phase II+ UTG-2800 User manual

Model No. UTG-2800
283 Veterans Blvd
Carlstadt, NJ. 07072
[phone]
www.phase2plus.com
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1 Overview......................................................................... 3
1.1 Product Specifications......................................... 3
1.2 Main Functions..................................................... 4
1.3 Measuring Principle............................................. 4
1.4 Configuration........................................................ 4
1.5 Operating Conditions........................................... 5
2 Structure Feature .......................................................... 5
2.1 Measurement Screen.......................................... 5
2.2 Keypad Definitions............................................... 5
3 Preparation..................................................................... 7
3.1 Transducer Selection........................................... 7
3.2 Condition and Preparation of Surfaces............ 9
4 Operation........................................................................ 9
4.1 Power On/Off........................................................ 9
4.2 Probe Zero............................................................ 9
4.3 Sound Velocity Calibration ............................... 10
4.4 Making Measurements...................................... 12
4.5 Scan mode.......................................................... 12
4.6 Changing Resolution......................................... 13
4.7 Changing Units................................................... 13
4.8 Memory Management....................................... 13
4.9 Data Printing....................................................... 14
4.10 Beep Mode ....................................................... 14
4.11 EL Backlight...................................................... 14
4.12 Battery Information.......................................... 14
4.13 Auto Power Off................................................. 15
4.14 System Reset................................................... 15
4.15 Connecting to a Computer............................. 15
5 Servicing....................................................................... 15
6 Transport and Storage................................................ 15
Appendix A Sound Velocities........................................ 29
Appendix B Applications Notes.................................... 16
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1 Overview
The UTG-2800 is a digital ultrasonic thickness gauge. Based on the same
operating principles as SONAR, the instrument is capable of measuring the
thickness of various materials with accuracy as high as 0.001”. It is suitable for
testing a variety of metallic and non-metallic materials.
1.1 Product Specifications
1) Display：4.5 digits LCD with EL backlight.
2) Measuring Range：0.030” – 12.0” (0.75～300mm) (in Steel).
3) Sound Velocity Range: 3280-32805 ft/s (1000~9999 m/s).
4) Resolution：0.001”/0.01mm (selectable)
5) Accuracy：(± 0.5%Thickness+0.001”) depends on materials and conditions
6) Units: Metric/Imperial unit - selectable.
7) Four measurements readings per second for single point measurement, and ten per second for
Scan Mode.
8) Memory for up to 20 files (up to 99 values for each file) of stored values.
9) Power Source：Two “AA” size, 1.5 Volt alkaline batteries. 100 hours typical operating time
(EL backlight off).
10)Communication：USB via output cable
11)Outline dimensions：150×74×32 mm.
12)Weight：245g
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1.2 Main Functions
1) Capable of performing measurements on a wide range of material, including metals, plastic, ceramics,
composites, glass and other ultrasonic wave conductive materials.
2) Optional transducers are available for special applications, including for Rough Surface and High
Temperature applications.
3) Probe-Zero function, Sound-Velocity-Calibration function
4) Two-Point Calibration function.
5) Two work modes: Single point mode and Scan mode.
6) Coupling status indicator showing the contact status.
7) Battery icon indicates the capacity of the battery.
8) Auto sleep and auto power off function to conserve battery life.
9) Optional thermal mini-printer (MP-2800) to print the measured data via USB port for UTG-2800.
1.3 Measuring Principle
The digital ultrasonic thickness gauge determines the thickness of a part or structure by accurately
measuring the time required for a short ultrasonic pulse generated by a transducer to travel through the
thickness of the material, reflect from the back or inside surface, and be returned to the transducer. The
measured two-way transit time is divided by two to account for the down-and-back travel path, and then
multiplied by the velocity of sound in the material. The result is expressed in the equation shown below:
2tv
H 
Where：H－Thickness of the test piece.
v－Sound Velocity in the material.
t－The measured round-trip transit time.
