FMC/TFM to get to know your component better
FMC is a data acquisition strategy that consists of capturing all possible time-domain signals (A-Scans) from every transmitter-receiver pair of elements of a phased array probe.
Data acquired with Zetec TOPAZ 64 and reconstructed with Frederic Dupont-Marillia’s, Ph. D., algorithm | Perfect resolution and SNR
These individual signals can be processed (live or in post-processing) to reconstruct the data using advanced algorithms such as the Total Focusing Method (TFM). TFM creates a data display where delay laws are computed to optimize signals for every pixel of the display. This has the potential of increasing the resolution and the sensitivity of the examination when properly applied.
FMC/TFM are advanced phased array UT techniques that are implemented for meet specific challenges such as:
1- Weld inspections
Welds are routinely examined in several different settings. Using FMC/TFM techniques can provide identical or improved detection performance but more importantly, improved signal characterization for more challenging configurations. This is especially true for thick components, partial penetration welds or Dissimilar Metal (DM) welds.
2- Hydrogen Induced Cracking (HIC)
Mostly encountered in oil and gas industry, examination using FMC/TFM techniques can provide a more detailed and accurate image of the damages caused to the component; bringing a better understanding for the estimation of growth rates between inspections.
There are many other applications in different fields, such as high-temperature hydrogen attacks (HTHA), that can benefit from these advanced ultrasonic examination techniques.
Implementing FMC/TFM inspections requires specialized NDE hardware and software as well as a good understanding of the associated advantages and limitations. Nucleom has been involved in the development of FMC/TFM inspection systems and can provide insight to perform challenging and complex inspections.
WRITTEN BY JEAN FRANÇOIS MARTEL, M. SC.
Jean-François has been involved in CIQB qualification projects as a technical expert and reviewer. Over the last years, he became very familiar with the CIQB qualification protocol. He also participated in advanced NDE system design and was part of different inspection campaigns including feeders and Calandria Relief Ducts. With over 15 years of experience in NDE complex automated system design in the nuclear industry and NDE services, Jean-François has detailed knowledge of and advanced ultrasonic techniques (AUT, PAUT, TOFD), PoD analysis and acts as Lead NDE scientist for Nucleom.
About Nucleom
Nucleom is a Canadian non-destructive testing (NDT) company headquartered in Quebec City (Quebec), with offices in Montreal (Quebec), Toronto (Ontario), Kincardine (Ontario) and Edmonton (Alberta). Providing a wide range of non-destructive testing services, Nucleom offers solutions that significantly increase the speed and reliability of inspections on critical equipment. Nucleom is pushing the boundaries of non‑destructive testing to safeguard the operation of critical infrastructures such as nuclear reactors and pipelines. Nucleom team works in Canada and around the world, primarily on Canada’s world-renowned CANDU reactor technology, to ensure these workhorses of the nuclear power industry continue to work safely and thus integrate the principles of social and environmental responsibility.