910-266-EN Revision D June 2011

EPOCH LTCUltrasonic Flaw Detector

Users Manual

Olympus NDT, 48 Woerd Avenue, Waltham, MA 02453, USA

2007, 2011 Olympus NDT, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, translated, or distributed without the express written permission of Olympus NDT, Inc.

This document was prepared with particular attention to usage to ensure the accuracy of the information contained therein. It corresponds to the version of the product manufactured prior to the date appearing on the title page. There could, however, be some differences between the manual and the product if the product was modified thereafter.

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.

Part number: 910-266-ENRevision DJune 2011

Printed in the United States of America.

All brands are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners and third party entities.

In accordance with European Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and ElectronicEquipment, this symbol indicates that the product must not be disposed of as unsortedmunicipal waste, but should be collected separately. Refer to your local Olympus NDTdistributor for return and/or collection systems available in your country.

Warranty

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OCH LTC Ultrasonic Flaw Detector has been designed and manufactured as a high product. Inspect materials thoroughly on receipt for evidence of external or internal that may have occurred during shipment. Notify the carrier making the delivery

iately of any damage, since the carrier is normally liable for damage in shipment.e packing materials, waybills, and other shipping documentation in order to establish claims. After notifying the carrier, contact Olympus NDT so that we may assist in the claims, and provide replacement equipment, if necessary.

us NDT guarantees EPOCH LTC to be free from defects in materials and workmanshiperiod of one year (twelve months) from date of shipment. This warranty only coversent that has been used in a proper manner as described in this instruction manual and

t been subjected to excessive abuse, attempted unauthorized repair, or modification.G THIS WARRANTY PERIOD, Olympus NDT LIABILITY IS STRICTLY

ED TO REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF A DEFECTIVE UNIT AT ITS OPTION.us NDT does not warrant EPOCH LTC to be suitable of intended use, or fitness for anylar application or purpose. Olympus NDT accepts no liability for consequential ortal damages including damage to property and/or personal injury. In addition to ourd one year warranty, Olympus NDT also offers an optional two year warranty (call for details).

stomer will pay shipping expense to the Olympus NDT plant; Olympus NDT will payreturn. For EPOCH LTC not under warranty, the customer will pay shipping expensesays.

manual, we have attempted to teach the proper operation of EPOCH LTC consistentcepted flaw detection techniques. We believe the procedures and examples given aree. However, the information contained herein is intended solely as a teaching aid andnot be used in any particular application without independent testing and/or verificationoperator or the supervisor. Such independent verification of procedures becomes morent as the criticality of the application increases.

iv Warran

For these reasons, we make no warranty, expressed or implied, that the techniques, examples,or procedures described herein are consistent with industry standards nor that they will meetthe requirements of any particular application. Olympus NDT expressly disclaims all impliedwarranties of merchantability and of fitness for any particular application.

Olympus NDT reserves the right to modify all products without incurring the responsibility formodifying previously manufactured products. Olympus NDT does not assume any liability forthe results of particular installations, as these circumstances are not within our control.

THE WALL (INCLUPARTIOR USty

ARRANTIES SET FORTH HEREIN ARE EXCLUSIVE AND ARE IN LIEU OFOTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER STATUTORY, EXPRESS, OR IMPLIED

DING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR ACULAR PURPOSE, AND WARRANTIES ARISING FROM COURSE OF DEALINGAGE OR TRADE).

Table of Contents

Warranty

Table of C

1. Prefa1.1 Pro1.2 Ab1.3 Au1.4 Sp1.5 If 1.6 Re1.7 Te1.8 Pro

2. EPOC2.1 Ins2.2 Tr2.3 Ba2.4 Of2.5 O-2.6 Di2.7 En2.8 Op2.9 Ins

3. Powe3.1 Us3.2 Us3.3 OpTable of Contents v

............................................................................................................. iii

ontents ................................................................................................. v

ce ............................................................................................................. 1duct Description ........................................................................................................... 1out This Document ....................................................................................................... 2dience ............................................................................................................................ 2ecial Notices and Typographical Conventions .............................................................. 3You Have Documentation Comments ........................................................................... 4vision History ................................................................................................................ 4chnical Help ................................................................................................................... 5duct Usage ................................................................................................................... 5

H LTC Physical Features ................................................................... 7trument Drawings ......................................................................................................... 8

ansducer Connections .................................................................................................. 10ttery Door and Compartment ...................................................................................... 10fice Connection Door .................................................................................................. 10Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals ............................................................................ 11splay Protection ........................................................................................................... 11vironmental Ratings .................................................................................................... 11tional Rubber Protective Case and Stand ................................................................... 12trument Cleaning ........................................................................................................ 12

ring the EPOCH LTC ......................................................................... 13ing AC Line Power ..................................................................................................... 13ing Battery Power ....................................................................................................... 14erating Time for the Battery ....................................................................................... 14

vi Table o

3.4 Charging the Battery ........................................................................................................ 15

4. Managing Basic Operations ........................................................................ 174.1 Powering Up .................................................................................................................... 174.2 Transducer Cable Connection ......................................................................................... 174.3 EPOCH LTC Keypad ...................................................................................................... 18

4.3.1 Adjustment Using Enter and Slewing Keys ......................................................... 194.3.2 Direct Access Adjustment Using Parameter and F Keys ..................................... 19

4.4 Su4.5 Di

4.54.54.54.54.5

4.6 Sy4.64.64.64.64.64.64.64.64.64.64.64.6

5. Adjus5.1 Ad5.2 Us5.3 Se5.4 Pu

5.45.45.45.45.4

5.5 Re5.5f Contents

mmarizing Keypad Functions ..................................................................................... 19splay Arrangement ....................................................................................................... 24.1 Split-Screen Display Setup Mode ......................................................................... 25.2 Tabbed Setup Menu Functions ............................................................................. 26.3 Full-Screen Display with Measurements .............................................................. 27.4 Large A-scan Display Mode ................................................................................. 28.5 Display Flags and Markers ................................................................................... 29stem Menu ................................................................................................................... 30.1 MEAS Tab ............................................................................................................ 31.2 GATES Tab ........................................................................................................... 35.3 A-SCAN Tab ........................................................................................................ 38.4 DAC/TVG Tab ...................................................................................................... 39.5 DGS/AVG Tab ...................................................................................................... 39.6 GENERAL Tab ..................................................................................................... 40.7 CLOCK Tab .......................................................................................................... 41.8 STATUS Tab ......................................................................................................... 42.9 Editable Parameters (EDITPAR) Tab ................................................................... 42.10 OPTIONS Tab ...................................................................................................... 43.11 RESETS Tab ......................................................................................................... 44.12 SW DIAG Tab (Diagnostics) ................................................................................ 45

ting the Pulser/Receiver .................................................................... 47justing the System Sensitivity (Gain) ......................................................................... 47ing the AUTOXX% Feature ..................................................................................... 48tting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain .................................................................... 49lser Adjustment ........................................................................................................... 49.1 Manual Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) Option .............................................. 50.2 Pulser Frequency Selection (Pulse Width) ........................................................... 50.3 Pulse Energy ......................................................................................................... 51.4 Damping ............................................................................................................... 51.5 Test Mode ............................................................................................................. 52ceiver Adjustment ....................................................................................................... 52.1 Digital Filters ........................................................................................................ 53

5.5.2 Waveform Rectification ........................................................................................ 535.5.3 Reject .................................................................................................................... 54

6. Managing Special Waveform Functions .................................................... 556.1 Peak Memory .................................................................................................................. 556.2 Display Freeze ................................................................................................................. 57

7. Gates .............................................................................................................. 597.1 Ac7.2 Po7.3 Ga7.4 Ta7.5 Ta7.6 Lo7.7 Me7.8 Op7.9 Us7.10 G

7.17.17.17.17.1

8. Calib8.1 Ge8.2 Ca8.3 Ca8.4 Ca8.5 Ca

8.58.58.58.5

9. Mana9.1 Da9.2 Da

9.29.29.2Table of Contents vii

tivating gate 2 ............................................................................................................. 59sitioning Gates 1 and 2 ................................................................................................ 61te Measurement Modes ............................................................................................... 61king Thickness Readings ............................................................................................. 61king Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings ...................................................................... 62cating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer ........................................................... 62asuring Signal Amplitude .......................................................................................... 63erating in Time-of-Flight Mode .................................................................................. 64ing the Zoom Feature .................................................................................................. 64ate Alarms .................................................................................................................... 650.1 Threshold Alarms ................................................................................................. 650.2 Minimum-Depth Alarm ........................................................................................ 660.3 Minimum Depth Alarm with a Single Gate ......................................................... 660.4 Minimum-Depth Alarm with gate 2 Tracking ..................................................... 660.5 Alarm-Condition Storage ..................................................................................... 67

rating the EPOCH LTC ..................................................................... 69tting Started ................................................................................................................. 70librating with a Straight-Beam Transducer ................................................................. 71libration with a Delay-Line Transducer ...................................................................... 74libration with a Dual-Element Transducer .................................................................. 78librating with an Angle-Beam Transducer .................................................................. 83.1 Locating the Beam Index Point (BIP) .................................................................. 84.2 Verifying the Refracted Angle (Beta) ................................................................... 85.3 Calibrating for Distance ....................................................................................... 86.4 Calibrating for Sensitivity .................................................................................... 89

ging the Instrument Datalogger ........................................................ 91talogger Storage Capacity ........................................................................................... 92talogger Menu ............................................................................................................. 92.1 Creating Data Files ............................................................................................... 93.2 Data File Types ..................................................................................................... 94.3 Opening Data Files ............................................................................................... 97

viii Table

9.2.4 Saving to Data Files .............................................................................................. 999.2.5 File Review ........................................................................................................... 999.2.6 Recalling Instrument Setups (Calibrations) ........................................................ 102

