26th Meeting of the Phased Array Working Group within the Ultrasonic Testing Specialist Group of the DGZfP

On March 15, 2024, the 26th meeting of the Phased Array Working Group within the Ultrasonic Testing Specialist Group of the German Society for Non-Destructive Testing (DGZfP) took place at the DGZfP premises in Dortmund. With 17 participants present in Dortmund and others joining online, the event was well-attended, confirming the significant interest in the topics discussed.

Andreas Mück, Business Unit Director of SONOTEC GmbH, opened the meeting as the chair of the working group, welcoming new members and acknowledging departing members for their valuable support and contributions to the committee's work.

A key agenda item of the meeting was the revision of guideline US03, "Ultrasonic Testing of the Near-Surface Area." After 25 years, a revision, particularly regarding the use of phased array technology, is necessary. Adjustments were discussed and will now be incorporated by the leaders.

A highlight of the event was the presentation on applications of the Total Focusing Method (TFM) technique by Heiko Küchler, followed by a stimulating discussion. The project to create a brochure on TFM remains ongoing, with all members tasked to prepare contributions for this purpose by autumn.

The next meeting of the working group is scheduled for October 29, 2024, at Salzgitter Mannesmann Forschung GmbH in Duisburg.

Following the meeting, participants were offered a tour of the training center to gain a deeper insight into practical work in the field of ultrasonic testing.

Finally, we would like to extend our thanks to DGZfP Dortmund, especially to Ms. Krohn and Mr. Kotter, for providing the facilities and their support in organizing this successful event.