Partial UT-S scan

[weldmanmayo]

I recently was asked to perform UT-S on a thick member prior to its completion to judge if the root pass is acceptable. Has anyone performed scans on a partially welded joint? can it be done effectively?

 

[Duwe6]

I have, and it is NOT 100% accurate. It depends on the joint geometry, and the *actual* ammount of weld deposited at the time of the scan. The more the weld deposit, the better chances of having an interpretable scan. Measure the deposit yourself, don't take anybodies word on it.

Like all UT 'problem joints', PLOT IT OUT, preferrably at twice or even 5x actual scale. This will show you how much coverage you can get. And the plot will show where you will start getting anomolies due to the unwelded portion.