10. Software Features and Options ................................................................ 10510.1 Defining Licensed/Unlicensed Options ........................................................................ 10510.2 Dynamic DAC/TVG ..................................................................................................... 106

10.2.1 Description ......................................................................................................... 1061010101010101010

10.3 D101010

Appendix

Appendix

Appendix

List of Fi

List of Ta

Index ..... of Contents

.2.2 Option Activation and Reference Correct .......................................................... 107

.2.3 ASME & ASME III DAC/TVG ......................................................................... 108

.2.4 ASME III DAC Setup Example ......................................................................... 108

.2.5 Gain Adjustment Options ................................................................................... 109

.2.6 Curve Adjustment Gain (DAC Gain or TVG Gain) ........................................... 110

.2.7 Transfer Correction ............................................................................................. 110

.2.8 JIS DAC .............................................................................................................. 110

.2.9 Custom DAC Curves Option .............................................................................. 111GS/AVG ..................................................................................................................... 111.3.1 Description ......................................................................................................... 111.3.2 Option Activation ............................................................................................... 112.3.3 Relative Attenuation Measurement .................................................................... 115

A: Sound Velocities ......................................................................... 117

B: Glossary ...................................................................................... 121

C: Parts List .................................................................................... 131

gures ................................................................................................... 133

bles ..................................................................................................... 135

............................................................................................................. 137

1. Preface

The pre

P A A S If R T P

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The EPflaw covarietyexcelleVGA rfor supEPOCHenhancinclude

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face contains the following topics:

roduct Descriptionbout This Documentudiencepecial Notices and Typographical Conventions You Have Documentation Commentsevision Historyechnical Helproduct Usage

roduct Description

OCH LTC is a portable ultrasonic non-destructive test (NDT) instrument used to detectnditions in welds, pipes, and many other structural materials. It may be used with a

of ultrasonic transducers in indoor and outdoor environments. This flaw detector offersnt ultrasonic performance, large dynamic range, superior measurement resolution, a fullesolution (640 x 480 pixels) color-liquid crystal display with transflective technologyerior visibility, and a simplified user interface. Based on the high-performanceXT platform, the EPOCH LTC offers many performance, durability, and operational

ements when compared to previous generation EPOCH Flaw Detectors. Enhancements:

se sealed to IP67 to assure environmental durabilitylor liquid crystal display (LCD) with full VGA resolution and transflective technologympliance with EN12668-1100 % digital, high dynamic-range receiver design

2 Chapter

Digital filters: standard, broadband, and high-pass filters for application flexibility Four customizable measurement-display locations for time and amplitude measurements Coarse and fine parameter adjustments with the slewing keys Large datalogger for instrument setups (calibrations) and inspection data USB on-the-go port for communication with PCs, direct printing, and USB drive storage Mini SD port for storage of inspection data on a removable mini SD card VGA output compatible with large monitors and projectors

We sugin handthe inst

The Teonline

1.2 A

This dofor ope

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1.3 A

This doall opetesting.test resequipm 1

gest reading through the information completely at least once with your EPOCH LTC so that you can combine reading the descriptions and examples with the actual use ofrument.

chnical Specification (920-121-EN) for the EPOCH LTC flaw detector is availableat: http://www.olympusndt.com/data/File/Epoch_LTC/Epoch_LTC.en.pdf.

bout This Document

cument is the users manual for the EPOCH LTC. This manual describes routine tasksrating the EPOCH LTC. These tasks include:

erating the power supplynaging basic operationsjusting the pulser receivernaging special waveform functionsing the gateslibrating the EPOCH LTCnaging the datalogger and data communication featuresing software options

udience

cument is intended for operators of the EPOCH LTC. Olympus NDT recommends thatrators have a thorough understanding of the principles and limitations of ultrasonic We assume no responsibility for incorrect operational procedure or interpretation ofults. We recommend that all operators seek adequate training prior to using thisent.

While the EPOCH LTC is a continuously self-calibrating instrument, the user must determineregulatory requirements. Olympus NDT offers calibration and documentation services.Contact Olympus NDT or your local representative with any special requests.

1.4 Special Notices and Typographical Conventions

Special notices employed in this document are shown below..

The whic

Hazahaza

ThisPreface 3

WARNING

warning sign denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure, practice, or the like,h, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in personal injury.

WARNING

rdous high-voltage. This information indicates danger of possible electric shockrd higher than 1000 volts.

CAUTION

information indicates that equipment damage can occur.

Note: This information provides explanatory information.

Tip: This information provides helpful guidelines for easy operation.

4 Chapter

Typographical conventions employed in this document are shown below.

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Convention Description

Bold Used for textual parts of graphical user interface, including menu items, buttons, toolbar names, modes, options, and tabs.

Italic Used for document titles.

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(Angle Brackets) With italics text, used for variable data.

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Table 1 Revision History

Date Part Number Release Version

October 2007 910-266-EN Version A

November 2007 910-266-EN Version BPreface 5

chnical Help

hnical assistance, please contact Olympus NDT. A list of our service locations with full information is available online at: http://www.olympusndt.com/en/service-and-t/service -centers/.

roduct Usage

POCH LTC is used in a manner that is not in accordance with the instructions in this, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

December 2007 910-266-EN Version C

June 2011 910-266-EN Version D

6 Chapter 1

2. EPOCH LTC Physical Features

The EPcomparwith th

This se

In T B O O D E O InEPOCH LTC Physical Features 7

OCH LTC has many physical features that are either completely new or improveded to previous EPOCH Flaw Detectors. It is important for the operator to be familiare use and maintenance of these items.

ction covers the following topics:

strument Drawingsransducer Connectionsattery Door and Compartmentffice Connection Door-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Sealsisplay Protectionnvironmental Ratingsptional Rubber Protective Case and Standstrument Cleaning

8 Chapter

2.1 Instrument Drawings

Display window

Ha

AC adaptor plug 2

Figure 2-1 EPOCH LTC Front and Right-Side Views

Keypad

ndstrap mounts Handstrap mounts

I/O door

AC adaptor plug

Handstrap mount

I/O door

Battery door

Thumb screws

Handstrap mount Handstrap mountEPOCH LTC Physical Features 9

Figure 2-2 EPOCH LTC Top and Rear Views

AC adaptor plug Transducer connectors

Thumb screws

Battery door

Membrane vent

Handstrap mounts

Thumb screws

AC adaptor plug

Handstrap mounts

10 Chapte

2.2 Transducer Connections

The EPOCH LTC is supplied with sealed LEMO 00 transducer connectors. BNC and largeLEMO 1 transducer connections are not available due to the size of the instruments enclosure.Adaptors to these common connection types are available from Olympus NDT.

2.3 Battery Door and Compartment

The EPwithoucase an

The baan envievent th

The EPIon pacexternatray (PDisulfibattery

2.4 O

On theconnecconnecand VG

The offor a scrr 2

OCH LTC battery door allows the operator quick access to the battery compartmentt the need for tools. Four thumb screws on the battery door secure it to the instrumentd assure that the compartment is sealed.

ttery door also has a small hole in the bottom center area that is covered on the inside byronmentally sealed membrane vent. This vent is a safety feature that is required in theat the instrument battery fails and emits gas. This vent must not be punctured.

OCH LTC accepts multiple battery types. The main battery is a rechargeable Lithiumk (PN: EPLTC-BAT-L) that may be charged inside the instrument or on the optionall charging base (PN: EPXT-EC). The EPOCH LTC also comes with an auxiliary batteryN: EPLTC-BAT-AA) that accepts five AA size cells. Operators may use Lithium Ironde, nickel metal hydride, or alkaline AA cells in this auxiliary battery tray. The auxiliary tray cannot be recharged in the EPOCH LTC.

ffice Connection Door

lower-right side of the EPOCH LTC, a door covers the instruments office typetions. The door has an integral membrane seal to keep liquids away from the unsealedtions behind the door. These connections are: USB on-the-go port, mini SD card slot,A/RS-232 output.

ice connection door is held in place by two thumb screws. The operator may use a coinewdriver to manipulate these thumb screws as needed.

