On The Use of Acoustic Emission and Digital Image Correlation for Welded Joints Damage ...

A series of tests has been conducted to investigate fatigue damage characterisation in corroded welded steel plates using structural health monitoring (SHM) techniques. AE is a non-destructive testing (NDT) technique with potential applications for locating and monitoring fatigue cracks in service. In the present work, AE was used to characterise damage during crack evolution based on the relationship between RA value (the rise time divided by the amplitude) and the average frequency of the recorded data. Results were confirmed by visual observation of the crack geometry at the end of the test and by Digital Image Correlation (DIC) measurements. The results obtained allowed a more detailed understanding of such damage mechanisms, enabling an early waing against final failure and hence ensuring the safety and integrity of the structures.