ToFD examination

Vinçotte (member of Kiwa Group) is the specialist in Belgium for (advanced) NDT. Vinçotte offers various ultrasonic examination techniques, including Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) inspection. The quality of materials and connections is essential for the safety and reliability of installations and products. All manufacturers must ensure the safety and lifespan of their products before they are released onto the market. Vinçotte Netherlands conducts non-destructive testing (NDT). As specialists, we offer various ultrasonic examination techniques, including TOFD inspection.

What you need to know

The TOFD technique utilizes two probes in a transmitter-receiver setup positioned at a predetermined distance from each other. For weld inspection, a probe is placed on each side so that the sound travels through the weld during movement.

When sound is emitted into the material from one probe (transmitter), any present defect will vibrate (oscillate). Each end of that defect acts as a point source of weak ultrasonic signals, also known as diffraction signals. These diffraction signals are received in the other probe (receiver). By measuring the time difference, the depth of the point sources can be determined, allowing the position and size of the defect to be determined.

Critical weld joints

For this purpose, the combination with Phased Array, another advanced ultrasonic testing method, is often made. This combination provides more insight into the nature of defects combined with accurate location determination.

Advantages

With TOFD inspection, you assess the quality of materials and connections that are essential for the safety and reliability of installations and products.