2.5 O-Ring, Gasket, and Membrane Seals

The EPOCH LTC contains seals that are used to protect the instruments internal hardwarefrom the environment. These include:

Battery door seal Office connection door seal Me Th

These evaluatperform

2.6 D

EPOCHwindowpackag

The diinstrumentire u

2.7 E

The EPdurabledurabilsystem

The EPmeet thprotectseals. AOlympmaintathe instproper EPOCH LTC Physical Features 11

mbrane vente main O-ring seal between the top and bottom halves of the case

seals must be maintained to assure environmental durability. Instrument seals areed and replaced as needed during the instruments annual calibration. This should beed by an authorized Olympus NDT service center.

isplay Protection

LTC instruments include a clear plastic sheet protecting the instrument display. It is advised that the operator leave this sheet in place. Replacements are available in

es of ten with part number EPLTC-DP.

splay window in the EPOCH LTC is permanently bonded to the upper half of theent case to fully seal the instrument. If the display window becomes damaged, thepper half of the case must be replaced along with the instrument keypad.

nvironmental Ratings

OCH LTC has been designed to provide customers with an extremely rugged and instrument that may be used in harsh environments. To classify the instrumentsity in wet or damp environments, Olympus NDT has adopted the IP (Ingress Protection) to rate how well the instrument is sealed.

OCH LTC has been tested to the requirements of IP67. All instruments are designed tois level of ingress protection when they leave the factory. To maintain this level of

ion, the operator is responsible for the proper care of all routinely exposed membranedditionally, the operator is responsible for returning the instrument to an authorized

us NDT service center each year to ensure that the instrument seals are properlyined. Olympus NDT cannot guarantee any level of ingress protection performance oncerument seals have been manipulated. The operator must use sound judgment and takeprecautions before exposing the instrument to harsh environments.

12 Chapte

The EPOCH LTC adheres to the following environmental standards:

Approved for Explosive Atmosphere per MIL-STD-810F, Procedure 1, NFPA 70E,Section 500, Class 1, Div. 2, Group D

Shock tested per IEC 60068-2-27, 60 g, 6 msec H.S., 3 axes, 18 total Vibration Tested - Sine Vibration per IEC 60068-2-6, 50-150 Hz@ .03 DA or 2 g,

20 sweep cycles Wide operating temperature range:

Dr

2.8 O

OlympEPLTCon a wCH).

2.9 In

Wash or 2

Lithium Ion: 10 to 50C (14 to 122F)Battery storage temperature: 0 to 50C (32 to 122F)Recharge temperature: 0 to 40C (32 to 104F)

op Tested: MIL-STD-810F 4.5.5 Procedure IV - Transit Drop

ptional Rubber Protective Case and Stand

us NDT offers an optional rubber protective case with an integral instrument stand (PN:-RPC). This recommended accessory protects the instrument, allows the unit to standork surface, and provides D-ring connections for the optional chest harness (PN: EP4-

strument Cleaning

nly with mild soap and water on damp cloth and dry.

3. Powering the EPOCH LTC

This chThe top

U U O C

3.1 U

AC linunivers240 VA

To use AC

1. Cosou

The EPOPowering the EPOCH LTC 13

apter describes how to operate the EPOCH LTC using different power supply options.ics are as follows:

sing AC Line Powersing Battery Powerperating Time for the Batteryharging the Battery

sing AC Line Power

e power is supplied via the charger/adaptor (PN: EP-MCA). The EP-MCA has aal AC power input, so it operates with any line voltage from 100120 VAC or 200C and with 50 Hz to 60 Hz line frequency.

line power

nnect the power cord to the charger/adaptor unit and to an appropriate line powerrce.

CAUTION

input power required by the EPOCH LTC is 24 VDC/1 A. Use only theCH LTC charger/adaptor provided by Olympus NDT to power the EPOCH LTC.

14 Chapte

2. Re3. Co

inp4. Tu5. Pro

3.2 U

The EPor with(Li/FeSdesigne

The babatteryrepresebattery

The onBAT-L

3.3 O

BatteryinstrumEPOCHdisplaybatterie

Re

CAUTION

Use only the AC power cord supplied with the EPOCH LTC instrument. Do not use thisAC power cord with other products.r 3

move the rubber seal over the AC adaptor port on top of the EPOCH LTC.nnect the DC output power cable from the charger/adaptor to the charger/AC adaptorut jack.rn on the EPOCH LTC using the keypad.ceed with normal operation.

sing Battery Power

OCH LTC may be operated with its standard rechargeable Lithium Ion (Li Ion) battery AA cells in the auxiliary battery tray. AA cells may be Lithium/Iron Disulfide2), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), or alkaline. All EPOCH LTC instruments have beend to accept these four battery types without any modifications or adjustments.

ttery life symbol is always present on the right side of the instrument display. The indicator contains eight bars to communicate the remaining battery life. Each barnts 12.5% life remaining: 8 bars equals 100 %, 4 bars equals 50 %, and so on. The indicator is accurate after 5 to 10 minutes of use.

ly acceptable rechargeable Li Ion battery pack is Olympus NDT (part number EPLTC-). No other rechargeable battery packs may be used in the EPOCH LTC.

perating Time for the Battery

operating time depends on the type of battery being used, the age of the battery, and theent settings. To provide realistic battery operating times, we have tested theLTC with mid-level operating parameters: pulse energy 200 V, PRF 200 Hz, and

brightness 50 % (default setting). The nominal battery operating times for news are:

chargeable Li Ion: 8-9 hours

AA Li/FeS2: 5-6 hours AA NiMH: 4-5 hours AA alkaline: 2-3 hours

3.4 C

The EPexterna

To chathe insinstrum

When tdisplayremain

The opbatterycharger

If the bWhene

Note: It may take several cycles of complete charging and discharging of thebattethese

The numcauswill Powering the EPOCH LTC 15

harging the Battery

OCH LTC battery may be charged internally using the EP-MCA charger/adaptor orlly using the optional standalone battery charger with part number EPXT-EC.

rge the battery internally, the operator must remove the AC adaptor plug on the top oftrument and plug in the EP-MCA charger/adaptor. The battery will charge when theent is ON or OFF, but the rate of charge is slower when the instrument is ON.

he EPOCH LTC is connected to AC power and powered ON, the battery indicator will a red lightning bolt symbol instead of the standard indicator with 8 bars showinging battery life.

erator may also choose to use the external battery charger, EPXT-EC, to charge one, while using another in the instrument. For more information about this external, contact Olympus NDT or your local sales representative.

attery is used daily (or frequently), connect it to the charger/adaptor when not in use.ver possible, the battery should remain connected to the EP-MCA Charger/Adapter

ry to bring the battery to full capacity. This conditioning process is normal for types of rechargeable batteries.

WARNING

EPOCH LTC charger/adaptor is designed to charge EPOCH LTC batteries only (partber EPLTC-BAT-L). Do not attempt to charge any other batteries. Doing so maye an explosion and injury! Do not attempt to charge other electronic equipment. Thiscause permanent damage.

16 Chapte

(overnight or over a weekend), so that it achieves 100 % of full charge. The battery must reachfull charge on a regular basis for proper capacity and cycle-life maintenance.

Recharge discharged batteries as soon as possible after use. Give a full recharge, as describedabove.

Store bexcessileast onr 3

atteries in a cool, dry environment. Avoid long-term storage under sunlight or in othervely hot places such as an automobile trunk. While in storage, fully recharge batteries atce every two (2) months.

Note: Never place discharged batteries in storage without a full recharge.

4. Managing Basic Operations

This chfollows

P T E S D S

4.1 P

Press thstartup10-15 s

4.2 Tr

The EPtransduManaging Basic Operations 17

apter describes how to get started with basic EPOCH LTC operations. Topics are as:

owering Upransducer Cable ConnectionPOCH LTC Keypadummarizing Keypad Functionsisplay Arrangementystem Menu

owering Up

e [ON/OFF] key to power up the flaw detector. After an initial beep, the instruments screen appears. The instrument then goes through a series of self-tests foreconds and starts up.

ansducer Cable Connection

OCH LTC uses LEMO 00 transducer connections. Suitable cables for most commoncers may be purchased from Olympus NDT.

