Elcometer FD700DL+ Operating Instructions Manual
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This product meets the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive.
The product is Class A, Group 1 ISM equipment according to CISPR 11.
Group 1 ISM product: A product in which there is intentionally generated and/or used
conductively coupled radio-frequency energy which is necessary for the internal
functioning of the equipment itself.
Class A product are suitable for use in all establishments other than domestic and those directly connected
to a low voltage power supply network which supplies buildings used for domestic purposes.
Note: In the close presence of some radio transmitters, erroneous readings may be given. If this occurs tests
should be repeated at another location.
These operating instructions are available for download on our website www.elcometerndt.com.
The following trademark is a registered trademark of Elcometer Limited, Edge Lane, Manchester, M43 6BU.
United Kingdom:
Material Safety Data Sheets for the ultrasonic couplant supplied with the FD700DL+ & FD700+ and
available as an accessory, are available to download via our website:
Elcometer NDT Ultrasonic Couplant Material Safety Data Sheet :
www.elcometerndt.com/images/MSDS/elcometer_ultrasonic_couplant.pdf
Elcometer NDT Ultrasonic Couplant Material Safety Data Sheet :
www.elcometerndt.com/images/MSDS/elcometer_ultrasonic_couplant_hi_temp.pdf
All other trademarks acknowledged. © Elcometer Limited 2012. All rights reserved. No part of this document
may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval system or otherwise) or translated into
any language, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, manual or otherwise)
without the prior written permission of Elcometer Limited.
TMA-0561 Issue 01
Text with cover: 23833
SECTION 1 : ABOUT YOUR GAUGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2
The Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
3
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
4
Selecting Gauge Operating Mode (Thickness Gauge / Flaw Detector) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
5
The Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
SECTION 2 : THICKNESS GAUGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
6
The Measurement Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
7
Measurement - Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
8
Setting up the Thickness Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
9
Measurement - Taking Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
10 Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
11 Thrupaint™ measurement technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
12 Measurement - Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
13 Transducers For Thickness Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
SECTION 3 : FLAW DETECTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
14 The Measurement Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
15 Setting Up The Flaw Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
16 Measurement - Detecting Flaws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
17 Adjusting the Waveform display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
18 Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
19 TRIG - Trigonometry Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
20 AWS - Weld Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
21 DAC - Distance Amplitude Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
22 TCG - Time Corrected Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
23 Measurement - Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
SECTION 4 : FUNCTIONS & FEATURES COMMON TO ALL GAUGES . . . . . . . . . 46
24 Measurement - Recording your Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
25 Gauge Setups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
26 Data Transfer Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
27 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
28 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
29 Technical Specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
30 Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
31 Spares & Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
32 Condition and Preparation of Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
33 Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
34 Sound Velocities of Common Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
35 The Menu Commands - Thickness Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
36 The Menu Commands - Flaw Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Thank you for purchasing this Elcometer NDT product. Welcome to Elcometer NDT.
The FD700 series of Corrosion Gauge and Flaw Detector are world beating products. With the
purchase of this gauge you now have access to the worldwide service and support network of
Elcometer. For more information visit our website at www.elcometer.com.
SECTION 1 : ABOUT YOUR GAUGE
1 INTRODUCTION
The FD700 series are a combined corrosion gauge and flaw detector that measures with extreme
versatility.
•
When the GAUGE function is set to THICKNESS GAUGE, the FD700 series becomes a
Corrosion Gauge which has the ability to measure coatings and material thickness
simultaneously while maintaining the ability to locate pits, flaws and defects in the material.
Based on the same operating principles as SONAR, the FD700 series are capable of
measuring the thickness of various materials with accuracy as high as 0.01 millimetres (0.001
inches).
•
When the GAUGE function is set to FLAW DETECTOR, the gauges become a Flaw Detector
which have the ability to detect the size and position of flaws and to differentiate between flaw
types in various materials and welded joints.
The principal advantage of ultrasonic thickness measurement over traditional methods is that
ultrasonic measurements can be performed with access to only one side of the material being
measured.
The gauges include a data-logging (memory) facility which allows readings and waveforms to be
stored in batches before being downloaded to a computer.
1.1 STANDARDS
Your gauge can be used in accordance with the following Standards and test methods; ASTM E
797, EN 14127 and EN 15317.
1.2 WHAT THIS BOX CONTAINS
FD700DL+ or FD700+, Bottle of couplant, Battery (3 x), Carrying case, Test Certificate, Operating
instructions, CD with software to enable you to transfer your readings and settings to and from a
PC, RS232 cable and USB to serial converter.
Note: The box does not include a transducer; these must be ordered separately. To order a
transducer, contact Elcometer NDT or your local Elcometer NDT supplier.
1.3 FEATURES OF THE GAUGE
•
Two gauges in one: Corrosion (thickness) gauge and Flaw Detector
•
Wide range of thickness measurement modes: Pulse-Echo, Echo-Echo, Echo-Echo Verify,
Coating Only, Pulse-Echo with Temperature Compensation, and Pulse-Echo with Coating
•
Automatic: probe zero, probe recognition, and temperature compensation.
•
Adjustable gain settings.
•
Stores up to 64 custom setups for specific applications.
•
High speed scan mode of up to 50 readings per second.
•
Audible/visual alarm with high and low limit settings.
Differential mode for QC inspections.
•
Colour display.
•
Radio frequency RF and RECT A-Scan displays.
•
Time based B-Scan display for cross section material scans (thickness gauge).
•
Measurement data storage formats: Alpha numeric grid and sequential with auto identifier.
Data can be downloaded to a computer for analysis and storage.
To maximise the benefits of your new Elcometer NDT gauge, please take some time to read
these Operating Instructions. Do not hesitate to contact Elcometer NDT or your Elcometer
NDT supplier if you have any questions.
1.4 PACKAGING
The gauge is packed inside its carrying case within a cardboard box. Please ensure that the
packaging is disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your Local Environmental
Authority for further guidance.
2 THE KEYPAD
Activates the primary menu structure containing menu tab groups. These tab
groups then contain sub menu items, or functions. The sub menu items are
organised in tab groups according to how closely they are related to the
individual tab group names.
Clears a measurement from a grid or sequential log files cell location or set
obstruct, and backspace in an Alpha Edit Box. If you have already saved a
measurement and waveform to a cell location, use this key to clear the
measurement at any time. In Flaw mode, clears a DAC reference point used to
generate a curve.
Press to start taking measurements. The readings are displayed on the screen.
Also used to navigate forward through the hot menu.
Press to confirm a change or selection. When in measurement mode, enables or
disables the Hot Menu. If your gauge is displaying a grid log, this key toggles an
advance to row number option.
In the MENU, MEAS, and EDIT functions this key acts as a back or escape
function. If your gauge is displaying a grid or sequential log, the
key toggles
the display options; RF, +RECT, -RECT, RECTFW, B-SCAN or DIGITS (display
options depend upon gauge operating mode - Thickness Gauge / Flaw
Detector).
In the menus, scrolls through the menus, increases/decreases values, and
toggles functions.
In menus this key activates list and edit boxes, displays and saves
measurements to grid or sequential files locations.
While making measurements, opens your log files.
In Thickness mode, press to select a measurement mode.
In Flaw mode, press to select flaw mode options; NORMAL, PEAK or FREEZE.
Switches the gauge ON or OFF.
Note: The gauge will automatically switch off when idle for 5 minutes. All current
settings are automatically saved prior to switching off.
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3 GETTING STARTED
3.1 FITTING BATTERIES
.Your gauge may be used with dry cell or rechargeable batteries.
3 x LR6 (AA) alkaline batteries are supplied with this gauge.
When the battery voltage is low the entire display will start to
flash. When this occurs the batteries should be replaced.
To fit or replace batteries:
1.
Unscrew battery compartment cover.
2.
Referring to battery polarity instructions on rear of gauge,
insert batteries.
3.
Replace battery compartment cover.
Note: Remove the batteries from the gauge if it is to remain
unused for a long period of time. This will prevent damage to the
gauge in the event of malfunction of the batteries.
3.2 CHOOSING THE TRANSDUCER
When you purchased your gauge you should have also
purchased a suitable transducer for your application. If you have
not yet done so, refer to “Transducers For Thickness
Measurement” on page 25, which will help you identify the
correct transducer type. Alternatively contact Elcometer NDT, your local Elcometer NDT supplier or
visit www.elcometerndt.com
3.3 FITTING THE TRANSDUCER
The transducer transmits and receives ultrasonic sound
waves that the gauge uses to calculate the thickness of the
material being measured.
The transducer connects to the gauge via the attached
cable, and two coaxial connectors. When using transducers
manufactured by Elcometer, the orientation of the dual
coaxial connectors is not critical; either plug may be fitted to
either socket.
3.4 SWITCHING ON/OFF
To switch on or off, press the on/off key
.
The gauge will switch off automatically after 5 minutes of inactivity.
Battery
compartment
cover
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4 SELECTING GAUGE OPERATING MODE (THICKNESS GAUGE / FLAW
DETECTOR)
Your gauge combines a thickness gauge and a flaw detector in one unit. To select operating mode:
1.
Press MENU/UTIL/GAUGE and press ENTER
2.
Use UP and DOWN to select THICKNESS GAUGE, FLAW DETECTOR or REQUEST.
3.
Press OK to confirm.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
Note: When set to REQUEST, the gauge will ask which mode is required whenever it is switched on.
5 THE MENUS
Your gauge has two menu systems:
•
Full menu - displays all the functions and settings of the gauge (see also page 58 and
page 63.
•
Hot menu - displays a sub-set of functions and settings related to taking measurements.
5.1 FULL MENU
5.2 HOT KEY MENU
Press MENU once to
access the menus...
then press MENU to
scroll to the right along
the sub menu bar and
ESC to scroll left to the
sub menu you want.
Use UP and DOWN to
scroll to the function
you want within the
sub menu...
then use LEFT and
RIGHT to scroll to the
option you want or to
select/unselect
Press MEAS once to
access the
measurement screen.
The hot menu
functions are
displayed at the
bottom of the reading
screen.
Press MEAS to scroll
right along the hot
menu functions and
ESC to scroll left until
the function you want
is highlighted.
Use UP, DOWN, LEFT
and RIGHT to adjust
the value of the
function.
Alternatively, adjust
values by pressing
ENTER then use UP,
DOWN, LEFT and
RIGHT to scroll and
adjust values. Press
OK when finished.
5.3 SELECTING MENU LANGUAGE
The menus can be displayed in English, Spanish, and German.
1.
Select MENU/SET/LANGUAGE.
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the language options.
3.
Once the desired language is displayed, press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
5.4 ADJUSTING THE DISPLAY
Your gauge has an AMOLED display which you can customise to your preferences:
CHANGING THE DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS
To adjust the display brightness:
1.
Select MENU/DISP/BRIGHTNESS
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll to the value you require. The scale is an arbitrary scale from 0
to 20.
3.
Alternatively, press ENTER to display the DIGITS EDIT BOX and adjust with navigation keys.
4.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
CHANGING THE DISPLAY COLOUR SCHEME
Your gauge includes a range of display colour schemes. You can select one colour scheme from
this range:
1.
Select MENU/DISP/COLORS.
2.
Press ENTER to access choose colour screen.
The Choose Colour screen shows the range of colour schemes available. The current colour
scheme is highlighted.
3.
Use UP and DOWN to scroll to the required colour scheme (highlight NONE for black and
white).
4.
Press ENTER to select the colour scheme.
5.
Press OK to confirm your selection and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
6.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
CHANGING THE DISPLAY DIM TIME
Your gauge includes a DIM function which can be used to extend battery life. The DIM function is
used to set the time delay in seconds between the last measurement and an automatic reduction
in screen brightness that can save battery power.
Note: This function does not override the preset 5 minute idle power off feature.
To set the DIM time:
1.
Select MENU/DISP/DIM.
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll to the value you require.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
CHANGING THE RECT WAVEFORM TYPE
The RECT waveform can be displayed
FILLED or UNFILLED, as illustrated
(screenshots taken with gauge set to
FLAW mode).
To adjust the RECT WAVE setting:
1.
Select MENU/DISP/RECT WAVE.
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll to
RECT WAVE.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the
measurement screen.
CHANGING THE DETECT MARK ON
THE WAVEFORM
The type of detect mark on the waveform
can be adjusted (NONE, LINE, DOTS or NONE), as illustrated. The detect mark is useful as it
provides a clear indication to the user as to where a detect is taking place and what the thickness
reading displayed in the top right of the thickness gauge display is derived from. The thickness
reading shown by the flaw detector when "OK" is pressed is also shown with the detect mark
To adjust the DETECT MARK setting:
1.
Select MENU/DISP/DETECT MARK
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to locate the type of DETECT MARK.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
5.5 FRONT PANEL LIGHTS
The green light illuminates when the alarm mode is active and the measurement is within limits.
The red light illuminates when the alarm mode is active and the measurement is outside limits.
SECTION 2 : THICKNESS GAUGE
6 THE MEASUREMENT SCREEN
When the GAUGE function is set to THICKNESS GAUGE, the FD700 series becomes a corrosion
gauge that measures with extreme versatility. It has the ability to measure coatings and material
thickness simultaneously while maintaining the ability to locate pits, flaws and defects in the
material.
Based on the same operating principles as SONAR, the FD700 series is capable of measuring the
thickness of various materials with accuracy as high as 0.01 millimetres (0.001 inches). The
Unfilled
Filled
None
Line
Dots
Box
principal advantage of ultrasonic measurement over traditional methods is that ultrasonic
measurements can be performed with access to only one side of the material being measured.
Your gauge has four types of measurement screen:
•
A-Scan Waveform, RF
•
A-Scan Waveform, RECT
•
B-Scan
•
Digits
To see the measurement screen, press MEAS.
To select which measurement screen to use, press MENU/DISP/VIEW and then select RF, RECT,
B-SCAN or DIGITS.
6.1 ITEMS COMMON TO ALL MEASUREMENT SCREENS
A number of items are common to all the measurement screens:
A
Battery Icon
Remaining battery life.
B
Repeatability/Stability
Indicator
This indicator is used in conjunction with the digital thickness
values displayed. When all the vertical bars are fully illuminated
and the last digit on the digital thickness value is stable, your
gauge is reliably measuring the value.
