When looking for Phased Array probes or transducers, start by describing the inspection you need to perform. The family name helps narrow the search; the final part number depends on the component, instrument and accessories.
This guide organizes that selection within our Vermon NDT Phased Array catalog. Use it to request a new configuration or identify the information to send when replacing a probe.
1. Define the application and available space
Record the material, minimum and maximum thickness, geometry and inspection objective. Include a photo or drawing showing where the probe will sit and how it needs to move. If an inspection procedure applies, include its requirements in your inquiry.
For a weld, specify whether access is available from one or both sides and whether the surface is flat or curved. For piping, include the diameter. Where there are obstructions, measure both the contact area and the clearance available for the probe, wedge and cable exit.
A part number may look suitable in the table yet fail to fit the inspection area. Send the available dimensions along with the specifications you want to compare.
2. Choose a probe family to explore
These are starting points for navigating the catalog. Selection must be confirmed for the application; a family name alone does not guarantee inspection coverage.
| Your requirement | Family to explore | What to send |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluate a linear configuration | General purpose | Material, geometry and objective. |
| Inspect a welded joint | Weld inspection | Thickness, joint preparation and access. |
| Limited contact area | Small footprint | Available area and a drawing. |
| Limited vertical clearance | Low profile | Clearance, diameter and cable exit. |
| Water coupling | Immersion | Tank or local immersion configuration. |
| Evaluate separate transmission and reception | Dual matrix / dual linear | Material, geometry and instrument configuration. |
| Evaluate a specific matrix array | Custom matrix array | Objective, region of interest and constraints. |
For a TOFD probe, consult the dedicated TOFD probe catalog to prepare your inquiry.
3. Compare technical parameters
Frequency: resolution and penetration
In general, higher frequencies favor resolution, while lower frequencies can help with long sound paths or attenuating materials. Evaluate frequency together with the material and sound path, rather than thickness alone. [1]
Elements, aperture and pitch
The total number of probe elements and the group fired by the instrument at each shot are different concepts. The aperture used affects the beam. Pitch is the spacing between elements and should be reviewed together with their size and arrangement. [1] [2]
To compare part numbers, record frequency, element count, pitch and housing dimensions. Also send the instrument's channel configuration. A purchase based only on “32 or 64 elements” leaves part of the selection unresolved.
Probe and accessory dimensions
Check the assembled configuration. The housing, wedge and cable exit must allow the intended movement. In your inquiry, distinguish the dimensions listed in the data sheet from the physical constraints of your component.
4. Confirm the wedge, cable and instrument
Vermon offers different connection options and recommends confirming the element count and connector for the instrument. The probe–wedge combination should also be verified before ordering. [3]
- Instrument: manufacturer, model, channel configuration and connector.
- Wedge: current part number, contact surface, curvature and required angle.
- Cable: required connection, length and cable-exit constraints.
- Replacement: clear photographs of the label, connector and existing accessory.
Explore Phased Array wedges and ask for the quotation to identify the accessories included. For conventional ultrasonic configurations, we have a separate UT cables section; inclusion in the catalog does not imply compatibility with a PAUT probe.
5. Prepare an inquiry we can assess
Copy this checklist and fill in what you know. If a detail is missing, say so: we can start the discussion with the information available.
- Application and inspection objective:
- Material, thickness and geometry:
- Available space and photographs:
- Instrument manufacturer, model and channels:
- Current part number or family of interest:
- Frequency, elements and pitch, if known:
- Wedge, connection and cable length:
- Required quantity:
- Delivery country, city and required date:
We handle inquiries from the USA for customers across Latin America. For Colombia and Peru, let us know if you need to evaluate local delivery through our offices. Availability, lead time and supply arrangements are confirmed in the quotation.
Ask us on WhatsApp ↗WhatsApp will open. Complete your inquiry and press send there.
Frequently asked questions before ordering
Can I request an alternative to my existing probe?
Yes, you can ask us to assess an alternative. Send the full part number, data sheet, current instrument and wedge, along with the application. We will confirm the proposed configuration before quoting.
Do small footprint and low profile mean the same thing?
They are separate families in our catalog. To guide the search, specify whether your main limitation is the contact area or vertical clearance. If both are limited, send both dimensions.
Does the quotation include the wedge and cable?
Explicitly request the complete configuration. The quotation should identify the probe, its connection options and the accessories included, with their part numbers and quantities.
Can I select a probe using this guide alone?
The guide helps you gather information and compare families. The final selection must be checked against the applicable inspection procedure and scan plan, and validated under the working conditions.
Technical references
Manufacturer and instrumentation supplier resources supporting the technical concepts in this guide.