1.4 Configuration
Table 1-1
No
. Item Quantity Note
Standard
Configur
ation
1 Main body 1
2 Transducer 1 Model:
N05/90°
3 Couplant 1
4 Instrument Case 1
5 Operating Manual 1
6 Alkaline battery 2 AA size
7
8
Optional
Accessories 9 Transducer: N02 See
Table3-1
10 Transducer: N07
11 Transducer: HT5
12 Mini thermal
printer 1
13 Print cable 1
14 Communication
Cable 1
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1.5 Operating Conditions
Operating Temperature: 0°- 140°F(－20～＋60℃)
Storage Temperature：22° - 150°F (-30℃～＋70℃)
Relative Humidity ≤90％
The surrounding environment should be void of vibration, strong magnetic field, corrosive medium and heavy
dust.
2 Structure Feature
1) Base Instrument 2) Keypad 3) LCD display 4) Calibration Block 5) Dual Sensor Probe 6) Software 7) USB Output
Cable 8) Couplant Gel
2.1 Main Screen
1, Coupling Indicator: Indicates the coupling status. While the gauge is taking a measurement, the coupling
indicator will be displayed. If it is not, the gauge is having difficulty achieving a stable measurement, and the
thickness value displayed will most likely be erroneous.
2, Measuring Unit: Current unit system. MM or IN for thickness value. M/S or IN/μS for sound velocity.
3, Battery Icon: Displays the remaining capacity of the battery.
4, Information Display: Displays the measured thickness value and the sound velocity.
2.2 Keypad Definitions
1
2 3
2
1
2
2
4
5
6
3
5
6
7
4
8
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Turn the instrument
on/off Sound velocity
calibration
Turn on/off the EL
backlight Enter
Probe-Zero
operation
Plus;
Turn on/off Scan
mode
Unit switch between
Inch and Metric Minus;
Turn on/off the
beep mode
Data Save or Data
Delete
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3 Preparation
3.1 Transducer Selection
The gauge is capable of performing measurements on a wide range of materials, from various metals to
glass and plastics. Different types of material, however, will require the use of different transducers. Choosing the
correct transducer for a job is critical to being able to easily perform accurate and reliable measurement. The
following paragraphs highlight the important properties of transducers, which should be considered when
selecting a transducer for a specific job.
Generally speaking, the best transducer for a job is one that sends sufficient ultrasonic energy into the
material being measured such that a strong, stable echo is received by the gauge. Several factors affect the
strength of ultrasound as it travels. These are outlined below:
Initial Signal Strength. The stronger a signal is to begin with, the stronger its return echo will be. Initial
signal strength is largely a factor of the size of the ultrasound emitter in the transducer. A large emitting area will
send more energy into the material being measured than a small emitting area. Thus, a so-called “1/2 inch”
transducer will emit a stronger signal than a “1/4 inch” transducer.
Absorption and Scattering. As ultrasound travels through any material, it is partly absorbed. If the material
through which the sound travels has any grain structure, the sound waves will experience scattering. Both of
these effects reduce the strength of the waves, and thus, the gauge’s ability to detect the returning echo. Higher
frequency ultrasound is absorbed and scattered more than ultrasound of a lower frequency. While it may seem
that using a lower frequency transducer might be better in every instance, low frequencies are less directional
than high frequencies. Thus, a higher frequency transducer would be a better choice for detecting the exact
location of small pits or flaws in the material being measured.
Geometry of the transducer. The physical constraints of the measuring environment sometimes determine
a transducer’s suitability for a given job. Some transducers may simply be too large to be used in tightly confined
areas. Also, the surface area available for contacting with the transducer may be limited, requiring the use of a
transducer with a small wearface. Measuring on a curved surface, such as an engine cylinder wall, may require
the use of a transducer with a matching curved wearface.
Temperature of the material. When it is necessary to measure on surfaces that are exceedingly hot, high
temperature transducers must be used. These transducers are built using special materials and techniques that
allow them to withstand high temperatures without damage. Additionally, care must be taken when performing a
“Probe-Zero” or “Calibration to Known Thickness” with a high temperature transducer.
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Selection of the proper transducer is often a matter of tradeoffs between various characteristics. It may be
necessary to experiment with a variety of transducers in order to find one that works well for a given job.
