What defines the "beam profile" in PAUT?

The concept of "beam profile" in Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) refers specifically to the distribution of sound energy within the beam itself. This distribution is crucial for understanding how the ultrasonic waves propagate and interact with the material being tested. The beam profile affects the sensitivity and resolution of the inspection, determining how well various features and flaws can be detected.

Parameters such as the width of the beam, the focal zone, and how energy is distributed across the beam all contribute to the overall effectiveness of the inspection. An optimal beam profile will enhance the likelihood of detecting defects while minimizing the interference from noise or irrelevant structures in the material.

The other options relate to different aspects of ultrasonic testing. The speed at which the wave travels is a property of the medium and a fundamental characteristic of sound waves, but it does not pertain specifically to beam profile. The angle of incidence of the wave is important for understanding how sound interacts with interfaces, but it does not define the distribution of energy within the beam. Finally, the length of the transducer array is relevant to the design and capabilities of the transducer but does not directly inform the distribution of sound energy in the beam.