A new freehand scanning system from Phoenix Inspection Systems provides accurate X-Y positions for C-scan inspections without the constraints of a scanning frame.
The Tracer is a low-cost, lightweight system that can be easily carried to the inspection site and is quick and simple to set up. It is ideal for use with linear phased array technology to provide fast, large area coverage as a user-friendly C-scan system.
The Tracer uses two wire encoders attached to the probe to calculate and output accurate positional data. The encoders can be mounted anywhere close to the inspection site at any orientation, allowing C-scan inspections in difficult to access areas. The system is designed for versatility, with three encoder mounting options – magnetic, vacuum cup or clamp.
The Tracer provides sub-millimeter resolution and does not lose position when the probe is lifted off the surface and replaced, so maximum scan coverage is achieved up to and around obstacles. As it outputs standard encoder signals, it can be used with any conventional instrument that has two-axis recording capability.
The Tracer is suitable for all C-scan inspection work, particularly in-service inspections. Typical applications are the detection of damage or verifying material quality in composite components, corrosion mapping in metals, or bond line inspection in glued or sealed assemblies.
Neil Hankinson of Phoenix Inspection Systems said: “The Tracer is designed as a low-cost local positioning system that is easy to transport and handle, is fast to set up and use, and is compatible with any two-axis instrument. Combined with the range of wire encoder mounting options available, it makes the Tracer a truly universal X-Y scanner.”
For further information see www.phoenixisl.co.uk.