Check-line TI-CMX User manual

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01.0 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0
02.0 Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
03.0 Keyboard, Menu and Connector Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
04.0 Principles of Ultrasonic Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
05.0 Selecting the Measurement Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
06.0 Making Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
07.0 Using the Digits & B-Scan Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
08.0 Thru Paint Measurement Technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
09.0 Pulse-Echo Coating & Coating Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
10.0 Additional Features TI-CMX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
11.0 Setups — Create, Store, Edit & Recall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
12.0 Using the Utility Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Appendix A — Velocity Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
TABLE OF CONTENTSNOTES
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Electromatic TI-CMX is an ultrasonic thickness gauge that measures with extreme versatility.
It has the ability to simultaneously measure coatings and material thicknesses while maintaining
the ability to locate pits, flaws and defects in the material. Based on the same operating principles
as SONAR, the TI-CMX is capable of measuring the thickness of various materials with accuracy
as high as ± 0.001 inches, or ± 0.01 millimeters. The principle advantage of ultrasonic measure-
ment over traditional methods is that ultrasonic measurements can be performed with access to
only one side of the material being measured.
NOTE: 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 rest
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.
1.1 Overview
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Probe
Keypad
Aluminum
Housing
LCD Backlit
Display
LED Alarm
Indicators
Probe
Receptacles
Probe Zero Plate
& Battery Cover
(3x AAA alkaline
batteries installed)
NOTES
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2.0 QUICK-START GUIDE
Turn the TI-CMX on and off using the switch located on the bottom right corner of the keypad
When TI-CMX is initially turned on, a flash logo and blinking lights are displayed. Then the
gauge attempts to identify the currently attached transducer (probe). The TI-CMX has an “Aut
Probe Recognition” feature that attempts to identify special transducers with feature built in . I
the TI-CMX doesn’t find a transducer so equipped, the user must select a transducer from the
Probe Type list. The following sections outline each scenario.
NOTE: This section is primarily written as a basic startup guide only.
2.1 TI-CMX Overview
In order to understand how to operate the TI-CMX, it’s best to start off with an understa
ing of what it is we’re looking at exactly. The TI-CMX has a lot of great features and to
that will prove to be a huge benefit for the variety of applications you’re constantly facin
on a continual basis. Let’s have a brief look at the screens you’ll be looking at most ofte
A. Repeatability/Stability Indicator – This indicator should be commonly used in con
junction with the digital thickness values displayed. When all the vertical bars are ful
illuminated and the last digit on the digital thickness value is stable, the TI-CMX is
reliably measuring the same value 3 to 200 times per second, depending on which
measurement mode and features are enabled.
B. Battery Icon – Indicates the amount of battery life the TI-CMX has remaining.
C. Velocity – The material velocity value the TI-CMX is currently using or calibrated fo
Displayed in English or Metric units, depending on the what units the gauge is set fo
D. Feature Status Bar – Indicates the features currently enabled and in use in the
following order:
• Measurement Mode
• Differential Mode
• High Speed Scan Mode
• Alarm Mode
• Gain Setting
E. Digital Material Thickness Value – Extra large font size for viewing ease.
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NOTES
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F. Scan Bar – Another view of material thickness in a deflection style horizontal bar. This
visual tool enables the user the ability to see thickness changes during high speed scans
from flaws and pits.
G. Units – The current measurement units being used (English, Metric).
H. Digital Material Thickness Value – Smaller font size when the B-Scan display
view is enabled.
I. Coating Thickness Value – Displays the actual thickness of any coating adhered
to a metallic material surface (PECT Mode), or a coating adhered to a non-metallic
surface (CT Mode).
J. Minimum Material Thickness – Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the minimum
thickness value found during a scan.
K. Maximum Material Thickness – Part of the Alarm feature. Displays the maximum
thickness value found during a scan.
L. B-Scan Display – Cross section view of the material. Provides the user with graphical
view of the opposite/blind surface (i.e. inside pipe wall surface), to give the user some
idea of the condition, or integrity of the material being tested.
2.2 Auto Probe Recognition
When the TI-CMX is initially powered up, the gauge will automatically check to see if the
transducer plugged into the gauge can be recognized. The steps that follow assume the TI-
CMX recognized the probe type:
1. Press the OK key once to use the identified probe,
or ESC to display a list of optional transducers.
NOTE: If the TI-CMX recognizes a specific transducer,
the user should always select OK to use the
identified probe. The only time an alternative
probe should be selected from a list is if the
user switched probes following initial power
up and recognition.
2. Assuming the TI-CMX recognized the probe and the
OK key was pressed, the TI-CMX will advance to a
Zero Probe menu. If the transducer was identified as
a special transducer capable of measuring coating
thickness, a menu will be displayed allowing the
user the ability to toggle the coating thickness
display on/off as follows:
3. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to toggle the
coating option on/off.
4. Wipe all couplant from the transducer face
and advance to the Probe Zero & Calibration
section, 6.0.
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WARRANTY
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ELECTROMATIC Equipment Co., Inc. (ELECTROMATIC) warrants to the
original purchaser that this product is of merchantable quality and confirms
in kind and quality with the descriptions and specifications thereof. Product
failure or malfunction arising out of any defect in workmanship or material in the
product existing at the time of delivery thereof which manifests itself within one
year from the sale of such product, shall be remedied by repair or replacement of
such product, at ELECTROMATIC’s option, except where unauthorized repair,
disassembly, tampering, abuse or misapplication has taken place, as determined by
ELECTROMATIC. All returns for warranty or non-warranty repairs and/or replace-
ment must be authorized by ELECTROMATIC, in advance, with all repacking and
shipping expenses to the address below to be borne by the purchaser.
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOTLIMITED TO, THE
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULA
PURPOSE OR APPLICATION. ELECTROMATIC SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIB
NOR LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE, OF ANY KIND OR
NATURE, RESULTING FROM THE USE OF SUPPLIED EQUIPMENT, WHETH
SUCH DAMAGE OCCURS OR IS DISCOVERED BEFORE, UPON OR AFTER
REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR, AND WHETHER OR NOT SUCH DAMAGE IS
CAUSED BY MANUFACTURER’S OR SUPPLIER’S NEGLIGENCE WITHIN
ONE YEAR FROM INVOICE DATE.
Some State jurisdictions or States do not allow the exclusion or limitation of inciden
or consequential damages, so the above limitation may not apply to you. The duratio
of any implied warranty, including, without limitation, fitness for any particular
purpose and merchantability with respect to this product, is limited to the duration o
the foregoing warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied
warranty lasts but, not withstanding, this warranty, in the absence of such limitations
shall extend for one year from the date of invoice.
