EPOCH LTC Training Presentation 5-09

EPOCH LTC
Operator Training Presentation

EPOCH LTC Introduction
 The EPOCH LTC is a completely new
instrument based on the class-leading
EPOCH XT design
 Introduced in the Fall of 2007
 EN12668-1 Compliant
 Sealed to IP67
 Full VGA color LCD with transflective

technology
2
EPOCH LTC – Physical Features
 Dimensions: 8.79 in. H x 5.07 in. W x 2.17 in. D
223.3 mm H x 128.9 mm W x 55.1 mm D
 Weight: 2.12 lbs. / 0.96 kg
 Exceptional portability
 Truly hand-held design
3
The EPOCH LTC has been designed to withstand the
harsh environments common in the NDT field.
 Sealed to IP67 – Extensively tested in Waltham.

 Explosive Atmosphere approved per MIL-STD-810F
 Shock Tested per IEC 60068-2-27
 Vibration Tested per IEC 60068-2-6
 Drop Tested from 4 feet (1.22 meters) per MIL-STD-810F
(26 total drops on all faces, corners, etc.)
4
 Handheld design that works for left-
handed and right-handed operators.
 All buttons are within reach from either
side of the instrument.
 Hand strap may be reversed for
operators who prefer to hold the
instrument in their right hand.
5
EPOCH LTC - Display
 The EPOCH LTC utilizes the latest in display technology.
 Color Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) with 60Hz update rate.
 Full VGA resolution (640 x 480 pixels)
 Transflective Technology – Provides excellent visibility in direct
sunlight as well as indoors. Low power consumption improves
battery life.
6
 Transducer Connections
– The EPOCH LTC utilizes small Lemo (00 size) transducer connections.
– These connections have been substantially improved for the EPOCH LTC.
» Increased strength and isolation of any applied force from the PCB.
» Sealed to IP67
– Adaptors are available.

» Lemo Part #: RLCFL1D-316-10IN
» BNC Part #: RLCFBD-316-10IN
7
 Power Supply Connection
– Rubber plug is used to seal this connection.
– The EPOCH LTC uses the EP-MCA power supply. This is currently used by
the EPOCH XT and the EPOCH 4 series as well.
– The EPOCH LTC will charge its main battery internally when plugged in.
8
EPOCH LTC – Input/Output
 EPOCH LTC I/O Ports are protected by a sealed door.
Gasket Seal
VGA / RS-232
Mini-SD Card
USB I/O
9
 USB “On-The-Go” (OTG) Port acts as both a Host and a Client
Port. Used for PC Communication and Printing.
– Cable for PC Communication (Type: Mini AB to A)
» EPLTC-C-USB-A-6
– Cable for Printing (Type: Mini AB to B)
» EPLTC-C-USB-B-6
– USB Communication and Printing will be enabled in the EPOCH LTC
Operating Software in February 2008.
 VGA Output for PC monitors and/or projectors will be enabled in

the EPOCH LTC Operating Software in February 2008.
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EPOCH LTC Training Presentation
Peripherals and Accessories
 Mini SD Card slot allows for 512MB of removable data storage. All
EPOCH LTC units ship with a card installed and with an adaptor for
card readers in the instrument’s transport case.
 RS-232 Communication Port for PC communication will be enabled

in the Spring/Summer 2008.
12
EPOCH LTC – Battery Door
 The EPOCH LTC’s battery door is secured by four thumb screws
shown below.
 The battery door contains a gasket seal and a membrane vent.
Thumb Screw Gasket Seal Rechargeable Li

Ion Battery Pack
Membrane Vent
13
EPOCH LTC – Batteries
 The EPOCH LTC’s main battery is a
rechargable Lithium Ion pack.
– Part Number: EPLTC-BAT-L
– Estimated Battery Life: 8 Hours
– May be recharged inside unit. Recharge
time is approximately 2-3 hours.
 Beginning in February 2008, all units

will ship with an auxiliary battery tray
that accepts five AA size batteries.
– Part Number: EPLTC-BAT-AA
– Estimated Battery Life:
» AA Li/FeS2 Cells: 6 hours
» AA NiMH Cells: 4 hours
» AA Alkaline Cells: 3 hours
– The instrument cannot charge these
batteries.
Auxiliary Battery Main Battery
14 Tray Connection Connection
EPOCH LTC – External Battery Charger
 The EPOCH LTC’s main battery is compatible with the EPXT-EC
External Battery charger.
 This may be purchased as an added-cost accessory.
 The external charger has the capability to recalibrate the battery
and potentially enhance its useful life.
15
EPOCH LTC – Transport Case
16
EPOCH LTC – Transport Case
17
EPOCH LTC Accessories
 Rubber Protective Case with Integrated Pipe Stand and D-Rings.
– PN: EPLTC-RPC
 AA Battery Tray – For use with AA Rechargeable Lithium Ion cells.

