Which type of display is most commonly used for ultrasonic testing of welds?

The A-Scan display is the most commonly used type of display in ultrasonic testing of welds because it provides a clear, real-time representation of the amplitude and time of the reflected ultrasonic waves. In this display format, the horizontal axis represents time (or depth) and the vertical axis represents the amplitude of the received echoes. This allows the technician to detect flaws and discontinuities in the weld by analyzing the presence, size, and location of signals.

The A-Scan method is particularly useful in scenarios where precision in identifying the depth and size of anomalies is critical, such as in weld integrity evaluation. It enables quick decision-making and is highly effective at pinpointing specific areas of interest within the weld.

While B-Scan and C-Scan displays also provide valuable information—B-Scan offering a cross-sectional view and C-Scan providing a top-down view of the inspected area—they are not as prevalent as the A-Scan in routine weld inspections. D-Scan is less commonly referenced in standard ultrasonic testing practices. Thus, the A-Scan remains the primary choice for professionals assessing weld quality through ultrasonic testing.