Underwater SIDER Testing: A Proof of Concept Demonstration

摘要

This paper details the setup, execution and results of a proof of concept experimental evaluation of the SIDER NDE method as a procedure for the underwater inspection of composite structures. Structural Irregularity and Damage Evaluation Routine (SIDER) testing is a reasonably fast experimental procedure that analyses the vibration characteristics of a structure to locate potential regions of damage. It is intended for use as an NDE guidance procedure for inspecting large area composite structures. The SIDER results are used to guide more detailed, but time consuming inspections such as ultrasonic, laser shearography, thermography, etc. Prior to this experimental undertaking, all testing for the SIDER method had been conducted in air. Currently, the U.S. Navy MCM class ships use a composite. Composite rudders are being considered for use on additional ships. Removing these structures for inspection, or dry docking an entire ship just to inspect these rudders, is expensive and time consuming. There is therefore a natural need for detailed inspection methods that can be used underwater to assess the structural health of components.