Non-Destructive Testing of Composites

Non-destructive testing of composites is essential, as some composites, such as short fibre-reinforced materials (either in a thermoset or thermoplastic matrix) and continuous fibre-reinforced materials are prone to flaws in manufacturing due to deeply involved matrix systems.

As manufacturers continue to improve the performance of composite materials and reduce cycle times to meet aerospace and automotive requirements, it is imperative that non-destructive ultrasonic techniques are used to reliably scan for failure and consistency of complex composite materials.

Our non-destructive testing services include flaw detection and monitoring such as delamination and occurrence of voids. We also provide examination of induced failures that are application-specific. For composite panels up to 13mm thickness we provide A-scan, B-scan, C-scan and Time of Flight Diffraction scans.

Scans provided by NDT are particularly useful for understanding two aspects of composites:

• Flaw Detection C-scan is often used for flaw detection of delamination and voids, a common flaw in the manufacturing process.  Flaw monitoring is often recommended, or required, by quality systems before long-term exposure and comprehensive mechanical characterization.
• Internal Failure Modes Non-Destructive scans of induced failures through industry accepted test methods such as Damage Resistance of Composite (ASTM  D7136) and Compression After Impact (ASTM D7137) provide an illustration of  how composites may fail in application.   Intertek experts interpret ultrasonic data to determine internal damage types including delamination or splits/cracks.

Intertek offers a singular, ‘one-stop’ solution to qualify composites materials for automotive, aerospace and other applications via effective NDT methods. These are in place to ensure that our clients are helped to improve manufacturing processes and qualify materials.