NetUs – Network Ultrasound

The advantage of ultrasonic measurement and test systems is their non-destructive investigation of layer thicknesses, interfaces, and inhomogeneities in a variety of materials and composites. In comparison to conventional methods the ultrasonic techniques allow for decreased investigation costs and times, thereby reducing downtimes, avoiding premature replacement of machinery, equipment, structures and pipelines, increasing product quality, and improving safety. At the same time, ultrasound is a useful complement to other methods of non-destructive material testing. Different penetration depths and resolutions complement each other in their results. In particular, due to the progressive development of computer technologies the further development of 3-D imaging processes is a necessary prerequisite for modern quality control of active production lines and the associated facilities, respectively.

The combination of skills and know-how of small and medium-sized enterprises to combine their R&D activities is also an aim of the network such as the implementation of cutting-edge research results of the central German universities, e.g. in the field of piezoelectric materials, material and component characterization, sound field simulation, sensor technology, and ultra-fast data processing, into high-performance systems for diagnostics and monitoring of industrial processes by companies from the region which have the necessary core competencies.

The technical objective of networking is to create a modular system of equipment and facilities including the necessary software for the diagnosis and monitoring of industrial processes using ultrasound techniques and technologies. As an example, the network will focus on the chemical and plastics industries as well as functional testing and monitoring of piping systems and wind power stations for the time being.

Regarding research and development within the network six competency areas can be found with each network partner contributing R&D potentials and most relevant experiences usually in more than one of these areas:

• Further development of ultrasonic actuator and sensor technology
• New piezoelectric materials
• Signal conversion, transmission, processing and analysis, including integration into Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Development, adaptation and certification of non-destructive test, measurement and investigation procedures
• Ultrasound techniques for materials testing and plant diagnostics
• Development and application of ultrasound imaging methods (array technology)

As joint innovation fields in the network the following key points are designated:

• Material testing with ultrasound
• New materials for ultrasound
• Measurement methods and simulation

The economic objectives of the network are mainly to strengthen the competitiveness of participating companies and the expansion of its international market position, especially as system providers for the diagnosis and monitoring of industrial processes using ultrasonic based techniques and technologies. The companies and research institutes acting in the network represent the various elements along the value chain and are complementary in their skills and capabilities.