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EPOCH XT Ultrasonic Flaw Detector Users Manual

Manual Version D 910-264D-EN March 2007

In accordance with European Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, this symbol indicates that the product must not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste, but should be collected separately. Refer to your local Olympus NDT distributor for return and/or collection systems available in your country.

Copyright 2007 by Olympus NDT. All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the written permission of Olympus NDT, except where permitted by law. For information, contact: info@OlympusNDT.com. Panametrics, Panametrics-NDT, and the Panametrics-NDT logo are trademarks of Panametrics Inc. Other product names mentioned in this document may be trademarks of their respective companies, and are mentioned for identification purposes only. Printed in the United States of America.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ............................................................................................... iii Warranty ............................................................................................................. ix 1. Preface ........................................................................................................... 1


1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Product Description ........................................................................................................... About This Document ....................................................................................................... Audience ............................................................................................................................ Typographic Conventions ................................................................................................. If You Have Documentation Comments ........................................................................... Revision History ................................................................................................................ Technical Help ................................................................................................................... 1 2 2 3 4 4 5

2. EPOCH XT Physical Features ...................................................................... 7


2.1 Transducer Connections .................................................................................................... 7 2.2 Optional Hardware Input/Output Port ............................................................................... 8 2.3 Pipestand/Handle ............................................................................................................... 8 2.4 Bi-Directional Hand Strap ................................................................................................. 8 2.5 Battery Door and Compartment ........................................................................................ 9 2.6 Office Connection Door .................................................................................................. 10 2.7 O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals ............................................................................ 10 2.8 D-Ring Clips for Chest Harness Use ............................................................................... 10 2.9 Display Protection ........................................................................................................... 11 2.10 IP 67 Environmental Rating ........................................................................................... 11

3. Operating the Power Supply ....................................................................... 13


3.1 Using AC Line Power ..................................................................................................... 13 3.2 Using Battery Power ....................................................................................................... 14 3.3 Operating Time for the Battery ....................................................................................... 14

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iii

3.4 Replacing the Battery ...................................................................................................... 15 3.5 Charging the Battery ........................................................................................................ 15 3.6 Using C-Cell Alkaline Batteries ...................................................................................... 16

4. Managing Basic Operations ........................................................................ 17


4.1 Powering Up .................................................................................................................... 4.2 The EPOCH XT Keypad ................................................................................................. 4.2.1 Adjustment Using Enter and Slewing Keys ......................................................... 4.2.2 Direct Access Adjustment Using Parameter and F Keys ..................................... 4.2.3 Direct Entry of Parameter Values ......................................................................... 4.3 Summarizing Keypad Functions ..................................................................................... 4.4 Display Arrangement ....................................................................................................... 4.4.1 Full-Screen Display .............................................................................................. 4.4.2 Split Screen Display ............................................................................................. 4.4.3 Display Flags and Markers ................................................................................... 4.5 Menu Navigation ............................................................................................................. 4.6 Instrument Setup Menu ................................................................................................... 4.6.1 General Tab ........................................................................................................... 4.6.2 Editable Parameters (EditPara) Tab ...................................................................... 4.6.3 Status Tab .............................................................................................................. 4.6.4 Splash Screen Tab ................................................................................................. 4.7 Display Setup Menu ........................................................................................................ 4.7.1 Color Tab .............................................................................................................. 4.7.2 Ascan Tab ............................................................................................................. 4.8 Measurement Setup Menu ............................................................................................... 4.8.1 EPOCH XT Measurements ................................................................................... 4.8.2 Meas Tab ............................................................................................................... 4.8.3 Gates Tab .............................................................................................................. 4.8.4 Options Tab ........................................................................................................... 17 17 18 18 18 19 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 34 34 36 37 38 42 42 46 47 50

5. Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver .................................................................... 51


5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 Adjusting the System Sensitivity (Gain) ......................................................................... Using the AUTOXX% Feature ..................................................................................... Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain .................................................................... Pulser Adjustment ........................................................................................................... 5.4.1 Pulse-Repetition Frequency .................................................................................. 5.4.2 Pulser Frequency Selection (Pulse Width) ........................................................... 5.4.3 Pulse Energy ......................................................................................................... 5.4.4 Damping ............................................................................................................... 5.4.5 Test Mode ............................................................................................................. 5.5 Receiver Adjustment ....................................................................................................... 51 52 53 53 53 54 55 55 56 56

iv

Table of Contents

5.5.1 Digital Filters ........................................................................................................ 56 5.5.2 Waveform Rectification ........................................................................................ 57 5.6 Custom Filter Sets ........................................................................................................... 58

6. Managing Special Waveform Functions .................................................... 59


6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Reject ............................................................................................................................... Peak Memory .................................................................................................................. Peak Hold ........................................................................................................................ Display Freeze ................................................................................................................. 59 60 61 62

7. Gates .............................................................................................................. 63
7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 7.9 Positioning Gates 1 and 2 ................................................................................................ Gate Measurement Modes ............................................................................................... Taking Thickness Readings ............................................................................................. Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings ...................................................................... Locating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer ........................................................... Measuring Signal Amplitude .......................................................................................... Operating in Time-of-Flight Mode .................................................................................. Using the Zoom Feature .................................................................................................. Gate Alarms ..................................................................................................................... 7.9.1 Threshold Alarms ................................................................................................. 7.9.2 Minimum-Depth Alarm ........................................................................................ 7.9.3 Minimum Depth Alarm with a Single Gate ......................................................... 7.9.4 Minimum-Depth Alarm with Gate 2 Tracking ..................................................... 7.9.5 Alarm-Condition Storage ..................................................................................... 63 64 64 64 65 66 68 69 69 69 70 70 71 71

8. Calibrating the EPOCH XT ........................................................................ 73


8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 Getting Started ................................................................................................................. Calibrating with a Straight-Beam Transducer ................................................................. Calibration with a Delay-Line Transducer ...................................................................... Calibration with a Dual-Element Transducer .................................................................. Calibrating with an Angle-Beam Transducer .................................................................. 8.5.1 Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP) .................................................................. 8.5.2 Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta) ................................................................... 8.5.3 Calibrating for Distance ....................................................................................... 8.5.4 Calibrating for Sensitivity .................................................................................... 74 75 79 84 89 90 91 93 97

9. Managing the Instrument Datalogger ...................................................... 101


9.1 Datalogger Storage Capacity ......................................................................................... 102 9.2 Datalogger Menu ........................................................................................................... 103 9.2.1 Creating Data Files ............................................................................................. 103

Table of Contents

9.2.2 Data File Types ................................................................................................... 9.2.3 Opening Data Files ............................................................................................. 9.2.4 Saving to Data Files ............................................................................................ 9.2.5 File Summary and Review .................................................................................. 9.2.6 Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibration) ......................................................... 9.3 Reporting ....................................................................................................................... 9.3.1 Report Header Setup ........................................................................................... 9.3.2 Printing ............................................................................................................... 9.3.3 Instrument Resets ................................................................................................

104 120 123 123 126 128 128 129 132

10. Software Features and Options ................................................................ 133


10.1 Defining Active/Inactive Options ................................................................................. 10.2 DAC/TVG ..................................................................................................................... 10.2.1 Description ......................................................................................................... 10.2.2 Option Activation and Reference Correct .......................................................... 10.2.3 ASME & ASME3 DAC/TVG ........................................................................ 10.2.4 ASME III DAC Setup Example ......................................................................... 10.2.5 Gain Adjustment Options .................................................................................. 10.2.6 Curve Adjustment GainAlso Called DAC Gain or TVG Gain ............... 10.2.7 Transfer Correction ............................................................................................. 10.2.8 JIS DAC .............................................................................................................. 10.2.9 20%80% DAC Option ...................................................................................... 10.2.10 Custom DAC Curves Option ............................................................................ 10.2.11 TVG Table Option ............................................................................................ 10.2.12 TVG Table Setup .............................................................................................. 10.3 DGS/AVG ..................................................................................................................... 10.3.1 Description ......................................................................................................... 10.3.2 Option Activation ............................................................................................... 10.3.3 Relative Attenuation Measurement .................................................................... 10.4 AWS D1.1/D1.5 ............................................................................................................ 10.4.1 Overview ............................................................................................................ 10.4.2 AWS D1.1 and the EPOCH XT .......................................................................... 10.4.3 Operating the AWS D1.1 Software .................................................................... 133 135 135 136 137 137 142 144 145 145 146 147 149 150 153 153 154 159 160 160 161 161

Appendix A: Cable Assembly ......................................................................... 165 Appendix B: Sound Velocities ......................................................................... 167 Appendix C: Glossary ..................................................................................... 171 Appendix D: EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications .................. 181
vi Table of Contents

Appendix E: Parts List .................................................................................... 225 Documentation Comments .............................................................................. 229

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vii

viii

Warranty

The EPOCH XT Digital Ultrasonic Flaw Detector has been designed and manufactured as a high quality instrument. Inspect the unit thoroughly upon receipt for evidence of external or internal damage that may have occurred during shipment. Notify the carrier making the delivery immediately of any damage, since the carrier is normally liable for damage in shipment. Preserve packing materials, waybills, and other shipping documentation in order to establish damage claims. After notifying the carrier, contact Olympus NDT so that we may assist in the damage claims and provide replacement equipment, if necessary. Olympus NDT guarantees the EPOCH XT to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year (twelve months) from date of shipment. This warranty only covers equipment that has been used in a proper manner as described in this instruction manual and has not been subjected to excessive abuse, attempted unauthorized repair, or modification. DURING THIS WARRANTY PERIOD, Olympus NDT LIABILITY IS STRICTLY LIMITED TO REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF A DEFECTIVE UNIT AT ITS OPTION. Olympus NDT does not warrant the EPOCH XT to be suitable of intended use, or fitness for any particular application or purpose. Olympus NDT accepts no liability for consequential or incidental damages including damage to property and/or personal injury. In addition to our standard one year warranty, Olympus NDT also offers an optional two year warranty (call for further details). The warranty does not include transducers, transducer cables, battery(ies), or seals. The customer must maintain the condition of seals in the battery door and office connection doors. The customer will pay shipping expense to the Olympus NDT plant for warranty repair; Olympus NDT will pay for the return of the repaired equipment. (For instruments not under warranty, the customer will pay shipping expenses both ways.) In this manual, we have attempted to teach the proper operation of the EPOCH XT consistent with accepted flaw detection techniques. We believe the procedures and examples given are accurate. However, the information contained herein is intended solely as a teaching aid and

Warranty

ix

should not be used in any particular application without independent testing and/or verification by the operator or the supervisor. Such independent verification of procedures becomes more important as the criticality of the application increases. For these reasons, we make no warranty, expressed or implied, that the techniques, examples, or procedures described herein are consistent with industry standards or that they will meet the requirements of any particular application. Olympus NDT expressly disclaims all implied warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any particular application. Olympus NDT reserves the right to modify all products without incurring the responsibility for modifying previously manufactured products. Olympus NDT does not assume any liability for the results of particular installations, as these circumstances are not within our control. THE WARRANTIES SET FORTH HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE AND ARE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER STATUTORY, EXPRESS, OR IMPLIED (INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND WARRANTIES ARISING FROM COURSE OF DEALING OR USAGE OR TRADE).

Warranty

1.

Preface

The preface contains the following introductory topics: Product Description About This Document Audience Typographic Conventions If You Have Documentation Comments Revision History Technical Help

1.1

Product Description

The EPOCH XT is a high-performance, lightweight, and portable ultrasonic flaw detector. This detector offers excellent ultrasonic performance, large dynamic range, superior measurement resolution, a color-liquid crystal display, and an all-new user interface. The EPOCH XT sets a new performance benchmark for portable flaw detection and is a completely new instrument offering many performance, durability, and operational enhancements when compared to previous EPOCH Flaw Detectors. Enhancements include: Case sealed to IP67 to assure environmental durability. Complies with EN12668-1. High Performance PerfectSquare Pulser Technology The instrument electronics control both the leading and trailing edges of the pulse for precise width control and excellent near surface resolution while maintaining the superior penetration power expected with a square wave pulser. A 100% digital, high dynamic-range receiver design with unprecedented TVG performance.

Preface

Digital filters: Broadband, Narrowband, and High-Pass filters for application flexibility. Five customizable measurement-display locations for time and amplitude measurements from either Gate 1 or Gate 2. New rapid parameter adjustment methods maximizing effectiveness of operator inputs. Large datalogger for instrument setups and inspection data. Allows operator to use corrosion thickness-gage file types. USB client port for high speed data transfer to a PC. USB host port for printing and for USB drive storage. Hardware I/O port for alarm outputs, trigger in/out, and encoder compatibility.

We suggest reading through the information completely at least once with your EPOCH XT in hand so that you can combine reading the descriptions and examples with the actual use of the instrument.

1.2

About This Document

This document is the Users Manual for the EPOCH XT. This manual describes routine tasks for operating the EPOCH XT. These tasks include: Operating the power supply Managing basic operations Adjusting the pulser receiver Managing special waveform functions Using the gates Calibrating the EPOCH XT Managing the datalogger and data communication features Using software options

1.3

Audience

This document is intended for any operator using the EPOCH XT. Olympus NDT recommends that all operators have a thorough understanding of the principles and limitations of ultrasonic testing. We assume no responsibility for incorrect operational procedure or interpretation of test results. We recommend that all operators seek adequate training prior to using this equipment. Olympus NDT offers a full range of training courses including Level I and Level II Ultrasonic Testing, Advanced Detection and Sizing, and Ultrasonic Thickness Gaging. For further information regarding training courses, contact Olympus NDT. 2 Chapter 1

While the EPOCH XT is a continuously self-calibrating instrument, the user must determine regulatory requirements. Olympus NDT offers calibration and documentation services. Contact Olympus NDT or your local representative with any special requests.

1.4

Typographic Conventions

The following notes and table describe typographic conventions, which appear in this document.

WARNING
This information indicates danger and the possibility of personal injury.

CAUTION
This information indicates that equipment damage can occur.

Note: This information provides explanatory information.

Tip: This information provides helpful guidelines for easy operation.

Preface

Table 1 Typographic conventions Convention Courier Font Description Used for file names, lines of code, names of processes, and commands. Used for command line user input. Used for textual parts of graphical user interface, including menu items, buttons, toolbar names, modes, options, and tabs. Used for screen/window names, dialog boxes and document titles. Used for emphasis. Used for instrument keys on the keypad. With italics text, used for variable data. Used for showing the next sequential step.

Heavy courier Bold

Italics Bold Italics [BOLD] (Square Brackets with Bold) <Italics> (Angle Brackets)

1.5

If You Have Documentation Comments

Olympus NDT is always interested in improving its documentation. We value your comments about this manual and other Olympus NDT documentation. Complete the survey at the back of this manual and send your documentation comments to Olympus NDT by using one of the following methods: Send comments to Olympus NDT. Attention: Technical Publications Contact us at: info@OlympusNDT.com.

In all your correspondence, please include the title of the document, its part number, release date, and the specific section upon which you are commenting.

1.6

Revision History

This document may require updating because of corrections or changes to the product. 4 Chapter 1

Publication dates are updated when a change is made to the document. In addition, the document number is also changed to reflect the revision. The following table shows a list of revisions for this document. Table 2 Revision history Date August 2006 October 2006 January 2007 February 2007 Issue 910-264A-EN 910-264B-EN 910-264C-EN 910-264D-EN Release version First release Update Update Update

1.7

Technical Help

For assistance, call Olympus NDT and ask to speak to a sales engineer.

Preface

Chapter 1

2. EPOCH XT Physical Features

The EPOCH XT has many physical features that are either completely new or improved compared to previous EPOCH Flaw Detectors. It is important for the operator to be familiar with the use and maintenance of these items. This section covers the following topics: Transducer Connections Optional Hardware Input/Output Port Pipestand/Handle Bi-Directional Hand Strap Battery Door and Compartment Office Connection Door O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals D-Ring Clips for Chest Harness Use Display Protection IP 67 Environmental Rating

2.1

Transducer Connections

The EPOCH XT is supplied with either BNC or large LEMO transducer connectors. The type of transducer connector is chosen when the instrument is ordered. If necessary, it is possible to change the type of transducer connection at the factory for a small charge. While the selection of transducer connector is typically based on the operators preference, it is important to note that the performance of these two connector types is not equal. The environmental durability of the EPOCH XT depends in part on the connector style chosen because the BNC connectors are sealed and the large LEMO connectors are not. The

EPOCH XT Physical Features

EPOCH XTs IP 67 Environmental Rating is applicable to instruments with BNC connectors only. Instruments with large LEMO connectors have not been certified to any IP Environmental Rating.

2.2

Optional Hardware Input/Output Port

EPOCH XT instruments are available with an optional 16 pin LEMO hardware input/output (I/O) port next to the transducer connections. This port serves the following functions as of the first EPOCH XT production run: Alarm Outputsfor details see section 7.9 on page 69 Trigger In/Outfor details see section 10.4.7

This LEMO connection is sealed to IP 67 when the supplied cap is in place (and in good condition) or when the mating connector is plugged in. If the connector is left open then it is not sealed and liquids might enter the instrument. Olympus NDT offers an EPOCH XT Hardware I/O cable as an accessory with the EPOCH XT with part numbers EPXT-C-16HW-6 (6) and EPXT-C-16HW-20 (20).

2.3

Pipestand/Handle

The EPOCH XT has a new pipe stand/handle design chosen for its light weight, compact design, durability, and ease of adjustment. To adjust the position of the pipestand/handle, the ball-detent mechanisms that locate the pipestand/handle allow the position to be adjusted simply by pulling on the lower part of the pipestand/handle. The pipestand/handle is removable. This requires a 0.5 in. Crescent wrench to remove the locator pins on both sides of the instrument. Once these have been removed, the operator can slide the pipestand/handle out of the ball-detent mechanisms and then replace them with the locator pins. This arrangement allows the use of the D-rings for a chest harness and removes the weight of the pipestand/handle.

2.4

Bi-Directional Hand Strap

The EPOCH XT has been designed with a bi-directional hand strap so that the instrument may be held in the operators left or right hand. There are three mounting points for the hand strap on the instrument; left, right, and bottom-center. The bottom-center point should not need to be adjusted except for the removal or replacement of the hand strap.

Chapter 2

To reverse the hand strap 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Peel back the outer leather area that is held with Velcro to the adjustment strap and the center leather section. Peel the adjustment strap upward to remove it from the center leather section. Replace the outer leather section now that the adjustment strap has been removed. Gently pull the adjustment strap downward to remove it from between the pin and the body of the instrument. Pull the adjustment strap under the instrument and around to the opposite-side pin and place it between the pin and body of the instrument in the upward direction. Peel back the outer leather area (formerly the inner leather area). Adjust the hand strap to a comfortable position by pulling the adjustment strap and sliding the leather section. Attach the adjustment strap to the center leather section and close the other leather section over the adjustment strap.

2.5

Battery Door and Compartment

The EPOCH XT battery door allows the operator quick access to the battery compartment without the need for tools. There are two quick-release buttons on the battery door (on the left when looking at the back of the instrument). To open the door, these buttons must be pressed fully and released, then the door can be slid out to the left. It is important to do this carefully to avoid damaging the four plastic tabs that hold the right side of the door in place. When replacing the battery door these steps are reversed. It is important to slide the door all the way to the left before attempting to re-engage the quick release connectors. The operator must also take care to keep the battery door seal in place or the instruments environmental seal can be damaged and stop functioning as designed. The battery door also has a small hole that is covered on the inside by an environmentally sealed membrane vent. This vent is a safety feature that is required in the event that the instrument battery fails and emits gas. There is also a sticker on the outside of the battery door explaining that this location contains a membrane vent. This vent must not be punctured because it is part of the instruments environmental seal. The EPOCH XT has been designed to accept three battery types: Lithium Ion, Nickel Metal Hydride, or alkaline C-Cells. The instrument is supplied with a foam block to help hold C-Cell type batteries in place, but this is not required for their use.

EPOCH XT Physical Features

2.6

Office Connection Door

On the lower-right side of the EPOCH XT there is a door that covers all of the instruments office type connections. The door has an integral O-ring seal to keep liquids away from the unsealed connections behind the door. These connections are: the AC adapter input, USB client port, and USB host port. The Office Connection door is held in place by two thumb screws. The operator may also use a hexagonal wrench to manipulate these thumb screws as needed.

2.7

O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals

The EPOCH XT contains seals that are used to protect the instruments internal hardware from the environment. These include: Battery door seal Office connection door seal Membrane vent The main O-ring seal between the top and bottom halves of the case The O-ring seal under the transducer connector plate The gaskets located in the transducer connector plate assembly

These seals must be maintained to assure environmental durability. Instrument seals are evaluated and replaced as needed during the instruments annual calibration. This should be performed by an authorized Olympus NDT service center.

2.8

D-Ring Clips for Chest Harness Use

The EPOCH XT has four D-ring clips that may be used as mounting points for a chest harness. These D-ring clips have been mounted at ruggedized locations to ensure their integrity and prevent instrument damage. If a chest harness is being used, then the operator must use all four points to support the weight of the instrument. You must not expect that two D-rings will reliably support the instrument. The D-rings may be removed if they are not required. The mounting points do not penetrate the instrument case, so the instruments seal rests intact without the D-rings.

10

Chapter 2

2.9

Display Protection

All EPOCH XT gages are shipped from the factory with a clear plastic sheet protecting the instrument display window. It is advised that the operator leave this sheet in place. Replacements are available in packages of ten with part number EPXT-DP. The display window in the EPOCH XT is permanently bonded to the upper half of the instrument case to fully seal the instrument. If the display window becomes damaged, the entire upper half of the case must be replaced along with the instrument keypad. Olympus NDT also offers a rubber protective case with an integrated (and replaceable) plastic display shield. Contact Olympus NDT or your local representative for more information.

2.10 IP 67 Environmental Rating


The EPOCH XT has been designed to provide customers with an extremely rugged and durable instrument that may be used in harsh environments. In order to classify the instruments durability in wet or damp environments, many manufacturers, including Olympus NDT, have adopted the IP (Ingress Protection) system to rate how well the instrument is sealed. The EPOCH XT has been tested to the requirements of IP 67. All instruments ordered with BNC transducer connectors are designed to meet this level of ingress protection when they leave the factory. In order to maintain this level of protection, the operator is responsible for the proper care of all routinely exposed seals, O-rings, membranes, etc. (discussed in section 2.7 on page 10). Additionally, the operator is responsible for returning the instrument to an authorized Olympus NDT service center each year to ensure that the instrument seals are properly maintained. Olympus NDT cannot guarantee any level of ingress protection performance once the instrument seals have been manipulated. The operator must use sound judgment and take proper precautions before exposing the instrument to harsh environments.