18 Chapte

4.3 E

The EPthe numeither tused duoperatosimple

The mo[MEASeasy re

The toaccess

There a

Ad Di

WARNING

According to International Safety Standard IEC 61010-1, the center pin at thetransducer end of the cable is considered to be an ACCESSIBLE part with aHAZARDOUS LIVE voltage when the pulser is operating. For this reason, thetransterm

The HAZr 4

POCH LTC Keypad

OCH LTC keypad has been simplified compared to other EPOCH keypads by reducingber of keys and by centering the main navigation area allowing easy operation with

he left or right hand. The keypad allows direct access to parameters that are commonlyring inspection. A [DISPLAY SETUP] key accesses a split screen mode where ther can access all Calibration (time base), Gates, Pulser, and Receiver settings with atabbed menu.

st commonly used keys on the keypad ([GAIN], [FREEZE], [GATES], [ENTER],/RESET], and the arrows) are located in a group in the center of the keypad within

ach of the operators thumb from either side of the instrument.

p row of keys contains the [F1] through [F4] software function keys used for directto various parameter settings.

re two methods for adjusting instrument setup parameters in the EPOCH LTC:

justment using the [ENTER] and slewing keysrect access adjustment using the parameter keys and F keys

ducer cable must be connected to the transducer prior to connection to instrumentinals marked T/R and R.

T/R and R terminals on the instrument are not ACCESSIBLE parts; therefore, theARDOUS LIVE voltage is not exposed when transducer cables are not connected.

4.3.1 Adjustment Using Enter and Slewing KeysThese keys can be used to control all instrument functions that appear on the main screen. The[ENTER] key will toggle from one setup parameter to the next and then cycle through themagain. By pressing [2ND F] and then [ENTER], the operator can go back one setup parameter.

Each setup parameter can be adjusted with the arrow keys left and right or down and up. Formost parameters, left and right provide a fine adjustment and the down and up provide a coarseadjustm

4.3.2 D

Most cinstrumallows Once adescribof the parame

4.4 S

The EPkeypadversionManaging Basic Operations 19

ent allowing rapid adjustment of parameters.

irect Access Adjustment Using Parameter and F Keys

ommonly used parameters have their own assigned key or a 2nd function position on theent keypad. These keys allow direct access to the given parameter. This methodoperators to quickly locate and activate a given instrument function for adjustment. parameter has been selected, the operator may adjust its value using the slewing keys ased in section 4.3.1 on page 19 or by using the preset function [F1][F4] keys on the topinstrument keypad. The function keys appear below preset values for the selectedter.

ummarizing Keypad Functions

OCH LTC is available with four different keypads. The most common are the English and the International keypad (see Figure 4-1 on page 20). Chinese and Japaneses are also available.

20 Chapter 4

Figure 4-1 EPOCH LTC English and International Keypads

English Keypad International Keypad

Table 2 Keypad Functions

English International Function

[GAIN]Adjusts system sensitivity.Managing Basic Operations 21

[2ND F], [GAIN] (REF GAIN)Locks reference gain level and allows scanning gain to be used.

[DISPLAY SETUP]Toggles between display modes. Accesses Setup Tabs for Base, Pulser, Receiver, and Gate controls.

[2ND F], [DISPLAY SETUP] (COLOR)Accesses color settings.

[FREEZE]Display freeze holds the displayed waveform until [FREEZE] is pressed again.

[MEAS/RESET]This general purpose key brings the operator back to the live measurement screen. Can be used to escape from menus and to accept parameter adjustments.

[ENTER]Moves from one parameter to the next and also accepts parameter adjustments.

22 Chapte

[GATES]Allows the operator to control both instrument gates on screen. Gate 2 is optional.

Table 2 Keypad Functions (continued)

English International Functionr 4

[2ND F], [GATES] (ZOOM)Zooms in on the content of gate 1.

[SYSTEM MENU]Accesses the EPOCH LTC system setup menu.

[2ND F], [SYSTEM MENU] (PEAK MEM)Allows continuous accumulation of peak envelope data with the live waveform.

[CAL]Initiates the EPOCH LTC Auto-Calibration feature.

[2ND F], [CAL] (RECALL SETUP)Allows Quick Calibration Recalls of CAL file types from the instrument datalogger.

[RANGE]Adjusts the instruments range according to the sound level setting.

Table 2 Keypad Functions (continued)

English International FunctionManaging Basic Operations 23

[2ND F], [RANGE] (DELAY)Display delay that does not affect the calibrated Zero Offset.

[ID]The operator can manually enter or adjust an ID within the current active file.

[2ND F], [ID] (FILE)Accesses the instruments datalogger.

[SAVE]Saves to the selected File and ID.

[2ND F], [SAVE] (PRINT)Print function allows direct printing to compatible USB printers.

24 Chapte

4.5 Display Arrangement

The EPOCH LTC main screen can be displayed in three different modes:

Split screen (setup mode) Full screen with measurements Large A-scan (scanning mode)

The spsetup mThis tadisplayparame

When screen

The furequiremaximparamedesired

The larhides thwhen goperatokey to

To swimust prr 4

lit-screen view simultaneously displays the live A-scan, measurements, and a tabbedenu containing all instrument setup parameters that can be adjusted on the live screen.

bbed menu contains all of the items normally found in previous EPOCHs split screen as well as some new additions. The purpose of using a tabbed menu is to organize theters by function and to maximize the size of the A-scan in this screen mode.

the EPOCH LTC is powered on and has completed its self-test procedure, the splitview opens to allow the operator to review the setup parameters.

ll screen with measurements mode is a common display mode during inspections that the use of gates and gate measurements. This mode hides the tabbed setup menu toize A-scan size and allows the operator to view the four measurement fields. All setupters are accessible through direct key presses or by pressing the [ENTER] key until the parameter is accessed.

ge A-scan mode is designed to maximize the A-scan size on the screen. This modee four measurement fields and it is typically used during scanning for defects in a partates and gate measurements are not required for detection. This mode also allows ther to adjust all instrument parameters using direct key presses or by using the [ENTER]

access the desired parameter.

tch between the three display modes and to access the tabbed setup menu the operatoress the [DISPLAY SETUP] key.

4.5.1 Split-Screen Display Setup Mode

Top of

Th

Middle

Gaop

Ondis[F

Th A

gri On

Lome

DetheManaging Basic Operations 25

Figure 4-2 Split Screen Display Setup Mode

the screen

e active ID and gain setting are always displayed here.

of the screen

te measurement icons are displayed on the left side of the screen. These icons tell theerator the measurement mode for each gate and also flash when an alarm is triggered. the left side of the display and below the gate measurement icons, the instrumentplays flags and markers that notify the operator when options are active, whenREEZE] is active, and other conditions.e A-scan waveform is displayed.grid is typically displayed behind the A-scan. The operator may choose between severald modes based on application needs and/or preference. the right side of the display there are four user defined measurement locations.cation one is the large measurement, Locations two, three, and four are the smallerasurements. These are defined for a given application by the operator.lay and range parameter values are always displayed to the right of the A-scan below four measurement fields.

26 Chapte

Bottom of the screen

The tabbed setup menu is located on the bottom of the screen. Tabs for base, gates, pulser,and receiver are always displayed here. An additional tab may also be activated forspecialized software features that are activated by the operator.

Preset values for a selected parameter appear at the bottom of the screen above the [F1]-[F4] keys.

4.5.2 TThe fou

Ba Ga Pu Re

The BAlocated

VEmu

ZEcabthe

An TH

Than

CSfeainssoumeon

DIr 4

abbed Setup Menu Functionsr main tabs located in the split screen display mode are:

seteslserceiver

SE tab contains functions related to the instruments calibration. The functions that are here are:

L (Velocity) This is the sound velocity for the material being inspected. The operatorst use a correct velocity value to take accurate measurements in millimeters or inches.RO (Zero offset) This setting compensates for timing delays within the instrument,le, and transducer allowing measurements to be taken from the time that sound enters test material.gle This is the refracted angle of sound within the test piece.ICK (Thickness) This is the thickness of the test piece for angle beam inspections.

is value allows the instruments trigonometric calculator to provide horizontal distanced depth measurements based on soundpath and angle.C (Curved surface correction) This is an optional feature in the EPOCH LTC. Thisture will only appear if the option has been purchased. This feature is used whenpecting with an angle beam transducer on a surface that is curved in the direction of thendpath. This feature corrects the horizontal distance and depth to reflectorasurements based on part thickness and outer diameter. This function currently works the outer diameter only.A (Diameter) User entered value for curved surface correction calculations.

4.5.3 Full-Screen Display with Measurements

Top of

Th

Middle

Gaop

Ondis[F

Th A

gri On

LoTh

ThpaManaging Basic Operations 27

Figure 4-3 Full Screen Display

the screen

e active ID and gain setting are always displayed here.

of the screen

te measurement icons are displayed on the left side of the screen. These icons tell theerator the measurement mode for each gate and also flash when an alarm is triggered. the left side of the display and below the gate measurement icons, the instrumentplays flags and markers that notify the operator when options are active, whenREEZE] is active, and other conditions.e A-scan waveform is displayed.grid is typically displayed behind the A-scan. The operator may choose between severald modes based on application needs and/or preference. the right side of the display there are four user defined measurement locations.cation one is the large measurement, locations two four are the smaller measurements.ese are defined for a given application by the operator.e active parameter field is shown below the measurement fields. If the operator selects arameter that does not have a permanent location in this display mode, it will appear in

mp

28 Chapte

this location. In the case shown in Figure 4-3 on page 27, the velocity setting is locatedhere.