The transducer is the “business end” of the instrument. It transmits and receives ultrasonic sound waves that
the instrument uses to calculate the thickness of the material being measured. The transducer connects to the
instrument via the attached cable, and two coaxial connectors. When using transducers, the orientation of the
dual coaxial connectors is not critical: either plug may be fitted to either socket in the instrument.
The transducer must be used correctly in order for the instrument to produce accurate, reliable
measurements. Below is a short description of the transducer, followed by instructions for its use.
Above Left figure is a bottom view of a typical transducer. The two semicircles of the wearface are visible, as
is the barrier separating them. One of the semicircles is responsible for conducting ultrasonic sound into the
material being measured, and the other semicircle is responsible for conducting the echoed sound back into the
transducer. When the transducer is placed against the material being measured, it is the area directly beneath
the center of the wearface that is being measured.
Right figure is a top view of a typical transducer. Press against the top with the thumb or index finger to hold
the transducer in place. Moderate pressure is sufficient, as it is only necessary to keep the transducer stationary,
and the wearface seated flat against the surface of the material being measured.
Table 3-1 Transducer Selection
Model Freq
MHZ Diam mm Measuring Range Lower limit Description
UTG2000-440 2 22 3.0mm～300.0mm（In
Steel）
40mm (in Gray Cast Iron
HT200)
20
Rough Surface
Also for thick, highly attenuating, or
highly scattering materials
Standard Probe 5 10 1.2mm～230.0mm（In
Steel）
Φ20mm×
3.0mm Normal Measurement
UTG2000-420 5 10
1.2mm～230.0mm（In
Steel）
Φ20mm×
3.0mm Normal Measurement
N07 7 6
0.75mm～80.0mm
（In Steel）
Φ15mm×
2.0mm For thin pipe wall or small
curvature pipe wall measurement
UTG2000-450 5 14
3～200mm （In Steel）30 For high temperature up to 570°F
UTG2600-400 5 4 30 Thin walled or small parts
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3.2 Condition and Preparation of Surfaces
In any ultrasonic measurement scenario, the shape and roughness of the test surface are of paramount
importance. Rough, uneven surfaces may limit the penetration of ultrasound through the material, and result in
unstable, and therefore unreliable, measurements. The surface being measured should be clean, and free of any
small particulate matter, rust, or scale. The presence of such obstructions will prevent the transducer from
seating properly against the surface. Often, a wire brush or scraper will be helpful in cleaning surfaces. In more
extreme cases, rotary sanders or grinding wheels may be used, though care must be taken to prevent surface
gouging, which will inhibit proper transducer coupling.
Extremely rough surfaces, such as the pebble-like finish of some cast iron, will prove most difficult to
measure. These kinds of surfaces act on the sound beam like frosted glass on light, the beam becomes diffused
and scattered in all directions.
In addition to posing obstacles to measurement, rough surfaces contribute to excessive wear of the
transducer, particularly in situations where the transducer is “scrubbed” along the surface. Transducers should be
inspected on a regular basis, for signs of uneven wear of the wearface. If the wearface is worn on one side more
than another, the sound beam penetrating the test material may no longer be perpendicular to the material
surface. In this case, it will be difficult to exactly locate tiny irregularities in the material being measured, as the
focus of the sound beam no longer lies directly beneath the transducer.
4 Operation
4.1 Power On/Off
The instrument is turned on by pressing the key.
The gauge can be turned off by pressing the key while it is on. The tool has a special memory that
retains all of its settings even when the power is off.
4.2 Probe Zero
The key is used to “zero” the instrument in much the same way that a mechanical micrometer is zeroed.
If the gauge is not zeroed correctly, all the measurements that the gauge makes may be in error by some fixed
value. When the instrument is “zeroed”, this fixed error value is measured and automatically corrected for all
subsequent measurements. The instrument may be “zeroed ” by performing the following procedure.:
1) Plug the transducer into the instrument. Make sure that the connectors are fully engaged. Check that the
wearface of the transducer is clean and free of any debris.
2) Press the key to activate the probe zero mode.
3) Use the key and the key to scroll to the probe model currently being used. Be sure to set the right probe
model to the instrument. Otherwise, there will be erroneous readings.
4) Apply a single droplet of ultrasonic couplant to the face of the metal probe-disc on the front face of the gauge.