ELECTROMATIC Equipment Co., Inc.
600 Oakland Ave. Cedarhurst, NY 11516—USA
Tel: [phone]/ Tel: [phone]/ Fax: [phone]
Every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual. Electromatic Equipment Co., Inc., assum
no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use
information contained herein. Any brand or product names mentioned herein are used for identification purp
es only, and are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

2.3 Selecting the Transducer Type
If the TI-CMX does not identify a specific transducer type on initial power up, the user
be required to select a type from a predefined list of types by diameter and frequency. B
selecting a transducer type from a predefined list, the TI-CMX can recall specific proper
ties about the transducer.
NOTE: Once the transducer has been selected, the TI-CMX will store and recall this tra
ducer type every time the TI-CMX is powered on/off. The type will only change if the u
physically selects another transducer type from the list, or selects a previously saved setu
However, the TI-CMX will continue to take you through these steps each time the gauge
powered up. You’ll notice that the probe type previously selected will be highlighted eve
time the probe type screen is displayed. Use the following steps to select your transduce
type:
1. Press the OK or ESC keys to display the factory list of
transducer types (by diameter and frequency).
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
transducer list until the appropriate type is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to select the transducer type and display
over write existing probe screen.
4. Press the OK key to overwrite the existing probe type with the
newly selected probe type. The zero probe screen will be
displayed. Proceed to the zero probe section that follows.
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APPENDIX A: VELOCITY TABLE
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Material sound velocity sound velocity
in/us m/s
Aluminum 0.2510 6375
Beryllium 0.5080 12903
Brass 0.1730 4394
Bronze 0.1390 3531
Cadmium 0.1090 2769
Columbium 0.1940 4928
Copper 0.1830 4648
Glass (plate) 0.2270 5766
Glycerine 0.0760 1930
Gold 0.1280 3251
Inconel 0.2290 5817
Iron 0.2320 5893
Cast Iron 0.1800 (approx) 4572
Lead 0.0850 2159
Magnesium 0.2300 5842
Mercury 0.0570 1448
Molybdenum 0.2460 6248
Monel 0.2110 5359
Nickel 0.2220 5639
Nylon 0.1060 (approx) 2692
Platinum 0.1560 3962
Plexiglas 0.1060 2692
Polystyrene 0.0920 2337
PVC 0.0940 2388
Quartz glass 0.2260 5740
Rubber vulcanized 0.0910 2311
Silver 0.1420 3607
Steel (1020) 0.2320 5893
Steel (4340) 0.2330 5918
Steel Stainless" 0.2230 5664
Teflon 0.0540 1372
Tin 0.1310 3327
Titanium 0.2400 6096
Tungsten 0.2040 5182
Uranium 0.1330 3378
Water 0.0580 1473
Zinc 0.1660 4216
Zirconium 0.1830 4648

2.4 Probe Zero & One Point Calibration
The next steps are to perform a probe zero and calibrate the TI-CMX to the material and
transducer being used. If the sound velocity is unknown, the TI-CMX can be calibrated to a
known thickness sample. This demo will briefly explain both of these techniques.
The TI-CMX is equipped with two zero options:
• Off Block Zero (Automatic Probe Zero) – When this feature is enabled the TI-CMX
will do an electronic zero automatically, eliminating the need for a zero disk or block.
•On Block Zero (Manual Probe Zero) – When this feature is enabled the transducer
must be placed on the probe zero disk (battery cover located on the top of the unit.
Both zero procedures are outlined as follows:
Off Block Zero (Automatic Probe Zero)
1. Be sure all couplant has been removed
from the face of the transducer.
2. Press the OK key to perform the
automatic probe zero, or ESC key
to cancel the zero operation.
3. The screens illustrated at the right
will be briefly displayed followed by
the main measurement screen. The
TI-CMX is ready to be calibrated.
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Coating Probe
Identified
Coating Probe
Not Identified
Coating Probe
Identified
Coating Probe
Not Identified
Performing a Manual Probe Zero (On Block)
NOTE: When the zero probe option is set to manual, the probe
zero disk (battery cap) located on the top of the gauge, will be
used as a zero standard and the warning screen illustrated
above will be displayed.
1. Press the OK or ESC keys to enter the main measurement
screen and begin the manual zero process.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the probe zero disk, and
obtain a steady reading.
12.0 USING THE UTILITY SOFTWARE
12.1 Computer System Requirements
Datacomm will run on many different operating systems: Windows 98 (1st or 2nd editio
Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 5, Windows ME, Windows XP, Windows 2000
Professional, Windows 2000 Server, or Windows 2000 Advanced Server operating syste
running on Intel or AMD hardware.
A Pentium 166MHz or faster processor with at least 32 megabytes of physical RAM is
required. You should have 40 megabytes of free disk space before attempting to install
Datacomm.
Datacomm requires an available communications port in order to transfer data to and fro
the TI-CMX. Datacomm supports COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4.
USB to Serial Converter
Some newer laptop computers do not have standard serial ports. In this case it is possibl
use a USB to Serial converter. If a serial to USB cable is needed, contact Electromatic
12.2 Installing Datacomm
Datacomm comes on a CD-ROM with an automatic installer program. Place the CD in
your computer’s CD tray and close the door. Open the CD-ROM by double clicking on
My Computer ICON, then double click on the CD. Finally, double click on the SETUP
icon to begin the installation.
Refer to the help section in Datacomm software for the complete operating manual, setu
and operation.
12.3 Using the XFER menu (TI-CMX)
The XFER menu of the TI-CMX will be used in conjunction with
the Datacomm PC software. The steps below outline the procedure
for accessing the XFER menu and basic operation as follows:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press
the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and the ESC key
multiple times to tab left, until the XFER menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until the desire option is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to activate the option selected.
4. Once the Backup or Restore function has been completed, press the MEAS key once
return to the menu items, or twice to return to the measurement mode.
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3. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the PRB menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until ZERO PROBE is highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to display the confirmation screen.
6. If a coating transducer was identified use the UP and
DOWN arrow keys to toggle coating on/off.
7. Press the OK key to complete the probe zero function, or
ESC key to cancel the probe zero function.
8. Remove the transducer from the probe zero disk, and
proceed to the calibration section.
NOTE: The value that is displayed will change depending on
the current velocity setting in the TI-CMX. Disregard the number
that is displayed. It is not important. What is important is
accurately performing the steps outlined above to insure
reliability of the probe zero calculation.
One Point Material Calibration
For the purposes of this quick start section, we’ll only be covering the most common on
point calibration option to determine the sound velocity of the test material. It would be
very handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in conjunction with the TI-CMX
calibration in the field:
NOTE: Be sure that the probe zero procedure has been
performed prior to performing this calibration procedure.
