Gusset-Plate Testing Program

completed

The project will perform a literature search to identify nondestructive evaluation (NDE) systems suitable for gusset-plate inspection, and then procure these systems as necessary. Preliminary laboratory research will be performed to determine the capabilities and limitations of these nondestructive evaluation (NDE) systems on single plate configurations. Investigation into available technologies for nested configurations will be performed. Detailed inspection procedures will be outlined to use the advanced NDE systems and document the results to provide permanent digital records. Suitable systems will be deployed in the field as a demonstration. The results of the project will be incorporated into the NDE Web Manual. A detailed final report will be developed outlining the guidelines and the procedures for the use of the advanced NDE systems for inspection of gusset plates.