EPOCH XT Physical Features

11

12

Chapter 2

3. Operating the Power Supply

This chapter contains sections describing how to operate the EPOCH XT using different power supply options. The topics are as follows: Using AC Line Power Using Battery Power Operating Time for the Battery Replacing the Battery Charging the Battery Using C-Cell Alkaline Batteries

3.1

Using AC Line Power

AC line power is supplied via the Charger/Adapter (part number EP4/MCA). The EP4/MCA has a universal AC Power input, so it operates with any line voltage from 100120 VAC or 200240 VAC and with 50 Hz to 60 Hz line frequency. To use AC line power 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Connect the power cord to the charger/adapter unit and to an appropriate line power source. Open the sealed Office Connection door on the right side of the EPOCH XT. Connect the DC output power cable from the charger/adapter to the charger/AC adapter input jack inside the door (top connection). Turn on the EPOCH XT using the keypad. Proceed with normal operation.

Operating the Power Supply 13

3.2

Using Battery Power

The EPOCH XT is offered with the choice of Lithium Ion (Li Ion) or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. alkaline C-Cell batteries may also be used. All EPOCH XT instruments have been designed to accept these three battery types without any modifications or adjustments. The battery-life symbol is always present at the upper-right corner of the instrument display. The battery indicator contains five bars to communicate the remaining battery life. Each bar represents 20% life remaining: 5 bars equals 100%, 4 bars equals 80%, and so on. The battery indicator will be accurate after 5 to 10 minutes of use.

3.3

Operating Time for the Battery

Battery operating time depends on the type of battery being used, the age of the battery, and the instrument settings. In order to provide realistic battery operating times, we have tested the EPOCH XT with mid-level operating parameters: Pulse Energy 200 V, Pulse Frequency (width) 5.00 MHz, PRF 500 Hz, and Display Brightness 50 % (default setting). The nominal battery operating times for new batteries are: Li Ion: 9-10 hours NiMH: 4-5 hours C-Cell: 1-2 hours

Note: It may take several cycles of complete charging and discharging of the battery to bring the battery to full capacity. This conditioning process is normal for these types of rechargeable batteries.

14

Chapter 3

3.4

Replacing the Battery

WARNING
The EPOCH XT Charger/Adapter is designed to charge EPOCH XT batteries only. Do not attempt to charge any other batteries. Doing so may cause an explosion and injury! Do not attempt to charge other electronic equipment. This will cause permanent damage. To replace the EPOCH XT battery, follow the steps in section 2.5 on page 9 of this manual. Be careful to avoid any damage to the door seal or membrane vent. The battery should be removed by pulling the top of the battery away from the instrument. To insert a new battery the operator should put the top of the battery in first to assure proper connection with the instrument and then drop the bottom of the battery into the compartment. The battery door should be replaced with care as described in section 2.5 on page 9.

3.5

Charging the Battery

The EPOCH XT battery may be charged internally using the EP4/MCA Charger/Adapter or externally using the optional standalone battery charger with part number EPXT-EC. To charge the battery internally, the operator must open the office connection door and plug in the EP4/MCA Charger/Adapter. The battery will charge when the instrument is ON or OFF, but the rate of charge is slower when the instrument is ON. When the EPOCH XT is connected to AC power and powered ON, the battery indicator will display a lightning bolt symbol instead of the standard indicator with 5 bars showing remaining battery life. The operator may also choose to use the external battery charger, EPXT-EC, to charge one battery, while using another in the instrument. For more information about this external charger, contact Olympus NDT or your local sales representative. If the battery is used daily (or frequently), connect it to the Charger/Adapter when not in use. Whenever possible, the battery should remain connected to the EP4-MCA Charger/Adapter (overnight or over a weekend), so that it achieves 100 % of full charge. The battery must reach full charge on a regular basis for proper capacity and cycle-life maintenance.

Operating the Power Supply 15

Recharge discharged batteries as soon as possible after use. Give a full recharge, as described above.

Note: Never place discharged batteries in storage without a full recharge. Store batteries in a cool and dry environment. Avoid long-term storage under sunlight or in other excessively hot places such as an automobile trunk. While in storage, fully recharge batteries at least once every two (2) months.

3.6

Using C-Cell Alkaline Batteries

EPOCH XTs are shipped with the positive and negative contact points inside the battery compartment to use standard alkaline C-Cell batteries. These batteries cannot be recharged using the EP4/MCA Charger/Adapter. The EPOCH XT also ships with a foam block that can be inserted to hold C-Cell batteries in place when the battery door is removed. This foam block is not required for C-Cell battery use. The EPOCH XT automatically recognizes that alkaline C-Cell batteries are being used. No special settings or adjustments are required.

16

Chapter 3

4. Managing Basic Operations

This chapter describes how to get started with the basic EPOCH XT operation. Topics are as follows: Powering Up The EPOCH XT Keypad Summarizing Keypad Functions Display Arrangement Menu Navigation Instrument Setup Menu Display Setup Menu Measurement Setup Menu

4.1

Powering Up

Pressing the [ON/OFF] key causes an initial beep.The instruments startup screen will appear. The instrument then goes through a series of self-tests for 4560 seconds and starts up.

4.2

The EPOCH XT Keypad

The keypad functions have been grouped and color-coded according to function. Most major instrument setup parameters can be accessed by pressing the corresponding key or by pressing [2ND F] and the corresponding key. The most commonly used keys on the keypad ([GAIN], [FREEZE], [SAVE], [ENTER], [MEAS/RESET], and the arrows) are located in a group next to the users left thumb. This arrangement is similar to the EPOCH 4 series and EPOCH LT.

Managing Basic Operations

17

The keys on the right side of the keypad that are surrounded by the gray line, are used for access to their setup parameters as labeled and also as an alphanumeric keypad. The top row of keys are the [F1] through [F5] software function keys used for direct access to various parameter settings. There are three methods for adjusting instrument setup parameters in the EPOCH XT: Adjustment using the [ENTER] and slewing keys Direct access adjustment using the parameter keys and F keys Direct entry of parameter values

4.2.1

Adjustment Using Enter and Slewing Keys

These keys can be used to control all instrument functions that appear on the main screen. The [ENTER] key will toggle from one setup parameter to the next and then cycle through them again. By pressing [2ND F] then [ENTER], the operator can go back one setup parameter. Each setup parameter can be adjusted with the arrow keys left and right or down and up. For most parameters, left and right provide a fine adjustment and the down and up provide a coarse adjustment. This new feature has been developed to allow more rapid adjustment of parameters.

4.2.2

Direct Access Adjustment Using Parameter and F Keys

Most commonly used parameters have their own assigned key or a 2nd function position on the instrument keypad. These keys allow direct access to the given parameter. This method allows operators to quickly locate and activate a given instrument function for adjustment. Once a parameter has been selected, the operator may adjust its value using the slewing keys as described in section 4.2.1 on page 18 or by using the preset function [F1][F5] keys on the top of the instrument keypad. The function keys appear below preset values for the selected parameter.

4.2.3

Direct Entry of Parameter Values

The EPOCH XT rapid parameter adjustment method is called direct entry. This method should be used when the operator knows the exact value to use for a selected parameter. To execute a direct entry of a value, the operator must press the appropriate parameter key, press the [ALPHA/NUM] key, enter the parameter value on the instruments alphanumeric keys, and then press [ENTER].

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To set the instrument range to 650 mm (an example) 1. 2. 3. 4. Press the [RANGE] key. Press the [ALPHA/NUM] key. Type 6,5,0 on the alphanumeric keypad. Press [ENTER].

4.3

Summarizing Keypad Functions

The EPOCH XT is available with four different keypads. The most common are the English keypad and the International keypad. Chinese and Japanese versions are also available.

Figure 4-1 EPOCH XT English Keypad

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Figure 4-2 EPOCH XT International Keypad

Table 3 Keys
ENGLISH INTL COLOR FUNCTION

BLUE

Adjusts system sensitivity.

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Chapter 4

Table 3 Keys(continued)

BLUE

Locks reference gain level and allows scanning gain to be used.

GRAY

Accesses instrument setup menu to control operator preferences, local settings, clock, startup screen setup, and provides instrument status information. Accesses setup area for measurement boxes, gate setup, and software option setup. Accesses setup menu for the instrument display and A-scan appearance.

GRAY

GRAY

GRAY

Toggles between full-screen display mode and split-screen display mode.

BLUE

Display freeze holds the displayed waveform until [FREEZE] is pressed again.

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Table 3 Keys(continued)

PURPLE

Saves instrument measurements, setup parameters, and A-scans to selected file and ID.

PURPLE

[MEAS/RESET] is a general purpose key to get back to the live measurement screen. Can be used to escape from menus and to accept parameter adjustments. [ENTER] moves from one parameter to the next and also accepts parameter adjustments. [GATES] allows the operator to control both instrument gates on screen.

PURPLE

RED

RED

[2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] activates threshold or min depth alarms for both instrument gates.

ORANGE

[PULSER] toggles through pulser parameters.

ORANGE

[RCVR] toggles through receiver parameters.

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Chapter 4

Table 3 Keys(continued)

RED

[PEAK MEM] allows continuous accumulation of peak envelope data with the live waveform.

RED

[PEAK HOLD] Allows capture of A-scan while viewing live waveform on top of the captured A-scan.

YELLOW

[CAL] initiates the EPOCH XT AutoCalibration feature. [ZERO] adjusts the instruments calibrated zero position.

YELLOW

YELLOW

[ZOOM] zooms in to Gate 1 Width.

YELLOW

Adjusts the instruments material sound velocity.

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Table 3 Keys(continued)

YELLOW

Linear Reject

YELLOW

Adjusts the instruments range according to the sound velocity setting.

YELLOW

Display delay that does not affect the calibrated Zero Offset.

YELLOW

Adjustment for refracted angle within the test material. Used for the angle beam sound path calculator.

YELLOW

Adjusts part thickness settings. Used for the angle beam sound path calculator.

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Chapter 4

Table 3 Keys(continued)

BLUE

With [ID] the operator can manually enter or adjust an ID within the currently active file.

BLUE

Accesses the instruments datalogger.

BLUE

[ALPHA/NUM] begins direct entry of parameter values on the live screen.

BLUE

Print function allows direct printing to compatible USB printers (PCL5).

4.4

Display Arrangement

The EPOCH XT main screen can be displayed in two different modes: split screen and full screen A-Scan. The split-screen view simultaneously displays the live A-Scan, measurements, and all instrument setup parameters. The full-screen A-scan view displays a large A-scan, measurements, and the active setup parameter (based on the operators selection). When the EPOCH XT is powered on and has completed its self test procedure, the split screen view opens to allow the operator to review the setup parameters.

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25

To switch between the split-screen and full-screen A-scan views, press [2ND F], then [DISPLAY SETUP].

4.4.1

Full-Screen Display

The full-screen A-scan view presents the operator with a large, high-resolution A-scan, up to five user-selected measurements, time base information, the gain setting, the velocity setting, and the active parameter as selected by the operator.

Top of the Screen The filename, ID, measurements, battery indicator, and units (metric, Standard, s) are constantly displayed. The measurement boxes are customized by the operator. Each of the measurement locations (up to 5) displays a symbol that lets the operator know what type of measurement is being displayed. Middle of the Screen The A-scan waveform is displayed. A grid is typically displayed behind the A-scan. The operator may choose between several grid modes based on application needs and/or preference.

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Gate measurement icons are displayed on the right side of the screen. These icons tell the operator the measurement mode for each gate and also flash when an alarm is triggered. On the right side of the display and below the gate measurement icons, the instrument displays flags and markers that notify the operator when options are active, when [FREEZE] is active, and other conditions. Bottom of the Screen Delay (Dly) and Range (Rng) always appear under the A-scan. These tell the operator where in time the display window begins and ends. Gain (Ref) and Velocity (Vel) are always displayed. The active function (if not Dly, Rng, Gain, or Vel) will be displayed. Preset values for the selected instrument parameter are displayed on the bottom of the screen.

4.4.2

Split Screen Display

The split-screen display presents a condensed waveform along with all instrument setup parameters. This screen is useful when establishing the initial instrument setup as it enables a quick check of all setup information and allows rapid adjustments while viewing the live Ascan.

The instrument setup parameters have been arranged into three main columns. The left column Managing Basic Operations 27

contains calibration settings. The center column contains pulser settings and can be directly accessed using the [PULSER] key. The right column contains receiver information and can be directly accessed using the [RCVR] key. Gate settings are displayed below these three columns of setup parameters.

4.4.3

Display Flags and Markers

To indicate when particular display functions are active, the EPOCH XT displays a set of flags, or markers, to the right of the A-scan display. The following table shows these flags and provides a description of each.

Table 4 Display flags and markers FLAG DESCRIPTION This indicates that the [2ND F] key has been pressed.

Gate 1 is in Peak Measurement Mode.

Gate 2 is in Peak Measurement Mode.

Gate 1 is in Edge (or Flank) Measurement Mode.

Gate 2 is in Edge (or Flank) Measurement Mode.

Gate 1 is in First Peak Measurement Mode.

Gate 2 is in First Peak Measurement Mode.

[PEAK MEM] is active.

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Table 4 Display flags and markers (continued)

[2ND F] [PEAK MEM] Peak Hold (Ref Echo) is active.

Display [FREEZE] is active.

The Recall Freeze is active. Press [MEAS/RESET] to deactivate.

[ZOOM] is active.

Indicates that the gate alarm has been triggered. Flashes on and off alternating with gate measurement indicator. DAC/TVG is active.

DGS/AVG is active.

AWS D1.1/D1.5 is active.

Battery life indicator when running on battery power.

Battery indicator when running on AC adapter.

4.5

Menu Navigation

The three setup menus in the EPOCH XT have been designed to allow rapid access to important instrument setup functions. All of these menus share a general navigation philosophy using the [ENTER] key and the up, down, left, and right arrow keys. The menus Managing Basic Operations 29

themselves are constructed with tabs, sublevel tabs, control groups, and parameters. Tabs These are used for group related functions within a setup menu. When the operator enters a menu, there will be a row of tabs running across the top of the screen. The operator must use the left and right arrow keys to select the desired tab. Once the proper tab has been highlighted, the operator must press the [ENTER] key to enter the tab. Sublevel tabs In some of the tabs that the operator selects, there is another sub-group of tabs. These tabs run vertically from the top to the bottom of the display. The OPTIONS tab in the [MEAS SETUP] menu and the EditPara tab in the INSTR [SETUP MENU] are examples of this. The operator must use the up and down arrow keys to select the desired sublevel tab. Once the proper sublevel tab has been highlighted, the operator must press the [ENTER] key to enter the sublevel tab. Control Groups The parameters inside a tab are organized into control groups containing related functions. These control groups are surrounded by a box to divide one control group from another. The operator must use the [ENTER] key to move from a tab to the first control group, then the next control group. When the last control group in a tab is active and the operator presses the [ENTER] key, and the instrument will highlight the tab again. The operator may also use [2ND F], [ENTER] to move back one control group. Parameters These are found within the control group. When the operator selects a control group with the [ENTER] key, the instrument will automatically select the first parameter in the group. The operator uses the up and down arrow keys to select a parameter and the left and right arrow keys to adjust the parameter value. In some cases the parameter will not have fixed selections, and the operator can use the alphanumeric keys to directly enter text or values.

4.6

Instrument Setup Menu

The EPOCH XT Instrument Setup menu contains functions that the operator uses to set up the instrument according to local requirements and based on user preference. This menu also allows the operator to lock instrument functions if required, check the status of the EPOCH XT, and edit the instrument startup screen (Splash Screen) with his company information. There are four individual tabs in the Instrument Setup menu. When the menu is accessed, the first tab General will be highlighted. The operator must use the left and right arrow keys to move from one tab to the next. To enter a selected tab, the operator must press the [ENTER] key. Once the tab has been accessed, the operator uses the [ENTER] key to move from one control group to the next and the arrow keys to select and adjust parameters. To exit the instrument setup menu, the operator should press [MEAS/RESET] or the 30 Chapter 4

[INSTR SETUP] key

Tip: The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH XT menu at any time. This key returns to the live screen from any location within the instruments user interface.

4.6.1

General Tab

Pulser Square Standard tunable square wave pulser. Spike Locks the pulser to a narrow width to allow use with all transducers. This setting is used to simplify the instrument setup when the performance advantages of the tunable pulser are not required. Filter Group Standard This accesses the standard instrument filters when the user presses the [RCVR] key on the live screen. Other Filter Groups Olympus NDT produces other custom filter groups based on customer requirements. These can be selected here. When an alternative filter

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31

group is selected, the operator will only be able to use the custom filters when the [RCVR] key is pressed on the live screen. Language Standard Languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Korean, Norwegian, Swedish, and Custom language. Key Beep When Key Beep is active, the instrument will beep whenever a key is pressed. Alarm Beep Toggles the alarm horn on and off. All Lock When active, this function locks all keys other than [2ND F], [DISPLAY SETUP], and [ON/OFF]. A padlock symbol appears on the live screen when this is active. Cal Lock When active, this function locks the following keys: [GAIN], [CAL], [ZERO], [RANGE], [VEL], [ANGLE], [PULSER], and [RCVR]. Temp Cal Used to select the automatic or manual temperature calibration. Locale Used to select the global location. The instrument uses this information to properly format numeric displays (radix) and the date. Date Sets the instrument date. Time Sets the instrument time.

4.6.2

Editable Parameters (EditPara) Tab

Editable parameters are standard on all EPOCH XT instruments. With this feature the operator can customize the values that appear above the function [F1][F5] keys for the setup

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parameters below. These items are listed as sublevel tabs, and each contains 13 control groups with parameters. Gain Gain Step Universal setting for the coarse (up and down arrows) and fine (left and right arrows) gain adjustment Reject Zero Offset Freq (Frequency) Pulse-width setting Vel (Velocity) Rng (Range) Dly (Delay) Display delay Angle Thickness AutoXX Customizable value for the AUTO80% feature discussed in section 5. on page 515 of this manual

Note: Parameters that contain text such as rectification cannot be adjusted. Also, parameters that are limited by hardware and/or software constraints such as damping cannot be adjusted. To setup the editable parameters 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Press the [ENTER] key to select the EditPara tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select a sublevel tab for the parameters to be adjusted. Press the [ENTER] key to move to the control group and then use the up and down arrow keys to select the parameter to be adjusted. Press the left and right arrow keys to adjust the setting. Press the [ENTER] key to move to the next control group or to the sublevel tabs.

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33

4.6.3

Status Tab

The instrument Status tab provides the operator with useful information related to internaltemperature, battery capacity, and hardware/software versions. This information may be used by Olympus NDT to help support the product.

4.6.4

Splash Screen Tab

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Chapter 4

The splash screen (Splash Scr) tab allows the operator to customize the EPOCH XT startup sequence. At the end of the startup sequence there is a splash screen where the information entered here will appear. This is typically used to enter the instrument owners company information and contact information. An example is shown below.

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4.7

Display Setup Menu

The EPOCH XT Display Setup menu contains functions that control the EPOCH XTs display appearance. These functions include color scheme, display brightness, and A-scan appearance. There are two individual tabs in the Display Setup menu. When the menu is accessed, the first tab Color will be highlighted. The operator can use the arrow keys or the [F1] and [F2] keys to move from one tab to the next. To enter a selected tab, the operator must press the [ENTER] key. Once the tab has been accessed, the operator uses the [ENTER] key to move from one setting to the next and the arrow keys to adjust settings. To exit the Display Setup menu, the operator should highlight one of the tabs and press the [F5] key. This will return the operator to the live screen.

Tip: The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH XT menu at any time. This key will return you to the live screen from any location within the instruments user interface.

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4.7.1

Color Tab

With the Color tab the operator can set the display brightness and choose the color scheme for the instrument. There are three color-scheme choices: Factory as shown above EL Display similar in appearance to electroluminescent displays Outdoor white background to maximize visibility in sunlight as shown above

When the operator selects a color scheme, the instrument displays an example of the color scheme within the tab. It is important to note that the display brightness can greatly affect the instruments battery life. The default brightness setting is 50%.

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4.7.2

Ascan Tab

The Ascan tab is used to modify the appearance of the EPOCH XTs A-scan to meet application needs or the operators preferences. The available settings are listed below: Baseline Break This feature modifies the appearance of the EPOCH XTs A-scan in fullwave rectified mode. When Baseline Break is active, the instrument locates all zero cross points in the RF waveform and forces the fullwave rectified mode to display these zero cross points by pulling the A-scan to the baseline. This feature helps the operator to see small defects that are close to the back surface of the test piece, especially at large ranges. Live Display Outline The live A-scan will be drawn as a single line. Filled The A-scan outline is filled in with the A-scans color (except in RF mode). This helps to increase visibility in certain lighting conditions. Peak Display This setting affects the appearance of A-scans and Peak Envelopes that are captured with the Peak Hold and Peak Memory functions. Peak Hold captures a single reference A-scan, and the live A-scan is displayed in the foreground. Peak Memory tracks the highest peak on the live A-scan and draws an envelope across the peak positions. Outline Captured A-scans and Peak Envelopes are drawn as a single line. Filled Captured A-scans and Peak Envelopes are filled.

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Grid Display The EPOCH XT has four display modes for the X-Axis grid. These four settings are designed to provide the operator with a convenient display mode for the application. The modes and examples are shown below:

Grid Off No grid lines are displayed. 010 appear along bottom of A-scan.

Standard 10 equally spaced grid lines.

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39

SoundPath 5 equally spaced grid lines with soundpath values.

Leg Up to 4 grid lines showing soundpath legs (half paths) based on part thickness and angle. Waveform Height The EPOCH XT always measures amplitude up to 110% fullscreen height. The operator can choose to display the Y-Axis on the A-scan display from 0100% or from 0110% FSH. Examples are shown below:

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100% Grid

110% Grid

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41

4.8

Measurement Setup Menu

The EPOCH XT Measurement Setup menu allows the operator to choose how the EPOCH XT takes and displays measurements. The operator uses this menu to select which measurements to display for the application, to choose how the gates perform their measurement, and to setup special measurement features and options like DAC/TVG and DGS/AVG. There are three individual tabs in the Measurement Setup menu. When the menu is accessed, the first tab Meas is highlighted. The operator must use the left and right arrow keys to move from one tab to the next. To enter a selected tab, the operator must press the [ENTER] key. Once the tab has been accessed, the operator uses the [ENTER] key to move from one control group to the next, the up and down arrow keys to select parameters, and the left and right arrow keys to adjust parameters. To exit the Measurement Setup menu, the operator should press the [MEAS SETUP] key.

Tip: The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH XT menu at any time. This key returns to the live screen from any location within the instruments user interface.

