Validation of the Magneto-Optic/Eddy-Current Imager.
Abstract
This report details the validation analysis of PRI's Magneto-Optic/Eddy-Current Imager (MOl). The analysis includes both a reliability analysis of the system and an economic analysis of the potential benefits and costs related to its use. The reliability analysis consisted of blind inspections of well characterized panels simulating a fuselage lap splice. The panels contained cracks of known sizes emanating from under rivet heads on the upper row of rivets. The MOI inspection times were less, on average, than were inspection times using a sliding probe. Twenty percent reduction in inspection times is consistent with the data obtained and is used as a baseline for the economic analysis. The economic analysis considers the effects of individual factors that contribute to the cost effectiveness of the MOl. The possible returns on the investment for a representative maintenance facility are calculated using the net present value methodology. Specific characteristics are defined for the representative facility, and then they are varied to account for the differences in the maintenance community. For a facility which can take full advantage of the potential time and labor savings associated with implementation of the MOl, the investment in MOl would generate a positive return in less than one year. In this fully competitive scenario the cumulative net present value at the end of the tenth year would be over $l60,000. Under a semi-competitive scenario, the net present value is negative throughout the life cycle of the investment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA302404
Entities
People
- Floyd Spencer
- Vanessa J. Brechling
Organizations
- Northwestern University