About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2027 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Aluminum Cast Shop Technology Symposium and Supplier Forum
|
| Presentation Title |
Ultrasonic Testing of Cast Aluminum Logs with EMAT Technology |
| Author(s) |
Adam Gurman, Yasmin Shaneyfelt, Calvin Wiggins, Borja Lopez |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Adam Gurman |
| Abstract Scope |
This paper describes the development and implementation of an automated Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT) inspection system for detecting centerline cracking in cast aluminum logs and billets. Unlike conventional ultrasonic methods, EMAT generates ultrasonic waves through electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for liquid couplant and reducing sensitivity to surface conditions.
Development included evaluation of longitudinal and shear wave modes to optimize crack detection. A robotic positioning arm integrates laser-based geometry sensing with automatic EMAT sensor positioning, to maintain compliance throughout inspection, improving measurement consistency and minimizing sensor wear.
Production trials demonstrated reliable centerline crack detection under industrial operating conditions where conventional ultrasonic methods struggled, with <3% false positives. Additional benefits include fully automated inspection and calibration, a reduced equipment footprint, and reductions in maintenance and operating costs.
These results support EMAT as a practical and reliable technique for quality assurance and early detection of centerline cracking in aluminum casting operations. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: Light Metals |
| Keywords |
Aluminum, |