In Process Inspection of Friction Stir Welds using Laser UT

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a manufacturing method used most effectively where long, repetitive welds are required. Previously, there has been a lack of an effective in-process inspection method to provide quality assurance. An inspection method deployed in this task must be able to cover the entire volume of the weld, in addition to being suitable in a constantly moving environment. There is also the potential to increase efficiency through automated re-working of welded sections where flaws exist. In the Signastir project, laser ultrasonic testing was integrated into a working FSW system to inspect an entire linear weld by following the tool path. A bespoke software interface was developed to provide to the user an indication of the position of the position and type of any detected flaws.