5) Press the transducer against the probe disc, making sure that the transducer sits flat against the surface.
6) Remove the transducer from the probe disc.
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At this point, the instrument has successfully calculated its internal error factor, and will compensate for this
value in any subsequent measurements. When performing a “probe zero”, the instrument will always use the
sound velocity value of the built-in probe-disc, even if some other velocity value has been entered for making
actual measurements. Though the instrument will remember the last “probe zero” performed, it is generally a
good idea to perform a “probe zero” whenever the gauge is turned on, as well as any time a different transducer
is used. This will ensure that the instrument is always correctly zeroed.
Press while in probe zero mode will stop current probe zero operation and return to the measurement
mode.
4.3 Sound Velocity Calibration
In order for the gauge to make accurate measurements, it must be set to the correct sound velocity for the
material being measured. Different types of material have different inherent sound velocities. 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. The One-Point calibration is the simplest and most commonly used calibration procedure optimizing
linearity over large ranges. The Two-point calibration allows for greater accuracy over small ranges by
calculating the probe zero and velocity.
Note: One and Two point calibrations must be performed on material with the paint or coating removed. Failure
to remove the paint or coating prior to calibration will result in a multi material velocity calculation that may be
different from the actual material velocity intended to be measured.
4.3.1 Calibration to a known thickness
Note: This procedure requires a sample piece of the specific material to be measured, the exact thickness of
which is known, e.g. from having been measured by some other means.
1) Perform a Probe-Zero.
2) Apply couplant to the sample piece.
3) Press the transducer against the sample piece, making sure that the transducer sits flat against the surface
of the sample. The display should show some thickness value, and the coupling status indicator should
appear steadily.
4) Having achieved a stable reading, remove the transducer. If the displayed thickness changes from the value
shown while the transducer was coupled, repeat step 3.
5) Press the key to activate the calibration mode. The MM (or IN) symbol should begin flashing.
6) Use the key and the key to adjust the displayed thickness up or down, until it matches the
thickness of the sample piece.
7) Press the key again. The M/S (or IN/μS) symbols should begin flashing. The gauge is now displaying
the sound velocity value it has calculated based on the thickness value that was entered.
8) Press the key once again to exit the calibration mode and return to the measurement mode. The gauge
is now ready to perform measurements.
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4.3.2 Calibration to a known velocity
Note: This procedure requires that the operator knows the sound velocity of the material to be measured. A table
of common materials and their sound velocities can be found in Appendix A of this manual.
1) Press the key to activate the calibration mode. The MM (or IN) symbol should begin flashing.
2) Press the key again, so that The M/S (or IN/μS) symbols are flashing.
3) Use the key and the key to adjust the sound velocity value up or down, until it matches the sound
velocity of the material to be measured. You can also press the key to switch among the preset
commonly using velocities.
4) Press the key to exit from the calibration mode. The gauge is now ready to perform measurements.
To achieve the most accurate measurements possible, it is generally advisable to always calibrate the gauge
to a sample piece of known thickness. Material composition (and thus, its sound velocity) sometimes varies from
lot to lot and from manufacturer to manufacturer. Calibration to a sample of known thickness will ensure that the
gauge is set as closely as possible to the sound velocity of the material to be measured.
4.3.3 Two Point Calibration
Note: This procedure requires that the operator has two known thickness points on the test piece that are
representative of the range to be measured.
1) Perform a Probe-Zero.
2) Apply couplant to the sample piece.
3) Press the transducer against the sample piece, at the first/second calibration point, making sure that the
transducer sits flat against the surface of the sample. The display should show some (probably incorrect)
thickness value, and the coupling status indicator should appear steadily.
4) Having achieved a stable reading, remove the transducer. If the displayed thickness changes from the value
shown while the transducer was coupled, repeat step 3.
5) Press the key. The MM (or IN) symbol should begin flashing.
6) Use the key and the key to adjust the displayed thickness up or down, until it matches the
thickness of the sample piece.
7) Press the key. The display will flash 1OF2. Repeat steps 3 and 4 on the second calibration point.