4.8.1

EPOCH XT Measurements

The EPOCH XT can display up to five (5) measurements on the live screen. The operator has the ability to choose which measurements to display in each of the five measurement locations. The measurement locations are shown in the screen below.

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Note: If the operator chooses to leave measurement location #5 OFF in the Measurement Setup menu, then the instrument will display measurement #4 in large numerals. If measurement #5 is turned ON, then location #4 is split in half horizontally to accommodate both measurements. Measurement location #5 is typically used to display specialized measurements for DAC/TVG, DGS/AVG, or AWS D1.1 defect sizing, but it may be used for any measurement as needed. The EPOCH XT is capable of making several types of measurements using either Gate 1 or Gate 2. The two gates are completely independent of each other unless the operator chooses to take an echo-to-echo measurement. The list of available measurements and their icons from the live screen are shown in the following table.

Table 5 Measurements and Icons MEASUREMENT ICON DESCRIPTION

Gate 1 THICKNESS Gate 2 THICKNESS Gate 1 SOUNDPATH


DISTANCE

Thickness in Gate 1. Not used with Angle. Thickness in Gate 2. Not used with Angle. Soundpath (Angular) distance in Gate 1.

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43

Table 5 Measurements and Icons (continued)

Gate 2 SOUNDPATH
DISTANCE

Soundpath (Angular) distance in Gate 2. Depth to reflector in Gate 1. Used with Angle. Depth to reflector in Gate 2. Used with Angle. Horizontal distance to reflector in Gate 1. Used with Angle. Horizontal distance to reflector in Gate 2. Used with Angle. Horizontal distance minus X-Value (distance from beam index point to front of wedge) in Gate 1. Used with Angle. Horizontal distance minus X-Value (distance from beam index point to front of wedge) in Gate 2. Used with Angle. Minimum Depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Minimum Depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Maximum Depth in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Maximum Depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

Gate 1 DEPTH TO
REFLECTOR

Gate 2 DEPTH TO
REFLECTOR

Gate 1 SURFACE
DISTANCE

Gate 2 SURFACE
DISTANCE

Gate 1 SURFACE DIST


X VALUE

Gate 2 SURFACE DIST


X VALUE

Gate 1 MINIMUM DEPTH

Gate 2 MINIMUM DEPTH

Gate 1 MAXIMUM
DEPTH

Gate 2 MAXIMUM
DEPTH

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Chapter 4

Table 5 Measurements and Icons (continued)

Gate 1 CURRENT
AMPLITUDE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays as % of full-screen height (FSH). Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays as % of full-screen height (FSH). Maximum Amplitude in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Maximum Amplitude in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Minimum Amplitude in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Minimum Amplitude in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key. Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays echo height as a percentage of DAC/TVG curve height. Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays echo height as a percentage of DAC/TVG curve height. Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays echo dB value compared to curve height where the curve equals 0 dB. Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays echo dB value compared to curve height where the curve equals 0 dB.

Gate 2 CURRENT
AMPLITUDE

Gate 1MAX AMPLITUDE

Gate 2 MAX AMPLITUDE

Gate 1MIN AMPLITUDE

Gate 2 MIN AMPLITUDE

Gate 1AMP TO CURVE

Gate 2 AMP TO CURVE

Gate 1 DB TO CURVE

Gate 2 DB TO CURVE

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45

Table 5 Measurements and Icons (continued)

Gate 2 - Gate 1
AWS D1.1/D1.5 WELD RATING (D) FLAT BOTTOM HOLE SIZE OVERSHOOT

Gate 2 thickness minus Gate 1 thickness (echo-to-echo measurement). D rating calculated for the gated echo. Flat-bottom hole (FBH) size (equivalent reflector size) for DGS/AVG evaluation. Overshoot value in dB comparing echo height to DGS/AVG curve.

4.8.2

Meas Tab

The Operator uses the upper control group in the Meas tab to choose which measurements to display and in which location to display them on the live screen. This tab is shown below.

The lower control group in the Meas tab contains several settings that can affect the measurements taken by the EPOCH XT. Descriptions of these settings are shown below: Unit Select from Inches, Millimeters, or Microseconds. Resolution Select from DEFAULT or reduced time/thickness measurement resolution.

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Amp Resolution The EPOCH XT measures amplitude to 0.25% FSH. The operator may change this to 0.5% or 1% if desired. Calibration The EPOCH XT allows the operator to perform an angle-beam calibration using either the Sound Path to a reflector or the Depth to a reflector as the known reference. X Value This is the distance from the Beam Index Point on a wedge to the front of the wedge. When using Gate 1 Surface Dist X Value or Gate 2 Surface Dist X Value measurements, this number is the correction that is used for the displayed measurement. Curved Surface Correction (CSC) This is a standard feature on all EPOCH XT instruments. This feature is used when inspecting with an angle beam transducer on a surface that is curved in the direction of the sound path. This feature corrects the horizontal distance and depth to reflector measurements based on part thickness and outer diameter. This function currently works on the outer diameter only. Outer Dia. User entered value for Curved Surface Correction calculations. Trigger Choose between Internal, External, and Single. For most applications, this setting should be left on Internal.

4.8.3

Gates Tab

The Gates tab allows the operator to set up measurement modes for Gate 1 and Gate 2. Gate 1 and Gate 2 can be used independently as required by the operator, or Gate 2 can track the echo in Gate 1 allowing Gate 1 to act as an interface gate. The selections within the Gates tab are detailed below:

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Gate2 Tracking: This is typically used for taking echo-to-echo thickness measurements. The operator can setup Gate 1 and Gate 2 on the display with a specific distance between Gate 1 Start and Gate 2 Start. When Gate 2 Tracking is active, this distance will be maintained between an echo breaking Gate 1 and Gate 2 Start. Gate1 Measurement Mode and Gate2 Measurement Mode: As discussed in section 4.4.3 on page 28, the EPOCH XT allows three different measurement modes for each gate. The three modes are Peak, First Peak, and Edge (also known as FLANK). The following screens show examples of the three modes:

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Gate1 RF Setup and Gate2 RF Setup: When the EPOCH XT rectification is set to RF,

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49

the operator has three choices for Gate Positioning: Positive, Negative, or Dual Gate. In Positive mode, the gate will appear above the baseline. In Negative mode, the gate will appear below the baseline. In Dual Gate mode, the gate will be mirrored above and below the baseline.

4.8.4

Options Tab

The Options tab allows the operator to set up software features and options like DAC/TVG, DGS/AVG, and AWS D1.1/D1.5. Details regarding these software features/options are found in section 10. on page 133 of this manual. The Options tab is shown in the screen as follows:

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5. Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver

This chapter describes how to adjust the EPOCH XTs Pulser/Receiver. The topics are as follows: Adjusting the System Sensitivity (Gain) Using the AUTOXX% Feature Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain Pulser Adjustment Receiver Adjustment Custom Filter Sets

5.1

Adjusting the System Sensitivity (Gain)

To adjust the system sensitivity 1. 2. Press [GAIN]. Use one of the three adjustment methods to adjust the gain setting: Arrow Keys up and down for coarse adjustment, left and righT for fine adjustment. Function Keys Jump to preset values defined in EditPara. Direct Entry Press the [ALPHA/NUM] key, enter the desired gain value on the keypad, and press [ENTER].

Note: The total system sensitivity is 110 dB.

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51

5.2

Using the AUTOXX% Feature

The AUTO-XX% feature was formerly known as the AUTO80% feature in the EPOCH 4 Series. The default setting for AUTO-XX% in the EPOCH XT is 80% full-screen height (FSH). Using the EditPara feature described in section 4.6.2 on page 32 in this manual, the operator can adjust the value to meet his application needs. In the remainder of this section, AUTOXX% will be described as AUTO80% for simplicity. The AUTO80% feature is used to quickly adjust the instruments gain (dB) setting to bring the gated peak echo to 80% FSH. AUTO80% is especially useful for bringing the echo from a reference indication to 80% FSH to establish the instruments Reference Gain Level (See section 5.2 on page 52). You can use the AUTO-80% feature to bring an echo to 80% FSH in either Gate 1 or Gate 2. To use AUTO80% with Gate 1 1. 2. 3. Press the [GATES] key. Use the arrow keys or the direct entry method to position the gate over the desired echo. It is not necessary for the echo to break the gate threshold. Press [F5]. The highest peak within the gate will be brought to 80% FSH automatically by adjusting the instruments gain setting.

To use AUTO80% with Gate 2 1. 2. 3.


tt

Press the [GATES] key twice. This selects Gate 2. Use the arrow keys or the direct entry method to position the gate over the desired echo. It is not necessary for the echo to break the gate threshold. Press [F5]. The highest peak within the gate will be brought to 80% FSH automatically by adjusting the instruments gain setting.

Note: You can use AUTO80% when an echo exceeds the desired amplitude. The echo can be either above or below 80% FSH. If a signal is very high in amplitude (above 500% FSH), then it might be necessary to activate the AUTO 80% function more than once. To do this, the operator simply presses the [F5] key again.

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5.3

Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain

To establish the current system gain as the reference (base) level, press [2ND F], [GAIN] [REF]. This is useful for inspections that require the establishment of a reference gain level and then the addition or subtraction of scanning gain. After accessing the reference gain function, the gain display will read: REF XX.X + 0.0 dB. You can now add or subtract scanning gain as needed independent of the reference level. To add scanning gain, use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment (default 6 dB) and the left and right arrow keys for fine adjustment. While using the reference gain and scanning gain, the following functions are also available: [F1] (Add) key Adds the scanning gain to the reference gain and deactivates the reference gain feature. [F2] (Scan dB) key Toggles the scanning gain from the active level to 0.0 dB (reference level) allowing a direct amplitude comparison to the reference indication. [F3] (Off) key Exits the reference gain function without adding the scanning gain to the base instrument gain.

5.4

Pulser Adjustment

The pulser settings in the EPOCH XT are accessed by pressing the [PULSER] key on the instrument keypad. Alternatively, the operator may press the [ENTER] key as needed to reach the pulser parameter settings. The pulser setup parameters are: Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) Pulser frequency selection (pulse width) Pulse energy Damping Test mode

Pressing the pulser key multiple times will access the functions listed above in the same order.

5.4.1

Pulse-Repetition Frequency

Pulse-repetition frequency (PRF) is a measure of how often the transducer is being pulsed by the electronic circuitry in the EPOCH XT. PRF is typically adjusted based on the test method

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53

or test piece geometry. For parts with long sound paths, it is necessary to lower the PRF to avoid wrap-around interference that results in spurious signals on the display. For applications with rapid scanning, it is often necessary to use a high PRF rate in order to assure that small defects will be detected as the probe moves past the part. The EPOCH XT allows the operator to adjust the PRF from 10 Hz to 1000 Hz in steps of either 10 Hz (fine adjustment with left and right arrow keys) or 50 Hz (coarse adjustment with up and down arrow keys). The operator may also use the direct entry method to set the PRF. When the PRF setting is selected, the operator may press the [F1] (Optimum) key. The instrument will select the optimal PRF for the instrument range (RNG) setting. This optimum setting is for typical applications. It might be necessary for the operator to adjust from this setting.

Note: The EPOCH XT is a single-shot instrument. This means that the instrument acquires, measures, and draws the complete A-scan with each pulse rather than using multiple acquisitions to construct a full waveform. The measurement rate in the EPOCH XT is always equal to the PRF rate unless the operator is using a multiplexer.

5.4.2

Pulser Frequency Selection (Pulse Width)

Pulser Frequency Selection, which sets the Pulse Width, is applicable only when the Pulser Square selection is active in the General tab of the [INSTR SETUP] menu. This frequency selection is designed to tune the square-wave pulser to obtain the best performance from the transducer being used. In general, the best performance is achieved by tuning the Pulser Frequency as close to the center frequency of the transducer being used as possible.

Note: Actual results could vary due to the test material and/or variation in the transducer-center frequency. It is recommended trying various settings with a transducer and test piece to maximize ultrasonic performance.

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5.4.3

Pulse Energy

The EPOCH XT operator can adjust the pulse energy from 50 V to 475 V in increments of 25 V. Because of this flexibility in adjustment, the operator only uses the necessary level of energy to perform the test while also providing a very high power pulser for the most difficult materials. To maximize instrument battery life and transducer life, it is recommended that the operator use lower energy settings when the application permits it. For most applications, the energy setting does not need to exceed 200 V.

5.4.4

Damping

The damping control lets the operator optimize the waveform shape for high resolution measurements via an internal resistive circuit. There are four damping settings: 50 ohms 63 ohms 150 ohms 400 ohms

Tip: Generally, the lowest ohm setting increases the system damping and improves near-surface resolution, while the highest ohm setting decreases system damping and improves the instrument penetration power. Selecting the correct damping setting fine tunes the EPOCH XT in order to operate with a particular transducer selection. Depending on the transducer being used, the various damping settings either improve near-surface resolution or improve the instruments penetration power. To select a damping option 1. 2. Press [PULSER] to access the damping parameter. Use the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the four available damping selections.

Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver

55

5.4.5

Test Mode

The EPOCH XT can operate in three test modes: Pulse-Echo mode: Single element transducers. Use either transducer connector. Through mode: Two separate transducers, typically on opposite sides of the test specimen. Use the red-transducer connector as the transmitter. Dual mode (Pitch and Catch): One connector acts as a transmitter; the other acts as a receiver. The red-transducer connector is designated as the transmitter. To select a Test mode 1. 2. Press [PULSER] to access the test mode parameter. Use the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the three selections.

Note: To compensate for the one-way soundpath in Through mode, the EPOCH XT does not divide transit time by two when calculating thickness measurements.

5.5

Receiver Adjustment

The receiver settings in the EPOCH XT are accessed by pressing the [RCVR] key on the instrument keypad. Alternatively, the operator may press the [ENTER] key as needed to reach the receiver parameter settings. The receiver setup parameters are: Digital filters Waveform rectification

Pressing the receiver key multiple times will access the functions listed above in the same order.

5.5.1

Digital Filters

The EPOCH XT has a total instrument bandwidth of 26.5 MHz at 3 dB. The instrument has several broadband, narrow-band, and high-pass digital filter settings. These are designed to 56 Chapter 5

allow the instrument to provide the dynamic range (dB) required by EN12668-1 and also to improve the instruments signal-to-noise ratio by filtering out unwanted high and/or low frequency noise outside of the test frequency spectrum. The Digital Filter setting is accessed by pressing the [RCVR] key on the instrument keypad. The available settings are: 2.0 MHz to 21.5 MHz (broadband 1) 0.2 MHz to 10.0 MHz (broadband 2) 0.2 MHz to 1.2 MHz 0.5 MHz to 4.0 MHz 1.5 MHz to 8.5 MHz 5.0 MHz to 15.0 MHz 8.0 MHz to 26.5 MHz (high-pass) In most cases, the operator should select either a broadband filter or a narrowband filter that covers the frequency of the transducer being used. For example, with a 5 MHz transducer the operator should use either one of the broadband settings or the 1.5 to 8.5 MHz setting. Due to the shifting of the frequency spectrum in most materials, it might be necessary to adjust the filter settings to maximize instrument performance. Every material is different, and the operator must optimize the receiver settings based on the application.

5.5.2

Waveform Rectification

The EPOCH XT can operate in one of four different rectification modes: Full-wave Half-wave positive Half-wave negative RF (unrectified)

The RF mode is not active while operating in DAC mode or Peak Memory. To select a waveform rectification mode 1. 2. Press [RCVR] once to display the current screen rectification. This is highlighted and displayed at the bottom of the screen. Use the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the different waveform rectification modes.

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57

5.6

Custom Filter Sets

As discussed in section 4.6.2 on page 32 of this manual, the EPOCH XT is capable of storing custom filter sets that are developed at a customers request by Olympus NDT. For more information, contact Olympus NDT.

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6. Managing Special Waveform Functions

This chapter describes how to manage special waveform functions. The topics are as follows: Reject Peak Memory Peak Hold Display Freeze

6.1

Reject

The REJECT function eliminates unwanted, low-level signals from the display. The REJECT function is linear and adjustable from 0% to 80% FSH. Increasing the reject level does not affect the amplitude of the signals above the reject level.

Note: The REJECT function can be used in RF Display mode. To access the REJECT function 1. 2. Press [2ND F], [VEL] [REJECT]. Use the function keys, arrow keys, or the direct entry method to set the reject level.

The reject level is displayed as a dashed horizontal line on the instrument display (or two lines in the case of the RF Display mode). See following screens:

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6.2

Peak Memory

The [PEAK MEM] function enables the display to capture and store on the screen the amplitude of each display point. The display updates each pixel if a signal of greater amplitude is acquired. When a transducer is scanned over a reflector, the signal envelope (echo dynamic as a function of transducer position) is held on the screen. In addition, the current, live waveform is displayed at the appropriate place within the echo envelope. This function is useful when it is necessary to find the peak from an indication during an anglebeam inspection. An example is shown as follows:

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Note: The [PEAK MEM] function cannot be activated in the unrectified, RF display mode. To activate Peak Memory 1. 2. 3. Press [PEAK MEM]. A P symbol appears at the right side of the display to indicate that the function is active. Scan over a reflector to acquire the echo envelope. Press [PEAK MEM] again to turn off the peak memory function.

6.3

Peak Hold

The Peak Hold function is similar to Peak Memory as it captures the current screen that is displayed on the EPOCH XT when the function is accessed. The difference is that with Peak Hold, the captured waveform is frozen on the screen and will not update even if the live waveform exceeds the frozen waveforms amplitude. Peak Hold is useful when an operator wants to obtain a waveform from a known sample and compare it to a waveform from an unknown test piece. Similarities and/or differences in the waveforms can be noted to help determine the unknown materials acceptability status. Managing Special Waveform Functions 61

To activate Peak Hold 1. 2. Obtain an echo on the EPOCH XT screen that you want to capture. Press [2ND F], [PEAK MEM] [PEAK HOLD]. This captures the screen and still allows viewing of the live waveform. A PH appears on the right side of the A-scan display indicating that the function is active. Select the captured waveform to view as a single trace by pressing [F1], or as a filled-in trace by pressing [F2]. Press [2ND F], [PEAK MEM] [PEAK HOLD] again to shut off Peak Hold.

3. 4.

6.4

Display Freeze

The Display Freeze function holds or freezes the information on the screen at the moment the [FREEZE] key is pressed. Once the Freeze function is activated, the pulser/receiver of the EPOCH XT becomes inactive and does not acquire any further data. A F symbol appears on the right side of the screen indicating that the function is active. The Freeze function is useful when storing waveforms as it holds the current A-scan allowing the transducer to be removed from the test piece. Once the display is frozen, the operator can use a variety of instrument functions. These include: Gate Movement Used to position the gate(s) over area(s) of interest to obtain measurement data. Gain Used to amplify signals of interest or to reduce the amplitude of signals when high scanning gain values are being used. Range, Delay, and Zoom The EPOCH XT time base can be manipulated to focus on areas of interest. The total instrument range may not be increased. Datalogger Printing

When Freeze is active, the following parameters cannot be changed/accessed: Zero (Offset) Range (cannot be increased) Pulser/Receiver settings other than Gain

To disable the Freeze function and return to normal operation, press [FREEZE] again.

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7. Gates

This chapter describes how to use the gates in the EPOCH XT. The topics covered are as follows: Positioning Gates 1 and 2 Gate Measurement Modes Taking Thickness Readings Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings Locating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer Measuring Signal Amplitude Operating in Time-of-Flight Mode Using the Zoom Feature Gate Alarms

7.1

Positioning Gates 1 and 2

The EPOCH XT has two independent flaw gates. Both gates can be used to take thickness measurements with straight-beam transducers, sound-path measurements with angle-beam transducers, measure signal amplitude, measure time-of-flight in microseconds, or to trigger threshold and minimum-depth alarms. The gates may also be used together to take echo-toecho thickness measurements. Gate Positioning is controlled using the [GATES] key. To access the Gate 1 controls, the operator must press the [GATES] button once. The operator can then use the [ENTER] key or the [F1]-[F3] keys to access Gate Start (1-Start), Gate Width (1-Width), and Gate Level (1-Level). The [F5] key controls the AUTOXX% function discussed in section 5.2 on page 52 of this manual.

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63

To access the Gate 2 controls, the operator must press the [GATES] button twice. If Gate 2 is not turned on, the operator can press the [F4] key to turn it on and then use the [ENTER] key or the [F1][F3] keys to access Gate Start (2-Start), Gate Width (2-Width), and Gate Level (2Level). The [F5] key controls the AUTOXX% function discussed in Section 5.2 on page 52 of this manual. To adjust the position of a gate, the operator must access the appropriate gate function and use the arrow keys or the direct-entry method to move the gates. The up and down arrow keys allow rapid adjustment in coarse increments and the left and right arrow keys allow fine adjustment.

7.2

Gate Measurement Modes

See section 4.4.3 on page 28 in this manual for details regarding the three gate-measurement modes available for each gate (Peak, First Peak, Edge).

7.3

Taking Thickness Readings

To take a thickness reading with Gate 1 1. In [MEAS SETUP] > Meas tab The operator must select Gate 1 Thickness as one of the active measurements in the 5 measurement display locations. Typically, this would be displayed in measurement location 4, and location 5 would be turned off. In [MEAS SETUP] > Gates tab The operator must set up the Gate 1 Measurement mode to Peak, First Peak, or Edge as required by the application. On the live screen The operator must position Gate 1 over the echo of interest. The echo does not need to break the gate for Peak measurements. It must break the gate for First Peak or Edge measurements.

2. 3.

To take a thickness reading with Gate 2, the previous steps are the same but the Gate 2 controls are used and the Gate 2 Thickness Measurement must be selected.

7.4

Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings

The operator can take echo-to-echo thickness measurements with the EPOCH XT whenever it is required for an application. This is a standard feature in the EPOCH XT.

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To take an Echo-to-Echo thickness measurement 1. In [MEAS SETUP] > Meas tab The operator must select Gate 2-1 as one of the active measurements in the 5 measurement display locations. Typically this would be displayed in measurement location 4 and location 5 would be turned off. In [MEAS SETUP] > Gates tab The operator must setup the Gate 1 and Gate 2 Measurement modes to Peak, First Peak, or Edge as required by the application. These are typically the same for both gates, but this is not required. On the live screen The operator must position Gate 1 over the first echo of interest and Gate 2 over the second echo of interest. The echo does not need to break the gate for the peak measurements. It must break, however, the gate for First Peak or Edge measurements.

2.

3.

The operator can choose to activate Gate 2 Tracking in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Gates tab. As discussed in section 4.4.3 on page 28 of this manual, this function allows Gate 2 Start to track the position of an echo in Gate 1 to maintain the preset blanking period between Gate 1 Start and Gate 2 Start.