C
Material Thickness
Value/
Material Velocity Value
The thickness or sound velocity of the material under the
transducer (type depends upon measurement view)
A-SCAN
B-SCAN
DIGITS
RF
RECT
A-SCAN
A
B
C
D
F
G
H
E
6.2 RF A-SCAN MEASUREMENT
SCREEN
The RF view shows the full sound wave as
received by the gauge. The vertical axis
indicates the amplitude of the received wave
and the horizontal position indicates the time
it is received, which is converted into
thickness units using the material velocity.
The point on the scan that is being used to
calculate the digital thickness reading is
displayed as the vertical dashed line (see
section 9 on gates). The RF screen is used
for gauge setup prior to inspection.
6.3 RECT A-SCAN MEASUREMENT
SCREEN
The rectified view shows only half of the
waveform, either the positive or negative half
depending on the POLARITY selected.
The RECT display is the preferred view for
flaw and pit inspections
D
Units
The current measurement units (Metric/English).
E
Feature Status Bar
Indicates the features currently enabled and in use:
•
Measurement Mode (P-E, PECT, PETP, E-E, E-EV, CT)
•
Differential Mode (ON/OFF)
•
High Speed Scan Mode (ON/OFF)
•
Alarm Mode (ON/OFF/AUDIBLE)
•
Gain Setting (Displays the set value)
See “Measurement - Modes” on page 15 etc for further
information
F
Measurement View Area
RF, RECT, B-SCAN or DIGITS view area.
G
Measurement Labels
Bar
Displays the viewable range and are based on the values of
DELAY/B-START and RANGE/B-DEPTH
H
Hot Menu
The hot menu contains a selection of the most commonly used
options, allowing you to conveniently adjust these to your needs
while the graphical display is active
Hot Menu Enabled
Hot Menu Disabled
6.4 B-SCAN MEASUREMENT SCREEN
The time-based B-Scan display provides a
cross sectional view of the material being
tested. In this example, the top, or accessible
side of the material is represented as 0.00”,
and the bottom, or blind surface at .500”.
This mode is used when you need to inspect
the profile of the blind surface. It can also be
a useful view when scanning for pits and
flaws.
The B-Scan display is equipped with a scan
bar representing the overall thickness. The
scan bar gives the user a visual indication
when a flaw or defect passed over during the
scan process.
If you are scanning a pipe, for instance, and
pass over a pit during the process, the scan
bar will quickly deflect and alert you to go
back and search for the defect.
6.5 DIGITS MEASUREMENT SCREEN
The digits display shows the thickness as a
value using a large font size. This view is
used typically when the gauge is being used
as a basic thickness gauge. The digits
display includes the same scan bar as the
B-Scan display.
6.6 CHANGING THE VIEWABLE RANGE
In RF view, RECT view and B-SCAN view, if the waveform around the detection point is not visible
on the display, use one of the following methods to adjust the viewable range of the display:
•
When in RF view or RECT view, change the values of the DELAY and RANGE functions until
the measurement falls inside the viewable range of the display - see instructions below.
•
When in B-SCAN view, change the values of the B-START and B-DEPTH functions until the
measurement falls inside the viewable range of the display. B-START is the equivalent of
DELAY and B-DEPTH is the equivalent of RANGE and the instructions for changing these
values is identical to those for DELAY and RANGE - see instructions below.
•
Use the Auto Find function - see “Auto Find” on page 23.
Note: Even if the waveform is outside of the viewable range of the display, a measurement can be
taken and viewed using the DIGITS view.
DELAY AND RANGE
The Delay is the thickness value from which the A-Scan display starts on the left of the screen. The
Range is used to adjust the value at the right side of the screen. Using these two parameters allows
the user to zoom in to a specific measurement range and increase the level of detail on the display.
For example, if a wall thickness was nominally 25mm and an operator was assessing for corrosion
on this wall they might set the delay to 10mm and the range to 20mm to give a view from 10 to 30mm
depth.
Hot Menu Enabled
Hot Menu Disabled
B-Start and B-Depth are analogous to Delay and Range for a B-Scan display respectively.
Delay and Range or B-Start and B-Depth may be adjusted in the hot menu or in the DISP section
of the main menu.
ADJUSTING DELAY AND RANGE (OR B-START AND B-DEPTH)
The quickest way to adjust DELAY and RANGE is directly from the hot menu. Alternatively, adjust
the values using the menus:
1.
Select MENU/DISP/DELAY or RANGE and adjust using the "LEFT" "RIGHT" or use the
DIGITS EDIT BOX
2.
Press OK to set the value
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement
6.7 ADJUSTING B-SCAN SCROLL SPEED
The scrolling speed of the time-based B-Scan can be adjusted to suit your measurement
techniques.
To adjust the scroll speed
1.
Select MENU/DISP/BSCAN SPEED
2.
Choose a value between 1 and 10 (10 is fastest)
3.
Press OK
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
6.8 GAIN
The gain (the amplitude of the transmitted pulse) can be adjusted to suit a variety of applications.
To obtain valid readings the gain must be set to the correct level to give reliable return echoes:
•
Too much gain may result in erroneous measurements by detecting noise rather than the
material back wall itself.
•
Not enough gain may result in intermittent detection. It may also result in lack of detection on
internal flaws, pits, or porosity.
The gain setting on your gauge can be compared to the volume control of a home stereo system.
If you turn it up too much you cannot hear the music clearly. If it is turned down too much, you cannot
hear it at all.
Note: When the echo-echo through-paint measurement mode is selected, the manual gain feature
is disabled and greyed out in the menu items. In this mode, your gauge switches to an automatic
gain mode (AGC) that optimises the gain setting automatically.
Your gauge has been optimised for a medium gain setting and for the majority of applications it can
be used at this setting. Some applications however may require lower or higher gain settings:
•
Lower values might be necessary for noisy or granular cast materials. If the reading becomes
sporadic and will not settle down or resolve on a thickness value.
•
Higher values may be necessary when trying to measure a material that is hard to penetrate
(due to the material type, or the overall thickness of the material) and when locating fine pits or
flaws. In these instances, increase the gain until the stability indicator reports a good
measurement.
TO ADJUST THE GAIN VALUE
The quickest way to adjust GAIN is directly from the hot menu. Alternatively, adjust the value using
the menus:
Adjust to suit the measurement application.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
6.9 THRESHOLD
The threshold is the level of signal amplitude required to trigger a gate and activate the digital
thickness reading. Increasing the threshold value decreases the sensitivity of the gauge as a more
powerful signal is required to trigger the gate. For example on the A-scan display it may be clear
that there is a flaw in the material but the thickness reading is not taking this into account; lowering
the threshold has the effect of increasing the sensitivity of the gauge to a level that the flaw can be
detected. More information on thresholds can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre
on www.elcometerndt.com.
TO ADJUST THE THRESHOLD VALUE
The quickest way to adjust a threshold value is directly from the hot menu. Alternatively, adjust the
values using the menus:
1.
Press MENU/GT1/THRESHOLD1 (THRESHOLD2 and THRESHOLD3 are accessed and
adjusted in the same way from the menus for GT2 and GT3 respectively).
2.
Adjust to suit the measurement application.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
6.10 GATES
Your gauge is equipped with gates which control the time measurement process.
For instructions on how to use gates, see “Gates” on page 22.
6.11 ADJUSTING THE DISPLAY
Your gauge features an AMOLED display that you may customise to your preferences.
Changing the Display Brightness
Select MENU/DISP/BRIGHTNESS. Possible values are between 0 and 20
Changing the Display Refresh Rate
Select MENU/DISP/SCREEN UPDATE The AMOLED display can be set to refresh at either 60Hz
or 120Hz (times per second). Setting a high refresh rate may be beneficial when trying to detect
small defects in a material but comes at the cost of reduced battery life
Changing the Display Colour Scheme
Select MENU/DISP/COLORS Your gauge includes a range of display colour schemes.
Changing the Display DIM Time
1.
Select MENU/DISP/DIM
2.
Adjust to suit the measurement application
7 MEASUREMENT - MODES
Your gauge has two basic measurement modes, Pulse-Echo and Echo-Echo, plus a number of
variations on these modes for specific measurement tasks.
If an auto identified transducer is fitted to the gauge the appropriate mode will be automatically set.
To select measurement mode manually, press MULTI MODE and then select the mode you want
to use from the list displayed.
Note: The availability of the modes depends upon the type of transducer fitted to the gauge.
7.1 PULSE-ECHO MODE (P-E), COATING OFF
The standard measurement mode providing maximum sensitivity. This general purpose mode
should be used for corrosion and flaw inspections and will measure the total thickness of a material.
7.2 PULSE-ECHO COATING MODE (PECT), COATING ON
Special mode that allows measurement of coating thickness and material thickness at the same
time while retaining the capability to detect flaws.
7.3 PULSE-ECHO TEMPERATURE COMPENSATED MODE (PETP), TEMP COMP
This is a custom mode that combines pulse-echo and electronic zero techniques to automatically
adjust for temperature changes in the transducer as a result of an increasing/decreasing
temperature gradient in the test material.
Note: Rough surface conditions can have an effect on the overall accuracy in this mode. If the
surface condition is in question, the pulse-echo mode should be used in conjunction with performing
an off block automatic zero as the temperature gradient changes.
7.4 ECHO-ECHO MODE (E-E), THRUPAINT™
This special mode allows the user to measure the material thickness of a substrate underneath a
coating while ignoring the coating thickness by using two echoes from the material back wall. This
mode is useful when the coating thickness makes up a sizeable proportion of a material, but has
the impact of reducing sensitivity so should not be used in pit and flaw inspections.
7.5 ECHO-ECHO VERIFY MODE (E-EV), THRU VERIFY
This mode uses a third echo to double check the measurement, increasing the reliability of a
measurement even further from the E-E mode.
7.6 COATING ONLY MODE (CT), COATING ONLY
Note: Similar to the PECT mode but reports the coating thickness only.
7.7 FLAW MODE
Your gauge includes a Flaw Mode.
For instructions see “Measurement - Detecting Flaws” on page 33.
PE
EE
EEV
CT
CT
PE
IE
EE
EEV
PECT
PECT
8 SETTING UP THE THICKNESS GAUGE
8.1 AUTOMATIC TRANSDUCER IDENTIFICATION
If using a coating thickness transducer, the gauge will ask you to
confirm the transducer type.
1.
Press OK to use the identified transducer.
Note: Always select OK to use the identified transducer type.
2.
Ensure that the wearface is clean and free of any couplant or
debris then press OK to perform a probe zero.
3.
Calibrate the gauge - see:
•
“Calibrating - for a Material” on page 18 and
•
“Calibrating - for a Coating” on page 20
..
8.2 SELECTING THE TRANSDUCER TYPE MANUALLY
Note: If not using a coating thickness transducer, you will need to select
a transducer type from the predefined list so that your gauge may
recall specific transducer properties.
Follow these steps to select your transducer type:
1.
When the CONFIRM screen displays the ‘UNIDENTIFIED PROBE
TYPE’ message, press OK to display the predefined list of
transducer types (by diameter and frequency).
2.
Using UP or DOWN, scroll through the transducer list until the
correct type is highlighted and then press ENTER.
3.
Press OK to overwrite the existing transducer type with the newly
selected transducer type.
Your gauge will automatically advance to the Zero Probe menu.
8.3 TRANSDUCER - ZEROING
Setting the zero point for the transducer is important in the same way
that it is important for a mechanical micrometer. Zeroing takes into
account slight variations in the manufacturing process for maximum
accuracy. If zeroing is not carried out correctly, the measurements
taken by the gauge will be in error by some fixed value.
Your gauge has two zero probe options
•
Off Block or Automatic Probe Zero - The gauge conducts an
electronic zero without the need for a zero block (All
measurement modes)
•
On Block or Manual Probe Zero - Requires use of the zero block on the top of the gauge
(Pulse to echo mode only)
For most applications the Off Block Zero will be sufficient, however if it is found the gauge linearity
is off and extreme accuracy is required an On Block Zero should be conducted followed by an Off
Block Zero. This will adjust and eliminate any error.
These options may be accessed from MENU/PRB.
8.4 OFF BLOCK ZERO (AUTOMATIC PROBE ZERO)
1.
When the ZERO PROBE screen is displayed, remove all couplant from the face of the
transducer and check that the wearface of the transducer is clean and free of any debris.
2.
Press OK (or ESC to cancel).
When the automatic probe zero is completed the measurement screen is displayed.
Your gauge should now be calibrated.
8.5 ON BLOCK ZERO (MANUAL PROBE ZERO)
When this zero probe option is selected a warning screen is displayed informing you that you must
zero the probe before taking measurements.
1.
Press MEAS to display the measurement screen.
2.
Remove all couplant from the face of the transducer and check that the wearface is clean and
free of any debris.
3.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer as shown in diagram.
Note: Disregard the value displayed; it is not important. What is
important is accurately performing these steps to ensure
reliability of the zero calculation.
4.
Press MENU, scroll to the PRB menu, scroll to the ZERO
PROBE function and then press ENTER.
The ZERO PROBE screen is displayed.
5.
UP and DOWN toggle coating on/off.
6.
Press OK (or ESC to cancel).
When the manual probe zero is completed the measurement
screen is displayed.
7.
Remove the transducer from the probe zero disk.
Your gauge should now be calibrated.
8.6 TRANSDUCER - ZEROING FOR COATING ONLY MEASUREMENTS
Your gauge features an additional zero coating feature for use when measuring coatings to a high
accuracy is required
Note: For this procedure, a coating transducer must be fitted to the gauge.
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Press MULTI MODE, scroll to COATING ONLY (CT) and press
ENTER.
The measurement screen is displayed.
2.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the probe zero disk (battery
cover) and obtain a steady reading - see illustration.
Note: Disregard the value displayed; it is not important. What is
important is accurately performing these steps to ensure
reliability of the zero calculation.
3.
Select MENU/PRB/ZERO COATING and then press ENTER.
A confirmation screen is displayed.
4.
Press OK (or ESC to cancel).
