Practical experience of phased array technology for power station applications

This paper describes the advances that have been made in non-destructive examination by utilising phased array technology for power station applications to improve accuracy, repeatability and integrity whilst reducing the overall inspection time. It details the technical challenges we have overcome during our five years experience of working with ultrasonic phased array technology by presenting a number of examples which include steam turbine disc head inspections, curved blade root and the inspection of thick-walled components such as steam chests. Phased array has rapidly become a useful tool for the inspection of critical plant, however there are still challenges ahead for industry to accept the new technique and to recognise the need for certified training.