Long-Term Evaluation of the Acoustic Emission Weld Monitor

摘要

The Kentucky Transportation Research Program conducted an extended 10-month evaluation of the Acoustic Emission Weld Monitor (AEWM) in a bridge fabrication shop. That device was used to detect welding flaws during typical production of butt-welds on flanges and webs used in steel bridges. A total of 153 welds were monitored. AEWM test results were compared with visual inspection and double-blind results of conventional nondestructive testing routinely conducted on the welds. The AEWM did not miss any flaws detected visually or by nondestructive testing. Three AEWM flaw indications were confirmed by conventional nondestructive testing (radiography). The AEWM has shown the sensitivity to detect AWS code-rejectable defects. Due to the success of the unit in detecting flaws, further development is warranted.