Ultrasonic Basics

Ultrasonic rail testing is the most popular non-destructive testing method used on rails today.

Ultrasonic rail testing is a non-destructive method that uses sound waves to detect defects in railway tracks.

It’s a quick and effective way to inspect long lengths of rail.

How does ultrasonic scanning work?

• A transducer sends high-frequency sound waves into the rail
• If a defect is encountered, the sound waves reflect back to the transducer
• The reflected sound waves are analyzed to determine the defect’s size, location, and type
• A report is generated that includes the location, characteristics, and urgency of any defects