How does beam steering work in a PAUT system?

In a Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) system, beam steering is achieved by adjusting the timing of the signals sent to the different elements of the transducer array. Each element in the array acts like an individual transducer, and by controlling the phase of the ultrasonic pulses emitted from each element, the direction of the resulting sound beam can be modified. When the timings are altered, the sound waves will constructively and destructively interfere with each other in a way that can either focus the beam or steer it towards a desired angle relative to the transducer face.

This technique allows for highly flexible angle adjustments without the need for physical movement of the transducer, making it particularly advantageous in complex inspection scenarios. The ability to create multiple angles of inspection from a single setup enhances efficiency and allows for more comprehensive coverage of the inspection area.

Other options do not accurately depict how beam steering in PAUT works. Moving the transducer in a circular motion would not allow for precise control over the beam direction, using multiple transducer heads adds complexity without addressing beam directionality, and varying the frequency of the ultrasonic waves does not directly affect the steering of the beam. Thus, the method of timing adjustments in signal transmission is fundamental to how precise control of