1. Physically measure an exact sample of the material or a
location directly on the material to be measured using a
set of calipers or a digital micrometer.
2. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the
transducer in steady contact with the sample or actual test
material. Be sure that the reading is stable and the repeat-
ability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully
lit and stable. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu
items tab. Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right
and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until MATL 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
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Coating Probe
Identified
Coating Probe
Not Identified
11.5 Using the Default Setup
The default setup feature was added to the CMX to use, as a last resort, if there are no
setups stored in the gauge –factory or otherwise. The only time this might possibly occur is
if the setup file in the CMX was somehow corrupted, and the user does not have access to a
computer to re-load the factory setups back into the CMX. This gives the user the ability to
load and modify a basic setup as follows:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the SETUP menu
is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until DEFAULT SETUP is highlighted.
11.6 Selecting a Language
The CMX is equipped with a language option. Currently, the only languages supported are
English, Spanish, and German. The steps to select one of these languages are outlined as
follows:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the SETUP menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until LANGUAGE is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
language options.
4. Once the desired language is displayed, press the MEAS
key to return to the measurement screen.
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7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu screen,
or ESC to cancel the one point calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin
taking readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the calibration
point. The thickness reading should now match the known thickness. If the thickness is not
correct, repeat the steps above.
2.5 Coating Calibration
The TI-CMX has been preset to a default coating velocity of 0.0850 in/µsec (2159 m/sec).
This will be very close to the most common coating material velocities used in the field.
If the velocity of the coating is known, and different than the above default setting, the user
can simply enter the coating velocity into the TI-CMX. However, if the velocity is
unknown, the TI-CMX can also be calibrated to a specific coating sample/type using the
1pt calibration option in PECT (pulse-echo coating) mode, or a two point calibration is CT
(coating only) mode. For the purpose of this quick start section only the 1pt option PECT
(pulse-echo coating) mode will be covered. Refer to the calibration section of the manual
for a complete explanation on the coating calibration options. The following steps below
outline the necessary steps to either set the velocity of the coating, or perform a one point
calibration to calculate the coating velocity:
Known Coating Velocity
If the coating velocity is known, the user may wish to simply
enter the velocity number into the TI-CMX, rather than have the
TI-CMX calculate the velocity value using a known thickness on
a coating sample. The steps for entering the velocity are outlined
below:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until COATING VEL is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the velocity number is correctly displayed.
7. Press the OK key to set the coating velocity and return to the menu screen,
or ESC to cancel entering the coating velocity.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings
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10. Press the ENTER key to activate the Setup List Box.
11. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the setups
until the target location to save the Setup is highlighted.
12. Press the OK key to activate the confirmation screen.
13. Press the OK key to save the Setup, or ESC to cancel saving
the Setup.
14. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement
screen.
NOTE: The Name and Comments of the Setup can be edited at
any time by simply repeating the Save Setup routine described
above. Therefore, the Save Setup function can also be considered
an Edit Function.
11.4 Deleting a Saved Setup
This option allows a user to delete setup files that were previously saved and no longer
needed. It’s a simple feature to allow the user to do a bit of “house cleaning”.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press
the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key
multiple times to tab left until the SETUP menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until DELETE is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Setups List.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll to the
Setup Name.
5. When the Setup Name is highlighted, press the ENTER key
to display the confirmation screen.
6. Press the OK key to delete the Setup File.
7. Finally, press the MEAS key to
return to the measurement screen.
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Known Coating Thickness
When the exact velocity of a coating is unknown, the user has
the option of performing a one point calibration on a sample of
the coating with a known thickness to determine the sound
velocity. It would be very handy to carry a set of mechanical
calipers to use in conjunction with the TI-CMX for calibration in
the field:
1. Physically measure a location on a coating sample using a set
of calipers or a digital micrometer.
IMPORTANT NOTE: In PECT (pulse-echo coating) mode, the
coating sample must be coupled to metal in order to calibrate
successfully. Simply 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 contac
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 a
stable. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU ke
multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL
menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the
highlighted value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is
correctly displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the coating velocity and return
to the menu screen, or ESC to cancel the one point calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the calibration
point. The coating thickness reading should now match the known coating thickness sam
ple. If the thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
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11.3 Saving a Setup
Once the TI-CMX parameters and features have be adjusted for an application, the user
may elect to save these setting to a specific setup location for future use. This can poten-
tially save time and reduce error between users.
It is sometimes necessary to rename a previously saved setup, or add additional comments
about a particular setup. The setup name may have been entered incorrectly, or the user
needs to use the setup for a completely different project. An inspector’s name or other com-
ments about the project may also be required for additional documentation purposes. The
following procedures outline the necessary steps for saving and editing a setup:
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press
the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key
multiple times to tab left until the SETUP menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until SAVE is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Save Setup Parameters
List Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to
scroll the Name and Note
5. When the parameter to edit is high-
lighted, press the ENTER key to
activate the Alpha Edit Box.
6. Use the UP, DOWN, LEFT, and
RIGHT arrow keys to scroll through
the characters, the ENTER key to
select characters, and the CLR key to
backspace through the characters, until
the Name or Note fields have been
edited.
7. Press the OK key to return to the Save
Setup Parameters List Box.
8. If both parameters will be edited,
repeat steps 4 – 7.
9. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll to and highlight
SAVE SETUP.
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-10-
2.6 Zero Coating
To account for very slight electronic differences in transducers of the same type, frequency,
and diameter, the CMX has been equipped with a “zero coating” feature. This enables the
CMX to obtain very accurate readings on coatings, eliminating potential errors incurred
from slight differences in the manufacturing processes. The procedure is outlined below:
1. Press the MULTI MODE key once to activate the measurement
mode options.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until Coating Only (CT) mode is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to select the measurement mode and
return to the measurement screen.
4. 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.
Note: The coating measurement displayed will potentially be a
value greater or less than zero.
5. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key
multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the
PRB menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
6. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until ZERO COATING is highlighted.
7. Press the ENTER key to display the confirmation screen.
8. Press the OK key to zero the coating and return to the PRB
menu, or ESC to cancel the coating zero process.
9. Press the MULTI MODE key once to activate the measurement
mode options.
10. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until Coating On (PECT) is highlighted.
11. Press the ENTER key to select the measurement mode and
return to the measurement screen, and begin taking readings.
