Ultrasound Signals Response Associated to Fatigue Failure Behaviour using Statistical Analysis

Abstract

In this paper, ultrasound signals had been analysed using a statistical-based approach to evaluate and predict fatigue failure of carbon steel AISI 1045. Fatigue tests were performed according to the ASTM E466-96 standard with the attachment of an ultrasound sensor to the tested specimen. The material used in this test was the AISI 1045 carbon steel due to its extensive application in automotive and machinery industry. Fatigue test was carried out at a constant loading stress at the sampling frequency of 8 Hz. A set of data acquisition system was used to collect those fatigue ultrasound signals. All obtained data were analysed using specific software. Ultrasound signals were collected during fatigue test in order to detect any structural changes occurs during the test. Fatigue damage characteristics were observed based on the ultrasound signals characteristics and a further analysis was performed using statistical approach. The results of signals distribution, r.m.s value and energy content of the signals were discussed to correlate fatigue failure behaviour and ultrasound signals.