8) Use the key and the key to adjust the displayed thickness up or down, until it matches the
thickness of the sample piece. *you will not see 2OF2 on display.
9) Press the key, so that The M/S (or IN/μS) symbols are flashing. The gauge will now display the sound
velocity value it has calculated based on the thickness values that were entered in step 6.
10) Press the key once more to exit the calibration mode. The gauge is now ready to perform
measurements within this range.
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4.3.4 Storing Sound Velocities in Memory
The UTG-2800 is capable of storing multiple sound velocities to enable the user to quickly check different
known materials.
Example: If you are testing steel at .233 in/us, you can quickly change to one of your stored sound velocities
when you need to test your aluminum, brass, plastic, etc. part.
Power unit on. Press the VEL button until you see in/us flashing. Now press the button to scroll through
the set sound velocities. Find a velocity closest to your material and adjust it to match your material by pressing
the UP or DOWN arrow buttons. Place probe on your part and the gauge will automatically store this velocity for
future use.
4.4 Making Measurements
When the tool is displaying thickness measurements, the display will hold the last value measured, until a
new measurement is made.
In order for the transducer to do its job, there must be no air gaps between the wear-face and the surface of
the material being measured. This is accomplished with the use of a “coupling” fluid, commonly called “couplant”.
This fluid serves to “couple”, or transfer, the ultrasonic sound waves from the transducer, into the material, and
back again. Before attempting to make a measurement, a small amount of couplant should be applied to the
surface of the material being measured. Typically, a single droplet of couplant is sufficient.
After applying couplant, press the transducer (wearface down) firmly against the area to be measured. The
coupling status indicator should appear, and a digit number should appear in the display. If the instrument has
been properly “zeroed” and set to the correct sound velocity, the number in the display will indicate the actual
thickness of the material directly beneath the transducer.
If the coupling status indicator does not appear not stable, 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 select a different transducer (size
or frequency) for the material being measured.
While the transducer is in contact with the material that is being measured, the instrument will perform four
measurements every second, updating its display as it does so. When the transducer is removed from the
surface, the display will hold 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,
resulting in a measurement that is larger or smaller than it should be. This phenomenon is obvious when one
thickness value is observed while the transducer is in place, and another value is observed after the transducer
is removed. In addition, measurements through very thick paint or coatings may result in the paint or coating
being measured rather than the actual material intended. The responsibility for proper use of the instrument, and
recognition of these types of phenomenon, rests solely with the user of the instrument.
4.5 Scan mode
While the 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.
In normal operation, the gauge performs and displays four measurements every second, which is quite
adequate for single measurements. In Scan Mode, however, the gauge performs ten measurements every
second, and displays the readings while scanning. While the transducer is in contact with the material being
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measured, the gauge is keeping track of the lowest measurement it finds. The transducer may be “scrubbed”
across a surface, and any brief interruptions in the signal will be ignored. When the transducer loses contact with
the surface for more than two seconds, the gauge will display the smallest measurement it found. When the
transducer is removed from the material being scanned, the gauge will display the smallest measurement it
found.
When the scan mode is turned off, the single point mode will be automatically turned on. Turn on/off the
scan mode by the following steps:
Press the key to switch the scan measurement mode on and off. It will display the current condition of
the scan mode on the main screen.
4.6 Changing Resolution
UTG-2800 has selectable display resolution, which is 0.01” / 0.001” (0.1mm and 0.01mm).
Press down the key while turning on the gauge will switch the resolution between “High” and “Low”.
4.7 Changing Measuring Units
On the measurement mode, press the key to switch back and forth between imperial and metric units.
4.8 Memory Management
4.8.1 Storing a reading
There are twenty files (F00-F19) that can be used to store the measurement values inside the gauge. At
most 100 records (thickness values) can be stored to each file. By simply pressing the key after a new
measurement reading appears, the measured thickness value will be saved to current file. It is added as the last
record of the file. To change the destination file to store the measured values, follow the steps:
1) Press the key to activate the data logging functions. It will display the current file name and the total
record count of the file.
2) Use the key and the key to select the desired file to set as current file.
3) Press the key to exit the data logging functions at any time.
