Sonatest Wave

The Sonatest Wave is a next-generation ultrasonic flaw detector designed for advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) of materials across industrial sectors such as aerospace, oil & gas, power generation, manufacturing, and fabrication. It represents a significant evolution in portable ultrasonic testing technology by combining powerful inspection tools, a customizable user interface, and intuitive data management into a single field-ready instrument.

At its core, the Wave integrates cutting-edge features that optimize the ultrasonic testing workflow, making it easier and faster to analyse internal structural integrity without damaging the tested object. Its interactive scan planning capability allows users to visualise complex geometries—such as welds, curved surfaces, and joints—helping to distinguish genuine flaws from geometric reflections that might otherwise be misinterpreted. This reduces false indications and enhances reliability in flaw detection.

The intuitive touchscreen interface, enhanced by UTouch Technology, mimics the responsiveness of modern mobile devices, allowing operators to navigate controls and settings with ease even in rugged field environments. The user interface can be fully customised to match specific inspection procedures or operator preferences, streamlining repetitive tasks and reducing the learning curve.

One of Wave standout capabilities is its support for interactive scan plans and real-time ray tracing, which visualises sound propagation within tested parts so technicians can interpret results with greater confidence. It also supports custom CAD import, enabling inspectors to load detailed part geometry directly into the detector for enhanced analysis of complex components.

Connectivity is built in with Wi-Fi support, allowing operators to transfer data, manage software updates, and remotely maintain calibration information across a fleet of units. Companion software further enhances data handling: setups created on a PC can be uploaded to the instrument, and results can be exported for reporting, archiving, or analysis.

Physically, the Wave is engineered to withstand tough industrial conditions. It offers rugged construction combined with a high-resolution display, long battery life, and an operating temperature range suitable for most field environments. Its blend of precision, flexibility, and user-centred design makes the Sonatest Wave a powerful tool for professionals conducting ultrasonic inspections of welds, castings, forgings, and structural components.

Technical Specifications

General

• Instrument Type: Portable ultrasonic flaw detector

• Display: Large high-resolution color screen with touch capability

• User Interface: Touchscreen with configurable menu layouts and shortcuts

• Weight: Light enough for handheld operation, ergonomic housing

• Enclosure Protection: Rugged casing designed for industrial environments

• Battery: Rechargeable with extended field runtime

• Operating Temperature: Suitable for typical industrial and field conditions

Ultrasonic Testing Capabilities

• Pulse Repetition Frequency: Adjustable range to suit different materials and inspection tasks

• Frequency Range: Supports a wide range of ultrasonic test frequencies for various applications

• Gain/Signal Control: Digital and analog gain control for precise signal optimization

• Dynamic Range: High dynamic range for clear defect signal detection

• Filtering: Multiple digital filters to enhance signal quality and reduce noise

Measurement & Display

• A-Scan View: Real-time display of ultrasonic amplitude vs. time

• Thickness Measurement: Accurate material thickness readouts

• Calibration Modes: Velocity calibration, DAC/TCG calibration, and user-defined setups

• Gates & Alarms: Dual gates with selectable measurement functions and threshold alarms

• Cursor Functions: Adjustable cursors for detailed measurement on A-scan

Scan & Analysis Tools

• Scan Plan Support: Interactive scan planning for complex geometries

• Ray Tracing: Visual simulation of sound paths in parts with curved or irregular shapes

• Part Geometry Handling: Allows for import or definition of flange, weld, and plate geometry

• Datalogging: Internal storage of readings, waveforms, and inspection sequences

• Playback & Review: Review recorded data directly on the instrument

Connectivity & Data Management

• Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi for data transfer and software updates

• USB Port: For exporting results and logs to external devices

• Software Support: Companion PC software for setup creation, reporting, and advanced analysis

• Remote Support: Capability to send instrument screens or data to support teams

Calibration & Standards

• Calibration Methods: Velocity, standard reference block, user defined

• Standards Support: Capable of meeting general ultrasonic testing standards (industry inspection practices)

• Traceability: Provides consistent calibration capability for repeatable inspection results

Performance & Diagnostics

• Noise Rejection: Advanced filtering and signal processing for clean flaw indication

• Event Logging: Time-stamped event records for traceability

• Self-Diagnostics: System checks for internal performance and transducer integrity

Transducer Compatibility

• Supports a wide range of ultrasonic probes such as standard compression, shear, angle beam, delay line, and dual element transducers for different inspection applications.

Application Scope

The Sonatest Wave is suitable for:

• Weld inspection

• Material integrity testing

• Thickness gauging

• Flaw detection in castings, forgings, and structural steel

• Inspection in aerospace, oil & gas, power generation, and fabrication industries