11.0 SETUPS, CREATE, STORE, EDIT & RECALL
11.1 Introduction to Setups
Often times, users are faced with a variety of tasks and applications that are sometimes
similar, but often times very different. With a standard thickness gauge, the user would
have to recalibrate for each individual application respectively. With all the features of th
TI-CMX, the number of potential applications also increases based on ability alone. Thi
primarily in reference to the addition of those very difficult applications, where a standa
thickness gauge would not be feasible, or capable of accomplishing the tasks.
The increased number of features and parameters also adds to the overall setup time, or
amount of time to set up marginal applications with perfection and understanding. Becau
of the additional time involved, the TI-CMX has been equipped with the ability to save
these setups to memory and be recalled at any time. The TI-CMX can store up to 64 cus
tom setups. These setups can be bi-directionally transferred to and from a PC. Therefore
the user can save as many setups as necessary for all their individual applications requir
ments. This saves a great deal of time and knowledge for future inspections of the same
or project. This feature also eliminates error between two or more users during the setup
and calibration process.
11.2 Opening a Setup
Once user setups are saved (refer to Section 11.3, p. 47), they are opened (recalled for u
using the following procedure. Please make sure that the correct probe is connected and
matches the probe selection stored in this setup.
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the SETUP menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until OPEN is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Setup List Box.
4. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
setups until the target setup is highlighted.
5. Press the ENTER key to activate the confirmation screen.
6. Press the OK key to load the setup
from memory.
7. Press the MEAS key to return to the
measure screen.
-47-

2.7 Measure
The TI-CMX is now ready to measure. There are two different measurement view option
each with a specific purpose – Digits & B-Scan. The steps below outline how to toggle
between the different view mode options:
Selecting the Measurement View Option
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the DISP menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until VIEW is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the view options.
4. Once the view is displayed, press the MEAS key to
return to measurement mode.
DIGITS: Displays the digital thickness value using a large
font size. This view is useful when the TI-CMX is being
used as a basic thickness gauge.
B-SCAN: The Time Based B-Scan provides the user
with a cross sectional view of the material being tested.
This mode is useful when there is concern regarding the
profile of the blind surface. This can also be a useful
view when scanning for pits and flaws.
Once the view has been selected according to the
application requirements, the B-START and B-DEPTH
of the screen will potentially need to be adjusted if the
view has been set to B-SCAN. Use the following steps
to adjust these as follows:
Adjusting B-START and B-DEPTH
1. Press the MENU key once to activate
the menu items tab. Press the MENU
key multiple times to tab right and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left
until the DISP menu is highlighted and
displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to scroll through the sub menu items
until B-START or B-DEPTH is
highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT or RIGHT arrow keys
to increase/decrease the start or depth
values in coarse increments/decrements.
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 until the range is
correctly being displayed.
-11-
B-START
B-DEPTH
B-DEPTH
B-START
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit locations.
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 until the DIFFERENTIAL value is correctly displayed.
5. Press the OK key to set the DIFFERENTIAL value and return to the menu screen.
6. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin
taking readings.
-46-

Alternatively, the B-START and B-DEPTH values can be changed using the Digit Edit Box
as follows:
1. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to scroll through the sub menu items
until B-START or B-DEPTH is highlighted.
2. Press the ENTER key to display the digits edit box.
3. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted value.
4. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys
to scroll the digit locations.
5. Repeat steps 3 & 4 until the B-START
or B-DEPTH value is correctly
displayed.
6. Press the OK key to set the B-START
or B-DEPTH value and return to the
DISP menu, or ESC to cancel entering
the B-START or B-DEPTH value.
NOTE: The adjusted value will appear next to the B-START or B-DEPTH menu labels.
7. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
In the upper left corner of
each of the display photos
at the right, is the repeatability
indicator. The repeatability
indicator is represented by
six vertical bars and represents
how repeatable the measure-
ments are. In regular measure-
ment mode, the TI-CMX
makes eight measurements
a second. In scan mode, the
TI-CMX makes 200 measure-
ments a second. If the coating mode option is activated, the TI-CMX makes three
measurements a second in regular measurement mode and 65 measurements a second
in scan mode. When the TI-CMX is idle, only the left vertical bar and the underline will
be displayed. However, when the TI-CMX is making a measurement, five or six of the
bars should be displayed on the repeatability indicator. If fewer than five bars are showing,
the TI-CMX is having difficulty achieving a stable measurement and the thickness value
displayed is potentially unstable.
-12-
Setting the Alarm Low Limit
1. Assuming the ALARM is ON, use the UP and DOWN arrow
keys to scroll through the sub menu items until ALARM LOW
is highlighted.
2. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the value.
When the correct alarm value is being displayed, proceed to
step 7.
3. Alternatively, press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit
Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the ALARM LOW value is correctly
displayed.
7. If only one limit will be used, press the MEAS key to return to
the measurement screen and begin taking readings. Otherwise,
continue on to set the ALARM HIGH limit.
10.3 Differential Mode
The Differential Mode of the TI-CMX provides the user with the ability to set a nomina
value, according to what the expected thickness should be, and measure the +/- differenc
from the nominal value entered. This feature is typically used in QA incoming inspectio
on pipes, plate stock, coils, etc. The steps below outline how to enable and enter the
nominal value to use this feature:
Toggle Differential (on/off)
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the UTIL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until DIFFERENTIAL is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
DIFFERENTIAL on. A value will appear to the right of
DIFFERENTIAL.
4. Continue on to the next section “Setting the Differential Value”.
Setting the Differential Value
1. Assuming DIFFERENTIAL has been enabled and a value is
being displayed to the right of the DIFFERENTIAL label,
press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
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3.0 KEYBOARD, MENU & CONNECTOR REFERENCE
3.1 Menu Key (Operation & Sub Menus )
The Menu key activates the primary menu
structure containing 8 menu tab groups. These
tab groups then contain sub menu items, or functions.
The sub menu items have been organized in tab groups
according to how closely they are related to the indi-
vidual tab group names. Let’s first get familiar with
how to move around in these tabs before continuing on
to the sub menu functions. This procedure is outlined
below:
Activating and Getting Around in the Menu Items
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left until the desired tab
group is highlighted and displaying the submenu items. The
tab groups are illustrated above (A).
Now that you’re familiar with activating and moving
amongst the tab groups, let’s have a look at how to move
around in the sub menu items as follows:
Getting Around in the Sub Menu Items
1. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub menu items until the
desired function is highlighted. The sub menu items are illustrated in the diagram
above (B).
2. Depending on which function is highlighted, use the LEFT, RIGHT, and
ENTER keys to scroll the options or activate the Digit Edit and List Box options.
