Ultrasonic Sensors for "In-Situ" Monitoring and Control of the Sintering Process - J.L. Rose, V. Prabhu and R. German
lead a research team whose goal is to optimize the sintering temperature profile and process techniques for improved mechanical performance and zero defects of sintered components. To that end, they are developing the appropriate ultrasonic techniques for monitoring parts in the sintering furnace. The basic concept is that by applying the wave guide or electromagnetic acoustic transducer to the test part, touching it or placed close to the surface, respectively, that ultrasonic waves can be induce in the test part. A series of bulk and guided waves along the surface are then introduced into the part and finally received by the receiving transducer. The received signature can provide information about the quality and integrity of the sintered part.

The undergraduate student who would join this team would be engaged in following activities:

• Designing coupling mechanisms for the ultrasonic transducer system,
• Collecting and analyzing data for correlation studies with product integrity and behavior by way of destructive assay as well as non-destructive measuring techniques.