Advanced ultrasonic resonance inspection system for TPO membrane welds
LoneStar NDE Innovations offers a cutting-edge ultrasonic resonance inspection system integrated into handscanning and cobot platforms for real-time evaluation of TPO membrane welds. This non-destructive method ensures high sensitivity and rapid feedback to enhance weld quality.
Overview
LoneStar NDE Innovations presents an advanced ultrasonic resonance inspection system designed for the non-destructive evaluation of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) membrane welds. Leveraging ultrasonic resonance, a proven technique in aerospace for analyzing bondlines, this system is integrated into both handscanning and collaborative robot (cobot) inspection platforms. The primary benefit is its ability to provide immediate feedback on weld integrity, identifying voids, fusion issues, and temperature variations, thus ensuring high-quality welds and reducing repair costs.
Technical specifications
- Ultrasonic resonance technology: High sensitivity for detecting defects in metallics, composites, and polymers.
- Custom inspection system: Tailored probes developed for inspection through foams, traditionally a challenge for non-destructive techniques.
- Real-time feedback: Operates in the kHz range for rapid sampling, facilitating integration into TPO welding systems.
- Phased validation approach: Laboratory validation followed by prototype development and field testing to optimize performance and integration.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7, indicating that the system has been demonstrated in an operational environment. Ongoing efforts focus on refining the prototype for production-level deployment and further validation in real-world conditions.
About LoneStar NDE Innovations
LoneStar NDE Innovations specializes in developing advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) technology, offering a suite of hardware and software designed to simplify complex inspection processes. The company provides a CAD-free inspection path planning platform that enables rapid, intuitive operations with minimal setup time. Their technology includes collaborative robotic (cobot) inspection systems, such as the Orion tool, which features 3D depth cameras and automated data capture. By integrating hardware with specialized software, they provide 3D data visualization, custom data analysis automation, and open data archiving, supporting various modalities including ultrasonic, eddy current, and phased array inspections. In addition to their product line, the company maintains an ISO 17025 accredited materials testing facility and offers NAS-410 and ASNT Level 3 professional services.
These capabilities are designed to address critical challenges in industrial inspections, such as technician fatigue, difficult data interpretation, and the lack of digital models for legacy platforms. Their systems aim to improve efficiency and decision-making speed across component lifecycles, from development to in-service monitoring. The company serves diverse industries, ranging from aerospace and rotorcraft to renewable energy sectors. LoneStar NDE Innovations also engages in research and development, including federal contract work with agencies like the Air Force Research Laboratory to advance portable, all-in-one testing systems for defense applications.
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