3.2 Probe – Menu
ZERO PROBE: The TI-CMX is zeroed in much the same way
that a mechanical micrometer is zeroed. If the TI-CMX is not
zeroed correctly, all of the measurements made using the
TI-CMX may be in error by some fixed value. The TI-CMX is
equipped with an optional automatic or manual zero feature. Refer to the section 6.3, for
explanation of this important procedure.
TYPE: Enables the user to select the type of transducer being used from a chart of
transducer types. This provides increased linearity between transducers. Refer to section
6.1 for a further explanation.
3.3 CAL – Menu
MAT: Select the material velocity from a chart of basic material
types when a known sample thickness, or material velocity
cannot be obtained. Refer to section 9.3 for further info.
MATL 1PT: Performs a single point calibration. This option
allows the user to automatically calculate the velocity by entering
a known sample thickness. Refer to section 9.3 for further info.
-13-
10.0 ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF THE TI-CMX
10.1 High Speed Scan
The High Speed Scan feature of the TI-CMX increases the overall repetition rate to a
maximum of 140Hz with a high speed screen refresh rate of 25 times a second. This
feature enables a 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 dynamically keep track of both values. The feature is typically used to provide a better
representation of the area scanned, by taking more readings at a faster rate repetition rate.
The procedure to use the SCAN MODE feature is outlined below:
Using the Scan Mode
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC
key multiple times to tab left until the UTIL menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until SCAN MODE is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
SCAN MODE on/off.
4. Press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen.
10.2 Alarm Mode
The Alarm Mode feature of the TI-CMX provides the user with a method of setting toler-
ances, or limits, for a particular application requirement. This feature may be used for a
variety of applications to verify the material is within the manufacturer specifications.
There are two limits, or alarm values, that can be setup in the TI-CMX – ALARM LOW
and ALARM HIGH limits. However, the user may choose to activate and utilize only one
of the limit values, depending on their specific application requirements. The procedures to
use the ALARM MODE feature are outlined below:
Toggle Alarm (on/off)
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right, and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left, until the UTIL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until ALARM is highlighted.
3. Use the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to toggle the
ALARM on/off/audible.
4. Continue on to the next section “Setting the Alarm Low
Limit”.
-44-

MATL 2PT: Performs a two-point calibration. This option allows the user to automatically
calculate the velocity by entering a second known sample thickness. Refer to section 6.3
for further info.
VELOCITY: Function is to calibrate the TI-CMX by setting the velocity to a known mate-
rial velocity. Refer to section 6.3 for further info.
COATING 1PT: Performs a single point coating calibration. This option allows the user to
automatically calculate the velocity by measuring a known coating sample thickness. Refer
to section 9.5 for further info.
COATING 2PT: Performs a two-point coating calibration. This option allows the user to
automatically calculate the velocity by entering a second known coating sample thickness.
Refer to section 9.5 for further info.
COATING VEL: Function to calibrate the TI-CMX to a specific coating material type by
entering a coating velocity. Refer to section 9.3 for further info.
3.4 DISP (display) – Menu
VIEW: Selectable B-SCAN (cross section), and DIGITS
(large digits) views. Refer to section 7.1 for further info.
B-START: Provides the user the ability to change the start
position of the B-SCAN view. Refer to section 7.3 for further
info.
B-DEPTH: Provides the user the ability to change the overall
depth of the viewable measurement area. It functions a lot like
a zoom on a camera. Refer to section 7.3 for further info.
UNITS: Toggle between English or Metric units. The readout will change from inches to
millimeters.
BACKLIGHT: Selectable OFF, ON, AUTO, or INVERT backlight option.
CONTRAST: Adjustable display contrast for variable light conditions.
3.5 TUNE – Menu
MEASURE MODE: Toggles a variety of unique measurement
modes for different application requirements. Refer section 11.2
for further info.
GAIN: A 5 position gain switch in 2 db increments from 40 to
50 dB. Increase for better penetration or punch, and decrease to eliminate unwanted noise
or better resolution. Refer to section 11.2 for further info.
3.6 SETUP – Menu
OPEN: Displays a list of factory and user defined setups cur-
rently stored in memory. These setups can be recalled and used
at any time. Refer to section 11.2 for further info.
SAVE: Provides the user with the ability to save a custom setup
that has been modified or created by the user. Refer to section
11.2 for further info.
DELETE: Provides the user with the ability to delete specific setups previously save in
memory. Refer to section 11.2 for further info.
-14-
2. 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 an
the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable.
Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key mult
times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until COATING 2PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is correctly
displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu screen,
or ESC to cancel the coating one point calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on both calibration
points. The coating thickness readings should now match the known thickness values of
each sample. If the thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
-43-

DEFAULT SETUP: Loads a basic default setup. Use only as a last resort when the setu
in the TI-CMX have been corrupted and a computer is not accessible. Refer to section 1
for further info.
LANGUAGE: Provides the user the ability to select different languages for the TI-CMX
Refer to section 11.4 for further info.
3.7 UTIL (utilities) – Menu
SCAN MODE: This function enables a hi speed scan mode
that increases the overall sample rate from 65 to 200 measure-
ments per second, depending on the current measurement
mode used. Refer to section 10.2 for further info.
ALARM: Toggles alarm mode on, off, or audible. Refer to
section 10.3 for further info.
ALARM HIGH: Gives the user the ability to set the HI limit
parameter. If the measurement exceeds this value, a red light
will illuminate and sound the internal beeper. Refer to section
10.1 for further info.
ALARM LOW: Gives the user the ability to set the LO limit parameter. If the measure-
ment falls below this value, a red light will illuminate and sound the internal beeper.
Refer to section 11.4 for further info.
DIFFERENTIAL: Gives the user the ability to set a nominal value and the TI-CMX wi
display ± the difference from the nominal value entered. Refer to section 10.2 for furthe
info.
3.8 XFER (transfer) – Menu
BACKUP SETUPS: Enables the user the ability to backup the
setups currently stored in the TI-CMX to a PC via RS232 port.
Refer the help section of the TI-CMX Datacomm software for
a complete electronic manual.
RESTORE SETUPS: Enables the user the ability to restore the setups currently saved
on a PC to an TI-CMX via RS232 port. Refer the help section of the TI-CMX Datacomm
software for a complete electronic manual.
ABOUT: Provides the user with Dakota Ultrasonics contact information and the TI-CM
software version. Refer the Dakota Ultrasonics web site for information on the latest
firmware versions available for download.
3.9 CLR (clear) Key
The CLR key is used to backspace when entering alpha characters in various
save/name modes.
3.10 MEAS (measurement mode) Key
The MEAS key puts the TI-CMX into it’s primary mode of operation. In this
mode, the user has a complete view of the LCD.
-15-
One Point Calibration
NOTE: Use the maximum coating sample for the one point calibration first.