7.5

Locating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer

During an angle-beam inspection, you can obtain accurate and reliable soundpath information using the EPOCH XTs high-resolution distance calculator. If a refracted angle is entered into the EPOCH XT and the operator has chosen Soundpath, Surface Distance, and Depth measurements to be displayed in the measurement display locations, then the instrument will automatically display all angular soundpath components once the operator places the gate over the echo of interest (see following screen).

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65

Amplitude

Depth

Surface distance

Soundpath

Leg Indicator

The soundpath leg indicator is displayed in the lower-right corner of the instrument display. The first number indicates gate number, L means leg, and the second number indicates soundpath leg. Examples: 1L2 means Gate 1 Leg 2, 2L2 means Gate 2 Leg 2. In order to properly display the soundpath leg and the depth to reflector, the operator must enter the proper part thickness. This is accomplished by pressing [2ND F], [ANGLE] [THICKNESS] and entering the value. The screen also displays the soundpath leg as part of the A-scan grid. This is set up in the [DISPLAY SETUP] menu > Ascan tab as detailed in section 4.6.2 on page 32 of this manual.

7.6

Measuring Signal Amplitude

When estimating discontinuity size, the instrument is adjusted so that a particular gain setting and screen height represent the echo amplitude produced by a known size reflector in a reference standard. In general, a signal with a smaller amplitude could indicate a smaller reflector and a signal with higher amplitude could indicate a larger reflector than the reference standard. To measure signal amplitude, the operator must select either Gate 1 Current Amplitude or

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Gate 2 Current Amplitude as a displayed measurement in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab depending on which gate will be used for the measurement. The EPOCH XT can also display Min amplitude and Max amplitude measurements for each gate. If the operator wishes to use these measurements for inspection, they can be activated as well. These measurements track the minimum and maximum measurements in the gate and are reset by adjusting the gate, gain, pulser/receiver, or by pressing the [MEAS/RESET] key. The Gate Measurement Mode will affect how the EPOCH XT measures signal amplitude: Peak mode: Amplitude measurement made on highest peak in gate Signal does not have to break gate threshold First Peak mode: Amplitude measurement from first peak in gate Signal must break gate threshold Edge mode: Amplitude measurement from highest peak in gate Signal must break gate threshold Once the operator has set up the displayed measurements and the gate measurement modes, the operator needs to position the gate over the echo of interest. The echo-amplitude measurement(s) will be displayed. The following screen shows some amplitude measurements along with a part thickness to reflector measurement (defect depth).

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67

Current amplitude

Max amplitude

Min amplitude

Thickness

7.7

Operating in Time-of-Flight Mode

The EPOCH XT is capable of displaying time-of-flight (TOF) soundpath data for an echo that breaks Gate 1 or Gate 2. Time-of-flight is the location of the reflector in terms of microseconds (s). When the time-of-flight mode is activated by going to the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab > Unit = us, all distance measurements in the EPOCH XT will be displayed in microsecond values instead of inches or millimeters. Time-of-flight mode does not divide the reading by two. The entire time-of-flight through the test piece in both directions is displayed. As a reminder, when taking thickness measurements, the EPOCH XT must divide the product of material velocity and time-of-flight by two in order to calculate the thickness of the part. If this were not done, then the unit would display twice the actual thickness because the sound energy would pass through the part twice.

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7.8

Using the Zoom Feature

To zoom in on an indication, position Gate 1 over the area of interest and press [2ND F], [RANGE] [ZOOM]. The instrument automatically uses screen delay to bring the point that corresponds to the gate start to the left side of the screen and also adjusts the displayed range to match the gate width. The new range equals the unzoomed gate width. The lowest achievable value of the expanded range is equivalent to the minimum range of the instrument at the current material-velocity setting. Zoom is especially useful in certain flaw detection applications. For example, when detecting branches of cracking such as intergranular stress-corrosion cracking (IGSCC), the inspectors job can be complicated by the geometry of the test specimen and also by the specific characteristics of the defect itself. In instances where the pipe counterbore is close to the weld root, it is possible to have three signals that all appear quite close to each other (the weld root, the counterbore, and the crack itself). Use the Zoom function to improve the visual resolution of the EPOCH XT display so that each individual signal can be more easily identified. When evaluating a crack signal, the inspectors attention is usually focused on the leading edge of an indication. By observing the number and location of small peaks along the leading edge of the signal, it is possible to make some assumptions regarding the presence and location of different branches of cracking. Use the Zoom function to get a much more detailed view of an indication and to make better judgements regarding flaw location and depth. Zoom is useful when inspecting particularly large or thick components when detail is lost due to using long screen ranges. Use the Zoom function to look at small sections of the test piece without disturbing the instruments original calibration.

7.9

Gate Alarms

The EPOCH XT features a variety of alarm configurations for Gate 1 and Gate 2. In RF mode, these alarms can be used in Positive, Negative, or Dual Gate modes. The three types of gate alarms are Positive Threshold, Negative Threshold, and Minimum Depth.

7.9.1

Threshold Alarms

Threshold alarms can be set on Gate 1 and/or Gate 2.

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69

To set a threshold alarm on Gate 1 1. 2. 3. Press the [GATES] key and use the Start, Width, and Level parameters to position the gate over the desired area. Press [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS]. The alarm options are now displayed above the function keys. Press [F2] for positive logic or [F3] for negative logic. A positive logic alarm is triggered when a signal breaks the gate threshold. A negative logic alarm is triggered when a signal drops out of the gate threshold. Gate 1 and Gate 2 can both be set to either positive or negative logic.

When the operator sets a threshold alarm on Gate 1 or Gate 2, the appearance of the tick marks at the end of the gate will change. For positive logic alarms, the tick marks will point upward and for negative logic alarms they will point downward. To setup a threshold alarm on Gate 2, the operator must follow the steps above with the exception of pressing [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] twice to access Gate 2 alarms. To deactivate an alarm, the operator must access the gate alarm control and press [F1].

7.9.2

Minimum-Depth Alarm

The EPOCH XT is equipped with a minimum-depth alarm that is triggered whenever the current thickness reading falls below an operator defined level. The minimum depth alarm may be used either with a single gate or with two gates in Echo-to-Echo Measurement mode.

7.9.3

Minimum Depth Alarm with a Single Gate

Minimum depth alarms can be set on either Gate 1 or Gate 2. To set a minimum depth alarm on Gate 1 1. Press the [GATES] key and use the Start, Width, and Level parameters to position the gate over the desired area. Be sure the Gate Start position is set to cover a range below the minimum-depth alarm value. Press [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] to display the alarms in the function boxes at the bottom of the screen. Press [F4] to activate the minimum-depth alarm. Use the arrow keys to set the desired minimum value. The range of minimum-depth values is limited by the Gate Start and Gate Width settings. This minimum-depth alarm value must be greater than the Gate Start value and less than the Gate Width value. Once

2. 3.

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activated, a marker appears on the gate to indicate the current setting. Any indication that exceeds the gate threshold to the left of the marker will trigger the alarm. 4. Press [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] followed by the [F1] key to turn off the alarm.

7.9.4

Minimum-Depth Alarm with Gate 2 Tracking

You may use the minimum-depth alarm when making echo-to-echo thickness measurements with Gate 2 tracking as well. Whenever Gate 2 Tracking is active (located in [MEAS SETUP] menu > GATES tab) all Gate 2 settings (Start, Width, Depth, and Min Depth Alarm Threshold) are relative to the position of the echo in Gate 1. Gate 2 will move side-to-side, tracking the position of an echo in Gate 1. When you set up a minimum-depth alarm on Gate 2 with Gate 2 tracking activated, the value for the alarm threshold is the distance from Gate 1 Start or the distance from the echo being measured by Gate 1. To setup a minimum depth alarm on Gate 2 1. Press the [GATES] key twice and use the Start, Width, and Level parameters to position Gate 2 over the desired area. Be sure the Gate 2 Start position is set to cover a range below the minimum- depth alarm value. Press [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] twice to display the Gate 2 alarms in the function boxes at the bottom of the screen. Press [F4] to activate the minimum-depth alarm. Use the arrow keys to set the desired minimum value. The range of minimum-depth values is limited by the Gate 2 Start and Gate 2 Width settings. This minimum-depth alarm value must be greater than the Gate 2 Start value and less than the Gate 2 Width value. Once activated, a marker appears on the gate to indicate the current setting. Any indication that exceeds the gate threshold to the left of the marker will trigger the alarm. Press [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] twice followed by the [F1] key to turn off the alarm.

2. 3.

4.

7.9.5

Alarm-Condition Storage

When an alarm is active on a gate, the gate indicator will flash between the measurement mode icon and a red A symbol. Alarm conditions are stored in the EPOCH XT data logger. All saved IDs with an active alarm display A1 for Gate 1 alarm and/or A2 for Gate 2 alarm.

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8. Calibrating the EPOCH XT

This chapter describes how to calibrate the EPOCH XT. Calibration is the process of adjusting the unit so that it measures accurately on a particular material, using a particular transducer at a particular temperature. You must adjust the Zero (Offset) and Velocity parameters of the EPOCH XT during calibration. Zero (Offset) (sometimes referred to as probe delay) compensates for the dead time between the firing of the main bang and the entry of the sound into the test piece. The unit must be programmed with the correct Velocity setting so that it matches the material velocity of the test piece. The EPOCH XT has an advanced Auto-Calibration feature, which provides for a fast and easy calibration process. The following section details the procedure to calibrate the EPOCH XT when using the four basic transducer configurations: straight beam, delay line, dual element, and angle beam.

Note: Do not use the Auto-Calibration feature when the EPOCH XT is in the following modes: Microsecond time-of-flight, DAC, or TVG. Calibration is explained in detail in following sections: Getting Started Calibrating with a Straight-Beam Transducer Calibration with a Delay-Line Transducer Calibration with a Dual-Element Transducer Calibrating with an Angle-Beam Transducer

Calibrating the EPOCH XT

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8.1

Getting Started

Until you are completely comfortable operating the EPOCH XT, we recommend that a basic review and setup procedure be used prior to starting the actual calibration. The split-screen feature of the EPOCH XT is useful for this as it lets you simultaneously view the waveform display and all instrument calibration data. To setup the EPOCH XT before calibrating 1. 2. 3. Press [2ND F], [DISPLAY SETUP] to select the split-screen display. Press [2ND F], [VEL] [REJECT] to set the reject level to 0%. Press [F1] or use the slewing keys to adjust the value to zero. Press [GAIN] to select an initial gain value that is appropriate for the calibration and adjust the value by using the direct access function keys or the slewing keys. If the appropriate gain level is unknown, set the initial gain at 20 dB and adjust it as necessary during calibration. Press [VEL] to enter an approximate velocity for the test material and adjust the value with the function keys or the slewing keys. If the velocity value is unknown, find a value for the material being tested in Appendix CSound Velocitiesof this manual. Press [RANGE] to set the range and then adjust the value using the function keys or the slewing keys. Press [2ND F], [ANGLE] [THICKNESS] to set the material thickness to 0.00 in or 0.00 mm. Press [F1] or use the slewing keys to adjust the value to zero. Press [ZERO] to set the zero offset value to 0.00 sec. Press [F1] or use the slewing keys to bring the initial pulse to the left side of the instrument screen. Press [ANGLE] to enter the correct refracted angle for the probe (0 for a straight beam or 90 probe, 45 for a 45 probe, etc.) Use the function keys to access preset values or adjust in 0.1 adjustments using the slewing keys. Once the transducer is coupled to the block, adjust the pulser and filter settings to create a clean A-scan. Press [PULSER] multiple times to allow access to the various pulser functions. Press [RCVR] to go directly to the filter settings. Adjust each function with the function keys or the slewing keys.

4.

5. 6. 7. 8.

9.

Note: Refer to section 5.4 on page 53 and section 5.5 on page 56 in this manual for information on adjusting the Pulser Receiver.

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8.2

Calibrating with a Straight-Beam Transducer

Use Olympus NDT transducer (part number A109S-RM), with a frequency of 5.0 MHz and an element diameter of 0.50 in (13 mm) to perform the sample straight-beam calibration. The calibration requires a test block with two known thicknesses made from the material to be measured. Ideally, the two thicknesses should represent thicknesses that are both below and above the expected thickness of the material being inspected.

For this example, we are using standard 5-step steel test block (part number 2214E). The steps measure 0.100 in, 0.200 in, 0.300 in, 0.400 in, and 0.500 in.
Olympus NDT

Note: If the EPOCH XT is set to metric units, the calibration process is exactly the same, except that the entries below will be in millimeters rather than inches. To calibrate using a Straight-Beam transducer 1. Follow the initial setup procedure outlined above. Connect the transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to either of the transducer posts on the EPOCH XT. Press [CAL]. A calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying the EPOCH XT is in the Auto-Calibration mode. To exit the Auto-Calibration mode at any point, press [CAL] again. Couple the transducer to the THIN calibration block step. For this example, the transducer is coupled to the 0.200 in step (depending on the frequency of the contact transducer being used, it might be impossible to obtain a proper reading on very thin material). Position Gate 1 so that the first backwall echo from the known thickness step is exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is at approximately 80%.

2.

3.

4.

Calibrating the EPOCH XT

75

Figure 8-1 Calibrating for a thin block using a straight-beam transducer

5.

A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan. Once a steady reading is achieved, press [ZERO]. The screen freezes and a popup box appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [2] [0] [0], or [.] [2]. The entry appears in the popup box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness. Press [F1] to continue.

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Figure 8-2 Entering a thin standard value

6. 7.

Couple the transducer to the THICK calibration block step. In this example, the transducer is coupled to the 0.500 in step. Position Gate 1 so that the first backwall echo from the known thickness step is exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is approximately 80%.

Calibrating the EPOCH XT

77

Figure 8-3 Calibrating for a thick block using a straight-beam transducer

8.

A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan. Once a steady reading is achieved, press [CAL], then [VEL]. The screen freezes and a popup box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.][5] [0] [0], or [.] [5]. The entry appears in the popup box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-4 Entering a thick standard value

9.

Press [F2] to calculate and complete the calibration. The Zero (Offset) and Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct thickness reading of any gated echo displays on the screen.

Note: It is possible to use the Auto-Calibration feature on a single test block of known thickness. You can use multiple backwall echoes instead of coupling on both a thin step and a thick step. You can leave the transducer coupled on the thin step, move the gate over to one of the multiple backwall echoes, and enter the correct soundpath thickness (2, 3, 4, etc. multiple of the first backwall echo) during the velocity portion of the calibration.

8.3

Calibration with a Delay-Line Transducer

The sample delay line calibration described below is performed using Olympus NDT transducer part number V202-RM, with a frequency of 10.0 MHz and an element diameter of 0.25 in (6 mm). The calibration requires a test block with two known thicknesses, made from the material to be measured. Ideally, the two thickness measurements are both below and

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79

above the expected thickness of the material to be inspected.

For this example, we are using Olympus NDT standard 5-step steel-test block, part number 2214E. The steps measure 0.100 in, 0.200 in, 0.300 in, 0.400 in, and 0.500 in.

Note: If the EPOCH XT is set to work in metric units, the calibration process is exactly the same, except that the entries below will be in millimeters, rather than inches. To calibrate using a Delay Line Transducer 1. Follow the initial setup procedure outlined in section 7.2 on page 64. Connect the transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to the transducer post on the EPOCH XT. With a zero offset of 0.000 s, the main bang (or excitation pulse) should appear on the left side of the screen. Increase the zero offset until the main bang moves off the left side of the screen and the interface echo from the end of the delay-line tip appears on the screen. Verify that the echo represents the end of the delay by tapping your finger on the end of the couplant-coated delay line. This dampens the signal and the echo should jump up and down on the screen. Use the zero offset to move this echo to the left side of the screen so that it is barely visible. Press [CAL]. A calibration symbol will appear to the right of the A-scan, signifying the EPOCH XT is in the Auto-Calibration mode. To exit the Auto-Calibration mode at any point, press [CAL] again. Couple the transducer to the THIN calibration block step. For this example, the transducer will be coupled to the 0.100 in step. Position Gate 1 so that the first backwall echo from the known thickness step is exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is approximately 80%. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

2.

3. 4.

Note: Ensure that it is the first backwall echo being gated, not a multiple echo from the end of the delay-line tip.

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Figure 8-5 Calibrating for a thin block using a delay-line transducer

5.

Press [ZERO] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a popup box appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [1] [0] [0]. The entry appears in the popup box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-6 Entering a thin standard value

6. 7. 8.

Press [F1] to Continue. The display returns to the live A-scan. Couple the transducer to the THICK calibration block step. For this example, the transducer is coupled to the 0.500 in step. Position Gate 1 so that the first backwall echo from the known thickness step is exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the gain setting so that the echo amplitude is approximately 80%. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

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Figure 8-7 Calibrating for a thick block using a delay line transducer

9.

Press [CAL], then [VEL] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a pop-up box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [5] [0] [0]. The entry appears in the pop-up box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-8 Entering a thick standard value

10. Press [F2] to calculate and complete the Auto-Calibration. The Zero (offset) and Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct thickness reading of any gated echo is displayed on the screen.

Note: It is possible to use Auto-Calibration on a single test block of known thickness. You can use multiple backwall echoes instead of coupling on both a thin step and a thick step. You can leave the transducer coupled on the thin step, and instead move the gate over to one of the multiple backwall echoes and then enter the correct soundpath thickness (2, 3, 4, etc. multiple of the first backwall echo) during the velocity portion of the calibration.

8.4

Calibration with a Dual-Element Transducer

The sample delay line calibration described below is performed using Olympus NDT transducer (part number DHC711-RM) with a frequency of 5.0 MHz and an element diameter of 0.25 in (6 mm). The calibration requires a test block with two known thicknesses made from the material being measured. Ideally, the two thicknesses
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should represent thicknesses that are both below and above the expected thickness of the material to be inspected. For this example, we are using Olympus NDT standard 5step steel test block (part number 2214E). It has steps measuring 0.100 in, 0.200 in, 0.300 in, 0.400 in, and 0.500 in.]

Note: If the EPOCH XT is set to work in metric units, the calibration process is exactly the same, except that the entries below will be in millimeters, rather than inches.

Note: Due to the acoustic characteristics of dual transducers, a nonlinearity in the distance calibration occurs as the thickness of the material decreases. The point of maximum sensitivity is determined by the roof angle of the particular dual transducer. We recommend that the distance calibration is carried out using a step block that covers the range of interest. Be careful when interpreting thickness readings made outside the calibrated range. The EPOCH XT does not have V-Path Correction; therefore, there might be some nonlinearity within the calibrated range depending on the minimum thickness used in the calibration process. The zero offset value of dual-element transducers can vary significantly at extreme temperatures. If the temperature changes more than a few degrees from the temperature at which the zero offset value was established, recheck its value. If thickness measurements are to be made over a wide temperature range, we strongly recommend the use of Olympus NDT dual transducers that are designed for high- temperature applications and that have built-in delay lines with a stable sound velocity that does not change significantly with temperature. Specific recommendations are Olympus NDT D790-SM and D791 dual element transducers. To calibrate using a Dual Element transducer 1. Follow the initial setup procedure outlined in section 7.2 on page 64. Connect the transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to the transducer posts on the EPOCH XT. Change the test mode to Dual. Also, when using a dual-element transducer, the Gain setting is generally set very high so that the leading edge of the backwall echoes appear as nearly vertical lines on the screen. The leading edge is then used when making thickness measurements. For this reason, the EPOCH XT should be set to Edge Detection mode.

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2.

Press [CAL]. A Calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying the EPOCH XT is in the Auto-Calibration mode. To exit the Auto-Calibration mode at any point, press [CAL] again. Couple the transducer to the THIN calibration block step. For this example, the transducer will be coupled to the 0.100 in step. As noted above, a higher Gain setting is required to produce a clean leading edge of the signal. Do not be concerned with the jagged peaks of the echo. Concentrate on the leading edge only. Position Gate 1 so that the leading edge of the backwall echo from the known thickness step is exceeding the gate threshold. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

3.

4.

Figure 8-9 Calibrating for a thin block using a dual-element transducer

5.

Press [ZERO] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a popup box appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [1] [0] [0]. The entry appears in the popup box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-10 Entering a Thin Standard Value

6. 7. 8.

Press [F1] to continue. The display returns to the live A-Scan. Couple the transducer to the THICK calibration block step. For this example, the transducer is coupled to the 0.500 in step. Position Gate 1 so that the leading edge of the backwall echo from the known thickness step is exceeding the gate threshold. A thickness reading appears in large text above the Ascan.

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Figure 8-11 Calibrating for a thick block using a dual-element transducer

9.

Press [CAL], then [VEL] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a popup box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known thickness of the test sample. For this example, press [0] [.] [5] [0] [0]. The entry appears in the popup box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-12 Entering a thick standard value

10. Press [F2] Calculate to complete the Auto-Calibration. The Zero (Offset) and Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct thickness reading of any gated echo is displayed on the screen.

8.5

Calibrating with an Angle-Beam Transducer

The sample angle beam calibration described below is performed using Olympus NDT transducer part number A430S-SB with a frequency of 2.25 MHz and an element diameter of 0.625 in x 0.625 in. The transducer is mounted on a 45 wedge, part number ABWS-6-45. We recommend using either an ASTM E-164 IIW Type I or a U.S. Air Force IIW Type II calibration block for this calibration procedure. The steps below use Olympus NDT IIW Type I carbon-steel calibration block, part number TB7541-1. To calibrate using an Angle Beam transducer 1. Follow the initial setup procedure outlined in section 7.2 on page 64. Connect the transducer to an appropriate cable and then connect the cable to the transducer post on the EPOCH XT. Enter the correct refracted angle for the transducer/wedge combination. For this example, enter 45.

2.

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3.

Enter the approximate shear-wave velocity of the material being inspected. For this example using carbon steel, enter a velocity of 0.1280 in/s (3251 mm/s if working in metric units). Enter an appropriate range for the test block being used. For this example, enter a range of 10.000 in (250.00 mm if working in metric units).

4.

Review sections 8.5.1 to 8.5.4 for the following procedures: Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP) Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta) Calibrating for Distance Calibrating for Sensitivity

Note: If the EPOCH XT is set to work in metric units in each procedure listed above, the calibration process is exactly the same, except that the entries below will be in millimeters, rather than inches.

8.5.1

Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP)

To locate the BIP 1. Couple the probe to the test block at the 0 mark.

Figure 8-13 Reference block displaying the 0 mark

2.

Manipulate the probe until a high-amplitude signal appears on the screen after the main bang. This is the reflection from the large arc of the block that is located on the Type I block at 4 in (100 mm).

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3.

Move the probe forward and backward to bring the echo to its maximum amplitude (peak). Make sure the echoes do not exceed 100%. Reduce the Gain setting if necessary.

