Possibility of High-Speed Ultrasonic Detection of the Internal Material Defects in Rails

Quick and reliable in situ non-destructive assessment of the material structure is especially critical in the case of measurement of rail defects concerning the demands of quick, uninterrupted transportation and safety. This paper presents the test results of a patented measuring head that is able to perform ultrasonic rail defect detection at speeds of up to 120 km/h. The experimental data was collected and discussed. Statistical analysis was performed in terms of bottom echo drop as a function of velocity, pressing force, and film thickness between the sensor and the rail material surface, as well as the coupling fluid stream intensity. The results proved the feasibility of the device for usage at high speeds for the state monitoring of rails in service.