Define "B-scan" in PAUT imaging.

In phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT), a "B-scan" is a type of imaging technique that provides a cross-sectional view of the scanned area. This view represents how sound waves interact with different reflectors and boundaries within the material being tested. By mapping the amplitude of the returning signals along a single line or path, the B-scan effectively illustrates the depth and position of reflectors, enabling technicians to visualize subsurface features and assess material integrity.

The emphasis on cross-section means that the B-scan allows for a detailed analysis of what lies beneath the surface, making it an essential component for identifying flaws or discontinuities within a material. This distinction sets it apart from methods that may depict reflectors in other orientations or focus solely on amplitude representations without providing a clear spatial understanding of the material’s internal structure.