Delay and range parameter values are always displayed to the right of the A-scan belowthe four measurement fields.

Bottom of the screen

Preset values for a selected parameter appear at the bottom of the screen above the [F1]-[F4] keys.

4.5.4 L

Top of

Th

Middle

Gaop

Ondis[Fr 4

arge A-scan Display Mode

Figure 4-4 Large A-scan Display

the screen

e active ID and gain setting are always displayed here.

of the screen

te measurement icons are displayed on the left side of the screen. These icons tell theerator the measurement mode for each gate and also flash when an alarm is triggered. the left side of the display and below the gate measurement icons, the instrumentplays flags and markers that notify the operator when options are active, whenREEZE] is active, and other conditions.

The A-scan waveform is displayed. A grid is typically displayed behind the A-scan. The operator may choose between several

grid modes based on application needs and/or preference.

Bottom of the screen

Preset Values for a selected parameter appear at the bottom of the screen above the [F1]-[F4] keys.

4.5.5To indiflags, oprovideManaging Basic Operations 29

Display Flags and Markerscate when particular display functions are active, the EPOCH LTC displays a set ofr markers, to the left of the A-scan display. Table 3 on page 29 shows these flags ands a description of each.

Table 3 Display Function Flags

Flag Description

gate 1 is in Peak Measurement Mode.

gate 2 is in Peak Measurement Mode.

gate 1 is in Edge (Flank) Measurement Mode.

gate 2 is in Edge (Flank) Measurement Mode.

[PEAK MEM] is active.

Display [FREEZE] is active.

[ZOOM] is active.

The gate alarm has been triggered. Flashes ON and OFF alternating with gate measurement indicator.

30 Chapte

4.6 S

There isetup fNavigadown,

Tabs enters tmust uhighlig

Paramparamenext an

To exit

DAC/TVG is active.

DGS/AVG is active.

any user

Table 3 Display Function Flags (continued)

Flag Descriptionr 4

ystem Menu

s one system menu in the EPOCH LTC to allow rapid access to important instrumentunctions. The menu is organized with tabs that group functions into logical groups.tion and adjustment of parameters is executed using the [ENTER] key and the up,left, and right arrow keys.

These are used to group related functions within a setup menu. When the operatorhe menu, there will be a row of tabs running across the top of the screen. The operatorse the left and right arrow keys to select the desired tab. Once the proper tab has beenhted, the operator must press the [ENTER] key or the down arrow key to enter the tab.

eters When the operator enters a tab the instrument will automatically select the firstter. The operator uses the up and down arrow keys to move from one parameter to thed the left and right arrow keys to adjust the parameter value.

the system menu, press [MEAS/RESET].

AWS D1.1/D1.5 is active.

Tip: The [MEAS/RESET] key can be used to exit any EPOCH LTC menu attime. This key returns to the live screen from any location within the instrumentsinterface.

4.6.1 MEAS TabThe measurement tab (MEAS) is shown in Figure 4-5 on page 31.

The Op

REmothafle

RE UN TH

me AM

Th CA

calrefManaging Basic Operations 31

Figure 4-5 MEAS Tab

erator uses the MEAS tab to setup the following items:

ADING SELECTION Select between automatic and manual mode. Automaticde chooses the readings to be displayed automatically based on the parameter settingst the operator chooses (for example: angle). Manual mode allows the operator completexibility to choose and position the desired readings as needed for the inspection.ADING1 READING4 The operator chooses the readings to be displayed here.IT Select from inches, millimeters, or microseconds.ICKNESS RESOLUTION Select from default or reduced time/thicknessasurement resolution.PLITUDE RESOLUTION The EPOCH LTC measures amplitude to 0.25 % FSH.

e operator may change this to 0.5% or 1% if desired.LIBRATION The EPOCH LTC allows the operator to perform an angle-beam

ibration using either the soundpath to a reflector or the depth to a reflector as the knownerence.

32 Chapte

X VALUE This is the distance from the beam index point on a wedge to the front of thewedge. When using gate 1 surface distance X value or gate 2 surface distance X valuemeasurements, this number is the correction that is used for the displayed measurement.

The EPOCH LTC can display up to four (4) measurements on the live screen. The operator hasthe ability to choose which measurements to display in each of the four measurementlocations. The measurement locations are shown in Figure 4-6 on page 32.

The EPgate 2.

The twecho-to

Availab

use Contr 4

Figure 4-6 EPOCH LTC Display

OCH LTC is capable of making several types of measurements using either gate 1 or

o gates are completely independent of each other unless the operator chooses to take an-echo measurement.

le measurements and their icons from the live screen are shown in Table 4 on page 33.

Note: Gate 2 is an option in the EPOCH LTC (PN: EPLTC-GATE2). In order togate 2 for measurements it must be purchased and activated in the instrument.act your Olympus NDT representative for more information.

Reading 1

Reading 2

Reading 3

Reading 4

Table 4 Measurements and Icons

Measurement Icon Description

GATE1 THICKNESS Thickness in Gate 1. Not used with Angle.

GATE2 THIC

GATSOUDIST

GATSOUDIST

GATDEPREF

GATDEPREF

GATSURDIST

GATSURDIST

GATSUR- X V

GATSUR- X VManaging Basic Operations 33

KNESS Thickness in Gate 2. Not used with Angle.

E1 NDPATH ANCE

Soundpath (angular) distance in Gate 1.

E2 NDPATH ANCE

Soundpath (angular) distance in Gate 2.

E1 TH TO LECTOR

Depth to reflector in Gate 1. Used with Angle.

E2 TH TO LECTOR

Depth to reflector in Gate 2. Used with Angle.

E1 FACE ANCE

Horizontal distance to reflector in Gate 1. Used with Angle.

E2 FACE ANCE

Horizontal distance to reflector in Gate 2. Used with Angle.

E1 FACE DIST AL

Horizontal distance minus X-value (distance from beam index point to front of wedge) in Gate 1. Used with Angle.

E2 FACE DIST AL

Horizontal distance minus X-value (distance from beam index point to front of wedge) in Gate 2. Used with Angle.

34 Chapte

GATE1 MINIMUM DEPTH

Minimum depth in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

GATE2 MINDEP

Minimum depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate

GATMAXDEP

GATMAXDEP

GATCURAMP

GATCURAMP

GATMAXAMP

GATMAXAMP

GATMINAMP

GATMINAMP

Table 4 Measurements and Icons (continued)

Measurement Icon Descriptionr 4

IMUM TH

adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

E1 IMUM

TH

Maximum depth in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

E2 IMUM

TH

Maximum depth in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

E1 RENT LITUDE

Amplitude measurement in gate 1. Displays as % of full-screen height (FSH).

E2 RENT LITUDE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays as % of full-screen height (FSH).

E1 IMUM LITUDE

Maximum amplitude in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

E2 IMUM LITUDE

Maximum amplitude in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

E1 IMUM LITUDE

Minimum amplitude in Gate 1. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

E2 IMUM LITUDE

Minimum amplitude in Gate 2. Resets on gate adjustment, most pulser/receiver adjustments, and on press of [MEAS/RESET] key.

4.6.2 G

GATE1 AMPLITUDE TO CURVE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays echo height as a percentage of DAC/TVG curve height.

GATE2 AMPTO C

Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays echo

GATCUR

GATCUR

GAT

AWSWEL(D)

FLAHOL

OVE(OS)

use Cont

Table 4 Measurements and Icons (continued)

Measurement Icon DescriptionManaging Basic Operations 35

ATES Tab

LITUDE URVE height as a percentage of DAC/TVG curve height.

E1 DB TO VE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 1. Displays echo dB value compared to curve height where the curve equals 0 dB.

E2 DB TO VE

Amplitude measurement in Gate 2. Displays echo dB value compared to curve height where the curve equals 0 dB.

E2 - GATE1 Gate 2 thickness minus gate 1 thickness (echo-to-echo measurement)

D1.1/D1.5 D RATING D rating calculated for the gated echo.

T BOTTOM E

Flat-bottom hole (FBH) size (equivalent reflector size) for DGS/AVG evaluation.

RSHOOT Overshoot value of dB comparing echo height to DGS/AVG curve.

Note: Gate 2 is an option in the EPOCH LTC (PN: EPLTC-GATE2). In order togate 2 for measurements it must be purchased and activated in the instrument.act your Olympus NDT representative for more information.

36 Chapte

The GATES tab allows the operator to set up measurement modes for the EPOCH LTCgate(s). Gate 1 functions are always available in this tab as shown in Figure 4-7 on page 36.

