Ensuring Code Compliance While Using the

Total Focusing Method

Webinar | April 2020 | Version 1.0
Agenda

1 Context 4 Inspection personnel

2 FMC/TFM in codes 5 Myths and facts

3 ASME requirements 6 Summary

Context

FMC/TFM advantages & - Better imaging

- Several wave modes
challenges

Use of FMC/TFM in • Complementary technique

inspection projects • Characterization 3
worldwide

• Knowledge
Factors limiting • Codes
FMC/TFM application • Technology
FMC/TFM in Codes
Codes Governing PAUT

Organization Code

BPVC Section V: Non-destructive examination article 4 & 5 and appendix V and

ASME
P

ISO 13588:2019 Non-destructive testing of welds — Ultrasonic testing — Use of

ISO automated phased array technology
ISO 19285:2017 Non-destructive testing of welds – PAUT-acceptance levels

5
API API 510 refers to ASME Section BPVC V, Articles 4, 5, and 23

D1.1 Structural Welding Code-Steel - 2020, Annex H

AWS
D1.5 Bridge Welding Code - 2015, Annex K

CSA W59 Welded Steel Construction - 2018 (metal arc welding)

Codes Governing FMC/TFM

 FMC:Organization
full matrix capture is aCode
dataincluding FMC/TFM
acquisition process
 Pulse/receive sequence designed to obtain a large amount of waveform
ASME ASME BPVC Sec. V, Article 4. 2019
data from a single PA probe
 ISO/DIS
Data is collected by pulsing one 23865 [IIW]:
element andNon-destructive
receiving testing
on all—elements
Ultrasonic
testing — General use of full matrix capture / total focusing
(process
ISO is repeated until each element is pulsed)
technique (FMC/TFM)
17/02/2021 6

 Firing sequence creates A-scan data for every element set up to receive
API API 510 Refers to ASME Section V, Articles 4, 5 and 23

AWS
Codes Governing FMC/TFM
ASME BPVC Sec. V, Article 4. 2019
Dedicated sections:

 Mandatory Appendix XI Full Matrix Capture (FMC)

 Nonmandatory Appendix F Examination of Welds Using Full Matrix Capture

(FMC)
7
 Specific personnel requirements and a training outline in Sec. V, Article 1.
FMC/TFM in ASME Code
ASME BPVC Sec. V, Article 4. 2019
Main requirements:

 Written procedure Qualification, Scan plan

 Cal blocks Notch, slot, side-drilled holes (SDHs)

 Calibration Amplitude fidelity, Performance verification 8

 Personnel qualification 80 h training with detailed content

 Examination / Evaluation / Documentation

FMC/TFM in ASME Code
ASME BPVC Sec. V, Article 4. 2019
Main requirements:

 Written procedure Qualification, Scan plan

 Cal blocks Notch, slot, side-drilled holes (SDHs)

 Calibration Amplitude fidelity, Performance verification 9

 Personnel qualification 80 h training with detailed content

 Examination / Evaluation / Documentation

FMC/TFM in ASME Code
Scan Plan
Probe Selection
Scan Plan in TFM
Main steps
1. Part and/or weld definition

2. Probe selection

3. Zone setting

4. Wave set selection: TT, TTT, TTTT, LL, LLL, etc.

11

5. Flaw definition: planar or spherical, expected angle

6. Modeling: Acoustic Influence Map (AIM) and Sensitivity Index evaluation

Scan Plan in TFM
Why modeling is essential
1. Many wave sets are available (commonly 9+)

2. Proper wave sets are critical for detection and sizing

3. The type, orientation, and position of the flaw influence wave set selection

4. Part geometry will change wave set results

12

5. Focus is expected everywhere in the zone (need to confirm proper probes,

frequencies, etc.)
Scan Plan in TFM
AIM tool

13
Scan Plan in TFM
AIM tool

14
Scan Plan in TFM
AIM tool

15
Scan Plan in TFM
AIM tool

16
Scan Plan in TFM
AIM tool

17
Probe Selection
Acoustic Influence Map (AIM)

P=0.6mm P=0.5mm

2T
18

P=0.6mm P=1mm
Probe Selection
Parameters to consider
 Aperture “Long enough to produce a far enough near field” Appendix F-432

 Number of elements “Larger array is better for farther in time detection to

improve resolution” Appendix F-432

 Pitch / element width Pitch + element width + no. of elements

19

Larger the optimized examination area

 Wavelength / frequency Higher frequency improves resolution

Material velocity impacts wavelength
FMC/TFM in ASME Code
Calibration
Amplitude Fidelity

 Definition: Amplitude fidelity (AF) is the measurement (in dB) of the

maximum amplitude variation of an indication caused by the TFM grid
resolution

 Parameters: Probe frequency and bandwidth, material velocity, grid

resolution, applied envelope, etc.

