DEVELOPING A HAND-HELD IMAGING ARRAY USING MAGNETORESISTIVE (MR) SENSORS

摘要

MR sensors, which are becoming a new NDE modality, have been known for their low frequency performance, which permits deep feature/flaw detection in metallic structure at sensitivities considerably above those provided by conventional eddy current techniques. We have developed an imaging array using this technology, and are now developing one that is hand-held, for inspection of metallic aircraft structure, including that covered by thick composite skins. The development is discussed, along with typical scans that can be obtained with MR imaging array technology. A brief review of MR sensors is presented, along with a short discussion of interpretation of the images produced with this technology.