4.8.2 Clearing selected file
The user may require the contents of an entire file be completely cleared of all measurements. This would
allow the user to start a new list of measurements starting at storage location L00. The procedure is outlined in
the following steps.
1. Press the key to activate the data logging functions. It will display the current file name and the total
record count of the file.
2. Use the key and the key to scroll to the file that will be cleared of all measurements.
3. Press the key on the desired file. It will automatically clear the file, and display “-DEL”.
4. Press the key, at any time, to exit the data logging functions and return to measurement mode.
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4.8.3 Viewing/deleting stored record
This function provides the user with the ability to view/delete a record in a desired file previously saved in
memory. Following is the steps:
1. Press the key to activate the data logging functions. It will display the current file name and the total
record count of the file.
2. Use the key and the key to select the desired file.
3. Press the key to enter the selected file. It will display the current record number (for example, L012) and
the record content.
4. Use the key and the key to select the desired record.
5. Press the key on the desired record. It will automatically delete this record, and display “-DEL”.
6. Press the key to exit the data logging functions and return to measurement mode.
4.9 Data Printing
At the end of the inspection process, or end of the day, the user may require the readings be transferred to a
computer. The following steps outline this procedure.
Before printing, please insert one connection plug of the print cable (Optional parts) into the socket on the
upper-left of the main body, and insert the other plug into the communication socket of the mini-printer.
1. Press the key to activate the data logging functions.
2. Use the key and the key to select the desired file.
3. Press the key to print the selected file. This operation will send all the data in current file to the mini
printer via RS232 port and print them out.
4. Press the key to exit the data logging functions and return to measurement mode.
4.10 Sound Mode
When the sound is set to 【On】，it would make a short beep any time you press a key, take a measurement,
or the measured value exceeds the tolerance limit.
Press the key to switch the beep mode on and off. It will display the current sound mode on the main
screen.
4.11 EL Backlight
The background light makes it easy to use in darker conditions indoors or out. Press key to switch on or
switch off the background light at any moment as you need after power on. Since the EL light will consume more
power, turn on it only when necessary.
4.12 Battery Icon
Two AA size alkaline batteries are used as the power source. As the battery begins to drain the display will
be shown as .When the battery capacity runs out, the battery symbol will be shown as and will
begin to flash. When this occurs, the batteries should be replaced. Pay close attention to polarity.
Please remove batteries if the UTG-2800 will not be used for an extended period of time.
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4.13 Auto Power Off
The instrument features an auto power off function designed to conserve battery life. If the tool is idle for 5
minutes, it will turn itself off.
4.14 System Reset
Press down the key while powering on the instrument will restore factory defaults. All the memory data
will be cleared during system reset. The only time this might possibly helpful is if the parameter in the gauge was
somehow corrupted.
4.15 Connecting to a Computer
The UTG-2800 is equipped with a USB port. Using the accessory cable, the gauge has the ability to connect
to a computer, or external storage device. Measurement data stored in the memory of the gauge can be
transferred to the computer through the USB port.
5 Service
ALL SERVICE AND/OR REPAIRS MUST BE DONE THROUGH THE PHASE II SERVICE DEPARTMENT.
A return authorization number is mandatory in order for a defective tester to be accepted for repair and/or replacement.
All testers must be accompanied by your warranty card or serial number. Complete description of problem and a
contact person for authorization of repairs must be supplied as well.
ANY ATTEMPT AT HOME REPAIR WILL AUTOMATICALLY VOID THE STATED WARRANTY!
NO EXCEPTIONS!
6 Transport and Storage
Be sure to clean the probe and cable after each use. Grease, oil and dust will cause the cable of the probe to age and
crack.
If the unit is not to be used for a long period of time, remove the batteries to avoid battery leakage and corrosion of the
battery contacts.
Avoid storing the unit in a damp or extremely hot environment.
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Appendix B Applications Notes
Measuring pipe and tubing.
When measuring a piece of pipe to determine the thickness of the pipe wall, orientation of the transducers is
important. If the diameter of the pipe is larger than approximately 4 inches, measurements should be made with
the transducer oriented so that the gap in the wearface is perpendicular (at right angle) to the long axis of the
pipe. For smaller pipe diameters, two measurements should be performed, one with the wearface gap
perpendicular, another with the gap parallel to the long axis of the pipe. The smaller of the two displayed values
should then be taken as the thickness at that point.
