Pipe test a magnetostrictive phased array system for guided wave testing and structural health monitoring of pipe

In summary, a new multichannel magnetostrictive sensor collar for the GWT of piping was introduced. This sensor combines the benefits of traditional magnetostrictive sensors with the multichannel capabilities of traditional piezoelectric guided wave collars. Several of the primary benefits of the multichannel magnetostrictive sensor array include: Low-profile collar, approximately 1.27 mm (0.05 in.) thick; o Elimination of the near field;. Distributed surface loading rather than small localized loading;. Ftexural wave analysis;. Passive (synthetic) focusing;. Active (phased array) focusing;. Long-term monitoring capability. Hence, for applications that permit temporary or permanent bonding of magnetostrictive material to the external pipe surface, typically the case in SHM, the newly developed multichannel magnetostrictive sensor collars have several unique advantages over traditional approaches. Furthermore, this multichannel magnetostrictive sensor array concept has excellent potential in SHM for cost-effective long-term guided wave evaluation as the magnetostrictive material can be left in place for future inspections.