USM 32 - Upgraded, Easy-To-Operate Ultrasonic Flaw Detector From GE Inspection Technologies

Huerth, Germany, February, 2005

The Krautkramer USM 32 has been significantly improved according to market demand and added to the extensive range of market - leading ultrasonic flaw detectors from GE. This compact instrument is easy to use, with a minimum of operating keys, while incorporating the functionality to handle a broad spectrum of inspection tasks. Simplicity of operation is the most important feature of the USM 32. The operating menu is quickly selected by using five menu keys and functions such as material velocity and range are selected by means of four further keys. There are no hidden menu or second function keys. Two spin & set rotary knobs allow rapid setting of gain and function values. Direct access front panel keys are used to select the required dB step width, to freeze the displayed A-scan, to switch the A-scan to full screen width and to transfer selected data to a printer or remote PC. Instructions are provided in a language of choice, including all European languages.

Ease of visibility is provided by a very high contrast and fast, 4.5in x 3.4in (115mm x 86mm) color LCD, with a choice of color schemes to suit personal preference or ambient light conditions and A-scan resolution of 320 x 220 pixels. Two independent, color-coded gates, with a threshold of 10% to 90% of screen height, allow two events to be monitored simultaneously. Amplitude for each gate, sound path or sound path difference can be displayed prominently in the corner of the A-scan.

For the first time in a flaw detector of this class, high power Lithium Ion batteries are fitted as standard to allow at least ten hours of continuous use. The batteries can be charged internally and, in the event of emergency, the instrument can be powered by 6 C-size standard batteries. The new USM 32 is available in two versions; the USM 32B basic version which has a maximum range of 55.9 in. (1420 mm) in steel and is suitable for standard applications; and the USM 32L, which has a maximum range of 393.7 in. (9999 mm) in steel and is designed for inspecting large components or tough-to-penetrate materials. Both versions can be used with a variety of probes to operate in single, dual or through transmission modes. A versatile handle can be used to position the instrument on virtually any surface and allows ease of portability. The USM 32 will find application in all industrial sectors, from aerospace to oil and gas, wherever there is a requirement for fast and accurate inspection of components and structures. Its ease of operation and comprehensive functionality make it especially attractive for training and teaching environments.

About GE Inspection Technologies
GE Inspection Technologies is a global leader in technology-driven inspection solutions that deliver customer productivity, quality and safety. The company designs, manufactures and services radiographic, ultrasonic and eddy current equipment to test materials without deforming or damaging them. Its products are used in a wide range of industries, including Aerospace, Power Generation, Oil & Gas and Automotive. The company has 9 application centres around the globe and offers a range of services including repair, calibration, training and upgrades. GE Inspection Technologies has 1,000 employees at more than 25 facilities in 25 countries worldwide.