Ultrasonic Phased Array Solutions

Can your systems be fully automated?

Yes, our phased array systems can be driven remotely and incorporated into larger systems. M2M systems are already being used in large-scale robotic systems. All of our phased array systems can be used with as many as eight encoders, allowing, for example, the phased-array probe to be mounted on an 8-axis robot.

Who are Bercli’s partners?

Bercli works with M2M, the Commissariat à l’Energie Atomique (CEA) and Imasonic.

Bercli is the exclusive North American distributor of phased-array systems manufactured by M2M. The CEA develops the industry leading CIVA software that is incorporated into M2M systems and used by Bercli for probe design and simulation studies. Additionally Bercli works with Imasonic, the leading manufacturer of custom probes, to meet our customer’s needs for phased-array probes.

How many channels and what configurations are available?

Our smallest system, the Pocket, is based on an 8×32 multiplexed architecture, and fits into a 120mm by 160mm by 60mm box. The Pocket was developed in partnership with EADS (European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company, which includes AIRBUS).

Our largest system is a fully parallel 128-channel system. With some development, we can provide a fully parallel 256-channel system.

Our product brochures can provide you with the technical specifications of each system.

• Multi-X and Multi-2000
• Multi-2000 Pocket

Advantages of Phased-Array Probes

Phased arrays have several advantages over conventional ultrasonic probes that derive from the ability to dynamically control the acoustic beam transmitted into the structure under examination.

Phased arrays can reduce inspection times by eliminating or reducing the need for mechanical scanning by taking advantage of the ability to perform electronic scanning (see animation at left). Electronic scanning is accomplished by firing successive groups of elements in the array. Eliminating or reducing mechanical scanning also increases the reliability of the measurements by eliminating changes in (or loss of) coupling, which is a risk each time the probe is moved.

Whereas a conventional probe has one focal length and one orientation, a single phased-array probe allows the user to change the shape and focal point of the ultrasonic beam to optimize each inspection. The acoustic energy can be focused, and delay laws can be applied to steer the acoustic beam. Dynamic-depth focusing allows measurements to be made at several depths in the same amount of time as it takes to a single depth measurement using a conventional probe.

Phased arrays improve the reliability of the measurements and defect sizing can be improved using tools such as sectorial scanning (see figure below), or focalization after reflection off the back wall, two options available with M2M systems. A distinguishing feature of M2M systems is that the user can tune the beam, for example, to define any focal points in a CAD drawing.

Because of their flexibility, a phased-array probe can replace an entire toolbox of conventional ultrasonic probes. It can thereby simplify complex inspection procedures by eliminating the need for multiple probes, and the associated calibrations and setups.
Phased-arrays provide tremendous functionality including real-time imaging (see image below). Compared to measurements with conventional single-element probes, the detection and sizing of defects is much easier and more robust. Instead of struggling to find the optimal single signal that can be obtained with one element, a phased array allows hundreds of signals to be captured at once. The greatly improved efficiency makes it much easier to characterize defects and reduces the number of false alarms. When used in conjunction with simulation, inspection strategies can be optimized to improve detection.
Data recording and traceability are also greatly improved. For example, inspection data can be saved and compared to simulated results, helping to confirm whether or not there is a defect in the inspected structure.

Phased-arrays provide tremendous functionality including real-time imaging (see image at left). Compared to measurements with conventional single-element probes, the detection and sizing of defects is much easier and more robust. Instead of struggling to find the optimal single signal that can be obtained with one element, a phased array allows hundreds of signals to be captured at once. The greatly improved efficiency makes it much easier to characterize defects and reduces the number of false alarms. When used in conjunction with simulation, inspection strategies can be optimized to improve detection.
Data recording and traceability are also greatly improved. For example, inspection data can be saved and compared to simulated results, helping to confirm whether or not there is a defect in the inspected structure.

Introducing…

Welcome to the new and improved Bercli website.  We hope to make this site a useful resource for anyone looking at using Ultrasonic Phased Array technologies for nondestructive evaluation.  Please bookmark us, and check back again soon for articles written by leaders in the UT and NDT fields.

Features coming soon: a FAQ, Collaborative Bulletin Board for discussions, Automated Technical and Customer Support.

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