 When the amplitude fidelity is above 2 dB, the user can either increase the 21

resolution, reduce the zone size, or increase the probe frequency until the
requirement is met.
Amplitude Fidelity

 64 elements
 Frequency = 7.5 MHz
 In contact (no wedge)
 Velocity = 5890 m/s

22
Resolution =
 Grid moves by
Amplitude Fidelity

23
Amplitude Fidelity

24
Amplitude Fidelity

25
Amplitude Fidelity

Horizontal AF
0.16 dB
26

Vertical AF
2.52 dB
Amplitude Fidelity

27
Amplitude Fidelity

28
Amplitude Fidelity
Resolution effect

29

AF= 0.3 dB AF= 1.2 dB AF= 5.2 dB

Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope feature

30

The TFM envelope is obtained by computing the norm of two different

TFM images, one computed using the standard acquired FMC and a
second computed using the Hilbert transformed FMC.
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope feature

31
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages

32

 Improved basis for amplitude-based sizing methods

 Better amplitude fidelity (for the same grid resolution)
 Higher acquisition rate (for the same AF)
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
Demonstration:

33
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
Demonstration:

 OmniScan™ X3 flaw detector

 Probe: 5L32-A31

 Wedge: SA31-N55S-IHC
34

 Steel block with a 1 mm diameter

side-drilled holes (SDHs)

 Zone size: 20mm × 20mm

 Wave set: TT
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.41 dB
Acq 46.8 Hz

AF: Amplitude fidelity Standard TFM

Acq: Acquisition rate
𝝀
𝟗.𝟑
35

AF 0.37 dB
Acq 25.3 Hz

Grid resolution,
noted in terms of TFM with envelope
wavelength fraction
𝝀
𝟗.𝟑
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.41 dB
Acq 46.8 Hz

𝝀
𝟗.𝟑
36

AF 0.37 dB
Acq 25.3 Hz

𝝀
𝟗.𝟑
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.41 dB AF 1.85 dB
Acq 46.8 Hz Acq 57.9 Hz

𝝀 𝝀
𝟗.𝟑 𝟖.𝟏
37

AF 0.37 dB AF 0.48 dB
Acq 25.3 Hz Acq 31.3 Hz

𝝀 𝝀
𝟗.𝟑 𝟖.𝟏
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.41 dB AF 1.85 dB AF 3.63 dB
Acq 46.8 Hz Acq 57.9 Hz Acq 93.2 Hz

𝝀 𝝀 𝝀
𝟗.𝟑 𝟖.𝟏 𝟓.𝟗
38

AF 0.37 dB AF 0.48 dB AF 0.88 dB

Acq 25.3 Hz Acq 31.3 Hz Acq 50.5 Hz

𝝀 𝝀 𝝀
𝟗.𝟑 𝟖.𝟏 𝟓.𝟗
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.85 dB AF 3.63 dB
Acq 57.9 Hz Acq 93.2 Hz

𝝀 𝝀
𝟖.𝟏 𝟓.𝟗
39

AF 0.48 dB AF 0.88 dB
Acq 31.3 Hz Acq 50.5 Hz

𝝀 𝝀
𝟖.𝟏 𝟓.𝟗
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.85 dB AF 3.63 dB AF 8.58 dB
Acq 57.9 Hz Acq 93.2 Hz Acq 146.3 Hz