When the zero coating process is completed the measurement
screen is displayed.
5.
Press MULTI MODE, scroll to COATING ON (PECT) and press
ENTER.
The measurement screen is displayed.
You can now take readings.
8.7 CALIBRATING - FOR A MATERIAL
Sound travels through different materials at different speeds, and in order to measure these
materials accurately the correct sound velocity must be programmed into the gauge. Your gauge
features 3 different ways of doing this
Known material calibration - The material to be measured is selected from a list in the gauge
Known velocity calibration - If the material sound velocity is known this may be entered manually.
Known Thickness Calibration - A sample of the material to be inspected is measured using
alternative means and then used to calibrate the gauge.
•
One Point calibration is the simplest and most commonly used calibration procedure with best
performance over large measurement ranges
•
Two Point calibration uses two samples of different thicknesses, with enhanced accuracy
over small ranges close to the sample thicknesses used
For the highest measurement accuracy use the known thickness calibration as this takes into
account variation in material composition, temperature and a variety of other factors.
KNOWN MATERIAL CALIBRATION
If the material velocity is unknown, and a sample thickness cannot be taken from the material, you
can choose a material type from a list stored in the gauge. For each material stored in the list there
is a corresponding velocity value.
Note: These velocities will not always be an exact representation of the material being tested. Use
these values only if a close approximation is acceptable.
1.
Select MENU/CAL/MAT.
2.
Press ENTER to display the list of material types.
3.
Scroll through the material list until the appropriate material is highlighted.
4.
Press ENTER to choose the material type.
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Press OK to select the material type and display the menu items with the new material type
selected
6.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
KNOWN VELOCITY CALIBRATION
If the material velocity is known, you can enter the velocity value directly into the gauge. A list of the
sound velocities of common materials is given at the end of this instruction manual.
1.
Press MENU/CAL/VELOCITY .
2.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
3.
Adjust to match the material velocity.
4.
Press OK.
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
KNOWN THICKNESS CALIBRATION
If the sound velocity of a material is unknown, a sample with one or two known thicknesses can be
used to determine the sound velocity.
Note: Although the gauge has a through-paint/coating feature, known thickness calibration must be
performed on material with the paint or coating removed.
ONE-POINT CALIBRATION - The one point calibration option is most suited for linearity over large
ranges. You should always calibrate on high side of the intended measurement range. For example,
if the measurement range is 2.54 mm to 25.4 mm (.100" to 1.0"), you should calibrate on a known
thickness sample close to 25.4 mm (1.0").
Note: Before you start this calibration procedure, perform a probe zero.
1.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady contact with the
sample or the material being tested. Be sure that the reading is stable and the repeatability
indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable.
2.
Select MENU/CAL/MATLIPT.
3.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
4.
Adjust to match the material thickness.
5.
Press OK to calculate the velocity and return to the measurement screen, or ESC to cancel.
Note: Place the transducer back on the calibration point. The thickness reading should now match
the known thickness but if outside tolerance, repeat the steps above.
TWO-POINT CALIBRATION - For improved accuracy over a smaller measurement range, conduct
one-point calibration followed by a two-point calibration. For example, if the measurement range is
2.03 mm to 6.35 mm (.080" to 0.250"), perform a one point calibration on a known thickness sample
close to 6.35 mm (.250"), followed by a two-point calibration close to 2.03 mm (.080").
Note: Before you start this calibration procedure, perform a probe zero.
Two - Point calibration
1.
Conduct a one point calibration routine as described previously in this section. You should
conduct this routine at the high end of the measurement range
2.
Repeat the routine with another sample at the low end of the measurement range, except this
time enter the thickness into the MATL 2PT area in the CAL menu.
Note: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION. Place the transducer back on both calibration points. If the
thickness is out of tolerance repeat the steps above.
8.8 CALIBRATING - FOR A COATING
Your gauge comes pre-set with a coating velocity of 2159 m s-1 that has been found to be a good
approximation of coatings found in the field.
Accuracy may be improved by calibrating for the coating in the same way that a material may be
calibrated for, using either coating velocity or known coating thickness calibration.
•
In PECT mode a one point calibration is required
•
In CT mode a 2 - point calibration is required.
KNOWN COATING VELOCITY
If the coating velocity is known, you can enter the velocity value into your gauge.
1.
Press MENU/CAL / COATING VEL.
2.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
3.
Adjust to match the coating velocity.
4.
Press OK .
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
KNOWN COATING THICKNESS
One Point Calibration: Measure a sample of the coating and carry out the calibration using the
same method as for a material, except enter the coating velocity into the "COATING 1PT" area of
the CAL menu. Measure a coating sample on the high side of the measurement range
Note: The coating sample must be coupled to metal in order to calibrate successfully. Place a drop
of couplant on a piece of metal, lay the coating sample over the couplant on the metal and carry out
the calibration
1.
Physically measure a location on a coating sample using a set of calipers or a digital
micrometer.
Note: The coating sample must be coupled to metal in order to calibrate successfully. Place a drop
of couplant on a piece of metal, lay the coating sample over the couplant on the metal and proceed
to step 2.
2.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady contact with the
coating (on metal) sample or actual test material. Be sure that the reading is stable and the
repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable.
3.
Press MENU/CAL /COATING 1PT function.
4.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
5.
Adjust to match the coating thickness.
6.
Press OK to set the coating velocity and return to the measurement screen, or ESC to cancel.
Note: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the calibration point. The
coating thickness reading should now match the known coating thickness sample. If the thickness
is not correct, repeat the steps above.
TWO-POINT CALIBRATION - Use the minimum coating sample for the two point calibration.
1.
Conduct a one point calibration routine as described previously in this section. You should
conduct this routine at the high end of the measurement range.
2.
Physically measure the thinner of the two samples of the coating, as close as possible to the
minimum expected coating measurement range, using a set of calipers or a digital micrometer.
Note: If coating measurements are to be made with the coating applied to a metal surface, the
calibration must be done in the same manner, with the samples coupled to a metal surface.
However, if the coating is to be measured as a stand alone material, the calibration must be
performed the same way.
3.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady contact with the
thinner of the two coating and samples. Be sure that the reading is stable and the repeatability
indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable.
4.
Press MENU/CAL/ COATING 2PT.
5.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
6.
Press OK to set the coating velocity and return to the measurement screen, or ESC to cancel.
Note: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION. Place the transducer back on both calibration points. If the
coating thickness readings match the known thickness values of each sample calibration has been
successful and you are now ready to take measurements. If the thickness is not correct, repeat the
steps above.
9 MEASUREMENT - TAKING READINGS
Disclaimer: Inherent in ultrasonic thickness measurement is the possibility that the instrument will
use the second rather than the first echo from the back surface of the material being measured. This
may result in a thickness reading that is TWICE what it should be.
Responsibility for proper use of the instrument and recognition of this phenomenon rests solely with
the user of the instrument.
Other errors may occur from measuring coated materials where the coating is insufficiently bonded
to the material surface. Irregular and inaccurate readings may result. Again, the user is responsible
for proper use and interpretation of the measurements acquired.
9.1 BEFORE YOU START
•
Prepare the surface - see “Condition and Preparation of Surfaces” on page 56.
•
Ensure the correct transducer is selected and set in the gauge - see “Transducer - Setting
Type Of” on page 28.
•
Select the correct measurement mode (P-E, PECT, PETP, E-E, E-EV, CT) - see
“Measurement - Modes” on page 15.
•
Set the zero point of the transducer - see:
•
“Transducer - Zeroing” on page 16 and
•
“Transducer - Zeroing for Coating Only Measurements” on page 17.
•
Calibrate the gauge - see:
•
“Calibrating - for a Material” on page 18 and
•
“Calibrating - for a Coating” on page 20.
•
Choose the measurement view (DIGITS, RF or RECT, or B-SCAN) - see “The Measurement
Screen” on page 26.
9.2 PROCEDURE
1.
Apply couplant
For the gauge to work correctly there must be no air gap between the transducer and the
surface of the material to be measured. This is achieved using a couplant.
Before the transducer is placed on the surface, put a small amount of couplant supplied with
the gauge on the surface of the material. Typically a single drop is sufficient.
2.
Place transducer onto the surface of the material to be measured
Place transducer onto the surface of the material to be measured
Press the transducer wearface into the couplant. Only moderate pressure is necessary to
keep the transducer stationary and the wearface seated flat against the surface of the
material.
3.
Read display
If six or seven bars of the stability indicator are showing, the display will be reading the correct
thickness of the material directly beneath the transducer.
If the stability indicator has fewer than five bars showing, or the numbers on the display seem
erratic, check to make sure that there is an adequate film of couplant beneath the transducer,
and that the transducer is seated flat against the material. If the condition persists, it may be
necessary to:
•
adjust the gain, or
•
select a different transducer (size or frequency) for the material being measured.
The gauge will perform a number of measurements every second when the transducer is in
contact with the surface of the material. The display is updated as each reading is taken.
4.
Remove transducer from surface
The display will show the last measurement made.
Note: Occasionally, a small film of couplant will be drawn out between the transducer and the
surface as the transducer is removed. When this happens, the gauge may perform a measurement
through this couplant film. This phenomenon can be seen when one thickness value is observed
while the transducer is in place, and another value is observed after the transducer is removed. If
this happens, take the reading again using less couplant.
10 GATES
10.1 INTRODUCTION
Further information on gates may be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com
10.2 ADJUSTING THE GATES
The quickest way to adjust the settings of the three gates is directly from the hot menu. Alternatively,
adjust the values using the menus:
1.
Press MENU, GT1, GT2 or GT3 menu and then highlight the setting you wish to adjust.
2.
Adjust to suit the measurement application.
3.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
11 THRUPAINT™ MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUE
Your gauge is equipped with a ThruPaint™ measurement mode that uses a multiple echo
technique to allow measurement of the material thickness beneath a coating. This is useful for
checking the material thickness of a painted object.
ThruPaint™ capability is available in E-E and E-Ev modes, to activate through paint operation
select one of these measurement modes using the "MULTI MODE" key.
Further information may be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com
12 MEASUREMENT - OPTIONS
12.1 AUTO FIND
When using a scan type display, the DELAY and RANGE (or B-START and B-DEPTH) must be set
correctly for the waveform to be shown on the display. If these parameters are set up incorrectly
nothing will be seen. The AUTO FIND function solves this problem by automatically adjusting these
parameters so that the relevant part of the waveform is shown on the screen.
To use the AUTO FIND function place the transducer on the material to obtain a reading, select
MENU/UTIL/AUTO FIND.
12.2 HIGH SPEED SCAN
Although your gauge excels at making single point measurements, it is sometimes desirable to
examine a larger region, searching for the thinnest point. The gauge includes a feature, called Scan
Mode, which allows it to do just that.
This mode increases the overall repetition rate to a maximum of 140 Hz with a high speed screen
refresh rate of up to 120 times a second.
This feature enables the user to make scanned passes over an arbitrary length of the test material
while still maintaining a reasonable representation of thickness over the scanned area or region.
This feature can be used in conjunction with High and Low alarm limits features to keep track of
both values dynamically.
To enable/disable the high speed Scan Mode:
1.
Select MENU/UTIL/SCAN MODE.
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrows to toggle the SCAN MODE on/off.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
12.3 ALARM MODE
Your gauge includes an Alarm Mode. Set the limits, and if a measurement falls outside of these
limits your gauge will signal an alarm (a red light on the front panel of the instrument and/or an
audible beep).
This feature may be used for a variety of applications to verify the material is within the manufacturer
specifications.
There are two limit values, ALARM LOW and ALARM HIGH. You can choose to activate both or
just one of these values depending on your requirements.
To enable/disable Alarm Mode:
1.
Select MENU/UTIL/ALARM.
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrows to toggle the ALARM on/off/audible.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
To set the Alarm limits:
1.
Select MENU/UTIL/ALARM LOW or ALARM HIGH.
2.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
Adjust to suit the measurement application.
4.
Press OK to set the alarm value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
12.4 DIFFERENTIAL MODE
Your gauge includes a Differential Mode. Set the nominal value of thickness (based upon the
expected thickness value), and the gauge measures the difference (+/-) from this nominal value.
This feature is typically used in QA incoming inspections on pipes, plate stock, coils, etc.
To enable/disable Differential Mode:
1.
Select MENU/UTIL/DIFFERENTIAL.
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrows to toggle the DIFFERENTIAL on.
A value will appear to the right of DIFFERENTIAL.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
To set the Differential value:
1.
Enable Differential Mode (see steps above).
2.
When DIFFERENTIAL has been enabled and a value is being displayed to the right of the
DIFFERENTIAL label, press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
3.
Adjust to suit the measurement application.
4.
Press OK to set the differential value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
12.5 POLARITY
The polarity that your gauge detects on can be set to either positive or negative to obtain the best
detection results depending on the specific measurement conditions of your application. Polarity
affects both the gate (above or below the x axis in the RF A-Scan) and the Rectified A-Scan display
(whether the top or bottom half of the RF display is shown.
For further information refer to the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Hub.
To adjust POLARITY:
Set the measurement screen view to RF. The option is found in MENU/TUNE/POLARITY
12.6 PULSE WIDTH
Your gauge has an adjustable pulse width option. Pulse width refers to the duration of time the
pulser is switched on. Pulse width determines the amount of energy transmitted into the material
being tested.
There are three pulse width options:
SPIKE - The Spike option is used for high resolution and general applications and can be considered
as the standard setting.
THIN - When additional energy is needed for more penetration, the Thin option may be necessary.
WIDE - When even more energy is needed for more penetration, the Wide option may be necessary.
High frequency applications, where resolution is a requirement, may require the Spike or Thin
settings to achieve optimal results. Low frequency applications, where more penetration is a
requirement, may require the Thin or Wide settings, offering increased penetration. The variety of
transducer frequencies and diameters used in conjunction with the pulse width setting, enable you
to fine tune the gauge to your application needs.
To adjust the Pulse setting:
The option to adjust the PULSE WIDTH function is found in MENU/TUNE/PULSE
12.7 PULSER VOLTAGE
Your gauge has a 200 V square wave pulser that can be adjusted for specific applications and
transducers. The standard pulser setting is 150 V, and the Pulser Volt function allows you to
increase or decrease this value by 50 V to give greater penetration for difficult material types, or
increased resolution on noisy materials.