Measuring hot surfaces
The velocity of sound through a substance is dependant upon its temperature. As materials heat up, the
velocity of sound through them decreases. In most applications with surface temperatures less than about 100℃,
no special procedures must be observed. At temperatures above this point, the change in sound velocity of the
material being measured starts to have a noticeable effect upon ultrasonic measurement. At such elevated
temperatures, it is recommended that the user perform a calibration procedure on a sample piece of known
thickness, which is at or near the temperature of the material to be measured. This will allow the gauge to
correctly calculate the velocity of sound through the hot material.
When performing measurements on hot surfaces, it may also be necessary to use a specially constructed
high-temperature transducer. These transducers are built using materials which can withstand high temperatures.
Even so, it is recommended that the probe be left in contact with the surface for as short a time as needed to
acquire a stable measurement. While the transducer is in contact with a hot surface, it will begin to heat up, and
through thermal expansion and other effects, may begin to adversely affect the accuracy of measurements.
Measuring laminated materials.
Laminated materials are unique in that their density (and therefore sound-velocity) may vary considerably
from one piece to another. Some laminated materials may even exhibit noticeable changes in sound-velocity
across a single surface. The only way to reliably measure such materials is by performing a calibration procedure
on a sample piece of known thickness. Ideally, this sample material should be a part of the same piece being
measured, or at least from the same lamination batch. By calibrating to each test piece individually, the effects of
variation of sound-velocity will be minimized.
An additional important consideration when measuring laminates, is that any included air gaps or pockets
will cause an early reflection of the ultrasound beam. This effect will be noticed as a sudden decrease in
thickness in an otherwise regular surface. While this may impede accurate measurement of total material
thickness, it does provide the user with positive indication of air gaps in the laminate.
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.
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Couplants
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 used in ultrasonic thickness measurement
does not travel through air efficiently.
A wide variety of couplant materials may be used in ultrasonic gauging. Propylene glycol is suitable for most
applications. In difficult applications where maximum transfer of sound energy is required, glycerin is
recommended. However, on some metals glycerin can promote corrosion by means of water absorption and thus
may be undesirable.
Other suitable couplants for measurements at normal temperatures may include water, various oils and
greases, gels, and silicone fluids. Measurements at elevated temperatures will require specially formulated high
temperature couplants.
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 while in standard pulse-echo mode.
This may result in a thickness reading that is TWICE what it should be. The Responsibility for proper use of the
instrument and recognition of these types of phenomenon rests solely with the user of the instrument.
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All velocities are approximations:
SOUND VELOCITY MEASUREMENT CHART
Material Sound Velocity
Inch/µS M/s
Air 0.013 330
Aluminum 0.250 6300
Alumina Oxide 0.390 9900
Beryllium 0.510 12900
Boron Carbide 0.430 11000
Brass 0.170 4300
Cadmium 0.110 2800
Copper 0.180 4700
Glass(crown) 0.210 5300
Glycerin 0.075 1900
Gold 0.130 3200
Ice 0.160 4000
Inconel 0.220 5700
Iron 0.230 5900
Iron (cast) 0.180 4600
Lead 0.085 2200
Magnesium 0.230 5800
Mercury 0.057 1400
Molybdenum 0.250 6300
Monel 0.210 5400
Neoprene 0.063 1600
Nickel 0.220 5600
Nylon, 6.6 0.100 2600
Oil (SAE 30) 0.067 1700
Platinum 0.130 3300
Plexiglass 0.110 1700
Polyethylene 0.070 1900
Polystyrene 0.0930 2400
Polyurethane 0.0700 1900
Quartz 0.230 5800
Rubber, Butyl 0.070 1800
Silver 0.140 3600
Steel, Mild 0.233 5900
Steel,
Stainless 0.230 5800
Teflon 0.060 1400
Tin 0.130 3300
Titanium 0.240 6100
Tungsten 0.200 5200
Uranium 0.130 3400
Water 0.584 1480
Zinc 0.170 4200
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