1. Physically measure the thicker of the two samples of coating, as close as possible to the
maximum expected coating measurement range, using a set of calipers or a digital
micrometer.
Very Important: If coating measurements will 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 will be measured as a stand alone material, the
calibration must be performed the same way.
2 Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transducer in steady contact
with the thicker of the two coating and samples fist. Be sure that the reading is stable
and the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, is fully lit and stable.
Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press the MENU key multiple
times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until COATING 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is correctly
displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu screen, or ESC to
cancel the coating one point calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
Two Point Calibration
NOTE: Use the minimum coating sample for the two point calibration.
1. Physically measure the thinnest 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.
Very Important: If coating measurements will 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 will be measured as a stand alone material,
the calibration must be performed the same way.
-42-

3.11 OK Key
The primary function of the OK key is confirmation of a change or selection.
3.12 ESC Key
The ESC key is used in the MENU, MEAS, and EDIT functions as a back or
escape function.
3.13 Arrow Keys
The Arrow Keys are used to navigate through the menus, increase/decrease values, and tog-
gle specific function keys.
3.14 ENTER key
The ENTER key is used in the menu navigation process to activate lists as well
as edit boxes.
3.15 MULTI MODE Key
The MULTI MODE key opens a measurement mode screen listing all the modes
that are available to the transducer specifically selected. The modes can be all or
a combination of the entire set of modes the TI-CMX offers, depending on which
transducer is being used as follows: Coating Off (P-E), Coating On (PECT),
Temp Comp (PETP), Thru-Coat (E-E), and Coating Only (CT).
3.16 ON/OFF Key
The ON/OFF key simply powers the unit either ON or OFF. Note: Unit will
automatically power off when idle for 5 minutes. All current settings are
automatically saved prior to powering off.
3.17 Top & Bottom End Caps
The top & bottom end panels are where all connections are made to the TI-CMX. The
diagram above shows the layout and description of the connectors:
Transducer Connectors
Refer to Diagram: The transducer connectors, and battery cover/probe zero disk are located
on the TI-CMX’s top end cap. The transducer connectors are of type Lemo “00”.
NOTE: There is no polarity associated with connecting the transducer to the TI-CMX.
-16-
2. Apply a drop of couplant on a piece of metal and place the coating sample on the me
over the couplant. Apply a drop of couplant on the transducer and place the transduce
in steady contact with the coating and sample or actual test material. Be sure that the
reading is stable and the repeatability indicator, in the top left corner of the display, i
fully lit and stable. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab. Press th
MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC key multiple times to tab left unt
the CAL menu is highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
3. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the
sub menu items until COATING 1PT is highlighted.
4. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
5. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
6. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 until the known thickness value is correctly
displayed.
8. Press the OK key to calculate the velocity and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel the coating one point calibration.
9. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
NOTE: CHECK YOUR CALIBRATION! Place the transducer back on the calibration
point. The coating thickness reading should now match the known thickness. If the
thickness is not correct, repeat the steps above.
9.4 Introduction to Coating Measurement (CT)
In the previous sections we’ve discussed how to setup and use the coating feature for us
in conjunction with material thickness and flaw and pit detection. The TI-CMX also has
capability to be used for general coating measurements. This measurement mode is calle
Coating (CT) and can be enabled using the same methods as described in a previous
section above.
When the Coating Only (CT) mode is enabled, a two point calibration on the coating
samples must be performed. This is to ensure linearity over the coating measurement ran
will be achieved. Important note: If coating measurements will 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 will be measured as a stand
alone material, the calibration must be performed the same way.
9.5 Two Point Coating Calibration (CT)
Known Thickness
The following section will demonstrate the two point coating calibration procedure. This
example demonstrates a coating thickness range of .040” - .120” ( 1 – 3 mm) as follows
NOTE: It’s always handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in conjunction wit
the TI-CMX for calibration in the field:
-41-

Probe Zero Disk & Battery Cover
Refer to Diagram: The Battery cover is the large round disk shown in the diagram. Not
This same disk is also used as a probe zero disk. Simply remove the cover when replacin
the batteries (3 AA cells). When performing a manual probe zero function, simply place
transducer on disk making firm contact.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to follow the polarity labels located on the back label of the
TI-CMX.
NOTE: Rechargeable batteries can be used, however they must be recharged outside of
unit in a stand alone battery charger.
RS-232 Connector
Refer to Diagram: The RS-232 connector, located on the bottom end cap, is a 2 pin
female Lemo connector. It is designed to connect directly from the TI-CMX to a standar
AT serial port on a PC. The cable supplied with the TI-CMX is a Lemo to 9 pin serial
cable. Note: This connector is also used to upgrade the TI-CMX with the latest version o
firmware.
USB Serial to USB Converter Cable
A converter cable can be attached to the 9 pin serial cable in needed (part no. N-402-05
-17-
9.3 Coating Calibration (PECT)
Known Velocity
If the coating velocity is known, the user may wish to simply enter the velocity number
into the TI-CMX, rather than have the TI-CMX calculate the velocity value using a known
thickness on a coating sample(s). The steps for entering the velocity are outlined below:
Using a Known Material Velocity
1. Press the MENU key once to activate the menu items tab.
Press the MENU key multiple times to tab right and the ESC
key multiple times to tab left until the CAL menu is
highlighted and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll through the sub
menu items until COATING VEL is highlighted.
3. Press the ENTER key to display the Digits Edit Box.
4. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to scroll the highlighted
value.
5. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow keys to scroll the digit
locations.
6. Repeat steps 4 & 5 until the velocity number is correctly
displayed.
7. Press the OK key to set the velocity and return to the menu
screen, or ESC to cancel entering the velocity.
8. Finally, press the MEAS key to return to the measurement screen and begin taking
readings.
Known Thickness
Sometimes the sound velocity of a coating material is unknown. In this case a sample with
a known thickness can be used to determine the sound velocity of the coating. As previous-
ly discussed, the TI-CMX offers a one point calibration option for coating in PECT meas-
urement mode. It is also import to reiterate that the coating sample must be coupled to a
metallic material in order to perform the calibration. The calibration should also consider
calibrating on high side of the intended measurement range, when using the one point
option, minimize overall error. For example, if the measurement range of the coating will
be from .040” - .080” (1.0mm 2.3mm), a coating closest to .080 (2.0mm) should be used.
NOTE: It’s always handy to carry a set of mechanical calipers to use in conjunction with
the TI-CMX for calibration in the field:
One Point Calibration
NOTE: Be sure that the probe zero procedure has been performed
prior to performing this calibration procedure.