𝝀 𝝀 𝝀
𝟖.𝟏 𝟓.𝟗 𝟒 .𝟎
40

AF 0.48 dB AF 0.88 dB AF 1.77 dB

Acq 31.3 Hz Acq 50.5 Hz Acq 79.6 Hz

𝝀 𝝀 𝝀
𝟖.𝟏 𝟓.𝟗 𝟒 .𝟎
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.85 dB

AF 1.77 dB
𝝀
𝟗.𝟑
41

AF 1.41 dB
𝝀
𝟒 .𝟎

𝝀
𝟖.𝟏
Amplitude Fidelity
TFM envelope advantages
AF 1.85 dB

Acq 57.9 Hz

AF 1.77 dB
𝝀
𝟗.𝟑
Acq 79.6 Hz 42

AF 1.41 dB
𝝀
𝟒 .𝟎
Acq 46.8 Hz

𝝀
𝟖.𝟏
Amplitude Fidelity
Multigroup

The amplitude fidelity check shall be performed for each path/mode that
will be used during the inspection, and the instrument UT and mechanical
setting(s) shall be the same as those used for the examination. Appendix F-461

 Using the OmniScan™ X3 flaw detector, it is possible to configure and run a

code-compliant inspection using up to 4 groups/probe
43

A resolution of up to 1024 × 1024 / group

Amplitude fidelity below 2 dB / group

Demonstration
Description
 Part: 24.40 mm C Steel  OmniScan™ X3 flaw detector

 Weld Prep: V bevel  Probe: 5L64-A32

 2 flaws  Wedge: SA32-N55S-IHC

44

24.40mm
Demonstration
Scan Plan
AIM

45
Demonstration
Scan Plan
AIM

46
Demonstration
Scan Plan
AIM

47
Demonstration
Scan Plan
AIM

48
Demonstration
Results
2T Side views 5T End view

3T

49
4T

AF
5T 1.9 dB
Demonstration
Results
2T 3T

End view End view

50
4T 5T

End view End view

Demonstration
Results
2T Side views 4T End view

3T

51
4T

AF
5T 1.9 dB
Demonstration
Results
2T 3T

End view End view

52
4T 5T

End view End view

Demonstration
Results

2T
3T
4T
5T

53
Amplitude Fidelity
Double thickness
Users with standard phased array experience may use one group in TT mode
and set the thickness to two times its value.

+ Flaws detection/imaging are very similar to PA

+ Only one calibration is required
- Not recommended if self-tandem modes are needed
54

- Not optimal for thick components (>100 mm)

Demonstration
Description
 Part: 15.875 mm C Steel  OmniScan™ X3 flaw detector

 Weld prep: X bevel  Probe: 5L32-A32

 2 flaws  Wedge: SA32-N55S-IHC

55
Demonstration
Scan plan
AIM

2T

Th 56
Demonstration
Scan plan
AIM

2T 2T

Th Th 57
Demonstration
Scan plan
AIM

4T

Th 58
Demonstration
Scan plan
AIM

4T 2T

Th 2Th 59
Demonstration
Results
2T 2T

Side view
4T 60

AF
0.7 dB

Side view End view

Demonstration
Results
2T 2T

Side view
4T 61

AF
0.7 dB

Side view End view

Demonstration
Results
2T 4T

Side view
4T 62

AF
0.7 dB

Side view End view

Demonstration
Results
2T 4T

Side view
4T 63

AF
0.7 dB

Side view End view

Demonstration
Results
2T 2T

64

AF
0.7 dB

Side view End view

Demonstration
Results
2T 2T

65

AF
0.7 dB

Side view End view

Demonstration
Results

TT (2x Th)

66

TT (Th)
TTTT (Th)
General Calibration Requirements
FMC TFM PAUT

Contact wedge Ultrasonic System

System delay and velocity Focal law

Performance verification Beam calibration

Resolution verification Couplant, surface, T

67

Path verification Contact wedges

Sizing verification
Instrument controls

Sensitivity DAC
Calibration Block

Length and height Path verification

sizing verification
Slot

Top notch

 
Bottom notch
68

SDH

Thickness
Resolution verification &
sensitivity calibration
Piping: Th = ±25%T
Non piping: 90% ≤ Th ≤ 120%T
Performance verification
Resolution verification
2T

4T 69

 OmniScan™ X3 flaw detector

 Probe: 5L32-A32
 Wedge: SA32-N55S-IHC

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Performance Verification
Path verification

 Using P/E modes cannot detect the

full extent of the slot; therefore, self
tandem modes are necessary.

