Nonstationary Infrared Testing of Coatings on Exterior and Interior Surfaces of Metal Shells.

A new method for nondestructive testing of coatings on exterior and interior surfaces of metal shells is proposed that is based on video monitoring of the infrared radiation emitted from the shell excited by shortterm external heating. Computer processing of the measured nonstationary field of temperature distribution on the outer surface allows defects with lateral dimensions on the order of or greater than the shell thickness to be revealed on the inner (inaccessible to observation) surface. Geometric characteristics of these defects can be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]