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Developments in non-destructive techniques for detecting small defects in friction stir welds in thin aluminium plates in aerospace applications are considered. The principles of ultrasonic phased-array technology and eddy current array technology are outlined and configurations of the phased-array and eddy current array systems are described. Inspections were made on friction stir welds in Al alloy 2219 T851 and Al-Li 2195 T8P4 (5 mm thickness). The techniques were used to detect internal cavities, oxide layers, lack of penetration and kissing bonds. The new array technology methods allowed a complete inspection of the weld in less time than conventional methods.

3rd International Symposium, 27-28 Sep 2001, Poster Session, Paper 19