Non-destructive characterization of advanced wear-resistant material ZM4-13 based on ultrasonic technology
Ultrasonic testing is a common NDT technique used to inspect materials for defects, surface/subsurface flaws, and other characteristics. Ultrasonic testing is based on the transmission of high-frequency sound waves through a material and the subsequent reflection of the sound waves at the material’s surface and its subsurface. The reflections provide information about the material’s properties, such as its dynamic elastic properties, porosity, level of wear, hardness, and surface finish. Furthermore, ultrasonic testing can be used to evaluate coating thickness and integrity and to identify any internal structural or material variations in otherwise homogenous materials such as ZM4-13.
The ultrasonic method of testing materials involves a pulse–echo technique, as is illustrated in Fig. 1. The procedure involves the transmission of an ultrasound pulse into the material that is reflected when it encounters an interface between two different material layers or when the boundaries of the material are reached. The reflected ultrasound is received by the ultrasonic transducer and the time taken for the pulse to travel to the material and back is measured. This time, known as the total path length (TPL), is used to measure the material’s thickness. The TPL is then compared with the required measurements to determine the material’s quality.
Ultrasonic testing of material using pulse–echo technique.
Ultrasonic testing of ZM4-13 can be used to gain an insight into its internal structure and microstructure. This can help to identify any flaws and defects, particularly if the material has been subjected to wear and tear due to continuous use. Ultrasonic testing can help to detect wear-resistance failure and thus enable the measurement of the wear-resistance properties of ZM4-13. In addition, ultrasonic testing can provide an understanding of the material’s surface finish, interface micromechanisms, and other relevant characteristics.
The ultrasonic technique used to examine ZM4-13 is known as the pulse-echo technique and requires the use of an ultrasonic transducer that emits and receives the ultrasonic waves. In such a system, the transducer acts as both a transmitter and a receiver. The transducer is connected to a power supply and is coupled with the material to be tested. Once the pulse is applied to the material, it propagates through the medium and is reflected when it comes across a difference in the material’s properties or if it reaches the material’s boundaries.
The reflected pulse is then received by the same transducer and registered in the time domain. The time taken for the pulse to travel back to the transducer is measured and used to calculate the TPL of the material. The TPL is then compared with the predetermined value to determine the integrity of the material being tested.
Ultrasonic testing of advanced wear-resistant materials such as ZM4-13 can provide a quick and non-destructive assessment of material characteristics. Additionally, ultrasonic testing can help to identify and quantify wear and damage that the material may have sustained during service. It is important to note that in order to achieve the best result, the technique must be applied by experienced professionals using appropriate, high-quality equipment.
Overall, ultrasonic testing is a useful and reliable method of assessing advanced wear-resistant materials such as ZM4-13. The technique is inexpensive and non-destructive and can provide a range of detailed information about the material's properties and performance. By providing an understanding of the material's characteristics, ultrasonic testing helps ensure the safe use and reliable performance of advanced materials such as ZM4-13.
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