What is the main purpose of a probe in ultrasonic testing?

The main purpose of a probe in ultrasonic testing is to emit and receive ultrasonic waves for the analysis of material integrity. In ultrasonic testing, a probe typically incorporates a transducer that converts electrical energy into ultrasonic waves, which are then transmitted into the material being tested. When these waves encounter different interfaces within the material, such as flaws or boundaries between different materials, some of the waves are reflected back to the probe.

The transducer then receives these reflected waves and converts them back into electrical signals for analysis. This process allows for the detection of internal flaws, measurement of material thickness, and assessment of overall material integrity. The ability to send and receive ultrasonic waves is crucial for determining the quality and structural soundness of the material without causing any damage, which is the fundamental principle of nondestructive testing.