EMAT Thickness Gauge UT-3M-EMA: why, how and where

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NOVOTEST Ltd has developed a completely new-generation device – EMAT Thickness Gauge NOVOTEST UT-3M-EMA. It has a set of features that allows solving any kind of non-standard tasks of thickness measurement. The technology of this device applies to tasks where general methods such as piezo-ultrasonic, X-ray, laser-optical, etc. – are not applicable.

The principle of operation of Electromagnetic-acoustic (EMA) technology is excitation of ultrasound in the tested material by the probe’s transmitter, and measuring the propagation time of ultrasonic waves in the tested material.
So, the technology is similar to the broadly used piezo-ultrasonic method, however, the EMAT Thickness Gauge NOVOTEST UT-3M-EMA thickness gauge has several advantages.

Below, you can see the quick overview of specific functions of UT-3M-EMA, as well as where and how they can be applied.

 

TESTING RANGE

The range of different piezo-ultrasonic probes may differ, meanwhile our EMAT probes are able to precisely measure thickness from 0.5mm to more than 200mm up to 300mm and more, depending on the material and conditions. This is the most substantial advantage of UT-3M-EMA in comparison with other devices. Thus, for metal samples, our device is one of the best options ever.

 

MEASUREMENT WITH AIR GAP

In order to make the testing process easier and to increase the accuracy of results, the EMA technology makes it possible carrying out measurements with an access from one side, also allowing an air gap (up to 6mm). Another advantage of this is that user does not need a coupling gel. In case the surface of the tested object should remain dry and unscathed, UT-3M-EMA is a must-have.

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MEASUREMENT THROUGH COATINGS, RUST, CORROSION AND POORLY PREPARED SURFACES

The EMA technology is based on generating electromagnetic waves in ferromagnetic and paramagnetic materials. It makes it possible measuring through a layer of coating, as well as on rusty, non-prepared surfaces – this cannot be done with traditional measuring methods, but UT-3M-EMA can do it.

 

SPECIAL PROBES TO MEASURE AT HIGH TEMPERATURES

EMAT technology surpasses the usual piezo-ultrasonic method in terms of physical application. For example, EMAT probes are suitable for testing heated objects, fast-moving objects, dry objects – this is why our UT-3M-EMA is often used in steel-making etc.
The EMAT probes for measuring at high temperatures of up to 600°C can be included to the standard package of UT-3M-EMA. This option significantly increases the application area and makes the device the best, and sometimes the only viable solution. For safety and ease of use, a special handle and cable for the probe are developed as well.

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WIDE CHOICE OF MEASUREMENT MODES

Generally, UT-3M-EMA displays the signal as an A-scan, which can be evaluated by the device’s modes using various methods such as PEAK-PEAK, FRONT, ECHO, ECHO-ECHO. Also, UT-3M-EMA has a special Auto-correlation function (ACF) mode, that is exceptionally useful for thin samples with high attenuation and noise.

The B-scan is also present in the device – getting the profile picture of a long, extended area can be easily understood visually by users, which is a significant advantage. With a special trolley for the probe, the user can quickly and effectively receive a profile outline on the B-scan. Based on all the above, the user can tune the device for basically any possible task.

 

AUTOMATIC TESTING MODE AND DISPLAYING DIFFERENT TYPES OF SIGNALS

Another advantage of UT-3M-EMA is the unique testing mode – automatic analysis of the measured signals. The device chooses the correct method, setting the parameters of the receiving path and the subsequent display of the results on the device screen. This way, even a non-experienced user can measure thickness of many different materials and products.

 

SPECIAL MODE FOR THICKNESS CONTROL

For easy and effective inspection of objects with a defined minimum and maximum thickness, a CONTROL mode is added. The user can simply set the allowed thickness range, and when the readings show deviation, sound alarm is activated. This allows the user to be highly efficient when inspecting a big number of samples, or a large surface. A special pouch with straps will be a good addition in such tasks, to safely keep the device close to the operator who can hear the sound alarm.

 

AUTOMATIC CALIBRATION

UT-3M-EMA calibrates itself quickly and easily, with the use of a sample. The standard kit includes a calibration sample; however, the user can also calibrate the device on their own material. UT-3M-EMA needs a thickness value of the sample, and besides that – the device shows a step-by-step instruction, excluding any user’s failure. 

 

DATA LOGGING AND EXPORT

In order to work with the obtained measurements, the special software comes along with the device, it allows transferring the data to a computer and converting it to the required format. An online service for device archive operation is now available. This service operates with measurement archives of devices, and supports Bluetooth device editions as well, being able to download measurement data that is saved in Google Drive cloud storage. Also, this service allows viewing archive entries shared as links or QR codes.

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THICKNESS GAUGE DESIGN

EMAT Thickness Gauge NOVOTEST UT-3M-EMA is made in a sturdy and lightweight metal case. The device also can be produced with the dust and moisture resistant case with IP65 protection by special request. The Lithium-ion high-capacity batteries are installed, for a long operation time. The user can always make a request to increase the battery capacity to up to 30 hours. The device is relatively small, but it has a big colourful screen.