Schrödinger: Journal of Physics Education
Schrödinger: Journal of Physics Education

Advancing Physics and Physics Education Through Research and Innovation

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Schrödinger: Journal of Physics Education

Advancing Physics and Physics Education Through Research and Innovation

Developing a 2 MHz Ultrasonic Probe: Implications for Practical Non-Destructive Testing of Metallic Materials

Badai Sefta Mafarin
Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayahtullah Jakarta
Indonesia
badaisefta12@gmail.com
Nestor Antonio Flores Martínez
Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León
Mexico
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  • Purpose of the study: This study aimed to fabricate and characterize a 2 MHz normal-incidence ultrasonic probe using a PZT element and evaluate its performance in frequency response, near-field characteristics, calibration, and defect detection compared with a commercial probe.

    Methodology: An experimental method was employed to fabricate a probe using a 2 MHz PZT element, tungsten oxide powder, Araldite epoxy, electrical connections, and a metal housing. A Krautkramer USL 32 ultrasonic testing instrument, an oscilloscope, a steel calibration block, and oil couplant were used. Frequency characterization was performed using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis, followed by near-field estimation, distance–amplitude correction (DAC) calibration, and comparative echo-response measurements.

    Main Findings: The fabricated probe achieved an operating frequency of 2.011 MHz and detected a 3 mm-diameter steel reflector under the tested conditions. Recognizable echo responses were obtained at reference depths of 95 and 100 mm. At 100 mm, the fabricated and commercial probes both produced an 80% screen-height response, requiring gains of 40 dB and 34 dB, respectively. The fabricated probe also exhibited a measured beam width of 30 mm at a depth of 200 mm.

    Novelty/Originality of this study: This study provides an integrated experimental characterization of a conventionally fabricated 2 MHz normal-incidence ultrasonic probe, combining fabrication, frequency measurement, near-field assessment, DAC calibration, and comparison with a commercial probe. Its contribution is configuration-specific evidence of the probe’s operational feasibility and performance limitations, providing a practical basis for optimizing backing-material composition, acoustic response, and defect-detection capability.

  • How to cite

    [1]
    B. S. Mafarin and N. A. F. Martínez, “Developing a 2 MHz Ultrasonic Probe: Implications for Practical Non-Destructive Testing of Metallic Materials”, Sch. Jo. Phs. Ed, vol. 7, no. 5, pp. 300–314, Oct. 2026, doi: 10.37251/sjpe.v7i5.3919.

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