Short answer
Start from the inspection question, not from the catalogue: material, thickness, geometry, defect type and orientation, and the written procedure. These determine the frequency, element size, beam angle and probe type. Then confirm the connector and cable for your instrument, and request the individual characterisation data for each probe.
Frequency and element size
Higher frequency gives shorter wavelength and better resolution, but higher attenuation. Lower frequency penetrates coarse-grained or thick material better. As a rule of thumb, 2–2.25 MHz suits thick or attenuating steel and castings, 4–5 MHz is the common choice for weld inspection in carbon steel, and 7.5–10 MHz or more is used for thin sections and fine resolution.
Element size controls the near field and beam spread. The near-field length is approximately N = D²·f / 4c: a larger element or higher frequency pushes the focus deeper and narrows the beam, while a small element is easier to couple on curved or restricted surfaces.
Probe types and when to use them
| Probe type | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Angle beam (shear wave) | Weld inspection, planar defects, cracks. Example: SYNVOR AFP-89-60L — 4 MHz, 8×9 mm, 60°. |
| Straight beam contact | Laminations, defects parallel to the surface, thickness checks. |
| Dual element (TR) | Corrosion mapping and residual thickness on thin or pitted material. |
| Linear phased array | Sectorial and linear scanning of welds with an encoded scanner. Example: 7.5L64. |
| TOFD | Sizing of weld defects using diffracted signals and encoder scanning. |
| Immersion / high temperature | On request, depending on the application and procedure. |
European standards for probe characterisation
EN ISO 22232-2 specifies the characterisation and verification of conventional ultrasonic probes: frequency, bandwidth, beam angle, index point, beam profile and related parameters. EN ISO 18563-2 covers the characterisation of phased array probes.
Ask for traceable data per serial number. Synvor probes are supplied with an individual serial number and inspection certificate per batch. The standards define how a probe is characterised; whether an inspection complies with a code depends on the client's qualified procedure, calibration, personnel and acceptance criteria.
Multi-brand compatibility
Most European teams already own instruments from several manufacturers. Before ordering, confirm the connector (Lemo 00, Lemo 1, BNC, Microdot or the phased array connector of your instrument), the cable length and the wedge interface.
Synvor supplies probes with standard market connectors for conventional flaw detectors and phased array probes for systems such as Olympus / Evident OmniScan MX2, MX3 and SX and Eintik instruments. Send us the instrument model and procedure and we confirm the configuration before quoting.
Phased array ultrasonic testing with an encoded scanner
Phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) and TOFD give a recorded, repeatable result when the probe is mounted on an encoded scanner. The R12 scanner holds probes and wedges on four wheels with an integrated encoder and couplant irrigation, for manual-encoded weld scanning.
Checklist before requesting a quote
Instrument model and connector · material and thickness range · weld or component geometry · defect type of interest · applicable procedure or code · required frequency, angle or element count if already defined · quantity and delivery country.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an ultrasonic probe and a transducer?
In NDT the terms are used interchangeably. The transducer is the piezoelectric element; the probe is the complete assembly with housing, connector and, for angle beams, the wedge.
Which frequency should I use for weld inspection?
4–5 MHz is the most common starting point for carbon steel welds, but the final choice is defined by the qualified procedure, thickness and material.
Can your probes work with my OmniScan or other flaw detector?
We supply standard connectors (Lemo 00, Lemo 1, BNC, Microdot) and phased array probes for common systems. Send the instrument model and we confirm compatibility before quoting.
Do you ship across Europe?
Yes. Technical support is provided from Lisbon, with an initial reply within one business day.
Probe selection support
Synvor supplies non-destructive testing equipment and probes and provides technical support in selecting the right configuration. The inspection itself is performed by the asset owner or a qualified inspection company.