Multigroup in OmniScan X3 unit

70

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Performance Verification
Path verification
2T 4T

3T 5T 71

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Performance Verification
Path verification
2T 4T
The imaging paths used
during calibration shall be
the same as those for the
examination.
XI-471.1.1 Image Paths 3T 5T 72

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Performance Verification
Length sizing verification

73

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Performance Verification
Height sizing verification
2T 4T

3T 5T 74

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Performance Verification
Sensitivity
2T

4T 75

Courtesy of K. Shane Walton

Calibration
Cal block thickness
Figure XI-434.1-1: calibration block
 Block thickness for piping shall be ±25%T.

 Block thickness shall be no less than 90% and no more than 120% of the
average weld thickness, t.

 When two or more base material thicknesses are involved, the calibration 76

block thickness, T, shall be determined by the average thickness of the

weld.
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Self-tandem mode results are very sensitive to a part’s thickness and
geometry. An error in the TOF calculation could lead to poor detection
capabilities.

Demonstration
5L32 A32 probe positioned on a 19 mm block with 2.5 mm SDH located at
half depth. 77

Comparison of resulting signal with 2T, 4T, and 3T modes while varying
part thickness ±25%
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
2T

78

19 mm
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
2T

79

19 mm 15.6 mm (−25%)
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
2T

80

19 mm 15.6 mm (−25%) 23.75 mm (+25%)

Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
4T

81

19 mm
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
4T

82

19 mm 15.6 mm (−25%)
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
4T

83

19 mm 15.6 mm (−25%) 23.75 mm (+25%)

Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
3T

84

19 mm
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
3T

85

19 mm 15.6 mm (−25%)
Calibration
Cal block thickness
Demonstration
3T

86

19 mm 15.6 mm (−25%) 23.75 mm (+25%)

Calibration
Cal block thickness
Self-tandem mode results are very sensitive to a part’s thickness and geometry.
An error in the TOF calculation could lead to poor detection capabilities.

87

21.6 mm 24 mm (+11%) 26.89 mm (24.5%)

Inspection Personnel Requirements
Personnel Certification for PAUT

Certification Required training and examination

The minimum required duration of training which includes both theoretical and
practical elements is: Level 1: 80 hours; Level 2: 40 hours (Direct Level 2: 104
hours for CSWIP and 120 hours for PCN)
PCN/CSWIP
The minimum duration for experience prior to or following success in the
qualification examination is: Level 1: 3 months for CSWIP and 1 month for PCN
Level 2: 3 months (Direct Level 2: 6 months for CSWIP and 4 months for PCN) 89

Examinations are open to any applicant with a current or previous certification in

ASNT UT Level II, Level III, or equivalent.
API QUPA
Candidates need to successfully complete a performance demonstration
examination for their specific program.

ASNT TC 1-A Level II: 80 hours of training + 160 hours’ experience

Training Requirements
MANDATORY APPENDIX II SUPPLEMENT A
14 main topics to cover

Overview Characteristics Evaluation

Basics Scan plan Procedures

90

Probe Calibration Documentation

Equipment Amplitude User cases

Essential variables Examination Hands on

Myths and Facts
Myths

According to the code, weld inspections require a TCG setup.

According to the code, A-scan data are required.

92

Envelope is equivalent to a low-pass filter.

Facts

It is code compliant to have AF calculated (theoretical)

rather than experimental validation.

Prior to examination: resolution, path, and

93
sizing verifications must be conducted as a
part of the calibration process

According to the code, it is not mandatory

to collect FMC raw data.
Summary
 FMC/TFM is governed by the same laws of physics as PAUT; however, the
technique requires additional training since it involves new concepts and
parameters.

 In comparison with requirements for PAUT inspection, amplitude fidelity is

a new essential parameter to consider according to the code.

 A successful inspection is based on the selection of the proper probe and 94

the right wave modes.

 AIM, multigroup, and the TFM envelope are essential tools for scan plan
building, calibration, and sizing.
Questions
 www.olympus-ims.com

Olympus, the Olympus logo, and OmniScan are trademarks of Olympus Corporation or its subsidiaries.