The option to adjust the Pulser Voltage setting is found in MENU/TUNE/PULSER VOLT.
12.8 DAMPING
Your gauge has a damping function which adjusts the input impedance of the receiver. This enables
you to optimise the gauge to suit the transducer for better signal quality at various frequencies. The
damping settings are 50, 75, 100, 300, 600 and 1500 ohms.
The option to adjust the DAMPING setting is found in the MENU/TUNE/DAMPING.
12.9 ATTENUATOR
Your gauge has a 20dB signal attenuator and amplifier. This feature offers a cut/boost to the overall
signal strength. In instances where the 60 dB range is not enough, or too much, this feature allows
you to increase/decrease the amplifier strength by a power of 10 (20dB). The standard setting is
zero, which is an arbitrary value. The attenuation value is added to the gain value. Therefore, if the
attenuator is increased to 20dB, this value is added to the value of the gain setting.
The option to adjust the Attenuator setting is found in MENU/TUNE/ATTENUATOR.
13 TRANSDUCERS FOR THICKNESS MEASUREMENT
For further information on Transducers can be found on Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com.
SECTION 3 : FLAW DETECTOR
14 THE MEASUREMENT SCREEN
When the GAUGE function is set to FLAW DETECTOR, the FD700 series becomes a flaw detector
with the ability to detect the size and position of flaws and to differentiate between flaw types in
various materials and welded joints.
Your gauge has four types of measurement screen:
•
RF (Radio Frequency)
•
+RECT (Rectified Radio Frequency, positive polarity)
•
-RECT (Rectified Radio Frequency, negative polarity)
•
RECTFW (Full Wave Rectified Radio Frequency)
To see the measurement screen, press MEAS.
To select which measurement screen to use, select MEAS/DISP/VIEW and then select RF, +RECT,
-RECT or RECTFW.
14.1 ITEMS COMMON TO ALL MEASUREMENT SCREENS
A number of items are common to all the measurement screens:
A
Battery Icon
Indicates the battery life remaining.
B
Repeatability/Stability
Indicator
When taking readings, this indicator shows the
stability/repeatability of the sound path signal. When all the
vertical bars are fully illuminated the repeatability of the sound
path is stable.
RF
RECTFW
RECT
A
B
C
E
F
G
D
14.2 RF MEASUREMENT SCREEN
The
RF
view
shows
a
graphical
representation (similar to the trace of an
oscilloscope) of the sound reflections
returning to the transducer. The waveform
display shows the amplitude of the signal
received on the vertical (Y) axis and time
(shown in units of thickness) on the
horizontal (X) axis.
The RF waveform includes both the positive
and the negative peaks.
The detection point is displayed on the
waveform. The RF waveform view is typically
used for fine tuning of the gauge prior to
carrying out an inspection.
C
Height
The signal amplitude height as a percentage of 100% full screen
height.
D
Feature Status Bar
Indicates the features currently enabled and in use:
•
Toolkits (TRIG, AWS, TCG, DAC, DGS)
•
View (RF, R+, R-, FW)
•
Detect (ZX, FK, PK)
•
Leg-Skip Leg reference (L1....L4....)
•
Alarm Mode (G1+, G2+)
•
Gain Setting
E
Measurement View Area
RF, +RECT, -RECT or RECTFW view area (type depends upon
measurement view).
F
Leg (skip leg)
Indicates which skip/leg the detection is on.
The thickness of the material is used to calculate the leg.
G
Hot Menu
The hot menu contains a selection of the most commonly used
options, allowing you to conveniently adjust them to your needs
while the graphical display is active
Hot Menu Enabled
Hot Menu Disabled
14.3 +RECT MEASUREMENT SCREEN
The +RECT view is similar to the RF display
but shows only the positive half of the
waveform.
The detection point is indicated on the
waveform.
14.4 -RECT MEASUREMENT SCREEN
The -RECT view is the same as the +RECT
view but shows only the negative half of the
waveform.
14.5 RECTFW MEASUREMENT SCREEN
The RECTFW view shows the entire sine
wave signal in a rectified view. There is no
polarity.
15 SETTING UP THE FLAW DETECTOR
To set up the gauge ready to detect flaws you must first set the correct transducer type and then
calibrate the gauge by adjusting the sound-velocity value to match the value of the material you are
measuring. The zero value must also be set.
15.1 TRANSDUCER - SETTING TYPE OF
The gauge must be set to the correct transducer type (SINGLE element, or DUAL element):
1.
Select MENU/PRB/TYPE.
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to adjust the value of TYPE.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
Note: Once the transducer type has been selected, your gauge will store and recall this transducer
type every time it is switched on. Use the above procedure to change the TYPE value if necessary.
15.2 ABOUT CALIBRATION
Different types of material have different sound-velocities. For example, the velocity of sound
through steel is 5918 m/s (about 0.233 in/µs) and the velocity of sound through aluminium is
6350 m/s (about 0.248 in/µs).
Hot Menu Enabled
Hot Menu Disabled
Hot Menu Enabled
Hot Menu Disabled
If the gauge is not set to the correct sound-velocity, all of the measurements the gauge makes will
be erroneous by some fixed percentage.
Note: The calibration procedures for the flaw detector and thickness gauge are different. The flaw
detector does not use the same probe zero technique as the thickness gauge so for best thickness
reading accuracy in flaw mode follow this guide carefully.
There are three methods of calibrating your gauge:
KNOWN MATERIAL CALIBRATION: The material you are measuring is selected from a list of materials
stored in the gauge. After you have selected the material, you should check and if necessary adjust
the zero value - see page 30 making this the preferred calibration method.
KNOWN VELOCITY CALIBRATION: The sound-velocity of the material being measured is entered
directly into the gauge. After you have selected the sound-velocity of the material, you should check
and if necessary adjust the zero value - see page 30.
KNOWN THICKNESS CALIBRATION: The gauge is calibrated by setting it to two known thicknesses -
see page 30. The zero value is set automatically during this procedure.
For the highest measurement accuracy use the known thickness calibration, as this takes into
account variation in material composition, temperature and a variety of other factors.
15.3 KNOWN MATERIAL CALIBRATION
If the material velocity is unknown, and a sample thickness cannot be taken from the material, you
can choose a material type from a list stored in the gauge. For each material stored in the list there
is a corresponding longitudinal velocity value and a shear velocity value.
Note: In order to display the chart containing the shear wave velocities, the TRIG mode must be
enabled - see See “TRIG - Trigonometry Mode” on page 36.
Note: These velocities will not always be an exact representation of the material being tested. Use
these values only if a close approximation is acceptable.
1.
Press MENU/CAL/MAT and then press ENTER
2.
Scroll through the material list until the appropriate material is highlighted.
3.
Press ENTER to choose the material type, then press OK.
The material velocity and zero value are displayed in the CAL menu.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
5.
Measure a calibration standard and, if necessary, adjust the zero value until the material
thickness value matches the thickness of the calibration standard - see “Manually Adjusting
the Zero Value” on page 30.
15.4 KNOWN VELOCITY CALIBRATION
If the material velocity is known, you can enter the velocity value directly into the gauge. A list of the
sound velocities of common materials is given at the end of this instruction manual.
1.
Select MENU/CAL/VELOCITY.
2.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
3.
Use the navigation buttons to adjust the value.
4.
Press OK to set the velocity and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
The material velocity and zero value are displayed in the CAL menu.
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
Measure a calibration standard and, if necessary, adjust the zero value until the material
thickness value matches the thickness of the calibration standard - see “Manually Adjusting
the Zero Value” on page 30.
15.5 MANUALLY ADJUSTING THE ZERO VALUE
If you have calibrated the gauge by entering a material type or the velocity value of the material, you
should check and if necessary adjust the zero value.This step requires a calibration block.
1.
Select MENU/CAL/ZERO.
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT keys to scroll the value, or press ENTER to open the digits edit box
and adjust the value using the navigation buttons.
3.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
15.6 KNOWN THICKNESS CALIBRATION
If the sound velocity of a material is unknown, a sample with two known thicknesses can be used
to determine the sound velocity. If a sample is not available, calibration standards representing the
minimum and maximum thickness of the overall inspection range intended are required. They must
also be of the same material type as the intended application. The example of thickness calibration
given in this section uses a 1” and a 4” standard for calibration.
Note: This section describes performing a calibration using a straight beam contact transducer.
Single and dual element probes may be calibrated in this way. Further information can be found on
the Elcometer NDT website on www.elcometerndt.com.
LOAD THE DEFAULT SETUP
The gauge will require a few basic adjustments in order to get underway with the calibration
process. For this example the default setup will be loaded as a starting point.
1.
Select MENU/SETUP/DEFAULT SETUP.
2.
Press ENTER.
3.
Press OK.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
SET THE RANGE
Set the range so that peaks from the small and large calibration samples are visible on the display.
Our calibration range for this example is 4”. Therefore setting a range of 5” will enable you to view
the entire range on the display.
Use the hot menu to adjust the RANGE value to 5”.
ENABLE AND CONFIGURE GATE 1
In order to measure, a gate is required.
The width of the gate should be small
enough, in terms of its width, in order to
select specific reflections to measure.
The purpose of the gate is to allow the
gauge to detect on a particular signal. To
calibrate the gauge the user must
ensure that the horizontal gate line and
the signal peak of interest cross. You
can use the GATES1 item in the hot
menu with the navigation keys to move
the gate over signal of interest. Enable
the DETECT MARK to check the gauge
is detecting on the correct peak. On
z-crossing and flank detection modes
(section 11.2), the first peak the gate
crosses will be used.
The screenshots show gates enabled to select the 1” calibration standard, and the 4” calibration
standard.
To enable and configure Gate 1, follow the instructions given in “Gates” on page 35 and use the
following suggested settings:
ALARM:
ON
DETECT:
ABOVE
GATE#:
A value less than 1”
GATE# WIDTH:
A value greater than 1”
THRESHOLD#:
20%
POLARITY:
POSITIVE
Note: The settings given above are for this particular example calibration. You should always use
settings which meet the requirements of your applications.
CALIBRATING TO THE FIRST POINT (ON THE THIN CALIBRATION STANDARD)
1.
Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady contact with the
1” thin calibration standard. Be sure that the reading is stable and the repeatability indicator, in
the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable. Also, be sure there is sufficient signal
amplitude in order to avoid peak jumping or missing the first cycle.
2.
Press MEAS to view the measurement screen.
3.
In the hot menu, scroll to GATE1.
4.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to move the gate over the peak of the
waveform to be measured, as shown in the screenshot.
Note: In order to trigger on a signal, the waveform must be inside
the boundaries of the gate.
5.
Select MENU/CAL/ MATL 1PT.
6.
Press ENTER to display the Digits Edit Box.
7.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value, or press ENTER to
open the digits edit box and adjust the value using the navigation
buttons.
Gate for 1”
Calibration Standard
Gate for 4”
Calibration Standard
Press MEAS to calculate the material velocity and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel.
CALIBRATING TO THE SECOND POINT (ON THE THICK CALIBRATION STANDARD)
1.
Repeat the steps given in section
above, but this time:
•
Use the 4” calibration standard
(instead of the 1” calibration stand-
ard)
•
Adjust GATE1 over the waveform -
as shown in this screenshot.
•
Adjust the value of MATL 2PT to
match the length of the 4” calibra-
tion standard (instead of MATL
1PT).
The material velocity and zero value
are
calculated
and
displayed
as
shown.
2.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
ADJUSTING THE GATE TO THE CALIBRATED RANGE
In order to trigger on anything that is detected in the calibrated range, the boundaries of the gate
must be adjusted to include the entire range.
Note: Caution: in both z-cross & flank detection settings, the first signal to cross the gate will be
triggered on. However, if the peak detection setting has been enabled, the signal with the most
amplitude will be detected.
1.
Press
MEAS
to
view
the
measurement screen.
2.
In the hot menu, scroll to GATE1.
3.
Move the gate start to a position
less than 1”.
4.
In the hot menu, scroll to WIDTH1.
5.
Adjust the width of the gate until its
right hand end is at a position
greater than 4”.
6.
Place the transducer back on the
calibration points (1” and/or 4”).
7.
Press OK to display the thickness.
The thickness reading should now
match the known thickness. If the
thickness is not correct, repeat the
calibration procedure.
15.7 CALIBRATION FOR ANGLE BEAM TRANSDUCERS
Further information on Calibration for Angle Beam Transducers can be found on the Elcometer NDT
Knowledge Centre on www.elcometerndt.com.
WIDTH1 adjusted
Press OK to display
thickness
16 MEASUREMENT - DETECTING FLAWS
Disclaimer: Inherent in ultrasonic measurement is the possibility that the instrument will use the
second rather than the first echo from the back surface of the material being measured. This may
result in a incorrect readings.
Responsibility for proper use of the instrument and recognition of this phenomenon rests solely with
the user of the instrument.
Other errors may occur from measuring coated materials where the coating is insufficiently bonded
to the material surface. Irregular and inaccurate readings may result. Again, the user is responsible
for proper use and interpretation of the measurements acquired.
16.1 BEFORE YOU START
•
Prepare the surface - see “Condition and Preparation of Surfaces” on page 56.
•
Set transducer type, calibrate and set the zero - see “Setting Up The Flaw Detector” on
page 28.
•
Set up the Gate or Gates - see “Gates” on page 35.
•
Choose the measurement view - see “The Measurement Screen” on page 26.
16.2 PROCEDURE
See “Procedure” on page 21.
17 ADJUSTING THE WAVEFORM DISPLAY
If the waveform around the detection point is not visible on the display, use one of the following
methods to adjust the viewable range of the display:
•
Use the Auto Find function - see “Auto Find” on page 23. This is the preferred method and
provides a quick and easy method of adjusting the viewable range.
•
Change the values of the DELAY and RANGE functions until the measurement falls inside the
viewable range of the display - see instructions below.