Note: The Peak Memory feature on the EPOCH XT is an excellent tool to aid in finding the BIP. Press [PEAK MEM] to turn on the feature. This feature draws and collects the echo envelope of the signal while also drawing the live waveform. Match the live waveform with the maximum point corresponding to the previously accumulated echo-dynamic curve. Refer to the following figure for a detailed schematic of using the Peak Memory feature to find the BIP. Press [PEAK MEM] again to turn off the feature.

Figure 8-14 Locating the beam index point

4.

Hold the probe stationary once you have peaked up the signal and mark the side of the transducer wedge directly over the 0 mark on the block. This is the BIP the point at which the sound leaves the wedge and enters the material with maximum energy.

8.5.2

Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta)

The refracted angle of the probe should already have been entered in the EPOCH XT in the

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initial steps of the calibration procedure. Although the wedge may be marked 45, for example, the actual refracted angle could be slightly different due to the properties of the test material or the amount of wear on the wedge. It is necessary to verify the actual angle. This ensures that the EPOCH XTs soundpath calculations are accurate. To verify the refracted angle 1. Position the probe over the appropriate angle mark on the block, which is 45 in this example.

Figure 8-15 Verifying the refracted angle

2.

Move the probe backward and forward to peak up the echo coming from the large circular hole in the side of the block. The circular hole may be filled with Plexiglas, but the procedure is the same.

Tip: The Peak Memory feature on the EPOCH XT is an excellent tool to aid in finding the peak of the signal. 3. Hold the probe stationary once you have peaked up the signal. Note the degree mark on the block that lines up with the BIP, which you marked on the side of the wedge in the previous step. This is the actual refracted angle (Beta) for this particular transducer and wedge in steel. If this value for Beta differs from the value entered previously, enter the corrected angle now using the [ANGLE] key and the slewing keys.

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8.5.3

Calibrating for Distance

Note: This step differs depending on which type of IIW calibration block is used. The ASTM E-164 IIW Type I Block, which has a crescent cut in the side, produces echoes at 4 in (100 mm) and 9 in (225 mm) on the screen. The U.S. Air Force IIW Type II Block, which has a large cutout in the side, produces echoes at 2 in and 4 in on the screen. The procedure to follow uses the Olympus NDT IIW Type I carbon steel calibration block, part number TB7541-1. We recommend that the EPOCH XTs Range parameter be set to 10 in (250 mm) for this step. Regardless of whether a Type I or Type II Calibration block is used, this should ensure that the echoes from the block are visible on screen. To calibrate for distance 1. Couple the probe to the block so that the BIP is directly over the 0 mark on the ASTM test block (or the Air Force block). Do not move the transducer from this point during this step. Press [CAL]. A calibration symbol appears to the right of the A-scan, signifying the EPOCH XT is in Auto-Calibration mode. To exit the Auto-Calibration mode at any point, press [CAL] again. Position Gate 1 so that the echo reflection from the 4 in. arc (this should be the first large echo after the main bang) is exceeding the gate threshold. Adjust the Gain setting so that the echo amplitude is approximately 80%. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

2.

3. 4.

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Figure 8-16 Calibrating for distance

5.

Press [ZERO] (OFFSET) once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a popup box appears on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known soundpath distance for this arc. For this example, press [4] [.] [0] [0] [0]. The entry appears in the popup box. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-17 Entering a thin standard value

6. 7.

Press [F1] to continue. The display returns to the live A-scan. Position Gate 1 so that the echo from the 1 in crescent is exceeding the gate threshold. This echo is generally located at approximately the ninth or tenth screen division and is usually the 3rd echo after the main bang. Adjust the Gain setting so that this echo amplitude is approximately 40%. A thickness reading appears in large text above the A-scan.

8.

Note: Another echo might be present on the screen at approximately the eighth or ninth screen division. Disregard this echo as it is usually the result of beam spreading and sound bouncing off the side of the block. Ensure Gate 1 is not over this echo.

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Figure 8-18 Adjusting the gain

9.

Press [CAL], then [VEL] once the reading is steady. The screen freezes and a popup box appears again on the screen. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the exact known soundpath distance for this crescent. For this example, press [9], [.], [0], [0], [0]. If you enter an incorrect number, press the [ZERO] [DELETE] key multiple times to clear the entry and then type the correct thickness.

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Figure 8-19 Entering a thick standard value

10. Press [F2] to calculate and complete the Auto-Calibration. The Zero (Offset) and Velocity parameters adjust automatically, and the correct soundpath readings of any gated echoes are displayed on the screen.

8.5.4

Calibrating for Sensitivity

The final step in the angle beam calibration is to calibrate for sensitivity. This lets you set up a reference gain level. To calibrate for sensitivity 1. Couple the probe to the IIW calibration block so that the transducer is aimed at the 0.060 in diameter side-drilled hole, which is used as a reference reflector.

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Figure 8-20 IIW calibration block with 0.060 in diameter drilled hole

2.

Move the probe forward and backward until you have peaked up the return signal from the hole (that is, found the maximum amplitude). Do not confuse the reference reflector echo from the side of the block.

Tip: The Peak Memory feature on the EPOCH XT is an excellent tool to aid in finding the peak of the signal. 3. Adjust the system sensitivity (Gain) up or down once the echo is peaked up to bring the reference reflector signal to a predetermined reference line on the screen. In this example, the echo is brought to 80% of full-screen height. Press [2ND F], [GAIN] [REF] to lock in the reference-gain level and add/subtract scanning gain separately. Press the function keys once the reference-gain functions are activated to select between adding or subtracting in 0.1 dB or 6.0 dB increments.

4. 5.

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Figure 8-21 Locking the reference gain to add/subtract scanning gain

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9. Managing the Instrument Datalogger

This chapter contains describes how to manage the EPOCH XTs internal datalogger. Olympus NDT has designed the datalogger for ease of use and a wide range of file types and features for flaw detection and corrosion thickness gaging requirements. It includes the following capabilities: Data organized by file and identifier (ID) codes Alphanumeric filenames and identifier (ID) codes File Description, Inspector ID, and Location Note field for every file File types similar to corrosion thickness gages: Incremental Files Sequential Files Sequential Files with Custom Point 2-D Matrix Grid Files 2-D EPRI 2-D Matrix Grid Files with Custom Point 3-D Matrix Grid Files Boiler Files Ability to edit files and add and delete IDs, rename files, clear file contents, and delete files On-screen review of all file contents File summary screen for measurement review without A-scan and Setup Ability to transfer data between the EPOCH XT and a PC or printer The titles for the following sections are as follows: Datalogger Storage Capacity Datalogger Menu

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Creating Data Files Data File Types Opening Data Files Saving to Data Files File Summary and Review Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibration) Reporting Report Header Setup Printing Instrument Resets

9.1

Datalogger Storage Capacity

The EPOCH XT datalogger is designed to store the following information every time the operator presses the [SAVE] key: File name Identifier (ID) code Alarm conditions Gate measurement modes Soundpath leg for each gate 0 to 5 measurements Instrument saves all active measurements selected by the operator to display on the instrument screen. A-scan waveform Peak Memory envelope or Peak Hold waveform, if active Complete setup parameters Flag status ([FREEZE], [ZOOM], [PEAK MEM], etc.) Active software feature(s) (DAC/TVG, DGS/AVG, AWS D1.1/D1.5) The EPOCH XT datalogger can store up to 10,000 IDs with the information listed above. All data is stored for every ID that the operator chooses to save.

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9.2

Datalogger Menu

The EPOCH XTs Datalogger menu is accessed by pressing [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. This will bring the operator to a tabbed menu similar to the [DISPLAY SETUP], [MEAS SETUP], and [INSTR SETUP] menus discussed in this manual. The EPOCH XT Datalogger menu has four tabs organizing datalogger functions: Open, Create, PageSetup, and Resets. These tabs will be covered in detail in the sections to follow. When the operator first enters the datalogger, the operator sees a screen similar to the screen below:

9.2.1

Creating Data Files

The operator must create a data file before any information can be stored in the EPOCH XT. This can be done onboard, or the file(s) can be created in the GageView Pro Interface Program and downloaded to the instrument. To create files onboard the instrument, the operator must enter the Datalogger menu and access the Create tab shown in the following illustration:

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On this screen the operator performs the following operations: Chooses file type to create Enters a file name File names in the EPOCH XT are 8 characters Enters an ID prefix ID prefixes in the EPOCH XT are up to 11 characters Creates IDs based on the file type selected Enters a File description, if desired Enters an inspector ID (Ins Id), if desired Enters a location note (LOC-NT), if desired Once the operator has entered all of the desired information in the Create tab, the operator can press [F1] (Create) to create the data file and place it in the instruments list of available files shown in section 9.2 on page 103 of this manual.

9.2.2

Data File Types

The EPOCH XT allows the operator to create many file types based on application requirements. The file types that are available are similar to the EPOCH 4 series of Ultrasonic Flaw Detectors and to the 37DL Plus Corrosion Thickness Gage from Olympus NDT. The following sections provide information about each file type.

9.2.2.1

INCREMENTAL

After entering a starting ID number (up to 11 alphanumeric characters in the ID Prefix and up

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to 10 alphanumeric characters in the ID number itself), the EPOCH XT will automatically increment the subsequent ID numbers using the following incrementing rules: Only that portion of an ID number consisting of digits and letters (no punctuation marks) beginning with the right-most character and extending leftward to the first punctuation mark or to the left-most character (whichever comes first) can increment. Digits are cycled 0, 1, 2, ..., 9, 0, etc. The 9 to 0 transition is done only after incrementing the character to the left. Letters are cycled A, B, C, ..., Z, A, etc. The Z to A transition is done only after incrementing the character to the left. In either case, if there is no character to the left or if the character to the left is a punctuation mark, then the ID number cannot increment. If an ID number cannot increment, then after a reading is saved, an error beep sounds and the momentary message CANNOT INCREMENT is shown on the display above the function keys. Subsequent saves overwrite readings if the operator does not manually change the ID number first.

Note: To make the instrument increment through a range of numbers several digits wide while beginning with a single digit ID number, the maximum number of digit positions must be entered initially using leading zeroes. See Figure 9-1 on page 106.

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Figure 9-1 Example of automatically generated incremented ID number series

To create an Incremental file 1. 2. 3. 4. 106 Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger menu opens. Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Incremental (INC) file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER].

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5. 6. 7. 8.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Starting ID. To continue, press [ENTER]. Enter file header information, if desired. Press [F1] to Create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list, the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.2.2

Sequential

A sequential file is defined by a starting and an ending ID number. The resulting file is inclusive of the starting and ending points and all points in between.

Table 6 Example of start ID# = ABC123


Start ID# = ABC123 End ID# = ABC135 Resulting file would contain the following list of ID numbers: ABC123 ABC124 ABC125 . . . ABC135

Table 7 Example of start ID# = XY-GY


Start ID# = XY-GY End ID# = XY-IB Resulting file would contain the following list of ID numbers: XY-GY XY-GZ XY-HA . . . XY-IB

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To create an Sequential File 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger menu opens. Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Sequential SEQ file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the up and down arrow keys to enter the desired increment step. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Enter file header information if desired.

10. Press [F1] to Create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list, the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.2.3

Sequence with Custom Point

A sequential file with Custom Points is defined by a starting and an ending ID number plus a series of custom points. The resulting file is inclusive of the starting and ending points and all points in between. In addition, multiple measurements per ID number location are assigned using the assigned custom points. The following example describes measurements along a pipe or tube where at each ID number location you can take measurement at top, bottom, left, and right of the pipe.

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Table 8 Example of starting ID# = XYZ1267


Starting ID# = XYZ1267 Ending ID# = XYZ1393 Custom Points = TOP BOTTOM LEFT RIGHT Resulting file would contain the following list of ID numbers: XYZ1267TOP XYZ1267BOTTOM XYZ1267LEFT XYZ1267RIGHT XYZ1268TOP XYZ1268BOTTOM XYZ1268LEFT . . . XYZ1393RIGHT

You can enter up to 20 custom points. The total number of characters in an ID with Custom Points is 19. To create a Sequential with Custom Points file 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger Menu opens. Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Sequential with Custom Points (SEQ+CPT) file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the up and down arrow keys to enter the desired increment step. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Enter the first custom point with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the custom point into the list below the entry box.

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10. To enter another Custom Point, edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and press insert. Repeat until all custom points are entered. The list can be reviewed using the [F2] [PREVIOUS] and [F3] [NEXT] keys. Use [F4] [DELETE] to remove a custom point. 11. When all custom points have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue. 12. Enter file header information, if desired. 13. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list, the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.2.4

2-D Matrix Grid

A grid is a sequence of ID numbers arranged to describe a path through a 2-D or 3-D matrix. Each part of the ID number corresponds to a particular matrix dimension. A 2-D (two-dimensional) sequence begins with the ID number that refers to the first column and the first row. Then the column (or row) increments one value at a time until the sequence reaches the last column (or row) value while the other dimension value stays constant. At this point, the other dimension increments from its first to its next value. This continues until the ID number that refers to the last column and last row is reached.

Note: Either the columns or the rows can be selected to increment first. Refer to the following figure.

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How is a grid used? A grid structure may associate one dimension of the grid (for example, the columns) with the physical parts whose wall thickness is to be measured. The particular measurement points on each part are then associated with the other dimension of the grid (for example, the rows). See Figure 9-2 on page 112.

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Measurement Location

ID Number

Row Column

Figure 9-2 One grid for 75 identical parts

Alternatively, the rows and columns of a grid may refer to a 2-D map measurement points on the surface of one part. In this case, a different grid is made for each part. SeeFigure 9-3 on page 113.

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Name: Elbow Rows: 01 thru 10 Columns: A thru E IDs: Elbow/A0 thru Elbow/E10

Name: Tee Rows: 1 thru 4 Columns: 1 thru 3 IDs: Tee/11 thru Tee/34

Figure 9-3 Different named grid for each part

To create a 2-D Grid File 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger menu opens. Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the 2-D Grid 2D file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Managing the Instrument Datalogger 113

8. 9.

Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Row (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Row (ID). To continue, press [ENTER].

10. Select the Pattern Type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue, press [ENTER]. 11. Select the Increment Order (Row or Column). To continue, press [ENTER]. 12. Enter file header information if desired. 13. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.2.5

2-D EPRI

The 2-D EPRI file type is the same as the standard 2-D Grid file type except for a minor change in the way alpha characters increment: 14. Standard 2-D Grid File: Refers to the standard incrementing columns that start at A and extend past Z. Example: Start Column: A; End Column: AD; Column Result: A, B, C...X, Y, Z, AA, AB, AC, AD. 15. EPRI 2-D Grid File: Refer to custom incrementing columns that start at A and extend past Z. Example: Start Column: A; End Column: CC; Column Result: A, B, C...Z, AA, BB, CC.

9.2.2.6

2-D MATRIX GRID WITH CUSTOM POINT

A grid is a sequence of ID numbers arranged to describe a path through a 2-D or 3-D matrix. Each part of the ID number corresponds to a particular matrix dimension. See 2-D Matrix Grid in section 9.2.2.4 on page 110 in this manual for more information. Custom Points allow multiple readings per grid ID number to be assigned.

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Table 9 Example of 2-D matrix grid with custom point


Start Column A End Column J(Start Grid Coordinate = A01) Start Row 01 End Row 17 (End Grid Coordinate = J17) Custom Points = LEFT CENTER RIGHT Resulting file would contain the following list of ID Numbers: A01LEFT A01CENTER A01RIGHT A02LEFT . . . J17RIGHT

To create a 2-D Grid with Custom Points file 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger menu opens. Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the 2-D Grid with Custom Points (2D+CPT) file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Row (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Row (ID). To continue press [ENTER].

10. Select the Pattern Type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue, press [ENTER]. 11. Select the Increment Order (Row or Column). To continue, press [ENTER].

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12. Enter the first custom point with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the custom point in the list below the entry box. 13. To enter another custom point, edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and press insert. Repeat until all custom points are entered. The list can be reviewed using the [F2] [PREVIOUS] and [F3] [NEXT] keys. Use [F4] [DELETE] to remove a custom point. 14. When all custom points have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue. 15. Enter file header information, if desired. 16. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list, the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.2.7

3-D MATRIX GRID

A 3-D Matrix grid is a sequence of multipart ID numbers arranged to describe a path through a 3-D matrix. Each part of the ID number corresponds to a particular matrix dimension. A 3-D (three-dimensional) sequence begins with the ID number that refers to the first column, the first row and the first point. Then the point (or column, or row) increments one value at a time until the sequence reaches the last point (or column, or row) value while the other two dimension values stay constant. At this point another dimension increments from its first to its next value. This continues until the ID number that refers to the last column, last row and last point is reached. You can select either columns, rows or points to increment first and one of the remaining two selections to increment second. How is a 3-D grid used? A 3-D grid structure may associate two dimensions of the grid (for example, the columns and rows) with the physical coordinates on the part whose wall thickness is to be measured. The particular measurement points on each part are then associated with the third dimension of the grid. This scenario allows multiple readings to be stored at each grid coordinate.

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Table 10 Example of 3-D grid


Start Col = End Col = F Start Row = End Row = 4 Start Point End Point = A 1 = X Z

Resulting file would contain the following list of ID numbers: A1X A1Y A1Z A2X . . . A4Z B1X B1Y . . . F4Z

To create a 3-D Grid file 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger menu opens. ([ID] .) Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab. Use the up and down arrow keys to select the 3-D Grid (3D) file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Point (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Point (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Column (ID). To continue, press [ENTER].

10. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Row (ID). To continue, press [ENTER].

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11. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Row (ID). To continue, press [ENTER]. 12. Select the Pattern Type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue, press [ENTER]. 13. Select which ID component with increment first. To continue, press [ENTER]. 14. Select which ID component with increment second. To continue, press [ENTER]. 15. Enter file header information, if desired. 16. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list, the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.2.8

Boiler

A Boiler file is a special file type designed specifically for boiler applications. A common method for identifying a thickness measurement location is by a 3-D approach. The first dimension is Elevation, which refers to the physical distance from the bottom to the top of the boiler. The second dimension is Tube Number, which refers to the number of boiler tubes that need inspection. The third dimension is the Custom Point, which refers to the actual thickness reading location at the specified elevation on the specified tube. When these three dimensions are combined, a single ID number is formed to precisely identify the exact location of each thickness reading. For example:

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Table 11 Example of Boiler


Elevations = 10ft-, 20ft-, 45ft-. 100ftStart Tube = 01 End Tube = 73 Custom Points = L,C, R (left, center, right) The resulting file would contain the following list of ID numbers: 10ft-01L 10ft-01C 10ft-01R 10ft-02L . . . 10ft-73R 20ft-10L . . . 100ft-73C 100ft-73R (This example assumes that you have chosen to increment the custom points first, tube number second, and elevation third. You can choose alternate incrementing methods.)

To create a Boiler file 1. 2. Press [2ND F], [ID] [FILE]. The Datalogger menu opens. Press [F1] [NEXT] to highlight the Create tab. Press [ENTER] to access the Create tab.

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3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Use the up and down arrow keys to select the Boiler (BOILER) file type. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired file name. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the desired ID prefix. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the Start Tube. To continue, press [ENTER]. Use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the End Tube. To continue, press [ENTER]. Select the Pattern Type for ID incrementing (Standard or ZigZag). To continue, press [ENTER]. Select which ID component with increment first. To continue, press [ENTER].

10. Select which ID component with increment second. To continue, press [ENTER]. 11. Enter the first custom point with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the custom point into the list below the entry box. 12. To enter another custom point edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and press insert. Repeat until all Custom Points are entered. The list can be reviewed using the [F2] [PREVIOUS] and [F3] [NEXT] keys. Use [F4] [DELETE] to remove a custom point. 13. When all custom point have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue. 14. Enter the first elevation with the alphanumeric keypad. Press [F1] to insert the elevation into the list below the entry box. 15. To enter another elevation, edit the name with the alphanumeric keypad and press insert. Repeat until all Elevations are entered. The list can be reviewed using the [F2] [PREVIOUS] and [F3] [NEXT] keys. Use [F4] [DELETE] to remove a elevation. 16. When all elevations have been created, press the [ENTER] key to continue. 17. Enter file header information, if desired. 18. Press [F1] to create the file. The instrument will return to the Open tab. Once the file has been placed in the file list, the operator can use the file for data storage.

9.2.3

Opening Data Files

The EPOCH XT lists all files that have been created or downloaded to the instrument in a list within the Datalogger menu > Open tab. This screen provides the operator with a list of files, their file type (INC, SEQ, 2D, etc.), the date and time of creation, and any file header information that was entered when the file was created. The screen below shows the Open tab:

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The highlighted file TEST is an Incremental file. To open this file, the operator simply needs to press the [F1] (Open) key. This will bring the operator back to the live screen and the active file will now be TEST. This is illustrated as follows:

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Note: The Open function does not recall any instrument setup or calibration to the live screen. This function simply opens the selected file so the operator may save data. Once the file has been opened, the operator may begin saving data by pressing the [SAVE] key. The EPOCH XT will attempt to save data to the ID displayed. In most cases the ID will not already contain data. However, in some cases the ID will already contain saved information. If this happens the EPOCH XT will display the prompt below to warn the operator and to ask if the existing data should be overwritten. When there is an active file open and the operator presses the ID key, four choices are displayed above the function keys: First Jumps to the first ID in the active file. Last Jumps to the last ID in the active file. Find The operator is able to enter an ID number and have the instrument search for it within the active file. If it is located, the instrument will jump there. Insert The operator is able insert a new ID within the active file. If the operator attempts to insert an ID when there is no active file, the EPOCH XT will display a message No Survey Selected at the bottom of the display.

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9.2.4

Saving to Data Files

The EPOCH XT allows the operator to save data whenever there is an active file (survey) and an ID has been entered. Files are created in the Datalogger menu as described in section 9.2.1 on page 103 of this manual or in GageView Pro and then transferred to the EPOCH XT. In order to save data within a file, the operator must press the [SAVE] key. If there is no active ID then the instrument will display the error message No active ID at the bottom of the display. The operator must have an active file (survey) and an ID entered before saving data. When the operator presses the [SAVE] key, the EPOCH XT saves the following information: Filename ID Up to 5 measurements (operator selected) A-scan waveform All instrument setup parameters Alarm information Any display flags Gate Measurement mode icons Leg Indicators for both gates Any displayed Peak Memory envelopes or Peak Hold A-scans Software feature/option setups

9.2.5

File Summary and Review

The EPOCH XT allows the operator to review inspection data and calibrations on the instrument. There are two main methods for this: File Summary and File Review. File Summary shows the operator a table that lists IDs and all saved measurements in each ID location. This view does not show the instrument setup or the A-scan. This feature is typically used to review data files where the inspector is primarily interested in thickness measurements. This function is also used to review saved measurements for other applications since the EPOCH XT is capable of storing many measurement types and up to 5 measurements may be saved within each ID. File Review is typically used to review instrument setups (calibrations) and to examine captured A-scans along with measurements, software option/features, echo envelopes, etc. This view displays everything that has been saved with each ID within the selected file.