1. Physically measure an exact sample of the coating using a set
of calipers or a digital micrometer.
NOTE: The coating sample must be coupled to a metallic material
in order to be calibrated.
-40-

4.0 PRINCIPLES OF ULTRASONIC MEASUREMENT
4.1 Time versus thickness relationship
Ultrasonic thickness measurements depend on measuring the length of time it takes for
sound to travel through the material being tested. The ratio of the thickness versus the time
is known as the sound velocity. In order to make accurate measurements, a sound velocity
must be determined and entered into the instrument.
The accuracy of a thickness measurement therefore depends on having a consistent sound
velocity. Some materials are not as consistent as others and accuracy will be marginal. For
example, some cast materials are very granular and porous and as a result have inconsistent
sound velocities.
While there are many different ultrasonic techniques to measure thickness, which will be
discussed below, all of them rely on using the sound velocity to convert from time to thick-
ness.
4.2 Suitability of materials
Ultrasonic thickness measurements rely on passing a sound wave through the material
being measured. Not all materials are good at transmitting sound. Ultrasonic thickness
measurement is practical in a wide variety of materials including metals, plastics, and
glass. Materials that are difficult include some cast materials, concrete, wood, fiberglass,
and some rubber.
4.3 Range of measurement and accuracy
The overall measurement capabilities, based on the wide variety of materials, is determined
by the consistency of the material being measured
The range of thickness that can be measured ultrasonically depends on the material as well
as the technique being used and the type of transducer. Thickness measurements can be
made from a minimum of 0.010 inch to 9.999” in steel. However, the maximum attainable
thickness is much less for more attenuative materials (materials that absorb sound).
Accuracy, is determined by how consistent the sound velocity is through the sound path
being measured, and is a function of the overall thickness of the material. For example, the
velocity in steel is typically within 0.5% while the velocity in cast iron can vary by 4%.
4.4 Couplant
All ultrasonic applications require some medium to couple the sound from the transducer
to the test piece. Typically a high viscosity liquid is used as the medium. The sound fre-
quencies used in ultrasonic thickness measurement do not travel through air efficiently. By
using a liquid couplant between the transducer and test piece the amount of ultrasound
entering the test piece is much greater.
4.5 Temperature
Temperature has an effect on sound velocity. The higher the temperature, the slower sound
travels in a material. High temperatures can also damage transducers and present a problem
for various liquid couplants.
Since the sound velocity varies with temperature it is important to calibrate at the same
temperature as the material being measured.
-18-
Probe Automatically Recognized (PECT only)
1. Press the OK key once to use the identified probe, or ESC to
display a list of optional transducers.
NOTE: If the TI-CMX recognizes a specific transducer, the user
should always select OK to use the identified probe. The only time
an alternative probe should be selected from a list is if the user
switched probes following initial power up and recognition.
2. Assuming the TI-CMX recognized the probe and the OK key
was pressed, the TI-CMX will advance to a Zero Probe menu. If
the transducer was identified as a special transducer capable of
measuring coating thickness, a menu will be displayed allowing
the user the ability to toggle the coating thickness display on/off
as follows:
3. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys to toggle the coating
option on/off.
Multi Mode Key Pressed (PECT & CT)
1. Press the MULTI MODE key located
on bottom left of the keypad to display
the MEASURE MODE options menu.
2. Press the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to highlight the COATING ON (PECT)
or COATING ONLY (CT) menu option.
3. Press the ENTER key to enable the
coating option, or ESC to cancel
changing the measure mode, and
return to the main measurement screen.
Measure Mode (Tabbed Menus) – (PECT & CT)
1. Press the MENU key once to activate
the menu items tab. Press the MENU
key multiple times to tab right, and the
ESC key multiple times to tab left,
until the TUNE menu is highlighted
and displaying the submenu items.
2. Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys
to scroll through the sub menu items
until MEASURE MODE is highlighted.
3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT arrow
keys to scroll the modes.
4. When the correct MODE is being displayed, press the MEAS key to return to the
measurement screen and begin taking readings.
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Applied to
Metals
Not Applied to
Metals
Applied to
Metals
Not Applied to
Metals

Normal temperature range
Most standard transducers will operate from 0∞F to 180∞F.
High temperature measurements
Special transducers and couplants are available for temperatures above 180∞F up to 650
with intermittent contact. It is necessary to cool the transducer, by submerging the trans-
ducer in water between readings, when measuring high temperatures.
Modes and temperature errors
In addition to errors caused by velocity changing with temperature, some modes (measu
ment techniques) are affected more than others. For example, dual element mode has lar
errors due to changes in temperature of the delay line. However, in multi-echo technique
auto temperature helps to minimize these errors.
4.6 Measurement Modes
In this section we will discuss the different measurements modes the TI-CMX is capable
operating in, the transducers required, and the reasons for using specific modes:
Pulse-Echo Mode (Flaw & Pit detection) – Coating Off (P-E)
Pulse-echo mode measures from the initial pulse (sometimes referred to as an artificial
zero) to the first echo (reflection). In this mode, either an automatic or manual zero can
performed depending on the zero probe function setting. If the manual mode has been
selected, the transducer is placed on a reference disk, located on top of the TI-CMX, and
key is pressed to establish a zero point for the particular transducer. If the Auto Zero fea
ture is enabled, a simple key press will perform an electronic zero to establish the same
zero point.
In this mode errors result from surface coatings and temperature variations.
Since pulse-echo only requires one reflection, it is the most sensitive mode for measurin
weak reflections (flaws) typically found when measuring heavily corroded metals.
V-Path Correction
Dual element delay line transducers have two piezoelectric elements
mounted at an angle on one end of the delay line. One element is used
for transmitting sound, while the other element only receives sound.
The two elements and their delay lines are packaged in a single housing
but acoustically isolated from each other with a sound barrier. This
allows the transducer the ability to achieve very high sensitivity for
detecting small defects. Also, the surface of the test material does not
have to be as flat in order to obtain good measurements.
Dual element transducers are normally used in pulse-echo mode for
finding defects, and in echo-echo mode for through coating measurements.
Dual element delay line transducers are usable over a range of 0.025 inches to 20 inches
depending on the material, frequency, and diameter.
A limitation of dual element delay-line transducers is the V shaped sound path. Because
sound travels from one element to another, the time versus thickness relationship is non-
linear. Therefore, a correction table in the instruments software is used to compensate fo
this error.
