft cloth or brush.

11. Precautions and trouble shouting

11.1. Use the device with care. Any wrong using may result in the
violation of the present technical specifications and thus, lead to the
manufacturer warranty cessation.

11.2. Always check the integrity of the cables, information
processing unit and transducers. Provide immediate replacement of
the damaged parts by the original ones. These operations must be
performed by skilled personnel.

11.3. Do not expose the device to aggressive chemical medium.

11.4. Do not leave the device at the direct sun rays.

11.5. Do not sink the device into any liquids. If the device gets wet,
take the battery out and leave for 24 hours to get dry.

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12. Contact information

If you have any questions about our range of products or measuring
instruments, please contact PCE Instruments.

12.1. PCE Instruments UK Ltd.

By post:

PCE Instruments UK Ltd.
Units 12/13 Southpoint Business Park
Ensign Way, Southampton
Hampshire
United Kingdom, SO31 4RF

By phone:

02380 987 035

12.2. PCE Americas Inc.

By post:

PCE Americas Inc.
711 Commerce Way, Suite 8
Jupiter, FL 33458 USA

By phone:

561 320 9162

Ultrasonic Flaw Detector