Which of the following is a characteristic of immersion testing?

Immersion testing is a technique used in ultrasonic testing where the test object is submerged in a liquid, typically water, which acts as a coupling medium. One of the key characteristics of immersion testing is that it allows for direct sound beam manipulation. By adjusting the angle and focus of the ultrasonic transducer, operators can achieve optimal sound wave propagation into the material being tested. This is particularly beneficial for inspecting complex geometries or materials with varying thicknesses, as it enhances sensitivity and resolution in detecting flaws.

The ability to manipulate the sound beam effectively is a significant advantage of immersion testing, enabling more precise inspections compared to other methods. The immersion approach inherently supports a more stable coupling environment, reducing the variability associated with air coupling and mechanical contact methods. This control over the sound beam is crucial for achieving accurate and reliable results in flaw detection and characterization.