To optimize the performance of our ultrasonic testing (UT) solutions for the wind energy industry, our experts have developed specialized probes, wedges, and scanners that address the problems associated with wind turbine blade inspection applications.

For wind blades, in addition to the time-consuming size of the inspection, there is also the issue of the high sound attenuation of the materials, including thick composites (glass-fiber- or carbon-fiber-reinforced materials) and epoxy adhesive.

We’ve innovated solutions to these issues, and now offer wind blade manufacturers and service companies a range of equipment options for reliable and high-performance phased array (PA) and conventional UT inspection of wind blades.

Read the application note demonstrating results obtained using these solutions.

Increase Your Coverage with the RollerFORM™ XL Scanner

The latest addition to our PA wind blade inspection solutions is the RollerFORM XL scanner. We equipped it with all the favorite features of the standard RollerFORM scanner but widened the wheel, doubling the number of elements on its phased array probe.

The RollerFORM XL probe has 128 elements spaced apart with a 1 mm (0.04 in.) pitch. Multiplexing the ultrasonic beams on the elements achieves a 128 mm (5 in.) wide beam coverage. Two and a half times wider than the standard RollerFORM scanner, the increased beam coverage helps reduce the number of passes you have to make when scanning large parts.

Tailor-Made to Ease Wind Blade Inspections

Designed to enable fast scanning of attenuative, oversized parts, the RollerFORM XL scanner eases the wind blade inspection process in several ways:

• Improves probability of detection (POD) and interpretation when performing porosity quantification, delamination sizing, and disbond monitoring
  Combining the wider coverage with the multiple views provided by the OmniScan™ X3 instrument enables a thorough understanding of the part’s condition.
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• Detects defects and delamination in composites from 2 to 40 mm (0.08 to 1.6 in.) thick
  The low-frequency (1 MHz) probe with its large 13 mm (0.51 in.) elevation improves the beam penetration in thick, attenuative materials, such as fiberglass-reinforced composites and the epoxy used in the spar cap and shear web bonding.
• Enables easy 2D mapping
  Perform encoded 2D mapping of parts thanks to its embedded encoder and convenient buttons on the handle that remotely start the acquisition and index the scanner’s position on the OmniScan X3 unit.
• Eliminates the need for a water couplant supply system
  The innovative tire material’s acoustic impedance matches that of the liquid inside, enabling optimal sound energy to transmit into the part. It’s also see-through to facilitate removing bubbles using the bubble trap.
• Improves productivity and prevents discomfort
  Easy to use, the scanner was designed with ergonomics in mind, including its easy-grip handle, button and laser guide placement, and smooth rolling motion. Operators can work longer and faster.
• Sets up, transports, and stores easily
  The RollerFORM XL scanner with its integrated probe, delay line, and encoder is a compact phased array scanning solution that can be rapidly deployed wherever it’s required. When paired with the battery-operated OmniScan X3 flaw detector, the equipment is a powerful portable phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) solution.

Request a Demo Today

If this list of advantages has piqued your interest, seeing the RollerFORM XL scanner in action is the natural next step. Reach out to a local Olympus representative and we’ll set you up with a demonstration so you can experience its ease and efficiency for yourself.