Thermography as a tool for damage assessment (original) (raw)

Abstract

The use of infrared thermography (IRT) as a nondestructive evaluation technique is becoming increasingly attractive for the detection of sub-surface defects in composite structures. Extensive in-field studies have been performed that enable qualitative results to be obtained for simple structures. Unfortunately its application to complex geometries is not widely accepted. This study focuses on the use of finite element (FE) analysis to simulate the thermographic process for complex non-axisymmetric geometries. As a result of this study a suitably calibrated finite element simulation has been generated and validated. This process has the potential to be applied to composite structures with complex structural configurations.

Key takeaways

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  1. Finite element analysis enhances thermography's applicability to complex geometries in composite structures.
  2. The study validates a finite element model calibrated using experimental data for effective damage assessment.
  3. A thermal diffusivity of 0.54 mm²/sec was determined as significant for defect depth prediction.
  4. Pulse phase thermography improves defect detection through advanced signal processing techniques.
  5. NE-NASTRAN provides a reliable simulation framework for transient thermal behavior in composite materials.

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References (6)

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