Overview
ISO 18563-2:2017 - "Non-destructive testing - Characterization and verification of ultrasonic phased array equipment - Part 2: Probes" specifies the end-of-fabrication characterization tests for ultrasonic phased array probes. It defines required methodology and acceptance criteria for probes used in contact (with/without wedge) or immersion techniques with centre frequencies from 0.5 MHz to 10 MHz. Applicable probe types include non-matrix arrays (linear, encircling, partial annular/“daisy”) and 2D-matrix arrays. The standard focuses on probes only; instrument and combined-system tests are covered in ISO 18563-1 and ISO 18563-3.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Scope & applicability: Tests at probe connector after final assembly; contact and immersion techniques; frequency range 0.5–10 MHz.
- Documentation & traceability:
- Probe data sheet (technical specs) and probe test report (measured values, test equipment/conditions).
- Probe marking with manufacturer ID and unique serial/reference number; declaration of conformity.
- Required test equipment:
- Oscilloscope with minimum 100 MHz bandwidth.
- Spectrum analyser (or FFT-capable oscilloscope) minimum 100 MHz.
- Relevant test blocks, wedges or immersion setups; details must be recorded in the test report.
- Performance tests specified (methodology and acceptance criteria defined in Clause 8):
- Physical aspects (geometry, contact face, integrated wedge details).
- Relative pulse-echo sensitivity variation - element-to-element uniformity.
- Frequency, bandwidth and pulse duration - per-element and average values.
- Probe sensitivity - overall probe response.
- Inter-element cross-talk (optional) and number of elements out of specification (rules for 2D-matrix arrays).
- Testing conditions: Tests should reproduce intended use (wedge present/removed, immersion fluid specified or water by default). Acceptance criteria are valid only under stated test conditions.
Applications and Users
ISO 18563-2 is intended for:
- Phased array probe manufacturers - production acceptance testing and final inspection.
- NDT laboratories and test houses - incoming inspection, certification and performance verification.
- Quality assurance/Procurement - supplier compliance, procurement specifications.
- R&D and probe designers - baseline characterization, design verification.
Practical uses include manufacturing quality control, supplier acceptance, probe data sheet generation, and producing probe test reports for traceability and conformity.
Related Standards
- ISO 18563-1 - Instrument characterization and verification.
- ISO 18563-3 - Combined system performance.
- ISO 2400 - Calibration block No. 1 (reference block).
- ISO 5577 and EN 16018 - NDT/ultrasonic terminology and phased array terms.
Keywords: ISO 18563-2, ultrasonic phased array, non-destructive testing, probes, probe characterization, probe verification, acceptance criteria, probe test report, probe data sheet.