17.1 AUTO FIND
Your gauge includes a function for locating the detection point of a back wall echo that is not
currently in the viewable region of the display. Suppose the gauge is currently setup with a delay of
0.0 and a width of 1.0, and you are measuring material with a thickness of 2.5. The gauge will make
the correct measurement and display it digitally, however, the waveform will not be visible without
adjusting the values of Delay and Width.
The AUTO FIND function solves this problem by letting the gauge find the detection point and bring
the waveform signal into view automatically. If necessary you can then make small adjustments to
the range once the signal is displayed on the screen.
To use the AUTO FIND function:
1.
Place the transducer on the test material and obtain a reading.
2.
Press MENU/UTIL menu and then highlight the AUTO FIND function.
3.
Press ENTER.
4.
Press OK. This will adjust the settings automatically and the waveform is brought into view on
the measurement screen.
5.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
17.2 DELAY & RANGE
See “DELAY AND RANGE” on page 12.
17.3 ADJUSTING DELAY AND RANGE
“Adjusting DELAY and RANGE (or B-START and B-DEPTH)” on page 13.
17.4 GAIN
See Section “Gain” on page 13.
17.5 TO ADJUST THE GAIN VALUE
“To Adjust the Gain Value” on page 13.
Your gauge is equipped with two gates which control the time measurement process and which play
an important role in the detection and measurement of a flaw. Detections are only made within the
boundaries of a gate. Anything outside of the start and range/width of the gate will be ignored. The
height of a gate is also a threshold, and controls the level of sensitivity. The gates can be adjusted
to a specific reference height, based on a predetermined reflector, and set to act as an alarm during
the inspection process.
Using
gates
to
adjust
the
time
measurement process allows you to
measure a specific region on and
between waveforms. For example, a test
block with a target size and depth is
optimised on the display with a signal
amplitude at 70% full screen height. The
inspector wants to know about any
defects during the inspection that are
greater than or equal in size to the
calibrated test specimen. A gate is then
enabled and set to a reference height of
70%. The width and range are adjusted
to cover the range tested, and you are
then ready to conduct the inspection.
The two gates are fully independent. Each gate has a start and stop or width, a threshold, a polarity
switch, and a detect option. Both gates can be enabled and set for different detects and polarities,
and can be positioned anywhere on the display independent of one another.
The screenshots show a rectified waveform without a gate (disabled) and with a gate enabled. The
enabled gate is shown as a horizontal line on the display.
Each gate has the following settings:
Setting
Values
Function
ALARM
ON
Enables the gate and flashes the red light on the front of the
gauge when the waveform breaks the threshold level, either
above or below, depending on the current DETECT setting.
OFF
Disables the gate.
When disabled, all the other menu items are greyed out.
AUDIBLE
Has the same function as ON, but sounds a beeper as well as
flashing the red light.
DETECT
ABOVE
Triggers the alarm when a signal is equal to or greater than the
height of the gate.
BELOW
Triggers the alarm when a signal is equal to or less than the
height of the gate.
GATE#
Numerical
value
Sets the start position of the gate relative to the horizontal axis
or depth (this is the left boundary of the gate, or where it turns
on).
GATE# WIDTH
Numerical
value
Sets the width of the gate relative to the horizontal axis or
depth (this sets the right boundary of the gate, or where it turns
off).
Gate Disabled
Gate Enabled
Some settings can be adjusted from the hot menu but all settings are found to adjust any of these
settings:
1.
Select MENU/GT1 or GT2 and highlight the desired setting
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT keys to scroll the value, or press ENTER to open the digits edit box
and adjust the value using the navigation buttons.
3.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
19 TRIG - TRIGONOMETRY MODE
19.1 ABOUT TRIGONOMETRY MODE
Trig mode is most commonly used for inspecting welded joints using an angle beam transducer.
Due to the location, orientation, and geometry of the weld, a straight beam transducer is typically
not suitable for inspection. As a result, a transducer emitting sound at a given angle will allow the
operator to position the transducer away from the weld, and skip into the weld at a given angle.
Therefore, in order to determine the location of a defect, given a specific angle, the trigonometry
mode is used.
This section describes the steps you need to take to setup and use trigonometry mode.
ANGLE BEAM TRANSDUCERS FOR WELD INSPECTION
where:
SP =
Sound path
Angle =
Transducer angle
Thickness = Material thickness
X-Offset =
Front of wedge less Index
SD =
Surface distance
Depth =
Depth of flaw from surface
THRESHOLD#
%
Sets the sensitivity of the gate (its height).
POLARITY
POSITIVE
Sets detection to occur on the positive going echo.
NEGATIVE
Sets detection to occur on the negative going echo.
Setting
Values
Function
Angle Beam Transducer
Weld Inspection
TYPICAL TRIG MODE MEASUREMENT SCREEN
When TRIG mode is enabled, the calculated measurements are
displayed below the waveform display area at (B), and the signal
amplitude as a percentage of full screen height at (A).
CURVED SURFACE CORRECTION
The gauge will also compensate for convex curved
surfaces of longitudinally welded pipes.
For a given transducer, a curved surface results in a
longer sound path than a flat surface. You should
consider the angle used on curved surfaces, with
respect to the material thickness, in order to be sure a
reflection will occur from the opposite surface of the
test material.
In order to use the curved surface compensation
function, the outside diameter must be entered into the
gauge.
19.2 SETTING UP TRIGONOMETRY MODE
TRIG MODE SETTINGS
ADJUSTING TRIG MODE SETTINGS:
1.
Select MENU/TRIG then the desired function
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT keys to scroll the value, or press ENTER to open the digits edit box
and adjust the value using the navigation buttons
3.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
Setting
Values
Function
TRIG
ON
Enables Trig Mode.
OFF
Disables Trig Mode.
When disabled, all the other menu items are greyed out.
THICKNESS
Numerical
value
The thickness of the material being scanned for flaws.
ANGLE
Numerical
value
The angle of the transducer.
X-OFFSET
Numerical
value
The X-Offset is used for purposes of marking, and is
physically measured with a ruler from the index point to the
front edge of the transducer.
CSC OD
Numerical
value
Curved Surface Outside Diameter. This value is only used
when scanning the curved surfaces of longitudinally welded
pipes.
A
B
20 AWS - WELD INSPECTION
20.1 ABOUT AWS
Further information on AWS - Weld Inspection can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge
Centre on www.elcometerndt.com.
AWS D1.1 STANDARD: There are specific transducers that are required by the D1.1 standard. The
frequency specified by the standard is 2-2.5MHz. Please refer to the standard for further
information.
20.2 SETTING UP THE AWS FUNCTION
Before setting up and using the AWS function you must:
1.
Conduct a two point calibration - see “Known Thickness Calibration” on page 30.
2.
Set up TRIG mode - see “Setting up Trigonometry Mode” on page 37.
AWS SETTINGS
ADJUSTING AWS SETTINGS
1.
Select MENU/AWS then the desired function.
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT keys to switch on or off, or to select value
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
20.3 USING AWS
1.
Couple the transducer to the first
calibration standard and peak up on
the reflector to achieve maximum
signal amplitude.
2.
Enable the AWS function and adjust
the AWS settings to your requirements
(see “Adjusting TCG Settings” on
page 42). Ensure that the value of
DRAW is set to ON.
A highlighted cursor is displayed in the
waveform area, starting at the left most
side of the measurement screen.
3.
In the hot menu, scroll to GATE1.
Setting
Values
Function
AWS
ON
Enables the AWS function.
OFF
Disables the AWS function.
When disabled, all the other menu items are greyed out.
SET REF GAIN
ON
Enables reference gain.
OFF
Disables reference gain.
% SCRN HEIGHT
Numerical
value
% Screen Height is an arbitrary level, and is not specified by the
AWS D1.1. Set a value that will optimise viewing defects that are
larger and smaller than the reference level. Typically this level is set
between 50% to 80% of full screen height.
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
AWS
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
Because you have already calibrated the gauge and set up the TRIG function, the gate is
already enabled and a grey cursor is visible in the waveform area of the measurement screen.
4.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to position the start of GATE1 to trigger on the waveform.
5.
Optional: In the hot menu:
•
Scroll to WIDTH1.
•
Use LEFT and RIGHT to adjust the value of WIDTH1 until the signal is in the gate.
When the signal is in the gate, the height indicator will detect and display the % full screen
height.
6.
In the hot menu, scroll to AWS BOX.
7.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to position the cursor box over the waveform and then press ENTER to
set the REF GN (reference gain) value.
Note: This process can be repeated and reset multiple times, or until the SET REF GAIN func-
tion is toggled OFF.
8.
Press MENU, scroll to the AWS menu and then highlight the SET REF GAIN function.
9.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value of SET REF GAIN to OFF.
10. Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
11. Press OK to view the AWS screen.
21 DAC - DISTANCE AMPLITUDE CORRECTION
21.1 ABOUT DAC
A DAC curve is a gate with a variable threshold to compensate for a given reflector type and size
measured at different depths.
Further information can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com.
Note: Based on the gauge screen resolution, the dynamic range of the DAC is approximately 18 dB.
As a result, inspection of any materials that attenuate more than 18 dB over the inspection range,
the DAC feature should not be used, and TCG should be considered (see “TCG - Time Corrected
Gain” on page 42).
21.2 SETTING UP THE DAC FUNCTION
Before setting up and using the DAC function you must:
1.
Conduct a two point calibration - see “Known Thickness Calibration” on page 30.
2.
If you are going to use the TRIG mode, set it up before using the DAC function - see “Setting
up Trigonometry Mode” on page 37.
ADJUSTING DAC SETTINGS
1.
Select MENU/DAC then the desired function
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value until the correct value is being displayed.
3.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
Setting
Values
Function
DAC
ON
Enables the DAC function.
AUDIBLE
Enables audible signal.
OFF
Disables the DAC function.
When disabled, all the other menu items are greyed out.
DRAW
ON
Enables draw mode.
OFF
Disables draw mode.
MEAS
dB
%FSH
%DAC
Sets the quantity to be displayed when in the DAC function is
enabled:
•
dB - decibels
•
%FSH - The top of the waveform display represents 100%
full screen height. Any waveform amplitudes generated
greater than 100% full screen height will not be displayed.
100% is the greatest value that can be displayed.
•
%DAC - All the DAC curve represents 100%. Any signal
generating an amplitude below the DAC curve is less than
100%, and any above greater than 100%.
Note: The MEAS option selected is overridden with %FSH
when DRAW is set to ON.
Note: This option can be changed at any time after the DAC
curve has been created.
CURVE
DAC, -2, -6,
-10, (-6/-12),
(-6/-14) dB
Selects curve type. DAC or DAC less a number of decibels
Note: This option can be changed at any time after the DAC
curve has been created.
TRIGGER
DAC, -2, -6,
-10, (-6/-12),
(-6/-14) dB
Select which curve or gate to use as the alarm trigger.
Any of the DAC curves or gate displayed can be set as the
trigger alarm option.
The TRIGGER values available vary according to which
CURVE type is selected.
All the DAC curve or gate combinations only detect when the
amplitude of the signal is at or above the selected trigger
option.
Note: This option can be changed at any time after the DAC
curve has been created.
21.3 DRAWING A DAC CURVE
1.
Couple the transducer to the first
calibration standard and peak up on
the reflector, adjusting the gain to keep
the signal height within the boundaries
of the waveform display area, and at a
suitable height to allow for attenuation
at greater depths in the overall range to
be tested.
2.
Enable the DAC function and adjust
the DAC settings to your requirements
(see “Adjusting DAC Settings” on
page 40). Ensure that the value of
DRAW is set to ON.
A highlighted cursor is displayed in the waveform area, starting at the left most side of the
measurement screen.
3.
In the hot menu, scroll to DAC BOX.
4.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to move the cursor over the section of the waveform to be used as the
first point in the DAC curve and then press ENTER to set the first point of the curve.
5.
Repeat step 4 multiple times to set other points of the curve.
The DAC curve is displayed after three points have been set/recorded, and will continue to be
redrawn/updated for each additional point added.
Note: A DAC curve can contain a maximum of eight points.
Note: Any point can be cleared by pressing CLR when the value of DRAW is set to ON.
6.
Press MENU, scroll to the DAC menu and then highlight the DRAW function.
7.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value of DRAW to OFF.
The DAC curves are now set and ready to be used for inspection.
8.
Optional: To display the DAC curve:
•
In the DAC menu, highlight the CURVE function.
•
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value of CURVE to ON.
•
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
The DAC curve is displayed.
22 TCG - TIME CORRECTED GAIN
The TCG function increases gain as distance increases in order to achieve an overall level of
sensitivity for the same reflector at different distances. The gain is adjusted at each selected point
to display the signal amplitude at a predetermined reference level.
Further information can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com.
22.1 SETTING UP THE TCG FUNCTION
Before setting up and using the TCG function you must:
1.
Conduct a two point calibration - see “Known Thickness Calibration” on page 30.
2.
If you are going to use the TRIG mode, set it up before using the TCG function - see “Setting
up Trigonometry Mode” on page 37.
TCG SETTINGS
ADJUSTING TCG SETTINGS
1.
Select MENU/TCG
2.
Use the LEFT and RIGHT keys to scroll the value, or press ENTER to open the digits edit box
and adjust the value using the navigation buttons
3.
Press OK to set the value and return to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel.
4.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
Setting
Values
Function
TCG
ON
Enables the TCG function.
AUDIBLE
Enables audible signal.
OFF
Disables the TCG function.
When disabled, all the other menu items are greyed out.
DRAW
ON
Enables draw mode.
OFF
Disables draw mode.
CURVE
ON
Enables TCG correction curve and displays the curve on the
measurement screen.
OFF
Disables TCG correction curve.
% SCRN
HEIGHT
Numerical
value
Sets the reference level of the TCG as a percentage of full
screen height (FSH).
22.2 DRAWING A TCG CURVE
1.
Couple the transducer to the first
calibration standard and peak up on
the reflector to achieve maximum
signal amplitude.
2.
Enable the TCG function and adjust
the TCG settings to your requirements
(see “Adjusting TCG Settings” on
page 42). Ensure that the value of
DRAW is set to ON.
A highlighted cursor is displayed in the
waveform area, starting at the left most
side of the measurement screen.
3.
In the hot menu, scroll to TCG BOX.