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To access File Summary and File Review, the operator must enter the Datalogger menu > Open tab and then select the file to review. This is shown in the screen below:

To enter the File Summary screen, the operator must press the [F3] key (Summary). To enter the File Review screen, the operator must press the [F2] key (Contents). The File Summary screen is shown below:

Each set of two rows in the File Summary screen represents data from one ID. In the example

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above there are 5 saved IDs: ID001, ID002, ID003, ID004, and ID005. Each ID was saved with 4 measurements listed in separate columns with their measurement icon. For each ID, the unit (in., mm, s) is also displayed in the fourth column, upper row. Within this view, the operator has the option to [F1] [CLEAR], [F2] [DELETE], and [F5] [CANCEL]. [CLEAR] will remove all ID data from the file. [DELETE] will delete the entire file, and [CANCEL] will return the operator to the previous screen. The File Review screen is shown below:

This window is scrollable using the up and down arrow keys. The left and right arrow keys are used to jump from one ID to the next. Alternatively, the operator can use the [F1] (First), [F2] (Last), and [F5] (Find) functions to jump to particular areas within the file. This is useful when many IDs have been saved within a file. The [F4] (Clear) function will clear the data from the selected ID. The ID itself will remain so new data can be saved in that location. The full file review screen for the example file shown in the screen above has been combined and displayed below. The entire instrument setup and all other data are displayed for operator review.

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9.2.6

Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibration)

To recall a stored instrument setup (calibration), the operator must access the File Review screen discussed in section 9.2.5 on page 123 of this manual (previous section). Once the operator has selected the file of interest and entered the File Review screen, the operator must select the ID that contains the instrument setup to be recalled. The File Review screen is shown below:

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The operator must locate the proper ID by using the left and right arrow keys or the [F1] (First), [F2] (Last), and [F5] (Find) functions to jump to particular areas within the file. The operator then presses [F3] (Recall). Once the file has been recalled, the operator will be brought back to the main instrument screen and the instrument setup will be displayed. The setup is not active. The state of the display is now RECALL FREEZE. An R flag indicates this to the operator. To return to the live screen, the operator must press the [MEAS RESET] key. See following screen:

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At this point, the EPOCH XTs stored setup has been recalled, and the operator may begin to use the instrument. It is always recommended that the operator recheck the calibration as probe and wedge wear, temperature changes, and other factors can affect the accuracy of the calibration.

9.3

Reporting

The EPOCH XT has been designed to allow the operator to create basic reports on the instrument and print them out in the field over the instruments USB host port. In order to generate on onboard report, the operator must be able to set up the Report Header, setup the printer output, and have access to a PCL5 compatible USB printer.

9.3.1

Report Header Setup

The operator can set up the report header in the Datalogger menu > PageSetup tab. The Datalogger menu is accessed by pressing [2ND F], [ID]. The PageSetup tab is illustrated as follows:

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All of the header titles and data can be customized by the operator. The information displayed above is just an example. The information in the header will be placed at the top of the reports that are printed from the instrument.

9.3.2

Printing

The EPOCH XT is designed to directly print to any PCL5 compatible USB printer. The operator must set up the printer in the Datalogger menu > PageSetup tab shown below:

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The operator may choose between PCL Laser or PCL Inkjet printer types. Draft Mode allows the operator to print with less ink/toner if desired. The operator may also choose to print in color or black and white. Reports may be printed either from the live A-scan screen or from the File Review and File Summary areas by pressing [2ND F], [ALPHA/NUM] [PRINT]. If the operator prints from the live screen, a preview that looks like the file review screen will appear first. An example report is shown as follows:

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9.3.3

Instrument Resets

The EPOCH XT can be reset to factory parameters if needed. The instrument resets are located in the Datalogger menu > Resets tab. There are three choices available: Parameters Resets all instrument setup parameters to factory settings. Database Clears the instrument datalogger. Editable Parameters Returns all function-key presets to factory defaults.

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10. Software Features and Options

The EPOCH XT comes standard with DAC/TVG and has two onboard software options: DGS/AVG and AWS D1.1/D1.5. These features are accessed within the [MEAS SETUP] menu under the Options tab. The screen below shows this location:

10.1 Defining Active/Inactive Options


All of the available options are listed in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. If an option is active in the instrument, then the operator will be able to highlight it and see the option setup parameters on the right side of the tab. If the option is not active, the instrument will display a red line through the option, and the option will not be available.

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The software options can be added to the EPOCH XT at an additional cost. This activation can be performed at the factory before the instrument is shipped or it can be done remotely with an access code. You must contact Olympus NDT to have access codes generated. These codes are entered in the [INST SETUP] menu > Status tab shown as follows:

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10.2 DAC/TVG
10.2.1 Description
A Distance Amplitude Correction (DAC) curve is used to plot amplitude variations of signals from reflectors of the same size, but at different distances from the transducer. Normally, these reflectors produce echoes of varying amplitude due to material attenuation and beam spread as the sound beam travels through the part. The purpose of the DAC curve is to graphically compensate for material attenuation, nearfield effects, beam spread, and surface roughness. After plotting a DAC curve, reflectors of the same size as those used for creation of the curve produce echoes that peak along the curve despite different locations within the test piece. Similarly, reflectors that are smaller than those used to create the curve fall below the level, while larger reflectors exceed the curve level. When a DAC curve is created in the EPOCH XT, the instrument also creates a Time-Varied Gain (TVG) setup. TVG is used to compensate for the same factors as DAC, but the presentation is different. Instead of drawing a curve across the display that follows the reference reflector peaks downward as sound is attenuated, the TVG setup amplifies the gain as a function of time (distance) to bring the reference reflectors to the same screen height (80% FSH). The EPOCH XT DAC/TVG feature allows the user to toggle between DAC and TVG views in many of its modes, giving freedom to use both techniques during a single inspection. When the

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operator switches from DAC to TVG view, the DAC curves are displayed as TVG lines across the screen. The Time-Varied Gain effectively amplifies the signals across the time base to make the DAC curves appear as straight lines across the screen. Users can customize DAC/TVG setups to their unique application requirements using the flexible DAC/TVG software feature for the EPOCH XT. The DAC/TVG feature incorporates several DAC/TVG modes that adhere to ASME, ASME-3, and JIS sizing codes. The software offers direct control of gain, range, zero offset, and delay, as well as scanning gain and transfer correction. In addition, the DAC/TVG option provides new features such as 20%80% DAC curves, customizable DAC curves, and a user-defined TVG table to meet advanced and unique inspection needs.

10.2.2 Option Activation and Reference Correct


Prior to the activation of any options associated with DAC/TVG, the instrument must be properly calibrated to the material being inspected. The DAC/TVG option is located under the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. To begin the activation process, enter the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab, highlight DAC/TVG and press the [ENTER] key. Use the arrow keys or the function keys to highlight the desired DAC/TVG function. An example of this is shown as follows:

The user may also choose to apply a feature known as reference correction REF CORRECT to the digital analysis of the live A-scan and DAC/TVG option. The reference correction feature, when activated, allows full gain manipulation of either the live echo peaks or the DAC curve while providing the % amplitude or dB comparison of the actual peak-to-curve ratio. In

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this way, the operator can use scanning gain, while maintaining an accurate digital measurement of the ratio of the gated peak to the DAC curve for sizing purposes. The gated echo amplitude is corrected back to the Reference Gain level for amplitude evaluation compared to the DAC curve. Once the operator has selected the type of DAC/TVG setup for his application, the operator must press the [MEAS RESET] key to return to the live A-scan screen to begin DAC/TVG setup. In the sections below, all DAC/TVG modes are covered. The DAC/TVG setup procedure is the same for all modes with the exception of TVG table. The setup will be covered in detail in the ASME / ASME III section to follow. Any differences in the procedure to set up other DAC/TVG modes will be discussed in the pertinent section for that particular mode.

10.2.3 ASME & ASME3 DAC/TVG


The ASME DAC mode is a single DAC curve drawn from peak to peak on reference reflectors. The ASME III mode draws three DAC curves: one main curve from peak to peak on the reference reflectors and two warning curves at 6 dB and 14 dB compared to the main curve.

10.2.4 ASME III DAC Setup Example


Once the operator has entered the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab and selected ASME III as the DAC/TVG mode, the operator must press [MEAS/RESET] to return to the live instrument screen. The instrument screen will appear as follows:

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To capture DAC points, the operator must move Gate 1 to the echo, press [F5] (AUTO80%) to bring the echo to 80% FSH, and press [F1] to capture the point. The screen below shows the first point captured. An symbol has been placed on the echo peak.

The screen as follows shows the EPOCH XT display when the second point has been captured:

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The instrument has drawn the three DAC curves from the first point to the second. The operator has used the AUTO80% function to bring the second point to 80% full-screen height. This assures that the point is captured accurately because amplitude resolution is better at greater echo heights. This also pushes the first captured echo over 110% FSH so the Main DAC curve and the 6 dB warning curve extend downward to the second point from offscreen. While the operator is capturing DAC points (after 2 have been captured), the operator has the option to: [F2] (Delete) Deletes the last captured point. [F3] (Erase) Erases the entire DAC setup. [F4] (Done) Completes the DAC setup. The following screen shows the DAC setup after 5 points have been captured. All points were brought to 80% FSH before capture.

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If the operator would like to continue from the point and capture additional points, the operator may increase the instrument range or increase the display delay to view echoes further out in time. If the setup is complete, then the operator presses [F4] (Done) to complete the setup. The instrument will return to its base gain and display the DAC setup. This is shown below:

Now that DAC is active, the instrument has some special settings available for operator adjustment:

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Amp to Curve and dB to Curve The operator may now use Amplitude-to-Curve and dB-to-Curve measurements. These are activated in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab. See section 4.8.1 on page 42 for more details. These measurements can always be selected by the operator, but they will not display measurements unless a DAC/TVG or DGS/AVG curve is on-screen. In the screen above, the Gate 1 Amp-toCurve measurement is active in measurement location 5. TVGView [F1] key The operator may press [F1] to activate the TVG view for the active DAC/TVG setup. The TVG view for the setup above is shown below:

The DAC curves have become TVG lines across the screen. DACGain above [F2] This is a gain setting that affects the DAC curves and the onscreen echoes allowing amplitude comparison at code compliant screen levels across the time base. More details are given in section 10.2.5 on page 142. GainStep above [F3] This setting selects the step (0.1, 1, 3, 6, 12 dB) for the DAC GAIN adjustment. NextDAC above [F5] With this setting the operator can cycle through the available DAC curves (if more than one is available) for amplitude comparison with on-screen echoes. While DAC/TVG is active, the operator has full control of the Range, Delay, and Zoom settings. With this the operator can focus on areas of interest within the DAC setup. The following screen shows a reduced range with delay:

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10.2.5 Gain Adjustment Options


The DAC/TVG software features three separate types of gain adjustment for each DAC/TVG setup. These gain adjustments allow for better inspection precision, easy manipulation of curves and live peak information, and transfer correction. In order to quickly find and identify potential defects, it is commonly required by code to increase the gain (scanning gain) on the EPOCH XT from the Reference (calibration) Gain for scanning purposes. However, once a potential defect is identified, this gain is usually removed to view the reflector at REF Gain level, set at calibration. The DAC/TVG software for the EPOCH XT is fully capable of adding temporary scanning gain for inspection purposes. This scanning gain only affects the live A-scan and does not adjust the level of the DAC curve(s) set up on screen. To add temporary scanning gain 1. 2. Press the [GAIN] key. Use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment or the left and right arrow keys for fine adjustment to bring the scanning gain to the desired level. The scanning gain is displayed at the lower-left area of the screen. Once the desired scanning gain level is set, the operator may press [GAIN] and use the Scan DB function key ([F2]) to toggle between the base (reference) gain or the adjusted scanning gain. Scanning gain is disabled by pressing [GAIN] and then [F3] (Off).

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4.

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The screen below shows an ASME DAC setup with 3 dB of scanning gain added:

When reference correction is active, the digital comparison between a captured reflector and the DAC curve will be accurate even with scanning gain applied to the inspection provided that the gated echo is not saturated. The screen below shows the same setup as above but with Reference Correction active. Notice that the scanning gain has been removed from the dB-to-Curve measurement in location 5. The instrument compares the echo height to the DAC curve, compensates for the added scanning gain, and reports the true-amplitude comparison

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10.2.6 Curve Adjustment GainAlso Called DAC Gain or TVG Gain


The overall gain level of the entire DAC curve and TVG line setup can be adjusted higher or lower from the Reference Gain. Most inspection codes do not permit reflectors to be sized below 20% of FSH. Therefore, to inspect beyond a certain depth/sound path time within a part, it is necessary to raise the gain of both the live A-scan and the DAC curve to continue the inspection. This is accomplished on the EPOCH XT using the DAC Curve Adjustment Gain. This gain adjustment is displayed below the live A-scan next to the Delay setting at all times. To adjust the gain 1. 2. Press the [F3] (GainStep) key to choose the increment of the gain adjustment desired. Press the [F2] (DACGain) key and use the up and down arrows to adjust the Curve Adjustment Gain by the selected increment either positive or negative.

The screen below shows a DAC setup with DAC gain in use to provide accurate echo amplitude measurement by placing the echo close to 80% FSH.

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10.2.7 Transfer Correction


Transfer Correction is an adjustment in the Reference Gain setting during calibration of the instrument, and is typically added when the surface conditions between a calibration block and test piece are different. The coupling conditions on the test surface can often cause signal loss after calibrating a DAC curve, which results in inaccurate comparisons of the test reflectors with the calibrated DAC curve. The EPOCH XT can easily adjust for this potential difference by adding transfer correction to the calibrated base gain after completing the DAC curve setup. To add transfer correction to a completed DAC curve 1. 2. Press the [GAIN] key. Use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment or the left and right arrow keys for fine adjustment to bring the scanning gain to the desired level for Transfer Correction. The scanning gain is displayed at the lower left area of the screen. Once the desired scanning gain is displayed, press the Function Key [F1] (ADD) to add the scanning gain to the base gain and to apply the transfer correction.

3.

10.2.8 JIS DAC


The Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) DAC mode is designed to meet the requirements of JIS Z3060. The JIS DAC curve setup is identical to the standard DAC/TVG setup. However, there are some minor functionality differences when compared to other DAC/TVG modes:

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Only the main DAC curve is viewable in TVG mode. Any of the six curves can be used to trip the alarm when in the JIS DAC mode. Additionally, you can set the alarm to positive or negative. To select which curve will be used as the alarm reference level, first activate JIS DAC and then use the [F5] function key to select which curve to use for the alarm threshold. The selected curve appears as a double thickness line. Once a curve has been selected, an alarm can be activated and set to be either positive or negative threshold detection by pressing [2ND F], [GATES] [ALARMS] and following the prompts.

10.2.9 20%80% DAC Option


This DAC/TVG mode incorporates a combination of the DAC curve and TVG techniques. For most sizing and inspection codes that utilize a DAC curve, the inspector cannot interrogate a potential defect that does not rise above 20% of FSH. In the past, scanning gain is added to inspect these defects that appear further into a part and only reflect below 20%. The necessary gain adjustment is then noted to calculate the flaw size. The 20%80% DAC feature takes advantage of the TVG functionality of DAC/TVG to create a DAC curve that only falls between 20% and 80% screen height. Any echo that falls below 20% FSH during setup has 12 dB added to it automatically. A new DAC curve section starting at 80% FSH is created. This setup divides the screen into 12 dB DAC Gain regions. The DAC Gain is displayed based on the location of the gated echo in time.

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during the setup. The instrument automatically compensates for falling-echo amplitude once an echo is captured below 20% screen height. Once the 20%-80% DAC curve is completed, the operator can toggle between DAC and TVG views, manipulate Range, Delay, Zero (Offset) and Angle, and also to add necessary scanning gain or transfer correction. 20%80% DAC also incorporates the reference correction functionality, if desired.

10.2.10 Custom DAC Curves Option


The DAC/TVG software option for the EPOCH XT features a customizable DAC curve setup that allows operators to define up to three additional reference curves from the primary curve at varying levels from 24 dB to +10 dB. The Custom DAC Curves option is ideal for unique sizing inspections and procedure development. The Custom DAC Curve function also allows the option of either a straight-line connection or a curved, polynomial connection of each point of the DAC curve to meet various international or customer-specific requirements. To activate and set up the customized curves 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Enter the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. Select DAC and press the [ENTER] key. Select the Custom DAC mode. Select the curve type Polynomial (curved) or Straight-line segments. Select the Number of Warning Curves that will be used in addition to the Main Curve (for example, if three (3) curves are activated, the operator will see 4 curves in total). Set the dB level for each warning curve compared to the main curve. Press [MEAS/RESET] to return to the live screen and begin to capture DAC points.

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The Custom DAC/TVG setup and functionality are the same as ASME & ASME III discussed earlier in this section. The following screen shows a completed Custom DAC/TVG.

Once the Custom DAC Curve points have been captured and completed, the operator has full capability to toggle between DAC and TVG views, manipulate Range, Delay, Zero (Offset), and Angle, and also to add necessary scanning gain, curve gain adjustment or transfer correction. The TVG view of any Custom DAC Curve includes the user-defined reference curves as well as the primary DAC curve. Custom DAC Curve also incorporates the reference correction functionality, if desired. 148 Chapter 10

10.2.11 TVG Table Option


DAC/TVGs TVG Table option for the EPOCH XT is a powerful tool designed to facilitate manual definition of TVG setups, including gain manipulation, fine gain adjustment, and TVG point addition or deletion. The TVG Table option is the only feature in DAC/TVG that is exclusively TVG and does not toggle between a DAC and TVG view. The TVG Table function of the EPOCH XT visually displays the slope of the change in gain across the defined screen range using a line, allowing the operator to easily visualize the relationship between the indications and any custom gain modifications made during the TVG Table setup. The EPOCH XT TVG Table function has a number of primary uses.

10.2.11.1 Immersion Inspection


One of the main uses for the TVG Table function is in immersion setups. A standard TVG curve can be created using a reference block to aid in flaw sizing prior to immersion inspection. However, the interface echo during an immersion inspection can be very high in amplitude, which can severely decrease the near-surface inspection capabilities of the instrument. Using a TVG Table, the operator can manually adjust the gain in the screen range right around the interface echo to suppress the effects of the interface echo. Other echoes near the surface are then easier to see and size.

10.2.11.2 Manual TVG Setup


In many circumstances, a part must be inspected for flaws using a TVG curve to determine the rejectability of any flaws found within the part, but the part is too large or expensive to have a Software Features and Options 149

reference block of equal size and composition. The TVG Table feature allows the operator to manually add points along the TVG curve and manipulate the gain slope across the screen range to create an accurate TVG curve without a reference block (typically this is accomplished using the DGS diagram that corresponds to the particular material and transducer being used).

10.2.11.3 Highly Attenuating Material


In many highly attenuating materials, such as many composites, it takes a large amount of gain to successfully penetrate to the backwall of a particular part. This high level of gain can cause significant noise in nearer areas of the part and completely obscure any potential defects in the beginning half of the inspected material. A TVG Table can be used to modify the gain throughout the part to allow for clear visibility of the backwall for thickness measurement and clearer inspection of near-surface reflectors. An initial gain can be established and a slope defined to ramp the gain up from the interface of the part to the backwall.

10.2.12 TVG Table Setup


The TVG Table option can be used simply to define a TVG curve using a test block and size reflectors without ever entering and/or editing specific TVG points. This operation is similar to any of the DAC setups described earlier in this section. To activate and define the TVG Table feature of DAC/TVG, including customized TVG point setup 1. 2. 3. 4. Enter the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. Select DAC and press the right arrow key. Select TVG Table and press the [MEAS/RESET] key to return to the live screen. The operator may now begin capturing points using Gate 1 and the [F1] key. This is shown in progress in the following screen:

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Alternatively, the operator can press the [F5] (Edit) key to enter the TVG Table:

The previous screen shows the live A-scan with an empty TVG Table below it. To build a TVG Table 1. 2. Press [F1] (Add) to add a point to the TVG Table. This will become Point No. 1. Press [ENTER] to select the position adjustment. The instrument shows depth in time-offlight (TOF) and in the selected unit (in. or mm). These are tied together for adjustment Software Features and Options 151

purposes. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor across the top of the screen to the first TVG point. 3. Press [ENTER] to select the gain adjustment (dB from REF). Use the arrow keys to adjust the gain from REF setting. A TVG line will appear on the screen as a visual reference to show the gain level. In relation to the TVG line, the Y-Axis scale is 0 dB to 110 dB, or the total dynamic range of the TVG system. The operator may continue to Add or Insert points as needed to complete the TVG Table. The following screen shows a TVG Table with 19 points. The operator can setup as many as 50 points.

4.

5.

The TVG Table displays each point (from left to right on the screen) in sequential order from top to bottom in the table. The points corresponding soundpath time (in s), distance measurement (in inches or millimeters, if applicable), and gain level is displayed across the screen. At any time during the TVG Table setup, the operator may press [F5] (Exit) to return to the live screen with the TVG Table in its current state. This allows Range, Delay, Zero (Offset), etc., to be adjusted as needed. The operator can then press [F5] (Exit) again to return to the TVG Table setup. Once the TVG Table has been created, the operator must press [F5] (Exit), followed by [F4] (Done). This completes the setup and locks the table. It cannot be edited further. An illustration of a completed TVG Table follows in two screens. This setup is designed to permit good near- and far-surface resolution by minimizing the initial pulse size and the backwall echo size. This setup also permits easy monitoring of the backwall echo amplitude using Gate 2.

6.

7.

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10.3 DGS/AVG
10.3.1 Description
The Onboard DGS/AVG option in the EPOCH XT permits complete DGS/AVG setups to be performed on the instrument. With the DGS/AVG method the operator can size defects based upon a calculated DGS/AVG curve for a given transducer, material, and reflector size. This Software Features and Options 153

method requires that the operator only have one reference reflector in order to create a DGS curve for flaw sizing. This is much different than the DAC or TVG method that requires that the operator have representative defects at various depths within a part in order to create a curve for flaw sizing. In order for the operator to setup DGS/AVG curves on the instrument very quickly, Olympus NDT has developed a transducer library that is stored in the instruments memory. This library contains the entire Atlas Series European specification transducers as well as several other transducers that are commonly used by inspectors. The library includes five categories: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Straight Contact (includes protected face) Angle Beam Transducers Dual Transducers Custom Straight Contact Custom Angle Beam

All required data for building DGS/AVG curves is stored in the instruments memory for each transducer in the library. If an operator would like to use a probe that is not in the default library, he/she can enter the required transducer characteristics in the GageView Pro Interface Program and download them to the EPOCH XT. Probes that are downloaded to the instrument appear in the Custom Transducers section of the Transducer library. The Onboard DGS/AVG option provides the operator with rapid setup times and easy flaw size evaluation. This software option has been designed to meet the requirements of EN 5832:2001. It is extremely important that the operator be familiar with this specification and others, and is qualified according to local standards to properly use this instrument function. Since the curves used for defect sizing are calculated based upon many variables, a proper instrument setup is required for accurate results.