GA GA

thrpoapthe

GApuscr

If GATpage 37r 4

Figure 4-7 GATES Tab

TE1 MEASUREMENT MODE Select PEAK or EDGE measurement mode.TE1 RF SETUP When the EPOCH LTC rectification is set to RF, the operator has

ee choices for gate positioning: POSITIVE, NEGATIVE, or DUAL GATE. Insitive mode, the gate will appear above the baseline. In negative mode, the gate willpear below the baseline. In dual gate mode, the gate will be mirrored above and below baseline.TE2 ENABLE This selection will only appear if the GATE2 option has been

rchased. This allows gate 2 to be setup and also allows gate 2 adjustments on the liveeen.

E2 ENABLE is turned ON, then the GATES tab will appear as shown in Figure 4-8 on.

This m

GA GA

thrpoapthe

ECtypgastaechManaging Basic Operations 37

Figure 4-8 GATE2 ENABLE

akes the following gate 2 setup parameters available:

TE2 MEASUREMENT MODE Select PEAK or EDGE measurement mode.TE2 RF SETUP When the EPOCH LTC rectification is set to RF, the operator has

ee choices for gate positioning: POSITIVE, NEGATIVE, or DUAL GATE. Insitive mode, the gate will appear above the baseline. In negative mode, the gate willpear below the baseline. In dual gate mode, the gate will be mirrored above and below baselineHO-TO-ECHO Also known as GATE2 TRACKING in the EPOCH LTC, this isically used for taking echo-to-echo thickness measurements. The operator can setup

te 1 and gate 2 on the display with a specific distance between gate 1 start and gate 2rt. When ECHO-TO-ECHO is active, this distance will be maintained between ano breaking gate 1 and gate 2 Start.

38 Chapte

4.6.3 A-SCAN Tab

The A-meet ap

The av

LI

ENenhig

BAA-allther 4

Figure 4-9 A-SCAN Tab

SCAN tab is used to modify the appearance of the EPOCH LTCs waveform area toplication needs or the operators preferences.

ailable settings are listed below:

VE A-SCAN DISPLAYOUTLINE The live A-scan will be drawn as a single line.FILLED The A-scan outline is filled in with the A-scans color (except in RFmode). This helps to increase visibility in certain lighting conditions.

VELOPE DISPLAY This setting affects the appearance of A-scans and peakvelopes that are captured with the peak memory function. Peak memory tracks thehest peak on the live A-scan and draws an envelope across the peak positions.

OUTLINE Captured A-scans and peak envelopes are drawn as a single line.FILLED Captured A-scans and peak envelopes are filled.

SELINE BREAK This feature modifies the appearance of the EPOCH LTCsscan in fullwave rectified mode. When baseline break is active, the instrument locates zero cross points in the RF waveform and forces the fullwave rectified mode to displayse zero cross points by pulling the A-scan to the baseline. This feature helps the

operator to see small defects that are close to the back surface of the test piece, especiallyat large ranges.

X-AXIS GRID MODE The EPOCH LTC has four display modes for the x-axis grid.These four settings are designed to provide the operator with a convenient display modefor the application. Modes include: GRID OFF No grid lines are displayed. 010 appears along the bottom of the

A-scan.

Y-Ascr10

4.6.4This tafeatureDAC/T

4.6.5The DGbeen pfor addManaging Basic Operations 39

STANDARD 10 equally spaced grid lines.SOUNDPATH 5 equally spaced grid lines with soundpath values.LEG Up to 4 grid lines showing soundpath legs (half paths) based on part thicknessand angle.XIS GRID MODE The EPOCH LTC always measures amplitude up to 110 % full-

een height. The operator can choose to display the y-axis on the A-scan display from 00 % or from 0110 % FSH.

DAC/TVG Tabb allows the operator to setup and activate the EPOCH LTCs dynamic DAC/TVG. See section 10.2 on page 106 of this manual for additional information on the dynamicVG feature.

DGS/AVG TabS/AVG tab will only appear if the DGS/AVG option (PN: EPLTC-DGS-AVG) has

urchased and activated in the instrument. See section 10.3 on page 111 of this manualitional information on the DGS/AVG option.

40 Chapte

4.6.6 GENERAL TabThe GENERAL tab contains functions that are related to operator preference, location, andlanguage.

FI

KEpre

AL AL

an CA

[Rscrr 4

Figure 4-10 GENERAL Tab

LTER GROUPSTANDARD This accesses the standard instrument filters when the user accessesthe Receiver tab Filter Parameter.Other filter groups Olympus NDT produces other custom filter groups based oncustomer requirements. These can be selected here. When an alternative filter groupis selected, the operator will only be able to use the custom filters when the Receivertab Filter Parameter is accessed.

Y BEEP When key beep is active, the instrument will beep whenever a key isssed.ARM BEEP Toggles the alarm horn on and off.L LOCK When active, this function locks all keys other than [SYSTEM MENU]

d [ON/OFF]. A padlock symbol appears on the live screen when this is active.L LOCK When active, this function locks the following keys: [GAIN], [CAL], and

ANGE]. The BASE, PULSER, and RECEIVER tabs will also be locked on the spliteen view.

TEMP CAL Used to select the automatic or manual temperature calibration. LANGUAGE Standard Languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian,

Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Norwegian, and Swedish. RADIX TYPE Used to properly format the use of . and , characters in numerals. DATE MODE Sets the instrument date display pattern.

4.6.7 CLOCK TabThe CLset in acreatedManaging Basic Operations 41

OCK tab allows the operator to set the instruments date and time. The clock may be 12 HOUR or 24 HOUR format. This date and time is attached to a file when it is in the instruments datalogger.

Figure 4-11 CLOCK Tab

42 Chapte

4.6.8 STATUS TabThe instrument STATUS tab provides the operator with useful information related to internal-temperature, battery capacity, and hardware/software versions. This information may be usedby Olympus NDT to help support the product.

4.6.9Editabloperatoparamewith pa

GA GA

rig RE ZE VE RN DLr 4

Figure 4-12 STATUS Tab

Editable Parameters (EDITPAR) Tabe parameters are standard on all EPOCH LTC instruments. With this feature ther can customize the values that appear above the function [F1][F4] keys for the setupters below. These items are listed as sublevel tabs, and each contains 13 control groupsrameters.

ININ STEP Universal setting for the coarse (up and down arrows) and fine (left and

ht arrows) gain adjustmentJECTRO (Zero offset)L (Velocity)G (Range)Y (Delay) Display delay

ANGLE THICKNESS AUTOXX Customizable value for the AUTO80% feature discussed in section 5.2 on

page 48.

To setup t

1. Pre2. Us3. Pre4. Ad5. Us

4.6.10The OPEPOCHsoftwartab is s

paracannManaging Basic Operations 43

he editable parameters

ss the [ENTER] key or the down arrow to enter the EDITPAR tab.e the up and down arrow keys to select a parameter to be adjusted.ss the right arrow key to select the first parameter value.just with the left and right arrow keys.e the [ENTER] key to move to the other values for the selected parameter.

OPTIONS TabTIONS tab allows the operator to view the list of available options for the LTC and determine if they are active in the instrument. Details regarding these

e features/options are found in Chapter 10 on page 105 of this manual. The OPTIONS hown in Figure 4-13 on page 44.

Note: Parameters that contain text such as rectification cannot be adjusted. Also,meters that are limited by hardware and/or software constraints such as dampingot be adjusted.

44 Chapte

The fol

ON M EX GA TU CU

4.6.11The Rstandarr 4

Figure 4-13 OPTIONS Tab

lowing software options are available for the EPOCH LTC:

BOARD DGS/AVGANUAL PRFTENDED RANGETE2NABLE PULSERRVED SURFACE CORRECTION

RESETS TabESETS tab allows the operator to reset various instrument functions to the factoryd values. This tab is shown in Figure 4-14 on page 45.

4.6.12The SWThis taManaging Basic Operations 45

Figure 4-14 RESETS Tab

SW DIAG Tab (Diagnostics) DIAG tab logs software issues that may be affecting the EPOCH LTCs performance.

b may be used for troubleshooting by Olympus NDT.

46 Chapter 4

5. Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver

This chfollows

A U S P R

5.1 A

To adjust

1. Pre2. Us

Adjusting the Pulser/Receiver 47

apter describes how to adjust the EPOCH LTCs Pulser/Receiver. The topics are as:

djusting the System Sensitivity (Gain)sing the AUTOXX% Featureetting Reference Gain and Scanning Gainulser Adjustmenteceiver Adjustment

djusting the System Sensitivity (Gain)

the system sensitivity

ss [GAIN].e one of the following adjustment methods to adjust the gain setting:

Arrow keys up and down for coarse adjustment; left and right for fine adjustment.Function keys Jump to preset values defined in EDITPAR.

Note: The total system sensitivity is 110 dB.

48 Adjust

5.2 Using the AUTOXX% Feature

The AUTO-XX% feature was formerly known as the AUTO80 % feature in the EPOCH 4Series. The default setting for AUTO-XX% in the EPOCH LTC is 80 % full-screen height(FSH). Using the Edit Para feature, the operator can adjust the value to meet application needs.In the remainder of this section, AUTOXX% is described as AUTO80%.

The AUTO80% feature is used to quickly adjust the instruments gain (dB) setting to bringthe gatereferensection

You castandarmay be

To use AU

1. Pre2. Us

ech3. Pre

ad

To use AU

1. Ac2. Pre3. Us

ech4. Pre

ad

The (abothaning the Pulser/Receiver

d peak echo to 80% FSH. AUTO80% is especially useful for bringing the echo from ace indication to 80% FSH to establish the instruments reference gain level. See5.3 on page 49.

n use the AUTO-80% feature to bring an echo to 80% FSH in gate 1 only with thed EPOCH LTC. If the gate 2 option has been purchased, then the AUTO-80% feature used for gate 2 as well.

TO80% with gate 1

ss the [GATES] key.e the arrow keys to position the gate over the desired echo. It is not necessary for theo to break the gate threshold.ss [F4]. The highest peak within the gate will be brought to 80% FSH automatically by

justing the instruments gain setting.

TO80% with gate 2 (optional)

tivate GATE2 in the SYSTEM MENU > GATES tabss the [GATES] key twice. This selects gate 2.e the arrow keys to position the gate over the desired echo. It is not necessary for theo to break the gate threshold.ss [F4]. The highest peak within the gate will be brought to 80% FSH automatically by

justing the instruments gain setting.

Note: You can use AUTO80% when an echo exceeds the desired amplitude.echo can be either above or below 80% FSH. If a signal is very high in amplitudeve 500% FSH), then it may be necessary to activate the AUTO80% function more once. To do this, the operator presses the [F4] key again.

5.3 Setting Reference Gain and Scanning Gain

To establish the current system gain as the reference (base) level, press [2ND F], [GAIN](REF GAIN). This is useful for inspections that require the establishment of a reference gainlevel and then the addition or subtraction of scanning gain.

After accessing the reference gain function, the gain display will read: REF XX.X + 0.0 dB.You ca

To addand the

While u

[Fref

[Flev

[Fba

5.4 P

The puon the tab. Alparame

Pulser

Pupusof

Da Te Pu Pu

haAdjusting the Pulser/Receiver 49

n now add or subtract scanning gain as needed independent of the reference level.

scanning gain, use the up and down arrow keys for coarse adjustment (default 6 dB) left and right arrow keys for fine adjustment.

sing the reference gain and scanning gain, the following functions are also available:

1] ADD key Adds the scanning gain to the reference gain and deactivates theerence gain feature.2] SCAN DB key Toggles the scanning gain from the active level to 0.0 dB (referenceel) allowing a direct amplitude comparison to the reference indication.

3] OFF key Exits the reference gain function without adding the scanning gain to these instrument gain.

ulser Adjustment

lser settings in the EPOCH LTC are accessed by pressing the [DISPLAY SETUP] keyinstrument keypad to access the tabbed setup menu, and then selecting the PULSERternatively, the operator may press the [ENTER] key as needed to reach the pulserter settings.

setup parameters are:

lse repetition frequency (PRF) This appears only if the manual PRF option has beenrchased, otherwise PRF is automatically controlled by the EPOCH LTCs operatingtware.mpingst modelse energylser frequency selection (pulse width) This appears only if the tunable pulser options been purchased.

50 Chapte

5.4.1 Manual Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) OptionPulse-repetition frequency (PRF) is a measure of how often the transducer is being pulsed bythe electronic circuitry in the EPOCH LTC. PRF is typically adjusted based on the test methodor test piece geometry. For parts with long sound paths, it is necessary to lower the PRF toavoid wrap-around interference that results in spurious signals on the display. For applicationswith rapid scanning, it is often necessary to use a high PRF rate in order to assure that smalldefects will be detected as the probe moves past the part.

The bathe openoise a

For opmanualfrom 1or 50 H

5.4.2 PPulser pulser opulser performtransdu

acqumultEPO

transtransr 5

se EPOCH LTC controls the PRF automatically based on the Range setting selected byrator. For most applications this automatic control is sufficient to prevent wraparoundnd/or other PRF related issues.

erators requiring manual PRF control, the EPOCH LTC offers the software option PRF control (PN: EPLTC-PRF). This option allows the operator to adjust the PRF0 Hz to 500 Hz in steps of either 10 Hz (fine adjustment with left and right arrow keys)z (coarse adjustment with up and down arrow keys).

ulser Frequency Selection (Pulse Width)frequency selection, which sets the pulse width, is applicable only when the tunableption has been purchased. This frequency selection is designed to tune the square-wave

to obtain the best performance from the transducer being used. In general, the bestance is achieved by tuning the pulser frequency as close to the center frequency of the

cer being used as possible.

Note: The EPOCH LTC is a single-shot instrument, that is, the instrumentires, measures, and draws the complete A-scan with each pulse rather than usingiple acquisitions to construct a full waveform. The measurement rate in theCH LTC is always equal to the PRF rate unless the operator is using a multiplexer.

Note: Actual results could vary due to the test material and/or variation in theducer-center frequency. It is recommended trying various settings with aducer and test piece to maximize ultrasonic performance.

5.4.3 Pulse EnergyThe EPOCH LTC operator can adjust the pulse energy from 100 V to 400 V in increments of100 V. Because of this flexibility in adjustment, the operator uses only the necessary level ofenergy to perform the test while also providing a high power pulser for the most difficultmaterials.

To maximize instrument battery life and transducer life, it is recommended that the operatoruse lowsetting

5.4.4 DThe dameasur

50 10 20 40

Selectiparticusettings

To select

1. Pre2. Us

av

imprdamAdjusting the Pulser/Receiver 51

er energy settings when the application permits it. For most applications, the energydoes not need to exceed 200 V.

ampingmping control lets the operator optimize the waveform shape for high resolutionements via an internal resistive circuit. There are four damping settings:

ohms0 ohms0 ohms0 ohms

ng the correct damping setting fine tunes the EPOCH LTC in order to operate with alar transducer selection. Depending on the transducer being used, the various damping either improve near-surface resolution or improve the instruments penetration power.

a damping option

ss [PULSER] to access the damping parameter.e the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the fourailable damping selections.

Tip: Generally, the lowest ohm setting increases the system damping andoves near-surface resolution, while the highest ohm setting decreases systemping and improves the instrument penetration power.

52 Chapte

5.4.5 Test ModeThe EPOCH LTC can operate in three test modes:

Pulse-echo mode: Single element transducers. Through mode: Two separate transducers, typically on opposite sides of the test

specimen. Dual mode (Pitch and Catch): One connector acts as a transmitter; the other acts as a

rec

To select

1. Us2. Us3. Us

sel

5.5 R

The reckey onRECEthe rece

Di Wa Re

EPOmeasr 5

eiver.

a Test mode

e the [DISPLAY SETUP] key to access the PULSER tab.e the [ENTER] key to access the MODE parameter.e the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the threeections.

eceiver Adjustment

eiver settings in the EPOCH LTC are accessed by pressing the [DISPLAY SETUP] the instrument keypad to access the tabbed setup menu, and then selecting theIVER tab. Alternatively, the operator may press the [ENTER] key as needed to reachiver parameter settings. The receiver setup parameters are:

gital filtersveform rectificationject

Note: To compensate for the one-way soundpath in Through mode, theCH LTC does not divide transit time by two when calculating thicknessurements.

5.5.1 Digital FiltersThe EPOCH LTC has a total instrument bandwidth of 26.5 MHz at 3 dB. The instrument hasthree digital filter settings. These are designed to allow the instrument to provide the dynamicrange (dB) required by EN12668-1 and also to improve the instruments signal-to-noise ratioby filtering out unwanted high and/or low frequency noise outside of the test frequencyspectrum.

0.2 2.0 8.0

To select

1. Us2. Us3. Us

sel

5.5.2 WThe EP

Fu Ha Ha RF

The RF

To select

1. Us2. Us3. Us

selAdjusting the Pulser/Receiver 53

MHz to 10.0 MHz (STANDARD)MHz to 21.5 MHz (BROADBAND)MHz to 26.5 MHz (HIGH-PASS)

a Filter Setting

e the [DISPLAY SETUP] key to access the RECEIVER tab.e the [ENTER] key to access the FILTER parameter.e the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the threeections.

aveform RectificationOCH LTC can operate in one of four different rectification modes:

ll-wavelf-wave positivelf-wave negative (unrectified)

mode is not active while operating in DAC mode or peak memory.

a Rectification Mode

e the [DISPLAY SETUP] key to access the RECEIVER tab.e the [ENTER] key to access the RECT parameter.e the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the threeections.