4.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to move the cursor over the section of the waveform to be used as the
first point in the TCG curve and then press ENTER to set the first point of the curve.
5.
Repeat step 4 multiple times to set other points of the curve.
The TCG curve is displayed after three points have been set/recorded, and will continue to be
redrawn/updated for each additional point added.
Note: A TCG curve can contain a maximum of eight points.
Note: Any point can be cleared by pressing CLR when the value of DRAW is set to ON.
6.
Press MENU, scroll to the TCG menu and then highlight the DRAW function.
7.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value of DRAW to OFF.
The TCG curves are now set and ready to be used for
inspection.
8.
Optional: To display the TCG curve:
•
In the TCG menu, highlight the CURVE function.
•
Use LEFT and RIGHT to scroll the value of CURVE to ON.
•
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
The TCG curve is displayed.
23 MEASUREMENT - OPTIONS
Further information can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com.
The Polarity function is used in the same way for the flaw detector as it is for the thickness gauge.
Polarity is selectable depending on the VIEW, GT1, GT2 and DAC settings
23.1 DETECT MODE
Your gauge has three detection modes; Z-Cross, Flank, and Peak. The following diagrams illustrate
the difference between the options:
In the diagrams, the current polarity is positive (as shown by the position of the gate - above the
baseline).
Z-CROSS: The detection occurs as the first positive half cycle crosses the baseline and goes
negative.
FLANK: The detection occurs as the first half cycle left edge rises and breaks the threshold.
PEAK: The detection occurs at the highest peak in the gate.
To adjust the Detect Mode setting:
1.
MENU/TUNE/DETECT MODE
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to adjust the value of DETECT MODE.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
23.2 PULSE WIDTH
See “Pulse Width” on page 24.
23.3 PULSER VOLTAGE
Your gauge has a 200 V square wave pulser that can be adjusted for specific applications and
transducers. The standard pulser setting is 150 V, and the Pulser Volt function allows you to
increase or decrease this value by 50 V to give greater penetration for difficult material types, or
increased resolution on noisy materials.
To adjust the Pulser Voltage setting:
See “Pulser Voltage” on page 25.
23.4 PULSE REPETITION FREQUENCY (PRF)
Your gauge has an adjustable pulse repetition rate (8 Hz, 16 Hz, 32 Hz, 66 Hz, 125 Hz, 250 Hz and
333 Hz). This setting determines how fast the pulser fires. The repetition rate is tied into the alarm
LEDS. Therefore, when scanning at higher speeds, a higher repetition rate will make the alarm
trigger more responsive. It is important to note that since the screen has a maximum refresh rate of
120Hz, any PRF settings over this maximum will not be visible on the display (in fact, the human
eye has a response rate of less than 60 Hz).
Flank
Z-Cross
Peak
The PRF setting will automatically be overridden according to the value of RANGE you have set.
Long RANGE settings will slow down the PRF automatically.
Note: Slower PRF settings use less electrical power, therefore if your current application does not
need fast scanning speeds, selecting a slower PRF will help conserve battery life.
To adjust the Pulse Repetition Frequency setting:
1.
MENU/PRB/MAX PRF
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to adjust the value of MAX PRF.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
23.5 DAMPING
Your gauge has a damping function which adjusts the input impedance of the receiver. This enables
you to optimise the gauge to suit the transducer for better signal quality at various frequencies. The
damping settings are 50, 75, 100, 300, 600 and 1500 ohms.
To adjust the DAMPING setting:
1.
Press MENU/PRB/DAMPING.
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to adjust the value of DAMPING.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
23.6 FILTERS (FD700DL+ gauges only)
Your gauge has a range of filters; one wide band filter of 1.8 MHz to 19 MHz and narrow band filters
at 2 MHz, 5 MHz and 10 MHz. The wide band option is responsive to all signals within the given
frequency range. Narrow band filters eliminate signals outside of the target filter frequency, and
focus on the output of the transducer at the specified frequency.
To adjust the FILTERS setting:
1.
MENU/TUNE/FILTERS.
2.
Use LEFT and RIGHT to adjust the value of FILTERS.
3.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen, ready to begin taking readings.
23.7 PEAK HOLD
Your gauge has a function which draws and saves the maximum waveform amplitude on the
measurement screen. This allows you to locate the maximum signal amplitude more easily while
you move the transducer over the surface in all directions.
To use the PEAK HOLD function while you are searching for flaws:
Press MULTI MODE/PEAK/MEAS.
To cancel PEAK HOLD:
Press MULTI MODE/NORMAL/MEAS.
23.8 FREEZE WAVEFORM
Your gauge has a function which takes a snapshot of the waveform currently being displayed on
the screen. When the snapshot has been taken and the waveform is frozen on the measurement
screen, you can then safely remove the transducer from the test material without losing the current
waveform. This enables you to study the waveform in more detail.
To FREEZE the waveform currently being displayed:
Press MULTI MODE/FREEZE/ENTER.
The measurement screen displays the snapshot of the waveform.
To cancel FREEZE:
Press MULTI MODE/NORMAL/MEAS.
SECTION 4 : FUNCTIONS & FEATURES COMMON TO ALL GAUGES
24 MEASUREMENT - RECORDING YOUR READINGS
Your gauge is equipped with a data logger -. With a data file open, all your measurements are saved
into the file for later review and download to PC.
24.1 ABOUT THE DATA LOGGER
With a data file open, as you take measurements, the measurement data is stored in files in the
gauge memory.
DATA LOGGER FILE FORMAT
You have a choice of two different file formats:
•
Grid format: Similar to a spreadsheet format in which each cell is used to store a reading. Cells
are referenced by the row number (1 to 999) and the column label (A to ZZ).
•
Sequential format: A single column of up to 512 possible rows (readings), and a column of
corresponding identifiers associated with each individual reading. The identifier can be a
combination of up to 10 alphanumeric/special characters (see below), however it must not
start or end with a special character. Once a start and end ID are entered into the gauge and
the log created, the gauge automatically generates all the identifiers within that range.
DATA LOGGER FILENAME CHARACTER SETS
Any combination of the following characters can be used for file names and sequential format
identifiers:
•
Numeric characters: 0 - 9
•
Alpha Characters: A - Z
•
Special Characters: ! ' _ # space / . - ( )
WHAT MEASUREMENT DATA IS SAVED
When a measurement is taken (irrespective of log file format), the following information is saved:
•
The reading value.
•
A screenshot, the nature of which will depend on what view the gauge was in at the time the
reading was taken. For example, if the view was in B-SCAN, then a B-SCAN screenshot will
be saved with the reading. This 'Save Graphics' option can be toggled on/off.
You can create and save as many data files as required up to the maximum capacity of the gauge
memory (32 Mbit). If you try to create a new file which exceeds the memory capacity, the gauge will
display an error message. Saved data must be deleted in order to make the space available..
24.2 CREATING A NEW DATA LOGGER FILE - GRID FORMAT
To create a GRID log data file:
1.
Select MENU/DATA/NEW
2.
Use (LEFT) or (RIGHT) keys to choose between grid and sequential log
types
3.
Press ENTER to continue
4.
Fill in a name and a note (if desired) for your data logger file
5.
Select the size of the grid. Grid positions are denoted by a number and a
letter, where the letter is the column and the number is the row.
Use TOP LEFT and LOWER RIGHT to define the size of the grid. For
example, a with the TOP LEFT set to A001 and LOWER RIGHT C003 would
produce a 3x3 grid
The grid can have a maximum of 52 columns and 999 rows
6.
Set the Auto Increment direction. This option allows you to select which
direction the cursor moves after a reading is stored in terms of compass
points. For example NORTH would move the cursor up a row, and WEST
would move a column left.
7.
Choose whether to activate SAVE GRAPHICS or not (snapshot of the A OR
B scan on screen).
8.
Finally create the log by scrolling to CREATE LOG, pressing ENTER and
then OK to confirm.
The measurement grid is now displayed along with the grid name on screen.
Save Graphics Option
Memory Capacity
(readings)
On
16 000 +
Off
210 000 +
24.3 CREATING A NEW DATA LOGGER FILE - SEQUENTIAL FORMAT
1.
To create a SEQ log data file:
2.
Scroll to the DATA section of the main menu and highlight
3.
Select NEW and use the (LEFT) and (RIGHT) keys to choose between grid
and sequential log types
4.
Press enter to continue
5.
Fill in a name and a note (if desired) for your data logger file. Press OK
when complete
6.
Choose a START ID (see section 13.1)
7.
Choose a END ID (see section 13.1)
8.
Scroll to DIRECTION and select NONE, INCrement or DECrement to not
move or move either right or left through the sequential log automatically
when a reading is saved.
9.
Finally create the log by scrolling to CREATE LOG, pressing ENTER and
then OK to confirm
24.4 HANDLING LOGGER FILES
Once created, logger files may be opened or closed using the functions "OPEN"
and "CLOSE"
Closing logger files places the gauge in immediate mode and will prevent
accidental saving of data into an inappropriate log.
24.5 STORING READINGS IN A DATA LOGGER FILE
1.
Create a new data logger file or open an existing file.
The grid or sequential file is displayed in the lower half of the measurement screen.
Note: Once the file is open, it will remain open until it is closed or another file is opened. If the
gauge is switched off, the file will be opened automatically when the gauge is switched on
again. Press ENTER to display the file from the measurement screen.
2.
If you want to save the reading to a particular cell location, scroll to the desired cell.
Note: The cell location must be empty. If it already contains a reading and you want to save a
new reading to the same location, refer to the instructions given in “Viewing and Deleting
readings” on page 49.
3.
Take a reading and then press ENTER.
The reading value is saved in the file at the location selected and the cursor advances to the
next cell according to the rules set for the data logger file:
•
Grid log data file only: If INCR. DIR is set to NORTH, EAST, SOUTH or WEST, the cursor
will advance one cell in the chosen direction. When the cursor reaches the last cell in the
row or column it will return to the other end of the row or column.
•
Sequential log data file only: If DIRECTION is set to INC or DEC, the cursor will advance
one cell in the chosen direction. When the cursor reaches the last cell in the column it will
return to the other end of the column.
Note: If you try to save a reading into a cell location which already contains a reading value, a
warning message is displayed (see Deleting a reading).
4.
Grid log data file only: To advance to a specific row number, press OK enter the row number.
Press OK to advance directly to that row number in the grid log.
To toggle the display between DIGITS view and B-SCAN view, press ESC.
6.
If you are unable to take a measurement due to the measurement location being physically
inaccessible, press CLR.
The cell location in the data file is marked OBST (Obstruct).
7.
The display of the log data file on the measurement screen can be switched on and off:
•
To switch off, press MEAS.
•
To switch on, press ENTER.
24.6 VIEWING AND DELETING READINGS
With a data file open:
1.
Use the arrows to scroll through the cells in the data file.
As the cursor is moved to a different cell, the display is updated with the display view saved
with the reading (if SAVE GRAPHICS was set to YES). Readings stored in memory are
indicated by MEM in the top left corner of the measurement screen (in place of the bars of the
stability indicator).
2.
To delete a reading, scroll to the cell location, press CLR and then OK (or ESC to cancel).
The reading is deleted and if you wish you can now take another measurement and save the
reading in this cell location.
24.7 EDITING A DATA LOGGER FILE
You can edit the following fields of data files:
•
Grid files: NAME, NOTE, and INCRement DIRection
•
Sequential files: NAME, NOTE, DIRECTION and LOG SIZE
To edit a file:
1.
Open the data file.
2.
EDIT and press ENTER.
The EDIT GRID LOG (or EDIT SEQ LOG) screen is displayed and lists all the fields which can
be edited.
3.
Scroll to the field you want to edit, press ENTER and then adjust the contents of the field using
the techniques previously described to create a data file - see page 47.
4.
When finished, scroll to SAVE CHANGES, press ENTER and then OK (or ESC to cancel).
24.8 DELETING A DATA LOGGER FILE
1.
Select MENU/DATA/DELETE ONE FILE.
2.
Press ENTER.
The OPEN LOG screen is displayed and lists all the data files stored in your gauge memory.
3.
Scroll through the list until the data file you want to delete is highlighted.
4.
Press OK (or ESC to cancel).
The file is deleted.
24.9 DELETING ALL DATA LOGGER FILES
Note: This will delete all the data logger files in gauge memory - use with caution.
1.
Select MENU/DATA/DELETE ALL DATA
2.
Press ENTER and then OK to confirm (or ESC to cancel).
The data logger memory is erased - all files are deleted.
25 GAUGE SETUPS
Your gauge contains 64 configurable preset locations in which you can store custom gauge setups,
each one optimised for a specific measuring application.
These gauge setups can save time when conducting routine inspections of the same job or project.
This feature also helps to eliminate error between two or more users during the setup and
calibration process.
The setups store:
•
Measurement mode
•
Transducer type
•
Gain setting
•
Scan mode setting
•
Alarm settings
•
Differential settings
•
Display type setting
As well as storing the setups in your gauge, you can also store the setups on a computer and
transfer them bi-directionally using the PC interface software included with the gauge.
The factory supplied setups stored in the gauge cover some of the more typical applications
commonly used with this type of instrument and may be modified freely by the user.
The PC interface software includes a default setup file that can be uploaded to the gauge at any
time to restore factory settings. However, you should consider saving modified setups to an empty
location rather than overwriting the factory setups in your gauge.
25.1 OPENING A SETUP
1.
Select MENU/SET/OPEN.
2.
Press ENTER to display the SETUP LIST BOX.
3.
Scroll through the list of setups until the required setup is highlighted.
4.
Press ENTER to activate the confirmation screen.
5.
Press OK to load the setup from memory.
6.
Press MEAS to return to the measurement screen.
25.2 SAVING AND EDITING A SETUP
Once the parameters and features have been adjusted for an application,
you can save these setting to a specific setup location for future use.
It is sometimes necessary to rename a previously saved setup, or add additional comments about
a particular setup. The other comments about the project may also be required for additional
documentation purposes.
The following procedures outline the necessary steps for saving and editing a setup:
Press MENU, SET and SAVE
2.
Press ENTER to display the Save Setup edit box.
3.
