Ultrasonic testing by using a grazing SH-wave for the wheel seat of rolling stock axles is described and compared with the current ultrasonic testing technique. It is the most useful of all ultrasonic testing methods to detect small flaws on the wheel seat, with its accuracy level being between those of magnetic particle testing and testing by ultrasonic high-angle scan from the axle body. Artificial flaws, depth 0.45 mm and length 1.6 mm, are detected by automatic testing equipment. However, it is difficult to use couplant for this method because its viscosity is high and sensitivity is affected by temperature. So there are a number of problems in this method for application to practical axle inspection lines.

Copyright (c) 2002 Railway Technical Research Institute