10.3.2 Option Activation


Before activating the DGS/AVG option, the operator must properly set up the EPOCH XTs Pulser/Receiver settings for the transducer that will be used. The operator should also perform an instrument calibration. To activate the DGS/AVG option after the instrument is properly setup and calibrated 1. The DGS/AVG option is activated in the EPOCH XTs [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab. The operator must select DGS, press the [ENTER] key, and press [F2] (On).

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2.

The operator must then choose the transducer and reference reflector that will be used for the DGS AVG setup. The operator can navigate through the Transducer library easily. a) Under Probe Type, the operator must select the proper library. For the example used in this manual, we have selected Library Straight Beam. Press down to continue. b) Under Probe List, the instrument will display all probes in the selected library. The operator must scroll through the list and select the probe. Press down to continue. c) Under Reflector Type, the operator will find all of the potential reference reflectors for the chosen probe. For straight beam and dual probes, the available reflectors are: Backwall Side-drilled hole (SDH) The operator must enter the reflector size. For angle beam probes, the available reflectors are: K1-IIW Block Arc If this option is selected, the operator will be prompted to enter a Delta Vk value later in the setup procedure. This value comes from the DGS Diagram for the selected probe. K2-DSC Block Arc If this option is selected, the operator will be prompted to enter a Delta Vk value later in the setup procedure. This value comes from the DGS Diagram for the selected probe. Side-Drilled Hole (SDH) The operator must enter the reflector size. Flat-Bottom Hole (FBH) The operator must enter the reflector size.

Software Features and Options

155

3.

The operator must now adjust several DGS/AVG setup parameters so the instrument can draw the curves accurately. A screen of this menu is shown as follows:

DeltaVk (not shown above, used for Angle-Beam Setup) Correction value for angle beam transducers. This value is located on the DGS/AVG diagram for the selected transducer. DeltaVt Transfer Correction. This value is used to compensate in amplitude differences as a result of coupling variation (surface condition) from the

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calibration block to the test piece. EN 583-2:2001 provides methods for calculating transfer correction. Registration Level This is the height of the main DGS/AVG curve. The curve represents the amplitude from a flat-bottom hole with a diameter of the Registration Level at different depths. This is usually equal to the critical flaw size for the application. Warning Level This is the position of the secondary DGS/AVG warning curve compared to the position of the main DGS/AVG curve. If this value is set to zero, the warning curve will be turned off. AcvSpecimen This is the attenuation value in dB/m for the test piece (specimen). In some cases, it is necessary to calculate the relative attenuation within the test piece and enter the value here. AcvCalBlock This is the attenuation value in dB/m for the calibration block. In some cases, it is necessary to calculate the relative attenuation within the calibration block and enter the value here.

Note: Trained operators must be aware of when it is necessary to apply values to AcvSpecimen and AcvCalBlock. These values affect the shape of the DGS/AVG curve and will, therefore, affect the accuracy of defect sizing. A suggested method for the measurement of relative attenuation can be found later in this manual. The operator must use the up and down arrow keys to move from one parameter to the next. The left and right arrow keys are used for adjusting the individual settings. When this is complete, the operator must press the [MEAS/RESET] key to continue. 4. Capture the reference reflector.

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157

After pressing [MEAS/RESET] at the DGS/AVG Setup menu, the operator will be brought to the live A-scan screen similar to the previous screen. The operator must bring the echo from the reference reflector to 80% full-screen height and press the [F1] (Ref) key to capture the echo. Once the reference echo has been captured, the instrument will adjust the gain as needed and draw the DGS/AVG curves on the screen. This is shown in the following screen:

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Note: Equivalent flat-bottom-hole size measurement is being used. This is established in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab. The operator may also use the Overshoot (OS) measurement to compare echo height to the DGS/AVG curve in dB. Transfer Correction (DeltaVt) is adjustable on the live screen. Registration Level (Reg) is adjustable on the live screen. In the view above, the instrument range has been adjusted to properly position the DGS/AVG curves on the screen. This screen shows the main DGS/AVG curve and a warning curve at 6 dB.

10.3.3 Relative Attenuation Measurement


There are several methods for measuring the ultrasonic attenuation within a material. Often the procedure is designed to measure absolute attenuation in a material. This usually requires an immersion test setup and a time-consuming set of measurements. For the purpose of flaw sizing with the DGS/AVG method, it may be suitable in many conditions to measure relative attenuation in your test piece or calibration block as needed. This section outlines one method of relative attenuation measurement that is simple and has been found to be generally effective. There might be more suitable methods available. The operator must decide the most appropriate method to arrive at the values for AcvSpecimen and AcvCalBlock based on the application and local requirements. Software Features and Options 159

Measurements:
Vg = Gain difference between two successive backwall echoes (d and 2d) Ve = From DGS/AVG diagram. Gain difference on backwall curve from d to 2d

Calculations:
Vs = Vg - Ve [mm]

Sound Attenuation Coefficient = Vs / 2d * 1000 [dB/m]

10.4 AWS D1.1/D1.5


10.4.1 Overview
The AWS D1.1 Software Option for the EPOCH XT has been created to assist operators performing inspections covered under the American Welding Society D1.1 (or D1.5) Structural Welding Code for steel. This code provides inspectors with a method to classify discontinuities found in welds using ultrasonic inspection. This code uses the following formula to develop an indication rating for a reflector found during an inspection: ABC=D A = Discontinuity Indication Level (dB) B = Reference Indication Level (dB) C = Attenuation Factor: 2*(soundpath in inches 1 in.) (dB) D = Indication Rating (dB) The AWS D1.1 inspector must take the Indication Rating (D) that is calculated based on A, B, and C to an Ultrasonic Acceptance Rejection Criteria table produced by the AWS in order to classify the severity of the discontinuity that has been located. As an inspection is performed, the operator is required to develop an AWS report that lists the values for all variables listed above as well as transducer information, discontinuity length and location, and the inspectors overall evaluation of the discontinuity. For further details regarding the test equipment, methods, interpretation, and classification requirements for these inspections, please refer to the AWS D1.1 Code Book.

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10.4.2 AWS D1.1 and the EPOCH XT


Olympus NDT has developed the AWS D1.1 Software Option for the EPOCH XT with the goal of simplifying inspector tasks and lowering the overall inspection time. This is accomplished by having the EPOCH XT perform some required calculations automatically and also by permitting the inspector to document discontinuities in the EPOCH XTs datalogger for reporting purposes. The EPOCH XT can also transfer inspection data to the GageView Pro Interface Program to aid in report generation. This program allows the inspector to view the instruments setup parameters, the waveform generated by a discontinuity, the discontinuitys soundpath and location information, and all values for the AWS D1.1 formula variables.

10.4.3 Operating the AWS D1.1 Software


The first step in operating the EPOCH XT for AWS D1.1 inspections is to calibrate the instrument for the transducer and test conditions. For information on the Angle Beam Calibration of the EPOCH XT, see the calibration section of this manual or the appropriate guidelines from the American Welding Society. The AWS D1.1 Software Option is activated in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Options tab as shown below:

When AWS D1.1 is activated, the function keys on the EPOCH XT will take the following assignments:

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161

[F1]: REF The operator can store the REF B dB value from a reference reflector. [F2]: No Function. [F3]: No Function. [F4]: Scan dB The operator can toggle the scanning gain between an operator-selected value and zero dB. [F5]: AUTO80 The operator can bring a gated signal to 80% FSH.

After activation, the operator must set a REF B value in order to begin an inspection. This number represents the gain level necessary to bring the echo from a reference reflector to 80% full-screen height (FSH). The reference reflector will often be a side-drilled hole in the calibration block used for the angle beam calibration. Other reference reflectors may be used provided that they meet AWS requirements for these inspections In order to store a REF B value, the operator must gate the echo from the reference reflector and bring the echo to 80% FSH. This can be done by pressing the [GAIN] key and adjusting the gain with the up and down arrow keys, or by pressing [F5] to automatically adjust the gain to bring the echo to 80% FSH. Once the echo has the appropriate amplitude, press [F1] to store the value.

10.4.3.1 Adding Scanning Gain


AWS codes require that an operator enter a certain amount of scanning gain to the REF B dB value. In doing so the operator can locate flaws that may be smaller or deeper into the test piece than the reference flaw. By pressing the [GAIN] key, the operator can enter the amount

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of scanning gain necessary to perform the inspection as outlined by the AWS Code. Once the scanning gain has been set up, the operator can press the [F4] key to toggle the scanning gain on and off as necessary. When a discontinuity has been located within the test piece, the EPOCH XT will provide the operator with a D value corresponding to the discontinuity. However, in order to display a D value, the gated echo must peak at an amplitude less than 110% FSH. Often, the operator will simply have to press the [F4] key to turn off the scanning gain and to bring the echo peak onto the screen. In some cases, further gain adjustments may be necessary.

10.4.3.2 Calculating A and C Values


When a gated echo, whose peak is below 100% FSH, is present, the EPOCH XT will automatically calculate the A and C values necessary to provide a D value to the operator. For A, the EPOCH XT automatically calculates the required dB value to bring the gated echo to 80% FSH. To calculate C, the EPOCH XT uses the data in the soundpath calculator to generate an attenuation factor.

Note: In order for this calculation to be accurate, the operator must enter the correct thickness for the test piece. The EPOCH XT will display the value for D in the measurement box chosen for the AWS D1.1 Rating. This is setup in the [MEAS SETUP] menu > Meas tab. An example of this is seen in the following illustration

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163

10.4.3.3 Documentation
By pressing the [SAVE] key on the EPOCH XT, the operator can now save the data for this discontinuity in the EPOCH XT Datalogger. At the bottom of an ID saved with AWS D1.1 active, the operator will see the values for A, B, C, and D. This data is viewable in the File Review Window.

Note: While using the EPOCH XT and the AWS D1.1 Software Option, it is the responsibility of the operator to take into account any inspection conditions that could cause variation in the displayed Indication Rating (D value). It is the responsibility of the operator to interpret the meaning of echo indications and reported D values corresponding to these indications properly.

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Appendix A: Cable Assembly

Cable Assembly

165

166

Appendix A

Appendix B: Sound Velocities

The table below lists the ultrasonic velocity in a variety of common materials. This is only a guide. The actual velocity in these materials might vary significantly due to a variety of causes, such as composition, preferred crystallographic orientation, porosity, and temperature. For maximum accuracy, establish the sound velocity in a given material by first testing a sample of the material.

Table 12 Ultrasonic Velocities in a Variety of Common Materials Material Acrylic resin (Perspex) Aluminum Beryllium Brass, naval Copper Diamond Glycerin Inconel Iron, Cast (slow) Iron, Cast (fast) Iron oxide (magnetite) Lead V (in./sec) 0.107 0.249 0.508 0.174 0.183 0.709 0.076 0.229 0.138 0.220 0.232 0.085 V (m/sec) 2730 6320 12900 4430 4660 18000 1920 5820 3500 5600 5890 2160

Sound Velocities

167

Table 12 Ultrasonic Velocities in a Variety of Common Materials (continued) Material Lucite Molybdenum Motor oil (SAE 20/30) Nickel, pure Polyamide (slow) Nylon, fast Polyethylene, high density (HDPE) Polyethylene, low density (LDPE) Polystyrene Polyvinylchloride, (PVC, hard) Rubber (polybutadiene) Silicon Silicone Steel, 1020 Steel, 4340 Steel, 302 austenitic stainless Steel, 347 austenitic stainless Tin Titanium, Ti 150A Tungsten Water (20C) Zinc Zirconium V (in./sec) 0.106 0.246 0.069 0.222 0.087 0.102 0.097 0.082 0.092 0.094 0.063 0.379 0.058 0.232 0.230 0.223 0.226 0.131 0.240 0.204 0.0580 0.164 0.183 V (m/sec) 2680 6250 1740 5630 2200 2600 2460 2080 2340 2395 1610 9620 1485 5890 5850 5660 5740 3320 6100 5180 1480 4170 4650

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Appendix B

References 1. Folds, D. L. Experimental Determination of Ultrasonic Wave Velocities in Plastics, Elastomers, and Syntactic Foam as a Function of Temperature. Naval Research and Development Laboratory. Panama City, Florida, 1971. Fredericks, J. R. Ultrasonic Engineering. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1965. Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. Cleveland, Ohio: Chemical Rubber Co., 1963. Mason, W. P. Physical Acoustics and the Properties of Solids. New York: D.Van Nostrand Co., 1958. Papadakis, E. P. Panametrics - unpublished notes, 1972.

2. 3. 4. 5.

Sound Velocities

169

170

Appendix B

Appendix C: Glossary

Table 13 Glossary Term Acoustic Impedance Acoustic Interface Acoustic Zero Amplifier Definition A material property defined as the product of sound velocity (C) and the materials density (d). The boundary between two media of different acoustic impedance. The point on the CRT display that represents the entry surface of the specimen. An electronic device that increases the strength of a signal fed into it by obtaining power from a source other than the input signal. Referring to an indication on the CRT screen, the vertical height of an indication measured from the lowest to the highest point on the indication. In wave motion, the maximum displacement of the particles of the material. A transducer that transmits or receives the acoustic energy at an angle to the surface to set up shear waves or surface waves in the part being inspected.

Amplitude

Angle Beam Transducer

Glossary

171

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term A-scan Definition Pulse-echo format wherein the CRT display shows the pulse travel time in the horizontal direction (left to right) representing the corresponding sound paths. The vertical direction (bottom to top) displays the maximum value of the acoustic pressure echo amplitude received by the probe. The loss in acoustic energy that occurs between any two points of travel. This loss may be due to absorption, reflection, and other phenomena. The loss of sound pressure in a travelling wavefront caused by the scattering of some of the waves sound pressure by the grain structure and/or porosity of the medium, and by absorption, a conversion of sound energy into heat. The echo received from the side of the specimen opposite the side to which the transducer is coupled. This echo represents the thickness of the specimen at that point. Extraneous signals caused by sources within the ultrasonic testing system and the material being tested. The point on the base of an angle beam probes wedge from which the sound leaves the wedge and enters the specimen. Material sound velocity for the calibration block. A material (usually a liquid or gel) used between the transducer and the test specimen to eliminate air from this space and thus facilitate the passage of sound waves into and out of the specimen. Either the largest tolerable defect or the smallest intolerable defect. The critical defect size is usually given by a specification or code.

Attenuation

Attenuation (M.L.A.)

Back or Backwall Echo

Background Noise Beam Index Point

Cal Block Velocity Couplant

Critical Defect

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Appendix C

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Cross Talk Definition An unwanted condition affecting dual element transducers in which acoustic energy travels from the transmitting crystal to the receiving crystal by routes other than the intended path through the material. A variable resistance across the pulser circuit output which shapes the excitation pulse. Typically it is used to change pulse characteristics to optimize either penetration (low damping) or near surface resolution (high damping). Note: High damping = Low damping ohms (50 ) Low damping = High damping ohms (400 ) Damping Material Any gel, rubber-like substance, or other material which, when used in the transducer, results in a shorter ringing time of the piezoelectric crystal. A unit which compares levels of power. Two power levels P1 and P2, are said to differ by n decibels when: n = 10
2 log10 -----

Damping (Control)

Decibel (dB)

P P1

This unit is often used to express sound intensities. In this case, P2 is the intensity of the sound under consideration and P1 is the intensity of some reference level. In the case of the displayed voltages on a cathode ray tube screen, the relationship becomes:
V2 n = 20 log10 ----- V 1

Delay Control

Subcircuit of the sweep generator that allows a variably adjustable time period from the sending of the trigger pulse to the start of the sweep across the CRT. The ability of a test system (instrument and transducer) to detect or see a given size reflector. This is also known as sensitivity.

Detectability

Glossary

173

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Distance Amplitude Correction (DAC) Definition A method of flaw evaluation that uses a test block with a known size reflector at varying known distances from the transducer. This allows you to plot a curve on the CRT screen that represents the amplitude of that size reflector throughout a given distance range. This curve compensates for the loss of energy due to beam spreading and attenuation. A probe containing two piezoelectric elements, one which transmits and one which receives. The ratio of maximum to minimum reflective areas that can be distinguished on the cathode ray tube (usually based on decibel ratios). The point in time when the pulser fires the initial pulse to the transducer and the point on the cathode ray tube screen where the electron beam leaves the baseline due to the initial pulse signal coming from the transmitter. The minimum incident angle in the first medium at which the refracted longitudinal wave is eliminated from the test specimen. A discontinuity that may be undesirable but does not necessarily call for rejection. The number of complete cycles undergone or produced by an oscillating body in one second. Used in electronics with reference to an increase in signal power; usually expressed as the ratio of the output power (for example, of an amplifier) to the input power in decibels. Selects the amount of calibrated gain (dB) available within the instrument. Usually consists of a coarse gain control (additions at 20 dB increments), and a fine gain (additions at 1 or 2 dB increments).

Dual-Element Probe Dynamic Range

Electronic Zero

First Critical Angle

Flaw Frequency Gain

Gain (Control)

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Appendix C

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Gate Definition An electronic baseline display used to electronically monitor portions of the displayed range with reference to distance or amplitude. The derived unit of frequency defined as the frequency of a periodic phenomenon of which the period is one second; equal to one cycle per second. Symbol Hz. 1 Kilohertz (KHz) = 103 cycles per second 1 Megahertz (Mhz) = 106 cycles per second. The smaller length (if rectangular) of the actual crystal. The software will compute the affective length automatically. A test method, useful for testing irregularly shaped parts, in which the part to be tested is immersed in water (or other liquid) so that the liquid acts as a couplant. The search unit is also immersed in the liquid, but not in contact with the part being tested. The angle between a sound beam striking an acoustic interface and the normal (that is, perpendicular) to the surface at that point. Usually designated by the Greek symbol (alpha). The signal displayed on the screen signifying the presence of a sound wave reflector in the part being tested. The number of decibels of calibrated gain which must be set on the instrument to bring the indication (defect) echo signal to peak at the reference line on the screen. The pulse of electrical energy sent by the pulser to the transducer. In angle beam testing, the path the shear wave travels in a straight line before being reflected by the opposite surface of the material being tested.

Hertz (Hz)

Horizontal A

Immersion Testing

Incidence, Angle of

Indication Indication (Defect) Level

Initial Pulse (IP) Leg

Glossary

175

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Linearity, Vertical or Amplitude Linearity, Horizontal or Distance Definition The characteristics of an ultrasonic test system indicating its ability to respond in a proportional manner to a range of echo amplitudes produced by specified reflectors. The characteristics of an ultrasonic test system indicating its ability to respond in a proportional manner to a range of echo signals, produced by specified reflectors, variable in time, usually a series of multiple back reflections. Mode of wave propagation characterized by particle movement parallel to the direction of wave travel. Term used to describe the Initial Pulse Voltage. Changing a portion of a sound beams energy into a wave of a different mode due to refraction at incident angles other than zero degrees. In NDT, this usually involves conversion of longitudinal waves into shear waves or surface waves. Maximizing the height of any indication displayed on the CRT screen by positioning the main axis of the sound beam directly over the reflector. The ability of the test system to overcome material loss attenuation, that is, the ability of the sound beam to bypass small reflectors such as grain boundaries and porosity in the specimen. A family of materials (such as lead metaniobate, quartz, lithium sulfate) that possess the characteristic ability to produce: a) A voltage differential across their faces when deformed by an externally applied mechanical force, and b) A change in their own physical configuration (dimensions) when an external voltage is applied to them. Another name for transducer or search unit The frequency with which the clock circuit sends its trigger pulses to the sweep generator and the transmitter, usually quoted in terms of pulses per second (pps).

Longitudinal Wave Main Bang Mode Conversion

Peaking Up

Penetration

Piezoelectric Elements

Probe Pulse Repetition Rate or Pulse Repetition Frequency

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Appendix C

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Range Receiver Definition The distance represented by the entire horizontal CRT screen display. That circuit of a flaw detector that receives both the initial pulse voltage from the transmitter and the returning echoes (as voltages) from the transducer. By passing these incoming signals through certain subcircuits, the signals are rectified, filtered and amplified with the results send to the screen for display. The echo from a reference reflector. The number of decibels of calibrated gain which must be set on the instrument to bring the reference reflector signal to peak at the reference line on the screen. A predetermined horizontal line (usually dictated by specifications) on the screen representing some percentage of total screen height, at which reference echoes and indication echoes are compared. A reflector of known size (geometry) at a known distance, such as a flat-bottom hole. The angle of sound reflection in the wedge which is equal to the angle of incidence (also in the wedge.) The angle of reflectance is measured from the normal to the reflected sound beam. The minimum detectable flaw size. Also known as suppression, it limits the input sensitivity of the amplifier in the receiver. Grass or scattering noise can be reduced or eliminated from the screen by its use. On most analog instruments it also destroys the vertical linearity relationship between echo heights. The ability of the test system (instrument and transducer) to distinguish reflectors at slightly different depths.

Reference Echo Reference Level

Reference Line

Reference Reflector Refraction, Angle of

Registration Reject (Control)

Resolution

Glossary

177

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Scanning Level Definition The number of dBs of calibrated gain above the reference level added to insure seeing potentially significant reflectors at the end of the V-path in a weld inspection. The minimum incident angle in the first medium at which the refracted shear wave leaves the body of the test specimen. The ability of the test system (instrument and transducer) to detect a given size reflector at a given distance. The ratio of amplitudes and indications from the smallest defect considered significant and those caused by random factors, such as grain scattering or instrument noise. A probe containing only one piezoelectric element, which is used to both transmit and receive sound. In angle beam testing, the surface distance which represents one V-path of sound in the material. The characteristic shape of the ultrasonic wave sent into the material. The distance from the transducer beam index point to the reflector located in the specimen, measured along the actual path that the sound travels. Sometimes referred to as angular distance in angle beam testing. A probe which transmits the sound into the material perpendicular to the entry surface. Mode of wave propagation characterized by an elliptical movement of the particles (molecules) on the surface of the specimen as the wavefront moves forward, this movement penetrating the specimen to a depth of one wavelength.