Scroll to NAME and then press ENTER to edit its value:
•
When you have finished, press OK to enter the value.
4.
If you want to add a note, repeat step 3 for NOTE.
5.
When you have finished, scroll to SAVE SETUP and press ENTER.
The setup list screen is displayed.
6.
Scroll through the list of setups until the required location to save the
setup is highlighted.
7.
Press OK to activate the confirmation screen.
8.
Press OK to save the Setup, or ESC to cancel.
Note: The Name and Note parameters of a Setup can be edited at any time
by repeating the Save Setup routine described above. Therefore, the Save
Setup function can also be considered an Edit Function.
25.3 DELETING A SAVED SETUP
This option deletes a setup file from your gauge (for example, if it is no longer
needed).
1.
Press MENU, scroll to the SET menu and then highlight the DELETE function.
2.
Press ENTER to display the SETUP LIST BOX.
3.
Scroll through the list of setups until the required setup is highlighted.
4.
Press ENTER to activate the confirmation screen.
5.
Press OK to delete the setup from memory.
25.4 USING THE DEFAULT SETUP
Your gauge includes a default setup which you can use if there are no other setups stored in the
gauge and you need to reset it to factory settings. This gives you the ability to load and modify a
basic setup as follows:
1.
Press MENU, scroll to the SET menu and then highlight the DEFAULT SETUP function.
2.
Press ENTER to activate the confirmation screen.
3.
Press OK to confirm.
4.
Press OK again to confirm.
26 DATA TRANSFER SOFTWARE
Software is available which allows data to be transferred from your gauge to a PC. Presently
Elcometer supplies NDT Link software for this purpose.
To set-up other types of communications software:
1.
Start the communications software.
2.
Configure the software using the following parameters:
Data Bits - 8, Parity - None, Stop Bits - 1, Baud Rate 1200 (to print a report), or 9600 to
transfer data file.
Note: A report can be printed to a communications program (i.e. HyperTerminal), or printed to
a serial printer using A4 or 8.5" x 11" paper.
3.
Set the communications software COM port to the port number that the gauge is connected to.
26.1 TRANSFERRING MEASUREMENT DATA TO YOUR COMPUTER
RS-232 CONNECTOR
The RS-232 connector, located on the bottom end cap of the gauge, is a 2 pin female Lemo
connector. It is designed to connect directly from the gauge to a standard AT serial port on a PC. A
Lemo to 9 pin serial cable is supplied with the gauge.
Note: This connector is also used to upgrade the gauge with the latest version of firmware.
USB TO SERIAL CONVERTER
Some newer laptop computers do not have standard serial ports. In this case, use the USB to Serial
converter supplied with the gauge.
COMPUTER SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
ElcoMaster 2.0™ is compatible with any Windows computer system running Windows XP or above.
USING THE XFER MENU
The XFER menu of your gauge is used in conjunction with the ElcoMaster 2.0™ PC software. The
steps below outline the procedure for accessing the XFER menu and basic operation as follows:
1.
Scroll to the XFER section of the main menu.
2.
Press ENTER to activate the option selected.
3.
Once the Backup or Restore function has been completed, press MEAS once to return to the
menu items, or twice to return to the measurement mode.
27 STORAGE
Your gauge has a Liquid Crystal Display. If the display is heated above 50°C (120°F) it
may be damaged. This can happen if the gauge is left in a car parked in strong sunlight.
Always store the gauge in its case when it is not being used.
If the gauge is to remain unused for long periods of time, remove the batteries and store
them separately. This will prevent damage to the gauge in the event of malfunction of
the batteries.
You own one of the finest corrosion gauges in the world. If looked after, it will last a lifetime.
28.1 FAULTS
Your gauge is designed to give many years reliable service under normal operating and storage
conditions. The gauge does not contain any user-serviceable components. In the unlikely event of
a fault, the gauge should be returned to your local Elcometer NDT supplier or directly to Elcometer
NDT. The warranty will be invalidated if the instrument has been opened.
28.2 TRANSDUCER
The transducer will wear with repeated use. Transducer life depends on the number of
measurements taken and the manner in which readings are taken. To extend transducer life,
always set the transducer down so that it is perpendicular to the panel surface. Dragging the
transducer along the surface will reduce the life of the transducer. Replacement transducers are
available from your local Elcometer NDT supplier or directly from Elcometer NDT.
29 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
29.1 PERFORMANCE
29.2 PHYSICAL
Range
Pulse-Echo P-E
0.63 mm to 3.048 m (0.025” to 100 ft)
Pulse-Echo Coating PECT
Material: 0.63 mm to 3.048 m (0.025” to 100 ft)
Coating: 0.01 mm to 2.54 mm (0.001” to 0.100”)
Pulse-Echo Temp Comp
PETP
0.63 mm to 3.048 m (0.025” to 100 ft)
Echo-Echo E-E
1.27 mm to 102 mm (0.050” to 4.0”)
Range will vary +/- depending on the coating.
Echo-Echo Verify E-EV
1.27 mm to 25.4 mm (0.050” to 1.0”)
Range will vary +/- depending on the coating.
Coating Only CT
0.0127 mm to 2.54 mm (0.0005” to 0.100”)
Range will vary +/- depending on the coating.
Resolution
0.01 mm (0.001")
Velocity Range
254.9 m/s to 16000 m/s (0.01 in/µs to 0.63 in/µs)
Weight (including batteries)
380 g (13.5 oz)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
63.5 mm x 165 mm x 31.5 mm (2.5” x 6.5” x 1.24”)
Gauge Operating
Temperature
-10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F)
Case
Aluminium case design with gasket sealed end caps, waterproof
membrane keypad.
Data Output
Bi-directional RS232 serial port. Windows PC interface software
Display
1/4 VGA AMOLED colour display (320 x 240 pixels).
120 Hz screen refresh rate.
Viewable area 43.2 mm x 57.6 mm (1.7” x 2.27”).
Adjustable brightness, colour scheme and auto dim time.
Power Source
Three 1.5 V AA alkaline or rechargeable cells. Typically operates
for 25 hours on alkaline cells and 12 hours on rechargeable cells
(charger not included.)
Note: Alkaline cells must be disposed of carefully to avoid
environmental
contamination.
Please
consult
your
local
environmental authority for information on disposal in your region.
Do not dispose of any cells in fire.
Elcometer NDT warrants your gauge against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of
two years from receipt by the end user.
Additionally, Elcometer NDT warrants transducers and accessories against such defects for a
period of 90 days from receipt by the end user. If Elcometer NDT receives notice of such defects
during the warranty period, Elcometer NDT will either, at its option, repair or replace products that
prove to be defective. The warranty will be invalidated if the instrument has been opened.
30.1 EXCLUSIONS
The above warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from: improper or inadequate maintenance
by the customer; unauthorised modification or misuse; or operation outside the environmental
specifications for the product.
Elcometer NDT makes no other warranty, either express or implied, with respect to this product.
Elcometer NDT specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose. Some states or provinces do not allow limitations on the duration of an implied
warranty, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. However, any implied warranty
of merchantability or fitness is limited to the two-year duration of this written warranty.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which may vary
from country to country, state to state or province to province.
30.2 OBTAINING SERVICE DURING WARRANTY PERIOD
If your hardware should fail during the warranty period, contact Elcometer NDT and arrange for
servicing of the product. Retain proof of purchase in order to obtain warranty service.
For products that require servicing, Elcometer NDT may use one of the following methods:
•
Repair the product
•
Replace the product with a re-manufactured unit
•
Replace the product with a product of equal or greater performance
•
Refund the purchase price.
30.3 AFTER THE WARRANTY PERIOD
If your hardware should fail after the warranty period, contact Elcometer NDT for details of the
services available, and to arrange for non-warranty service.
31 SPARES & ACCESSORIES
31.1 TRANSDUCERS
Elcometer NDT gauges are not supplied with a transducer as standard - this must be ordered
separately.
The transducers listed below are the most commonly used however, Elcometer NDT offer a wide
range of other transducers to suit various applications.
Further information on the transducers available and their applications can be found on the
Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on www.elcometerndt.com.
Description
Sales Part
No.
2.25 MHz 1/2” Lemo Single Element Contact High Wear Transducer, Medium Damped
TF2M25EM-2
5.00 MHz 3/4” x 3/4” Microdot Standard Shear Wave Transducer, High Gain
TF5M00GGG-2
3.50 MHz 3/4” BNC Single Element Contact High Wear Composite Transducer,
Medium Damped
TF3M50GM-1
2.25 MHz 1/4” Microdot Side Mini Angle Beam Transducer, 45 Degree
TF2M25C45M
5.00 MHz 3/8” Microdot Side Mini Angle Beam Transducer, 60 Degree
TF5M00D60M
10 MHz 3/16” Microdot Side Mini Angle Beam Transducer, 70 Degree
TF10M0B70M-
31.2
CALIBRATION BLOCKS
Elcometer NDT offer a comprehensive range of calibration blocks to suit a wide range of
applications and standards.
Selecting the correct calibration block for the application is essential to ensure accurate evaluation.
The form, shape and material of the calibration block should be appropriate for the material being
inspected. Any artificially induced flaw should closely resemble that of the actual flaw being tested
for.
The calibration blocks listed below are a selection of those available - details of the full range can
be found on www.elcometerndt.com.
Description
Sales Part No.
Calibration Block: 8 Step; 1 - 8mm
TW-24005-*
Calibration Block: 10 Step; 2 - 20mm
TW-24006-*
Calibration Block: 10 Step; 2.5 - 25mm
TW-24007-*
Replace * with S1018 = 1018 Steel Block; A = Aluminium Block; SS = Stainless Steel Block;
T = Titanium Block.
31.3 ULTRASONIC COUPLANT
Each gauge is supplied with a 120ml (4oz) bottle of standard ultrasonic couplant. Replacement
bottles and couplant for high temperature applications are available from your local Elcometer NDT
supplier or directly from Elcometer NDT.
Description
Sales Part No.
Ultrasonic Couplant, 120 ml (4 oz)
TC-24034-1
Ultrasonic Couplant, 360 ml (12 oz)
TC-24034-2
Note: A wide range of other transducers and accessories is available - see www.elcometerndt.com
for details.
32 CONDITION AND PREPARATION OF SURFACES
Further information on Transducers can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com.
33 APPLICATION
Further information on Applications can be found on the Elcometer NDT Knowledge Centre on
www.elcometerndt.com.
34 SOUND VELOCITIES OF COMMON MATERIALS
Material
Sound velocity
Material
Sound velocity
(m/s)
(in/µs)
(m/s)
(in/µs)
Aluminium
6350
0.250
Paraffin
2210
0.087
Bismuth
2184
0.086
Platinum
3962
0.156
Brass
4394
0.173
Plexiglas
2692
0.106
Cadmium
2769
0.109
Polystyrene
2337
0.092
Cast Iron
4572
0.180
(Approx.)
Porcelain
5842
0.230
(Approx.)
Constantan
5232
0.206
PVC
2388
0.094
Copper
4674
0.184
Quartz Glass
5639
0.222
Epoxy Resin
2540
0.100
(Approx.)
Rubber,
Vulcanised
2311
0.091
German Silver
4750
0.187
Silver
3607
0.142
Glass, Crown
5664
0.223
Steel
5918
0.233
Glass, Flint
4267
0.168
Steel, Stainless
5664
0.223
Gold
3251
0.128
Stellite
6985
0.275
(Approx.)
Ice
3988
0.157
Teflon
1422
0.056
Iron
5893
0.232
Tin
3327
0.131
Lead
2159
0.085
Titanium
6096
0.240
Magnesium
5791
0.228
Tungsten
5334
0.210
Mercury
1448
0.057
Water
1473
0.058
Nickel
5639
0.222
Zinc
4216
0.166
Nylon
2591
0.102
(Approx.)
35 THE MENU COMMANDS - THICKNESS GAUGE
Menu (Thick.)
Function
Description
PRB
(PROBE)
ZERO PROBE
Zeros your gauge in much the same way that a mechanical
micrometer is zeroed. If your gauge is not zeroed correctly,
all of the measurements made may be in error by some
fixed value. You can choose between automatic zero or
manual zero.
ZERO COATING
In order to account for very slight electronic differences in
transducers of the same type, frequency, and diameter,
your gauge includes this "zero coating" feature. This fea-
ture enables your gauge to obtain very accurate readings
on coatings, eliminating potential errors incurred from slight
differences in the transducer manufacturing processes.
TYPE
Use this function to select the type of transducer being
used from a chart of transducer types. This provides
increased linearity between transducers.
FLAW
Activates the flaw detection mode and view. This feature is
for use with single element angle beam transducers and
used as a general prove-up flaw inspection mode.
CAL
(CALIBRA-
TION)
MAT
Select the material velocity from a chart of basic material
types when a known sample thickness, or material velocity
cannot be obtained.
MATL 1PT
Performs a single point calibration. This function allows you
to automatically calculate the velocity by entering a known
sample thickness.
MATL 2PT
Performs a two-point calibration. This function allows you to
automatically calculate the velocity by entering a second
known sample thickness.
VELOCITY
This function calibrates your gauge by setting the velocity
to a known material velocity.
COATING 1PT
Performs a single point coating calibration. This function
allows you to automatically calculate the velocity by meas-
uring a known coating sample thickness.
COATING 2PT
Performs a two-point coating calibration. This function
allows you to automatically calculate the velocity by enter-
ing a second known coating sample thickness.
COATING VEL
This function calibrates your gauge to a specific coating
material type by entering a coating velocity.
Choose between RF wave, RECT (rectified) wave, BSCAN
(cross section), and DIGITS (large digits) views.
DELAY
(B-START)
Adjust where the left side of the display window starts
according to thickness, in inches or millimetres.
RANGE
(B-DEPTH)
Set the overall depth of the viewable measurement area. It
functions a lot like a zoom on a camera.
B-SCAN SPEED
Adjusts the scroll speed of the B-Scan.
Scale is 0-10 where 10 is the fastest. Default setting: 6.
UNITS
Toggle between Metric (millimetres) or English (inches)
units.
BRIGHTNESS
Adjusts the brightness of the display.
