Applicability of the SPATE technique to the detection of hidden cracks

摘要

The present study evaluates the applicability of the SPATE system to the detection of hidden cracks in plates of aluminium alloy 2024-T3 alclad l.6 mm thick, taken from riveted lap-joints. Artificial part-through cracks were used to simulate a hidden crack in one face, and SPATE readings were performed on the opposite face. The results show that the SPATE system can detect a hidden part-through crack with a minimum depth of 0.6 mm. Finite element modelling indicates a large stress gradient in the vicinity of the crack. Due to limitations of the SPATE discussed in the paper, that gradient could not be experimentally measured.