Accession Number:

ADA061045

Title:

Acoustic Emission Monitoring of TIG Welding.

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 22 Jul 77-22 Jul 78,

Corporate Author:

BABCOCK AND WILCOX CO LYNCHBURG VA LYNCHBURG RESEARCH CENTER

Personal Author(s):

• Williams,R. S.
• zur Lippe,C. F.

Report Date:

1978-07-01

Pagination or Media Count:

122.0

Abstract:

Roll and weld fabrication methods have been applied to rocket motor cases to reduce material and manufacturing costs. The one drawback of this manufacturing method is that there is a higher probability that a defect will be induced during fabrication. Although these defects can be detected after fabrication using conventional nondestructive inspection methods and then repaired, post fabrication repair andor scrap costs could easily offset any potential cost savings. Recent technical advanced indicated that acoustic emission AE monitoring is potentially suitable for this application. Hence, the purpose of this program is to apply AE technology to TIG welding of D6AC panels typical of those proposed for improved roll and weld fabrication of rocket motor cases. Test panels were welded to simulate longitudinal, circumferential, and intersection welds. These welds were monitored in-process using a source location acoustic emission system. After welding, conventional nondestructive and destructive examinations of these welds were performed. Based upon analysis of these results, AE weld monitoring was shown capable of reliably detecting typical weld-induced defects. Finally, a conceptual design for a prototype AE weld monitor system is presented. Author

Descriptors:

• *STEEL
• *WELDS
• *ACOUSTIC EMISSIONS
• MONITORING
• REAL TIME
• PANELS
• CRACKS
• FABRICATION
• POROSITY
• DEFECTS(MATERIALS)
• INSPECTION
• ROCKET ENGINE CASES
• RADIOGRAPHY
• ROLLING(METALLURGY)

Subject Categories:

• Metallurgy and Metallography
• Couplers, Fasteners and Joints
• Acoustic Detection and Detectors

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE