Transducer units are designed to work together with electronic units of ultrasonic flaw detectors of RDM series. Transducer units (TU) are used in sounding schemes to detect defects in one or two strands of railroad track, as well as elements of switches and connecting tracks.

Transducer units used in ultrasonic flaw detector are specialized, multi-channel piezoelectric modules that perform the function of converting electrical signals into ultrasonic waves and vice versa. They are a key element of the non-destructive testing system used to diagnose the condition of the railroad track.

Transducer units are an integral part of the mechanized ultrasonic control system and structurally consist of resonators installed in a wear-resistant housing.

The units are equipped with a contact liquid supply system. The latest developed flaw detectors are equipped with acoustic blocks (AB), which differ from transducer blocks by design and manufacturing technology.

Purpose of the transducer unit

• Generation of ultrasonic vibrations directed into the controlled object (rail).
• Receiving and converting reflected ultrasonic signals from reflectors located in the rail into electrical impulses transmitted to the receiving device of the electronic unit for further processing.
• Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of ultrasonic inspection to detect microcracks, delaminations, inclusions and other defects.

Transducer unit composition

• Piezoelectric resonators: The main component of the unit that converts electrical energy into mechanical ultrasonic vibrations and vice versa.
• Housing: Protects the resonators from abrasion and mechanical damage, provides attachment to the centering system of the flaw detection cart.
• Coaxial cables and connectors: Provide electrical connection and signal transmission between resonators and flaw detector electronic unit.
• Electronic components (in some models): May include preamplifiers and filters, to improve the quality of the received signal, and memory chips.

Functionality

• Signal conversion: The electrical impulse from the flaw detector is converted into an ultrasonic wave that penetrates the rail body.
• Directionality and frequency range: The design of the unit provides a defined acoustic directivity of each resonator built into the unit for the most optimal defect detection.
• Resistance to external influences: The design of the units withstands vibration, temperature variations and environmental influences, which is important for operation on railroad tracks.

Technical data of the units

Transducer unit design

1. Case;
2. Resonator;
3. Frame with mounting bracket for installing the unit in the centering device;
4. Cable with connector for connection to the electronic unit;
5. Block Cover;
6. Clamp for attaching the cable;
7. Contact fluid connection.