Abstract

Recent technological advances in ultrasonic flaw detecting apparatus (broad band characteristic) have shown that ultrasonic pulse‐echo inspection of aircraft tires is now possible. The acoustic properties of rubber and rubber composites have been studied so that optimum system requirements may be determined. A prototype inspection system has been constructed to demonstrate the ability of pulse‐echo ultrasonics to locate critical internal flaws and structural elements in tires. Electronic and mechanical refinements necessary to complete automated inspection systems are discussed and the importance of defect standards for aircraft tires considered.