Numerical modeling of ultrasonic wave propagation in CFRP radii

Abstract

Ultrasonic wave propagation behavior in L-shaped CFRP specimens was studied based on finite element modeling. The microstructural and elastic information were determined with experiments and analytical calculation, and a 2-D wave propagation model was established. Two typical conditions of transmitting element in phased array ultrasonic transducer inside the radii were comparatively analyzed. The elements were located on and off the transducer center respectively. It is indicated that an oblique incidence resulted in obvious kinking of quasi-longitudinal propagation path and the wave front firstly arriving at the ribbed plate was also a dominant disturbance to the signal recognition. Anisotropic wave propagation, structural noise and multiple mode transformation were observed. The results would be helpful to enhance inspection strategy and guide precise imaging technique based on signal processing.