Non-destructive testing of GLARE using ultrasonic testing

Abstract

GLARE is a new generation of FML that had been developed for the aerospace industry and had been recently used in the A380. With increased growth in the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) industry in Singapore, GLARE is becoming a common material to inspect and repair. Defects such as cracks and voids can be present in GLARE during manufacturing process as well as during flight which can be detected during in-service inspections. Conventional ultrasonic testing can be performed to locate the defects present.

The report presents the results from the UT performed on common materials such as steel and aerospace grade aluminium as well as on GLARE. The method for calibration was explored on the various materials before finally performing the calibration on GLARE. A newly developed standard operating procedure was produced after several attempts of studying the signals formed upon UT in GLARE. Data from the signals and results produced in GLARE had been further anaylsed by studying the thickness of the different layers of GLARE and evaluating time taken for ultrasound in GLARE of a 3/2 lay-up. Also, GLARE had been fabricated in the laboratory which never had been done before. Defects were simulated so that it could be located upon UT.