Scale is 0-20 where 20 is the brightest.
COLORS
Choose the display colour scheme (from a choice of 12).
DIM
Conserve battery life by dimming the display after idle for a
specific amount of time: OFF, 30, 60, 90, 120 seconds.
Pressing any key will restore the screen brightness.
RECT WAVE
Toggles between an outlined or filled view option when the
display setting is in RECT (rectified) wave mode.
DETECT MARK
Choose the format of the vertical line on the RF and RECT
measurement screens which shows the detection point:
Line, Box, Dots, None.
Menu (Thick.)
Function
Description
Choose which measurement mode to use.
POLARITY
The gauge operates on a zero crossing detection principle.
This feature toggles which stroke of the cycle the crossing
detection uses, either positive or negative.
PULSE
Your gauge has adjustable pulse width (SPIKE, THIN, or
WIDE) for both high penetration and resolution
applications. The pulse width refers to the duration of time
the pulser is on.
PULSER VOLT
Provides a 50 V cut/boost to the pulser. The standard
setting is 150 V. Provides greater penetration for difficult
material types, or increased resolution on noisy materials.
DAMPING
Provides multiple input impedances to match the
impedance of the transducer and therefore optimise
transducer performance.
ATTN
Provides increased or decreased amplifier strength by a
power of 10 (20dB). This attenuation value is added to the
gain value. Therefore, if the attenuator is increased to 20dB,
this value is added to the value of the gain setting.
GAIN
Increases or decreases the overall amplitude of the signal.
Gain is similar to the volume control on a stereo receiver.
AGC
When operating in E-E or E-EV mode, the gauge adjusts the
gain automatically. Alternatively, the AGC can be manually
controlled.
GT1
(GATE 1)
GATE1
Sets the start of the gate, according to time/distance.
GATE1 WIDTH
Sets the overall width of the gate, in terms of distance, from
the starting value of Gate1
THRESHOLD1
Sets the sensitivity level of Gate1. The amplitude of the
signal must reach or exceed this threshold level before a
measurement is detected.
GT2
(GATE 2)
GATE2 WIDTH
Sets the overall width of the gate, in terms of distance, from
the starting value of HOLDOFF 2.
HOLDOFF 2
Delay the starting point of Gate2 a specific distance from the
first detection point found inside of the boundaries of the
Gate 1 settings. If no detection is found, the value of GATE1
WIDTH is used as a starting value for Gate2.
THRESHOLD2
Sets the sensitivity level of Gate2. The amplitude of the
signal must reach or exceed this threshold level before a
measurement is detected.
Menu (Thick.)
Function
Description
Sets the overall width of the gate, in terms of distance, from
the starting value of HOLDOFF 3.
HOLDOFF 3
Delay the starting point of Gate3 a specific distance from the
first detection point found inside of the boundaries of the
Gate2 settings. If no detection is found, the value of GATE2
WIDTH is used as a starting value for Gate3.
THRESHOLD3
Sets the sensitivity level of Gate3. The amplitude of the
signal must reach or exceed this threshold level before a
measurement is detected.
SET
(SETUP)
OPEN
Displays a list of factory and user-defined setups currently
stored in memory. These setups can be recalled and used
at any time.
SAVE
Save a custom setup that you have modified or created.
DELETE
Delete specific setups previously saved in memory.
DEFAULT
SETUP
Loads a basic default setup. Use only as a last resort if the
setups in your gauge have been corrupted and a computer
is not accessible.
LANGUAGE
Select the menu language
DATA
NEW
Creates a new alpha numeric grid, or sequential log file
with auto identifiers. You can customise the grid or sequen-
tial log file according to your requirements.
EDIT
Modify the parameters of grid or sequential files previously
saved.
Note: Predefined coordinates cannot be changed once they
have been created.
OPEN
Recalls existing grids or sequential log files from gauge
memory.
CLOSE
Closes a currently opened grid or sequential log file.
DELETE ONE
FILE
Deletes a selected grid or sequential log file from memory.
DELETE ALL
DATA
Deletes all files currently stored in memory.
Menu (Thick.)
Function
Description
measurement is out of the viewable display area.
SCAN MODE
Enables a high speed scan mode that increases the overall
sample rate from 65 to 200 measurements per second,
depending on the current measurement mode used.
ALARM
Toggles alarm mode ON, OFF, or AUDIBLE.
ALARM HIGH
Sets the HI limit parameter. If the measurement exceeds
this value, a red light will illuminate and the alarm will
sound.
ALARM LOW
Sets the LOW limit parameter. If the measurement falls
below this value, a red light will illuminate and the alarm will
sound.
DIFFERENTIAL
Sets a nominal value and your gauge will display +/- the dif-
ference from this nominal value.
GAUGE
Set gauge type; THICKNESS GAUGE, FLAW DETECTOR
or REQUEST.
When set to REQUEST, the gauge will ask which mode is
required whenever it is switched on.
XFER
(TRANSFER)
BACKUP
SETUPS
Allows you to backup the setups currently stored in your
gauge to a computer via the RS232 port.
RESTORE
SETUPS
Allows you to restore setups saved on a computer to your
gauge via the RS232 port.
BACKUP DATA
Allows you to backup grids or sequential log files stored in
your gauge to a computer via the RS232 port.
RESTORE DATA
Allows you to restore grids or sequential log files saved on
a computer to your gauge via the RS232 port.
ABOUT
Provides Elcometer NDT contact information and your
gauge software version.
Refer to the help section of your gauge NDT Link software
for a complete electronic manual covering data transfer.
Menu (Thick.)
Function
Description
36 THE MENU COMMANDS - FLAW DETECTOR
Menu (Flaw Det.)
Function
Description
PRB
(Probe)
TYPE
Select the type of transducer being used (SINGLE or
DUAL).
PULSE
Your gauge has adjustable pulse width for both high
penetration and resolution applications. The pulse width
refers to the duration of time the pulser is on. The options
are SPIKE, THIN, and WIDE.
MAX PRF
Controls the gauge pulse frequency. The maximum fre-
quency is 333 Hz, however, the gauge automatically
adjusts the PRF according to the delay and range set-
tings; the larger the range, the slower the pulse frequency
will be.
DAMPING
Provides multiple input impedances to match the
impedance of the transducer and therefore optimise
transducer performance.
PULSER VOLT
Provides a 50 V cut/boost to the pulser. The standard
setting is 150 V. Provides greater penetration for difficult
material types, or increased resolution on noisy materials.
CAL
(Calibration)
MAT
Select the material velocity from a chart of basic material
types when a known sample thickness or material veloc-
ity cannot be obtained.
MATL 1PT
Performs a single point calibration. This function allows
you to automatically calculate the velocity by entering a
known sample thickness.
MATL 2PT
Performs a two-point calibration. This function allows you
to automatically calculate the velocity by entering a sec-
ond known sample thickness.
VELOCITY
This function calibrates your gauge by setting the velocity
to a known material velocity.
ZERO
Zeros the transducer and calibrates the screen (similar to
zeroing a mechanical micrometer).
RF, +RECT, -RECT or RECTFW.
DELAY
Adjust where the left side of the display window starts
according to thickness, in inches or millimetres.
RANGE
Set the overall depth of the viewable measurement area.
It functions a lot like a zoom on a camera.
UNITS
Toggle between Metric (millimetres) or English (inches)
units.
BRIGHTNESS
Adjusts the brightness of the display.
Scale is 0-20 where 20 is the brightest.
SCREEN
UPDATE
Toggles the display refresh raate (60Hz or 120Hz).
The 60Hz option conserves battery life.
COLORS
Choose the display colour scheme (from a choice of 12).
DIM
Conserve battery life by dimming the display after idle for
a specific amount of time: OFF, 30, 60, 90, 120 seconds.
Pressing any key will restore the screen brightness.
RECT WAVE
Toggles between an outlined or filled view option when
the display setting is in RECT (rectified) wave mode.
DETECT MARK
Choose the format of the vertical line on the RF and
RECT measurement screens which shows the detection
point:
Line, Box, Dots, None.
TUNE
FILTERS
The gauge is a wide band flaw detector with a frequency
range of 1.8 MHz to 19 MHz (-3dB). The gauge also has
selectable narrow band filters at 2 MHz, 5 MHz and 10
MHz.
GAIN
Increases or decreases the overall amplitude of the
signal.
Gain is similar to the volume control on a stereo receiver.
DETECT MODE
Sets the detection mode; PEAK, FLANK or Z-CROSS
(zero crossing)
Menu (Flaw Det.)
Function
Description
Toggles the alarm function of Gate1; ON, OFF or
AUDIBLE.
The audible feature sounds a beeper when the waveform
breaks the threshold level, either above or below,
depending on the current DETECT setting.
DETECT
Set the alarm detection to occur either ABOVE or
BELOW the gate THESHOLD value.
GATE1
Sets the start of the gate, according to depth/thickness.
GATE1 WIDTH
Sets the overall width of the gate, in terms of distance,
from the starting value of Gate1
THRESHOLD1
Sets the sensitivity level of Gate1. Used in conjunction
with the DETECT setting, THRESHOLD acts as the trigger
point for the alarm.
POLARITY
The gates can be set to detect on either the positive or
negative polarity (stroke) of the half or full wave cycle.
Note: If VIEW is set to positive, and the gate negative, the
gauge will not display an amplitude percentage of full
screen height.
GT2
(Gate 2)
The GT2 functions are the same as those for GT1
TRIG
(Trigonometry)
TRIG
Toggles trigonometry function ON or OFF.
This function is used with angle beam transducers for the
inspection of welds, to calculate three measurements:
Beam path distance, Surface distance and Depth from the
index point of the transducer.
THICKNESS
Sets the thickness of the test material. The thickness will
be used to determine which skip/leg the gauge is detecting
on.
ANGLE
Sets the angle of the transducer. This value is used in the
calculations above.
X-OFFSET
Calculates the surface distance in the trigonometry
function, as a physical measurement from the index point
of the probe to the front of the wedge/can/shoe/case.
CSC OD
Curved surface correction value to compensate for
changing sound path distance and angle. This value is
used in conjunction with the THICKNESS value in order to
calculate a correction factor.
Menu (Flaw Det.)
Function
Description
Toggles AWS function ON or OFF.
This function is used in the analysis of welds according to
the American Welding Society’s structural welding code
D1.1-94 to calculate the Indication Rating (IR).
SET REF GAIN
The gain (in dB) required to set the indication level to a
specific percentage of full screen height (FSH).
%
SCRN
HEIGHT
Set the reference level of the AWS as a percentage of full
screen height. This value will typically be set somewhere
between 20% to 90%.
TCG
(Time Corrected
Gain)
TCG
Toggles TCG function ON or OFF.
This function displays reflectors of equal size at equal
A-Scan amplitudes, regardless of the depth of the reflector
in the test material.
DRAW
Toggles DRAW mode ON or OFF and used to draw the
TCG curve.
CURVE
Toggles drawing of the TCG correction curve on the
screen ON or OFF.
%
SCRN
HEIGHT
Set the reference level of the TCG as a percentage of full
screen height.
DAC
(Distance Ampli-
tude Correction)
DAC
Toggles DAC function ON, OFF or AUDIBLE.
A Distance Amplitude Correction (DAC) curve is used to
configure a variable threshold for the gate, using the same
size reflector at different distances.
DRAW
Toggles DRAW mode ON or OFF and used to draw the
TCG curve.
MEAS
Toggles the units displayed as a relationship of either the
signal amplitude and DAC curve, or just the signal
according to screen height. The units are %FSH, %DAC,
and dB.
CURVE
Selectable signal or multi DAC curve options. The
displayed curve options are: DAC, -2dB, -6dB, -10dB,
(-6dB/-12dB), (-6dB/-14dB). Once the DAC curve has
been generated, these options can be toggled at any time.
TRIGGER
Used to set the alarm threshold for the DAC curve. The
options are; at DAC, -2dB, -6dB, -10dB, -12dB, -14dB, or
using an independent gate. The list of trigger options will
change according to which CURVE option has been
selected.
DPOLARITY
Select the polarity of the DAC curves generated, either
positive
or negative.
DGS
New function to be released soon. Please contact Elcometer NDT for more
information.
Menu (Flaw Det.)
Function
Description
Displays a list of factory and user-defined setups cur-
rently stored in memory. These setups can be recalled
and used at any time.
SAVE
Save a custom setup that you have modified or created.
DELETE
Delete specific setups previously saved in memory.
DEFAULT
SETUP
Loads a basic default setup. Use only as a last resort if
the setups in your gauge have been corrupted and a
computer is not accessible.
LANGUAGE
Select the menu language
DATA
NEW
Creates a new alpha numeric grid, or sequential log file
with auto identifiers. You can customise the grid or
sequential log file according to your requirements.
EDIT
Modify the parameters of grid or sequential files previ-
ously saved.
Note: Predefined coordinates cannot be changed once
they have been created.
OPEN
Recalls existing grids or sequential log files from gauge
memory.
CLOSE
Closes a currently opened grid or sequential log file.
DELETE ONE
FILE
Deletes a selected grid or sequential log file from mem-
ory.
DELETE ALL
DATA
Deletes all files currently stored in memory.
UTIL
(UTILITIES)
AUTO FIND
Automatically
locates
the
detection
point
if
the
measurement is out of the viewable display area.
GAUGE
Set gauge type; THICKNESS GAUGE, FLAW DETEC-
TOR or REQUEST
When set to REQUEST, the gauge will ask which mode is
required whenever it is switched on.
XFER
(TRANSFER)
BACKUP
SETUPS
Allows you to backup the setups currently stored in your
gauge to a computer via the RS232 port.
RESTORE
SETUPS
Allows you to restore setups saved on a computer to your
gauge via the RS232 port.
BACKUP DATA
Allows you to backup grids or sequential log files stored
in your gauge to a computer via the RS232 port.
RESTORE
DATA
Allows you to restore grids or sequential log files saved
on a computer to your gauge via the RS232 port.
ABOUT
Provides Elcometer NDT contact information and your
gauge software version.
Refer to the help section of your gauge NDT Link soft-
ware for a complete electronic manual covering data
transfer.
Menu (Flaw Det.)
Function
Description