From Paper-Based Inspection to NDE 4.0: Digitalization of Ultrasonic Baffle Bolt Inspection

Baffle bolt ultrasonic inspections combine a demanding outage schedule, a large population of similar components, complex acquisition and analysis procedures, and high-consequence decision-making. Historically, these inspections have relied on paper-based coordination, manual data handling, and sequential reviews that create variability, delay feedback, and increase the risk of late rework. This paper presents a data-driven digitalization approach that converts the inspection from a procedure-centered paper process into an application-guided workflow. The proposed framework integrates structured data management, analysis support, human supervision, and qualification considerations within a traceable NDE 4.0 environment. Rather than detailing implementation mechanisms, the paper focuses on the principles required to combine digital capabilities and qualified expertise in a controlled inspection process.