Non-destructive testing (NDT) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of the structures used in aeronautics as it enables the detection of defects without damaging the parts examined. In the field of aeronautics, it is necessary to ensure the structural integrity of aircraft components. Vaulted head bolts are the most commonly used in this area to assemble multi-layered structures due to their strength and ability to maintain the structural integrity of aircraft. Examining these assembly areas can be challenging and present unique hurdles for non-destructive testing due to the shape and structure of the rivet, particularly its curved surface. This curvature can result in varying lift-off distances during surface scanning and alterations in the path of swirling currents near the rivet. Consequently, the response of vortex currents may vary, complicating the precise interpretation of test outcomes. In recent years, researchers have concentrated on devising advanced techniques for vortex testing to identify defects in complex structures, particularly those found in the aerospace industry. In this study, we have devised a model employing the finite element method (FEM) using COMSOL Multiphysics for non-destructive testing via 3D imaging utilizing a grid of multi-element vortex sensors distributed across multiple layers around the rivet, without necessitating the displacement of this grid. Our investigation, which involved analyzing various changes in lift-off distances for the sensor, demonstrated the accuracy of defect detection near the rivet, irrespective of the length and width of the defect. We propose a promising solution to tackle both the rivet's shape and the issue of probe displacement during testing. The sensors' non-displacement eliminates parasitic signals, preventing errors in signal interpretation, while multiplexed powering eliminates mutual inductance between adjacent coils.
Citation
Merwane khebal ,
Abdelhak ABDOU ,
tarik Bouchala ,
Abderrahmane aboura ,
Kamel belkhiri ,
, (2024-06-28), Static eddy current imaging for nondestructive testing of aeronautical structures, STUDIES IN ENGINEERING AND EXACT SCIENCES,
Vol:5, Issue:1, pages:3484–3501, STUDIES PUBLICACOES