Rail foot flaw detection based on a laser induced ultrasonic guided wave method

Abstract

With the advancements in Railway Engineering in non-destructive testing technologies, a system for the fast detection of rail flaws at earliest stage is in huge demand. Such a system could result in savings in maintenance and would have less operational impact. Most of the research work in this area has been carried out for the defects in rail head and web, while defects in rail foot, which are difficult to access are responsible for derailments and accidents. This research work is focusing on detecting rail foot flaws using non-destructive, non-contact laser induced ultrasonic guided wave-based technique. This paper presents a conceptual technique based on finite element simulations of the propagation of laser induced ultrasonic guided waves to detect cracks in the rail foot. The simulations are performed at different frequencies and varying sensor positions to identify the best suited frequency and sensor location on locomotive for reliable defect detection.