Optimization of lamb wave inspection techniques

The interaction of individual Lamb waves with a variety of defects simulated by notches is investigated using finite-element analysis, and the results are checked experimentally. Excellent agreement is obtained. It is shown that a 2-D Fourier transform method may be used to quantify Lamb wave interactions with defects. The sensitivity of individual Lamb waves to particular notches is dependent on the frequency-thickness product, the mode type and order, and the geometry of the notch. The sensitivity of the Lamb modes a(1), alpha(0), and s(0) to simulated defects in different frequency-thickness regions is predicted as a function of the defect depth to plate thickness ratio and the results indicate that Lamb waves may be used to find notches when the wavelength to notch depth ratio is on the order of 40. Transmission ratios of Lamb waves across defects are highly frequency dependent.