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Dual Element
Transducer
showing
V-path of sign
9.0 PULSE-ECHO COATING & COATING TECHNIQUES
9.1 Introduction to Pulse-Echo Coating Measurement (PECT)
In the previous sections we’ve discussed the need for detecting pits and flaws (pulse-echo)
in materials, along with the requirement to measure through and eliminate errors caused by
coated materials (echo-echo). Until now, both modes were needed in order accomplish both
tasks. Pulse-echo mode was used for flaw detection, and echo-echo mode was used to elim-
inate the coating thickness and provide a nominal material thickness only. With this in
mind, it often became cumbersome toggling between both modes respectively.
In a majority of applications involving coated materials, inspectors are often interested in
monitoring both the thickness of the material, as well as the thickness of the coating.
Therefore, the TI-CMX has been designed to provide the user with the ability to measure
the material and coating thicknesses simultaneously, while maintaining the ability to detect
flaws and pits all in a single mode called Pulse-Echo Coating (PECT). This is accom-
plished by using a custom hybrid combination mode utilizing properties from the basic
modes along with a group of special techniques and theoretical wave phenomena’s.
The TI-CMX is preset to a coating velocity of 0.0850 in/µsec (2159 m/sec) from the facto-
ry. This velocity is a very close approximation of the common coating velocities found in
the field. However, the TI-CMX also has a built-in one and two point calibration options to
calibrate to coating samples with a known thicknesses.
There are two coating modes built into the TI-CMX:
1. Pulse-Echo Coating (PECT) – used during inspections where both the material
and coating thicknesses are required.
2. Coating Only (CT) – used during inspections where only the coating thickness is
required.
9.2 Enabling Pulse-Echo Coating Mode (PECT) & Coating (CT)
When the TI-CMX is initially powered up, the gauge will automatically check to see if the
transducer plugged into the gauge can be recognized. All Dakota Ultrasonics coating
enabled transducers are equipped with the auto recognition feature. If the TI-CMX doesn’t
recognize that a special coating enabled transducer is plugged into the gauge, the coating
feature will be disabled entirely. There are a number of coating enabled transducers avail-
able from Dakota. Please contact us with your application requirements for additional
information on frequencies and diameters currently offered.
The coating modes can be enabled in three different ways:
1. On Power up and probe recognition.
2. By pressing MULTI MODE keypad.
3. From the tabbed menus under TUNE, MEASURE MODE.
The steps that follow will demonstrate all three methods in the order listed above.
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Searching for small defects
Dual element delay line transducers are especially useful in searching for small defects. In
the pulse-echo mode with high amplifier gain, very small defects can be measured. This is
very useful during corrosion inspections overall. The dual element style transducer will
find wall deterioration, pits, and any porosity pockets during tank and pipeline inspections.
Echo-Echo Mode – Thru-Paint (E-E)
The echo-echo mode measures between two reflections. This technique
is commonly used to eliminate errors from surface coatings and also to
make measurements in multiple layered materials. The disadvantage is
that two echoes are needed which requires a much stronger echo
(reflection).
Echo-Echo Verify Mode – Thru-Verify (E-EV)
The echo-echo verify mode measures between 3 reflections. Similar to
E-E mode, this technique is commonly used to eliminate errors from
surface coatings and also to make measurements in multiple layered
materials. The primary benefit of this mode, is that a comparison is
made, between the 2nd and 3rd echoes, to verify that a peak jump
has not occurred, providing an additional level of confidence to the
measurement. The disadvantage is that 3 reflections are needed which
requires the use of gates with controllable thresholds to adjust for
sensitivity over a given measurement range.
Pulse Echo Coating Mode – Coating On (PECT)
A custom hybrid combination mode using properties from the basic modes along with a
group of special techniques and theoretical wave phenomena’s to measure coating and
material thicknesses at the same time, while still retaining the ability to locate flaws and
pits in materials. Therefore, the best description for this hybrid mode is Pulse-Echo Coating
mode.
Coating Mode – Coating Only (CT)
Once again, this is a custom hybrid combination mode using special techniques to effec-
tively measure the thickness of coatings that are either adhered to metallic surfaces or in
stand alone form. In this mode a two point calibration must be performed. If the user will
be measuring coating that has been applied to a metal surface, the calibration must be
performed using coating samples coupled to a metal surface when calibrating. To explain
further, a drop of couplant must be applied in between the coating samples and metal
surface. If the coating has not been applied to a metal surface, the calibration should be
performed accordingly.
Pulse-Echo Temperature Compensated Mode – Temp Comp (PETP)
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.
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Dual Element
Transducer in
Echo to Echo
Verify mode
Dual Element
Transducer in
Echo to Echo
mode
8.0 THRU-PAINT MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUE
8.1 Introduction to Thru Paint Measurement
The principle behind thru paint measurement is by measuring the time between two bac
wall echoes returning from the test material. Since both of these backwall echoes travel
same path through the paint or coating, the thickness of the coating is subtracted out of t
measurement so that only the actual material thickness can be measured. This feature sa
the user a great deal of time scraping and removing the coating from tanks and pipes du
ing the inspection process.
The primary purpose of thru paint measurement is to determine actual or overall materia
thickness by eliminating the coating thickness. Thru paint mode cannot be used for flaw
or pit detection. Therefore, inspectors may need to use echo-echo thru paint mode in con
junction with the standard pulse-echo flaw detection mode for some applications. Chass
tubing inspectors and sanctioning bodies will use the echo-echo mode for tubing with
powder coatings, and pulse-echo mode for tubing without coating. The combination of
using both modes is ideal for the advanced inspectors needs.
8.2 Using Thru Paint Mode
The first thing to note in this section, is that by selecting the transducer type from the lis
of probes stored in the TI-CMX, a basic echo-echo thru paint configuration is recalled fr
memory. Each of the transducers in the list contains pre-configured echo-echo settings. T
standard transducer that will be used for common steel applications _” 5MHz high damp
transducer (1/4IN – 5.0MHZ HD). This is the recommended transducer for this industry
and should be used for thru paint applications. Any of the auto recognition coating trans
ducers are also high damped transducers and will work in echo-echo mode as well.
NOTE: When a transducer is selected for use, all of the measurement modes available f
use with this transducer can easily be determined by pressing the multi-mode button on
keypad. The TI-CMX has been programmed to identify the modes available to a specific
transducer.
Once the transducer type has been selected and the appropriate calibration procedure co
pleted, the TI-CMX can toggle between pulse-echo (flaws & pits), and echo-echo (thru
paint) modes by simply pressing the MULTI MODE key located on the keypad. Refer to
section 6.0 for additional information.
The TI-CMX can also be configured for thru paint applications by selecting a factory se
stored in the list of setups in the TI-CMX. Refer to section 11.0 for information on recal
ing a setup. Once either the transducer type or setup has been selected, the inspector is
ready to begin making measurements.
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