Modeling of transducer fields in inhomogeneous anisotropic materials usingGaussian beam superposition

This article describes a three-dimensional Gaussian beam model for calculat ing transducer-generated ultrasonic wave fields in inhomogeneous anisotropi c media. The model is based on a formulation presented recently for homogen eous anisotropic materials. The inhomogeneity is modeled by dividing the ma terial into several homogeneous layers, the approach accounting for the pro pagation through the various layers and the reflection/refraction processes at the interfaces. It thus calculates ultrasonic field patterns, including proper amplitude information and allows a quick evaluation of the sound fi elds. Application of the model in view of ultrasonic nondestructive testing of layered composite material and of austenitic steel components is addres sed. In the latter case, examples are given for various weldment structures , wherein ultrasonic inspection using commercial angle beam transducers is of interest. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.