Second Critical Angle

Sensitivity Signal-to-Noise Ratio

Single Element Probe Skip-Distance Sound Beam Sound Path Distance

Straight Beam Probe (Normal Beam Probe) Surface Wave

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Appendix C

Table 13 Glossary (continued) Term Through Transmission Definition A test method in which the vibrations emitted by one search unit are directed toward, and received by, another search unit. The ratio between quantity of vibration sent and received is a measure of the integrity, or quality of the material being tested. Circuit that automatically adjusts gain so that the echo amplitude of a given size reflector is displayed at a constant screen height regardless of the distance to that given size reflector. A device that transforms one form of energy into another. Circuit of the flaw detector that sends the initial pulse voltage to both the transducer and receiver. Of or relating to frequencies above the human audible range; e.g., above 20,000 cycles/sec. (Hertz). Study of pressure waves which are of the same nature as sound waves, but which have frequencies above the human audible limit, i.e., above 20,000 cycles/sec. (Hertz). The angular distance sound travels, measured from the top surface of the material to the bottom, and reflecting back up to the top surface. The larger length (if rectangular) of the actual crystal. The software will compute the affective length automatically. The distance between like points on successive wavefronts; i.e., the distance between any two successive particles of the oscillating medium that are in the same phase. It is denoted by the Greek letter (lambda).

Time Varied Gain (TVG)

Transducer Transmitter Ultrasonic Ultrasonics

V-Path

Vertical B Wavelength

Glossary

179

180

Appendix C

Appendix D: EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

INSTRUMENT Size In 10.91x7. 35x2.79 4.5 -20 -40 -30 60 70 50

Weight Storage Temp

w/battery w/battery wo/battery

lbs C C C

Operating Temp Warmup period Power supplies

w/battery

@25C

min

30

Battery (main) External power

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

181

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Voltage range for battery operation

LiON battery NiMH battery 6 xC pack alkaline battery 6 xC pack NiMH battery

10.8

12

10

12

14

9.5

7.2

8.4

Voltage range with external power supply Power consumption Environmental protection Shock resistivity Vibration Tests to be performed Tests to be performed

23.5

24

24.5

11

IP67

TBD

TBD

Battery Operating Time LiON battery (Smart) NiMH 6 xC cell alkaline 6 xC cell NiMH Stability after warmup time Amplitude Time of Flight After 30 min. 9.3.2 hour 9.5 10 10.5

hour hour

5 2

hour

2.3

<|2| <|1|

% %

0.5 0.02

0.5 0.02

1 0.05

|1| |5|

182

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Stability against temperature variation

8.2

<|5|

%/ 10C %/ 10C % %

0.5

|2.5|

8.2

<|1|

0.00 2 0.5 0.00 2

0.05

0.03

|5|

Stability against voltage variation Low battery warning

Amplitude Time of flight No warning w/ C-cell batteries

9.3.4 9.3.4

<|2| <|1|

0.5 0.002

0.5 0.05

|1| |0/5|

yes

Type of Sockets Probe connection I/O interface BNC/ LEMO USB client/ host 16-pin LEM conn Minipower jack VALOX Technical reference manual
Switchcraft 712A

Alarm outputs

External power supply Case


Documentation

Plastic

Transmitter Shape Square wave pulse

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

183

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Frequency band

MHz MHz MHz MHz MHz MHz MHz

1 2 4 5 10 12.5 20

Spectrum for square (F=1.0 MHz)

Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400 Energy= 475V; Damp=50 Energy= 475V; Damp=400

8.3.4

Fig.1

8.3.4 8.3.4

Fig.2 Fig.3

8.3.4

Fig.4

Spectrum for square (F=2.0 MHz)

Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400 Energy= 475V Damp=50 Energy= 475V Damp=400

8.3.4

Fig.5

8.3.4 8.3.4

Fig.6 Fig.7

8.3.4

Fig.8

Spectrum for square (F=4.0 MHz)

Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400

8.3.4

Fig.9

8.3.4

Fig.10

184

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Energy= 475V Damp=50 Energy= 475V Damp=400 Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

8.3.4

Fig.11

8.3.4

Fig.12

Transmitter (cont.) Spectrum for square (F=5.0 MHz)


Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400 Energy= 475V Damp=50 Energy= 475V Damp=400

8.3.4

Fig.13

8.3.4 8.3.4

Fig.14 Fig.15

8.3.4

Fig.16

Spectrum for square (F=10.0 MHz)

Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400 Energy= 475V Damp=50 Energy= 475V Damp=400

8.3.4

Fig.17

8.3.4

Fig.18

8.3.4

Fig.19

8.3.4

Fig.20

Spectrum for square (F=12.5 MHz)

Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400 Energy=300 Damp=50 Energy=300 Damp=400

8.3.4

Fig.21

8.3.4

Fig.22

8.3.4 8.3.4

Fig.23 Fig.24

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

185

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Energy=50V Damp=50 Energy=50V Damp=400 Energy=300 Damp=50 Energy=300 Damp=400 Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Spectrum for square (F=20.0 MHz)

8.3.4

Fig.25

8.3.4

Fig.26

8.3.4 8.3.4

Fig.27 Fig.28

Transmitter (cont.) Damping

50 63 150 400

Energy

V V V V V V V

50 100 150 200 300 400 475 10 Optimum 1000

Pulse Repetition Frequency

8.3.2

Hz

186

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Pulse Repetition Frequency in Manual Mode

Range<80 S Range <200 S Range <500 S Range <1000 S Range <2000 S Range <30000 S Range <4000 S

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

999. 9 529. 9 259. 9 139. 9 69.9

1000

1000. 1 540.1

1000

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

540

540

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

260

260.1

260

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

140

140.1

140

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

70

70.1

70

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

39.9

40

40.1

40

8.3.2

20%TS

Hz

29.9

30

30.1

30

Operating modes

Pulse-Echo test mode Dual test mode Through test mode

Characteristics of Transmitter Pulse Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance Damping = 50 ; energy= 475V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=10 Hz 9.4.2 9.4.2 10%TS <maxTS | V50| tr V nS 275 250 10 225 25010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

187

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 50 ; energy= 50V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

29

32 15

35

3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 475V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

275

250 8

225

25010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 50V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

29

32 3

35

3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

188

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 50 ; energy= 475V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

225

250 10

275

25010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Characteristics of Transmitter Pulse (cont.) Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance Damping = 50 ; energy= 50V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz 9.4.2 9.4.2 10%TS <maxTS | V50| tr V nS 29 32 18 35 3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 475V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

225

250 10

275

25010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

189

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 50V; freq=1 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

29

32 3

35

3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

450

495

550

50010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 50 ; energy= 475V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

270

295 12

330

30010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 50 ; energy= 50V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

29

32 15

35

3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Characteristics of Transmitter Pulse (cont.)

190

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 475V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

270

295 10

330

30010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 50V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=10 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

29

32 3

35

3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 50 ; energy= 475V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

270

295 15

330

30010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

191

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 50 ; energy= 50V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

29

32 15

35

3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance

Damping = 400 ; energy= 475V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz

9.4.2 9.4.2

10%TS <maxTS

| V50| tr

V nS

270

295 10

330

30010% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

Characteristics of Transmitter Pulse (cont.) Pulse voltage Pulse rise time Pulse duration Effective output impedance Receiver Crosstalk damping from transmitter to receiver 8.4.2 >=80 dB 83 90 92 >80 Damping = 400 ; energy= 50V; freq=10 MHz; PRF=1000 Hz 9.4.2 9.4.2 10%TS <maxTS | V50| tr V nS 29 32 3 35 3210% <25

9.4.2

10%TS

td Z0

nS

45

50

55

5010%

8.3.3

20%TS

24

30

36

3020%

192

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Accuracy of calibrated attenuator

Fine gain attenuator Course gain attenuator

9.5.4

<|1|

dB

-0.2

0.2

|0.5|

9.5.4

<|2|

dB

|0.1|

|0.2|

|0.33|

|1.5|

Amplifier Frequency Filter 0.2 MHz-1.2 MHz Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth Amplifier Frequency (cont.) Filter 0.5 MHz-4 MHz Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth Filter 1.5 MHz-8.5 MHz 9.5.2 TI MHz 0.47 9.5.2 TI MHz 0.2

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

0.57

9.5.2

MHz

1.21

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

0.49

0.48

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

1.02

1.0

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

2.25

9.5.2

MHz

4.06

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

1.39

1.4

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

3.59

3.6

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

193

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth Filter 5.0 MHz-15.0 MHz Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth Amplifier Frequency (cont.) Filter 8.0 MHz-26.5 MHz Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range

9.5.2

TI

MHz

1.49

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

4.85

9.5.2

MHz

8.46

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

3.55

3.6

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

6.97

7.0

9.5.2

TI

MHz

4.80

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

9.89

9.5.2

MHz

14.86

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

8.45

8.45

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

10.00

10

9.5.2

TI

MHz

7.9

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

15

9.5.2

MHz

26.4

194

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Center frequency range Bandwidth

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

14.44

14.6

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

18

18.0

Filter 2.0 MHz-21.5 MHz - Broadband Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth 9.5.2 TI MHz 1.87

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

6.6

9.5.2

MHz

21.0

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

6.27

6.3

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

19.1

19.5

Filter 2.0 MHz - Axle Inspection FR Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth Amplifier Frequency (cont.) Filter 3.0 MHz -Axle Inspection FR 9.5.2 TI MHz 1.69

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

2.22

9.5.2

MHz

2.74

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

2.16

2.2.

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

1.05

1.1

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

195

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth

9.5.2

TI

MHz

2.8

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

3.42

9.5.2

MHz

4.04

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

3.37

3.4

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

1.24

1.2

Filter 5.0 MHz -Axle Inspection FR Lower frequency range Max frequency Upper frequency range Center frequency range Bandwidth Dynamic Range 9.5.2 TI MHz 4.25

9.5.2

fmax

MHz

5.04

9.5.2

MHz

6.53

9.5.2

5%TS

f0

MHz

5.27

5.2

9.5.2

10%TS

MHz

2.28

2.2

196

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Fo= 0.5 MHz

Filter 0.2 MHz-1.2 MHz Filter 0.5 MHz-4.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

120

106

Fo= 1.4 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

117

Fo= 3.6 MHz

Filter 1.5 MHz-8.5 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

114

Fo= 8.45 MHz

Filter 5.0 MHz-15.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

115

Fo= 14.6 MHz

Filter 8.0 MHz-26.5 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

109

Fo= 6.6 MHz

Filter 2.0 MHz-21.5 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

109

Fo= 2.2 MHz

Filter 2.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

121

120

Fo= 3.4 MHz

Filter 3.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

121

120

Fo= 5.3 MHz

Filter 5.0 MHz

8.4.4

>=100

dB

121

120

Equivalent Input Noise

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

197

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Fo= 0.5 MHz

Filter 0.2 MHz-1.2 MHz Filter 0.5 MHz-4.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz nV Hz

38.4

44.1

72

Fo= 1.4 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

25.3

46.6

Fo= 3.6 MHz

Filter 1.5 MHz-8.5 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

26.7

49.3

Fo= 8.45 MHz

Filter 5.0 MHz-15.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

29.1

50

Fo= 14.6 MHz

Filter 8.0 MHz-26.5 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

33.5

56

Fo= 6.6 MHz

Filter 2.0 MHz-21.5 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz

28.5

49.2

Fo= 2.2 MHz

Filter 2.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

nV Hz nV Hz nV Hz

29.5

30.9

Fo= 3.4 MHz

Filter 3.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

27.4

35.6

Fo= 5.3 MHz

Filter 5.0 MHz

9.5.3

<80

nin

27.6

33.2

Dead Time After Transmitter Pulse

198

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Fo= 0.5 MHz

Filter 0.2 MHz-1.2 MHz Filter 0.5 MHz-4.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.27

1.00

2.0

Fo= 1.4 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.27

1.00

Fo= 3.6 MHz

Filter 1.5 MHz-8.5 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.25

0.27

Fo= 8.45 MHz

Filter 5.0 MHz-15.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.28

1.00

Fo= 14.6 MHz

Filter 8.0 MHz-26.5 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.54

1.00

Fo= 6.6 MHz

Filter 2.0 MHz-21.5 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.28

0.54

Fo= 2.2 MHz

Filter 2.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.02

0.25

Fo= 3.4 MHz

Filter 3.0 MHz

8.4.3

>=10

0.04

0.25

Receiver Input Impedance Dual Mode, Through Mode Rmax@Gain =Max Rmax@Gain =Min Cmax@Gain =Max Cmax@Gain =Min |RmaxRmin|/ Rmax=R_ D<=0.1@ F=4MHz |CmaxCmin|/ Cmax=C_ D<=0.15@ F=4MHz 8.4.5 Rmax Rmin Cmax Cmin


pF

461

464

R_D<= 0.05

8.4.5

461

464

8.4.5

104

105

C_D<= 0.075

8.4.5

pF

103

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

199

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

P/E Mode Rmax@Gain =Max Rmax@Gain =Min Cmax@Gain =Max Cmax@Gain =Min Monitor Number of Gates Alarm Logic 2 |RmaxRmin|/ Rmax=R_ PE<=0.1@ F=4MHz |CmaxCmin|/ Cmax=C_ PE<=0.15 8.4.5 <=0.1 Rmax Rmin <=0.15 Cmax Cmin


pF

152

162

R_PE<= 0.1

8.4.5

152

162

8.4.5

128

132

C_PE<= 0.075

8.4.5

pF

128

132

Off Pos Neg Mindep

Alarm Warning

Beeper, alarm outputs, visual

Audio

Gate measurement points

edge peak first peak

200

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Start (gate)

Steel longitudinal velocity Steel longitudinal velocity

mm

within range

12700

in

within range

500

within range within range

4500

Width (gate)

Steel longitudinal velocity Steel longitudinal velocity

mm

0.12

12700

in

0.00 5

within range

500

0.04

within range

4500

Zoom

Full screen width

mm

1.82

12700

in

0.07 2 0.63

500

S Gates with Adjustable Threshold Switching hysteresis with adjustable threshold Hold time for switched output Filter 2.0 MHz-21.5 MHz for Gate 1, Gate 2 PRF=10 Hz PRF=1000 Hz Gates with Fixed Threshold 8.5.3 <|2| %

4500

0.25

0.5

<|1.0|

8.5.4

20%TS

mS

101.25

100

8.5.4

20%TS

mS

0.9854

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

201

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Switching hysteresis with fixed threshold Impedance of proportional gate output Linearity of proportional gate output Frequency of proportional gate output Noise of proportional gate output Influence of signal position within the gate Effect of pulse shape on proportional gate output Rise, fall, and hold time Display Type

No analog output

8.5.2

N/A

8.6.1

N/A

8.6.2

N/A

8.6.3

N/A

8.6.4

N/A

8.6.5

N/A

8.6.6

N/A

8.6.7

N/A

Active, color QVGA Full and split screen

Display dimensions

mm

74.76Hx 101.28 W 2.943Hx 3.987W

in

202

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Resolution

Number of pixels

320x240

Backlight A-scan display Linearity of vertical display All meas w/ Gain= 40 dB Filter 0.2 MHz - 1.2 MHz Filter 0.5 MHz - 4.0 MHz Filter 1.5 MHz - 8.5 MHz Filter 5.0 MHz - 15.0 MHz Filter 8.0 MHz - 26.5 MHz Filter 2.0 MHz - 21.5 MHz Filter 2.0 MHz Filter 3.0 MHz Filter 5.0 MHz Linearity of base time Filter 2.0 MHz - 21.5 MHz All ranges 9.5.5 <|2| %FSH 0

Yes

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.5.5

<|2|

%FSH

0.5

<|2|

9.6

<|1|

0.1

<|0.5|

Display jitter Amplitude 9.3.3 <|2| %FSH 0 0.5 <|1|

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

203

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Position Measurement Resolution Soundpath 0.001999.99 1000.09999.9 10000.012700 0.00199.999 100.00500.00 0.00199.999 100.00999.99 1000.04500.0 Temporal Resolution tA1 tA2 Display width (range) Filter 2.0 MHz - 21.5 MHz Steel Longitudinal Velocity

9.3.3

<|1|

%FSW

0.002

<|0.1|

mm

0.01

mm

0.1

mm

in

0.001

in

0.01

0.001

0.01

0.1

8.4.7 8.4.7

ns ns mm

130 150 1.82

135 135 within range within range within range

144 161 12700

in

0.072

500

0.63

4500

204

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Display Delay

Steel Longitudinal Velocity

mm

-57.7

within range within range within range Yes

12700

in

2.272

500

-20

4500

Automatic calibration

Zero offset and velocity Resolution 0.0001 in/S Resolution 1 m/S in/S
0.025

Material velocity

0.6

m/S

635

15240

Trigonometry Angle of refraction Increments Thickness to Calc. Sound Reflec. Path data with Curved Surface Correction SW option Resolution 0.1 grad 10 85

grad mm in mm in

0.1 0 0 10 0.4 635 25 7620 300

Pipe outside Diameter

Image Processing

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

205

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Reading to be displayed Time of Flight Sound path difference Surface distance Depth position Amplitude in % curve Amplitude in dB

For Gate1, Gate 2

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

with Reference gain For Gate1, Gate 2

Yes

Alarm

Yes

Evaluation curve (DGS) Evaluation curve (DAC/ TVG) Legs calculations Change of grid lines and leg indicator for each gate

Yes

Yes

Yes

Signal Display Mode A-scan and envelope outline filled Signal Processing Screen freeze Peak memory Yes Yes

206

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

A-scan compare Envelope mode Peak hold Zoom

with Peak Hold with Peak Memory

Yes

Yes

Yes A-scan on full screen width Yes

Status information Dialog languages Function lock Amplitude Evaluation DAC Distance Amp. Correction 8.4.6 <|1.5| dB

Yes

11

Yes

Number of reference echoes Dynamic range Slope max DGS Distance Gain Sizing Straight beam Angle beam Dual Custom programable w/ GageView SW ea For TVG dB

50

110

dB/S

0 Yes

600

Number of probes

13

ea

37

ea ea

14 14

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

207

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Amplitude Evaluation (cont.) Reference reflectors


Backwall

Side drilled hole K1-IIW Block Arc K2-DSC Block Arc

Flat Bottom Hole Attenuation correction Transfer correction Quadrant correction (Delta Vk) DAC Mode Curve Evaluation curve Depth compensation Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes Yes

TVG

Yes

Additional curves Curve offset Data Processing A2D conversion Sample frequency MHz

Yes

100

208

Appendix D

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Storage of data Number of data sets Content of datasets


Waveforms/ Thickness

Yes

10000

A-scan + identifiers + setup + readings Alphanumeric 8

Dataset description String length (dataset name) Data Processing (cont.) Identifier Description Inspector ID Location notes Date and time Measurement Results Sound path (TOF) Trigonometrical values Amplitude For Gate 1, Gate 2

20 32 32 32

Yes

Yes

Selectable

Selectable For Gate 1, Gate 2 Yes

Function list

Test report Interfaces

Yes

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

209

Table 14 Instrument Technical Specifications (continued) EPOCH XT Technical Specifications


Description Test Parameter Condition and Comment Acceptance Criteria Symbol Units Min Typical Max Technical Specification

EN12668-1

Beeper

For Gate 1, Gate 2

Yes

Digital Interface USB Host USB Host port USB Client port Two gates standard Yes

USB Client

Yes

Gate Alarm Outputs Gate 1, 2, and Combined

Yes

Additional Tests for Digital Ultrasonic Instruments Linearity of time-base Filter 8.0 MHz - 25.0 MHz all ranges Filter 2.0 MHz - 21.5 MHz (Fo=MHz) Digitization sampling error Rect. Mode: RF and FULL (all filters) PRF=10 Hz PRF=100 Hz PRF=1000 Hz 8.7.3 <|5| % 0.5 1.5 2.5 |5| 8.7.2 <|1.5| % 0 0.1 0.2 |0.5|

Response time (does not depend on the filter settings by design)

8.7.4

Manuf. Spec Manuf. Spec Manuf. Spec

mS

100

1/PRF 10%

8.7.4

mS

10

8.7.4

mS

210

Figures

Figure D-1

Figure D-2 EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications 211

Figure D-3

Figure D-4

212

Figure D-5

Figure D-6

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

213

Figure D-7

Figure D-8

214

Figure D-9

Figure D-10

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

215

Figure D-11

Figure D-12

216

Figure D-13

Figure D-14

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

217

Figure D-15

Figure D-16

218

Figure D-17

Figure D-18

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

219

Figure D-19

Figure D-20

220

Figure D-21

Figure D-22

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

221

Figure D-23

Figure D-24

222

Figure D-25

Figure D-26

EPOCH XT EN12668-1 Technical Specifications

223

Figure D-27

Figure D-28

224

Appendix E: Parts List

Table 15 EPOCH XT Ultrasonic Flaw Detector Part EPXT-BH-UEL Description EPOCH XT Flaw Detector with BNC Connectors, HW I/O, US power supply, English keypad, and Lithium Ion battery

Table 16 Items Included with the EPOCH XT (spares can be purchased) Part EPXT-BAT-L EPXT-BAT-N EP4-MCA-X EPXT-CELL EPXT-MAN EPXT-TC EPXT-PS EPXT-HS Lithium Ion battery NiMH battery Mini Charger Adapter (X= Power Cord Configuration) C-Cell Battery Foam Block Instruction Manual Plastic Transport Case Stainless Steel Pipe Stand Hand Strap Description

Parts List

225

Table 17 Instrument Software Options Part EPXT-AWS EPXT-DGS-AVG Description AWS Weld classification software Onboard DGS/AVG option

Table 18 GageView PRO Interface Program and Accessories Part GAGEVIEWPRO-KIT-USB GAGEVIEW-PRO Description GageView PRO Interface Program GageView PRO Interface Program (software only)

Table 19 Optional Hardware Accessories Part EP4P-C-USB-6 EPXT-SEAL-KIT EPXT-EC EPXT-RPC EPXT-SS EPXT-CH EPXT-DP EPXT-BNC-CAPS EPXT-LEMO-CAP EPXT-HWIO-B EPXT-HWIO-L USB Connection Cable Replacement seals for battery and office connection doors External Stand-Alone Charger Rubber Protective Carrying Case Sunshade Chest Harness Screen Protective Cover (Qty. 10) Set of two (2) BNC Connector Caps Rubber Cap for LEMO Transducer Connectors HW I/O Option with BNC Connector Plate HW I/O Option with LEMO Connector Plate Description

226

Table 19 Optional Hardware Accessories (continued) Part EPXT-C-16HW-6 EPXT-C-16HW-20 EPXT-C-25PRL-6 HW I/O Cable, 6 HW I/O Cable, 20 Parallel Port Cable (25 pin to 25 pin) Description

Parts List

227

228

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