54 Chapte

5.5.3 RejectThe reject function eliminates unwanted, low-level signals from the display. The rejectfunction is linear and adjustable from 0% to 80% FSH. Increasing the reject level does notaffect the amplitude of the signals above the reject level.

To access

1. Us2. Us3. Us

sel

The rejin the cr 5

the Reject parameter

e the [DISPLAY SETUP] key to access the RECEIVER tab.e the [ENTER] key to access the REJ parameter.e the function keys for direct access or the up and down keys to toggle through the threeections.

ect level is displayed as a dashed horizontal line on the instrument display (or two linesase of the RF display mode).

Note: The reject function can be used in RF display mode.

6. Managing Special Waveform Functions

This ch

P D

6.1 P

The peof eachacquirea functis displ

This fubeam inManaging Special Waveform Functions 55

apter describes how to manage special waveform functions. The topics are as follows:

eak Memoryisplay Freeze

eak Memory

ak memory function enables the display to capture and store on the screen the amplitude display point. The display updates each pixel if a signal of greater amplitude isd. When a transducer is scanned over a reflector, the signal envelope (echo dynamic asion of transducer position) is held on the screen. In addition, the current, live waveformayed at the appropriate place within the echo envelope.

nction is useful when it is necessary to find the peak from an indication during an angle-spection. An example is shown in Figure 6-1 on page 56.

56 Chapte

To activat

1. Prethe

2. Sc

3. Prefun

displr 6

Figure 6-1 Peak Memory Function

e the peak memory function

ss [2ND F], [SYSTEM MENU] (PEAK MEM). A P symbol appears at the left side of display to indicate that the function is active.an over a reflector to acquire the echo envelope.

ss [2ND F], [SYSTEM MENU] (PEAK MEM) again to turn off the peak memoryction.

Note: The peak memory function cannot be activated in the unrectified, RFay mode.

6.2 Display Freeze

The display freeze function holds or freezes the information on the screen at the moment the[FREEZE] key is pressed. Once the freeze function is activated, the pulser/receiver of theEPOCH LTC becomes inactive and does not acquire any further data. A F symbol appears onthe left side of the screen indicating that the function is active.

The freeze function is useful when storing waveforms as it holds the current A-scan allowingthe tranuse a v

Game

Gasca

Sc DA Sw Ra

are Da Pri

When f

Ze Ra Pu

To disaManaging Special Waveform Functions 57

sducer to be removed from the test piece. Once the display is frozen, the operator canariety of instrument functions. These include:

te movement Used to position the gate(s) over area(s) of interest to obtainasurement data.in Used to amplify signals of interest or to reduce the amplitude of signals when highnning gain values are being used.

anning gain may be switched on and off.C/TVG gain adjustment.itch between TVG and DAC views.nge, delay, and zoom The EPOCH LTC time base can be manipulated to focus onas of interest. The total instrument range may not be increased.taloggernting

reeze is active, the following parameters cannot be changed/accessed:

ro (offset)nge (cannot be increased)lser/receiver settings other than gain

ble the freeze function and return to normal operation, press [FREEZE] again.

58 Chapter 6

7. Gates

This ch

The top

A P G T T L M O U G

7.1 A

If the gin the [

purccontGates 59

apter describes how to use the gates in the EPOCH LTC.

ics covered are as follows:

ctivating gate 2ositioning Gates 1 and 2ate Measurement Modesaking Thickness Readingsaking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readingsocating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducereasuring Signal Amplitudeperating in Time-of-Flight Modesing the Zoom Featureate Alarms

ctivating gate 2

ate 2 option has been purchased then the operator will have the ability to turn on gate 2SYSTEM MENU] under the GATES tab shown in Figure 7-1 on page 60.

Note: The standard EPOCH LTC has one gate. The gate 2 option must behased to access gate 2 functions. For simplicity, this section describes all gaterols.

60 Chapte

The opsetup iactivater 7

Figure 7-1 GATES Tab

erator must select the GATE2 ENABLE parameter and select ON. This allows gate 2nformation to appear in the tab as shown in Figure 7-2 on page 60, and it will also gate 2 parameters on the live screen.

Figure 7-2 GATE2 ENABLE parameter

7.2 Positioning Gates 1 and 2

The EPOCH LTC has up to two independent flaw gates. Both gates can be used to takethickness measurements with straight-beam transducers, sound-path measurements with angle-beam transducers, measure signal amplitude, measure time-of-flight in microseconds, or totrigger threshold and minimum-depth alarms. The gates may also be used together to takeecho-to-echo thickness measurements.

Gate Po

To accecan the(1-Wid

To accecan the(2-Wid

To adjuthe arrcoarse

7.3 G

See secfor eac

7.4 Ta

To take a

1. In thedis

2. In mo

3. OndomeGates 61

sitioning is controlled using the [GATES] key.

ss the gate 1 controls, the operator must press the [GATES] button once. The operatorn use the [ENTER] key or the [F1]-[F3] keys to access gate start (1-Start), gate widthth), and gate level (1-Level).The [F4] key controls the AUTOXX% function.

ss the gate 2 controls, the operator must press the [GATES] button twice. The operatorn use the [ENTER] key or the [F1][F3] keys to access gate start (2-Start), gate widthth), and gate level (2-Level). The [F4] key controls the AUTOXX% function.

st the position of a gate, the operator must access the appropriate gate function and useow keys to move the gates. The up and down arrow keys allow rapid adjustment inincrements and the left and right arrow keys allow fine adjustment.

ate Measurement Modes

tion 4.6.2 on page 35 for details regarding the two gate-measurement modes availableh gate (peak and edge).

king Thickness Readings

thickness reading with gate 1

[SYSTEM MENU] > MEAS tab The operator must select gate 1 thickness as one of active measurements in the 4 measurement display locations. Typically, this would beplayed in measurement location 1.[SYSTEM MENU] > GATES tab The operator must set up the gate 1 measurementde to peak or edge as required by the application. the live screen The operator must position gate 1 over the echo of interest. The echoes not need to break the gate for peak measurements. It must break the gate for edgeasurements.

62 Chapte

To take a thickness reading with gate 2, the previous steps are the same but the gate 2 controlsare used and the gate 2 thickness measurement must be selected.

7.5 Taking Echo-to-Echo Thickness Readings

The operator can take echo-to-echo thickness measurements with the EPOCH LTC if thegate 2 option has been purchased.

To take an

1. In thedis

2. In Metyp

3. Ongape

The opThis fublankin

7.6 Lo

Duringusing ththe EPmeasurautomathe echr 7

echo-to-echo thickness measurement

[SYSTEM MENU] > MEAS tab The operator must select Gate 2-Gate 1 as one of active measurements in the 4 measurement display locations. Typically this would beplayed in measurement location 1.[SYSTEM MENU] > GATES tab The operator must setup the gate 1 and gate 2asurement modes to PEAK or EDGE as required by the application. These areically the same for both gates, but this is not required. the live screen The operator must position gate 1 over the first echo of interest and

te 2 over the second echo of interest. The echo does not need to break the gate for theak measurements. It must break, however, the gate for edge measurements.

erator can choose to activate gate 2 Tracking in the [SYSTEM MENU] > GATES tab.nction allows gate 2 start to track the position of an echo in gate 1 to maintain the presetg period between gate 1 start and gate 2 start.

cating Flaws with an Angle Beam Transducer

an angle-beam inspection, you can obtain accurate and reliable soundpath informatione EPOCH LTCs high-resolution distance calculator. If a refracted angle is entered intoOCH LTC and the operator has chosen soundpath, surface distance, and depthements to be displayed in the measurement display locations, then the instrument willtically display all angular soundpath components once the operator places the gate overo of interest (see Figure 7-3 on page 63).

The scr[SYST

7.7 M

When eand screferenreflectostandar

To meGate 2 depend

The Emeasuractivategate anRESET

Soundpath

Surface distance

Depth

AmplitudeGates 63

Figure 7-3 Gate Over Echo

een can also display the soundpath leg as part of the A-scan grid. This is set up in theEM MENU] > A-SCAN tab.

easuring Signal Amplitude

stimating discontinuity size, the instrument is adjusted so that a particular gain settingreen height represent the echo amplitude produced by a known size reflector in ace standard. In general, a signal with a smaller amplitude could indicate a smallerr and a signal with higher amplitude could indicate a larger reflector than the referenced.

asure signal amplitude, the operator must select either Gate 1 current amplitude orcurrent amplitude as a displayed measurement in the [SYSTEM MENU] > MEAS tabing on which gate will be used for the measurement.

POCH LTC can also display minimum amplitude and maximum amplitudeements. If the operator wishes to use these measurements for inspection, they can bed as well. These me