This paper describes X-ray simulation and modeling using X-ray simulator software to produce simulated radiographs of the skin-to-flange weld region for the NASA Ares rocket segments. A side-drilled hole discontinuity simulating porosity was present in the skin-to-flange weld and duplicated in a solid model of the test part for virtual testing in the X-ray simulator software. Test conditions such as exposure time, tube current, filtration and test angle were varied in order to evaluate effects of parameter changes on simulated radiographs (in terms of film density and discontinuity detectability). For some parameter changes, discontinuity detectability was enhanced perhaps guiding a technician regarding optimal settings in the actual test, if ever needed. This study provides an example of how an X-ray testing simulation might be performed using X-ray simulator software. Experimental validation of the simulation study results is left for a future effort.
X-ray test simulations for the interior skin-to-flange weld for the NASA Ares rocket segment
Simulationen der Röntgenprüfung der internen Oberfläche-Flanschschweißnaht von Ares-Raketensegmenten der NASA
ME - Materials Evaluation ; 69 , 6 ; 787-793
2011
7 Seiten, 9 Bilder, 5 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English
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