January AMP_Digital

A D V A N C E D M A T E R I A L S & P R O C E S S E S | J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 9 1 1 structure of AHSS during different stages of the stamping process that we cannot get anywhere else in the United States,” says Wei Wu of AK Steel. “This data will be vital to improving our man- ufacturing methods and will make it easier to quickly identify the best new materials to blend with NEXMET 1000 to produce lighter, safer, and more dura- ble automotive components.” ornl.gov, aksteel.com . MAGNETOSTRICTIVE SENSOR MONITORS STRUCTURAL HEALTH Engineers at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), San Antonio, recently developed a stronger generation of a patented magnetostrictive sensor that withstands extreme tempera- tures, automatically adjusts frequen- cies, and incorporates a more powerful magnet. The compact magnetostrictive transducer (MsT) now more accurately detects potential problems in oil, gas, easier with the flip of a built-in switch. Longitudinal waves are ideal for buried pipes, while transversal waves are bet- ter for inspecting structures filled with fluids. Last year, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing presented SwRI’s Sergey Vinogradov with the 2018 Research Recognition for Innovation Award for the MsT sensor. swri.org . and chemical industry metal and non- metal structures such as pipelines, stor- age tanks, and anchor rods. The circular, hard shell MsT sensor clamps around pipes and other struc- tures and is available in circumferences ranging from 0.5 to 70 in. It detects material flaws, corrosion, and areas at risk of developing cracks and leaks. The new sensor can be permanently installed on a structure to provide ongo- ing monitoring. A battery-operated hub collects and wirelessly transmits data from the sensor and can connect to multiple sensors at once. MsT is designed to withstand up to 500°C, or 932°F. It can be installed on extremely hot structures to detect weaknesses and can also withstand temperatures significantly below freez- ing. Additionally, the sensor can now scan a structure in segments, providing more thorough inspections. MsT also makes the task of shifting from trans- versal to longitudinal guided waves The MsT sensor automatically adjusts frequencies to inspect structures, reducing human error. Courtesy of SwRI.