Simulation of ultrasonic inspection involving multiple skips and realistic defects

For several years, simulation tools aiming at predicting results of ultrasonic inspection have been developed and integrated into the CIVA simulation platform software at CEA-LIST. Those models have recently been extended in order to take account of more complex phenomena, as multiple skips (over backwall, surface, lateral walls of components), mode conversion arising in internal medium of heterogeneous parts, and interaction between branches of ramified flaws. In addition to canonical (planar and cylindrical parts), parametric (nozzles) and 2D CAD components (complex profile and translation or revolution extrusion) already dealt with, those skills are now also available for 3D CAD components. Dedicated tools have also been developed in order to help for interpretation, settings and time saving of the computation: advanced ray tracing for displaying different echo modes (one or several skips, mode conversions, possibility to display only rays coming back to the receiving probes, selection of specific echoes), selection of specific zones over a 3D component to define echogeneous areas... These developments are illustrated through several industrial applications.