Overview
ISO 23243:2020 - "Non‑destructive testing - Ultrasonic testing with arrays - Vocabulary" is an ISO vocabulary standard that defines terms used in ultrasonic array testing. It covers terminology for phased array technology and array-based signal‑processing methods such as full‑matrix capture (FMC) and the total focusing technique (TFM). The standard standardizes language for probes, array elements, beam geometry and steering, instrument channels, delay laws, apodisation, and testing techniques specific to array ultrasonic testing.
Key topics
ISO 23243:2020 organizes definitions into clear groups to support consistent communication across NDT activities. Major topics include:
- Terms related to sound
- main lobe, side lobe, grating lobe - key beam‑pattern concepts for array probes.
- Probe vocabulary
- array, array element, array probe, linear/annular/2‑D (matrix) arrays, sparse arrays
- element geometry: width, length, pitch, spacing, active aperture, virtual source aperture
- beam geometry: natural refracted beam/angle, deflection plane, steering/skew/tilt angles
- failure modes: dead element
- Instrument and signal processing terms
- channel, multi‑channel instrument, phased array instrument, FMC instrument, TFM instrument
- delay law, transmitting/receiving delay, voltage/gain apodisation, amplitude balancing, sensitivity curve
- Testing techniques and presentations
- array technique, phased array technique, phased array setup, probe position, electronic scanning
- Cross‑references to established terminology resources (ISO OBP, IEC Electropedia) and related ISO NDT vocabularies.
Practical applications
ISO 23243:2020 is a vocabulary resource with practical value across industries and workflows:
- Enables precise test procedure writing and consistent inspection reporting in aerospace, oil & gas, power generation, and manufacturing.
- Supports equipment suppliers and buyers in specifying phased array probes, FMC/TFM instruments, and interface requirements.
- Guides training and certification by providing standardized definitions for NDT technicians and engineers.
- Helps test laboratories, regulators, and standards committees avoid ambiguity when developing acceptance criteria, interoperability requirements, and software features for array ultrasonic systems.
Target keywords: ISO 23243:2020, ultrasonic testing with arrays, phased array, FMC, TFM, array probe, vocabulary, non‑destructive testing (NDT).
Related standards
- ISO 5577 - general NDT vocabulary (cross‑validates general terms)
- ISO 18563‑3 and ISO 13588 - referenced for specific terms and probe setup guidance
- ISO online browsing platform and IEC Electropedia - terminological databases cited by the standard
Use ISO 23243:2020 whenever consistent, unambiguous terminology is required for ultrasonic array testing, procurement, training, and technical documentation.