– Included with each unit. PN: EPLTC-BAT-AA
 USB Cables – Two types for connection of USB OTG port to Host
and Client style ports.
– EPLTC-C-USB-A-6  for connection to Host Port (PC)
– EPLTC-C-USB-B-6  for connection to Client Port (Printer)
18
EPOCH LTC Accessories
 VGA Cable
– EPLTC-C-VGA-6
 RS-232 Cable
– EPLTC-C-RS232-6
 Chest Harness (requires RPC)

– EP4/CH
 Display Protectors
– EPLTC-DP
19
Keypad and Function Descriptions
EPOCH LTC – Keypad Design (English)
F1 to F4 keys
access preset Dedicated GATES
parameter values key within easy reach
of user’s thumb
UP and DOWN
Arrows for COARSE
Adjustments
LEFT and RIGHT RECALL SETUP
Arrows for FINE allows Quick Cal
Adjustments Recall
Display / Setup key

toggles A-Scan size One Menu key to
and accesses access a tabbed
parameter adjustments System Setup menu.
21
EPOCH LTC – Keypad Design (Intl.)
22
EPOCH LTC – Keypad Design (Japanese)
23
EPOCH LTC – Keypad Design (Chinese)
24
EPOCH LTC – Display Modes
 The EPOCH LTC has three display
modes:
– Split Screen, also called Setup Mode
– Full Screen
– Max A-Scan
 Toggle between modes with the
DISPLAY / SETUP key.
25
EPOCH LTC – Display Color Schemes
 The EPOCH LTC has two display color schemes:
– Indoor
– Outdoor
 Press 2nd F, DISPLAY SETUP [COLOR] to toggle between these
display modes.
26
EPOCH LTC – Key Function Descriptions
 The ENTER key is used to move from one parameter to the next.
– In Split Screen mode the ENTER key functions as follows:
» If a setup tab is highlighted, pressing the ENTER key will rotate the operator through the
functions within the tab and then back to the tab itself.
» If a setup tab is NOT highlighted, pressing the ENTER key will rotate the operator through
the ID, GAIN, DELAY, and RANGE parameters.
– In the Full Screen and Max A-Scan modes

the ENTER key will rotate the operator
through ALL parameters adjustable on the
live screen.
– In the SYSTEM Menu the ENTER

key will move the operator from
parameter to parameter within the
selected tab.
27
 The ARROWS or SLEWING keys perform the following functions:
– Adjust the value of a selected parameter
– Enter alphanumeric characters for datalogging
– Enter values for thickness / soundpath / depth during calibration.
 When adjusting parameter values the UP and DOWN arrow keys

provide a coarse adjustment (large steps) for most parameters.
The LEFT and RIGHT arrows provide a fine adjustment (smallest
steps) for most parameters.
Fine
Adjustment
Coarse
Adjustment
28
 The GAIN key allows the operator to adjust the EPOCH LTC’s
system sensitivity.
 The total adjustment range for the EPOCH LTC is 110dB
 Default Coarse and Fine values shown below. These may be
changed in the Editable Parameters menu if desired.
+ 6.0 dB
- 6.0 dB
- 0.1 dB + 0.1 dB
29
 Pressing 2nd F, GAIN [REF GAIN] will lock the instrument’s current
gain setting as a reference (REF) level and activate the Scanning
Gain function in the EPOCH LTC.
Standard Gain REF Gain + Scanning

Gain
30
 Scanning Gain – This function is used during many inspection
procedures that require the operator to add gain (typically 6dB to 24 dB)
in order to make defects easier to detect.
 When a defect is detected, the scanning gain must be removed in order
to evaluate the height of the defect echo at reference gain.
 F1 = ADD
– This adds the current scanning gain
to the REF Gain and turns off the
scanning gain function.
 F2 = SCAN DB
– This toggles the scanning gain on and
off allowing quick echo height evaluation
at reference level.
 F3 = OFF
– This turns off the scanning gain function.
31
 The GATES key allows the operator to control
gate positioning.
 GATE 2 is an added-cost option in the EPOCH LTC. If this option

has been purchased then the operator may activate GATE 2 in
the SYSTEM MENU. If this option has not been purchased then
the operator will not have access to the GATE 2 settings.
Gate 2 Settings Inactive Gate 2 Settings Active
32
 The GATE adjustments that are available are:
– Gate Start (G1 ST and G2 ST): This value is adjustable across the entire width of the display.
– Gate Width (WD): This value is adjustable from the Start value to the end of the display.
– Gate Level (LV): This value is adjustable from 2% to 95% screen height.
 Gate adjustments are available in the Split Screen mode under the GATES setup tab as shown in the screenshot
below.
 Gate adjustments may always be
accessed by pressing the GATES
direct access key as well.
– The first press of the GATES key will
activate G1 Start. Use the ENTER
key to access the other gate position
controls.
33
 There are three types of Gate alarms available:
– Positive Logic: Alarm is triggered when an echo breaks the gate.
– Negative Logic: Alarm is triggered when an echo falls out of the gate.
– Minimum Depth: Alarm is triggered when the measurement to an echo in
the gate crosses an operator defined threshold.
 Positive Logic Gate Alarm
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 Negative Logic Gate Alarm
35
 Minimum Depth Gate Alarm
36
 The ZOOM function is activated by pressing 2nd F, GATES [ZOOM]
Zoom Flag
Max A-Scan Mode No Zoom Max A-Scan Mode Zoom G1
37
 The FREEZE function locks the displayed A-Scan
signal on the instrument’s display.
 When FREEZE is active, the operator may not adjust
the following settings:
– Pulser settings
– Receiver settings
– Activate / Deactivate SW Options
 The operator MAY adjust the
following settings:
– Gain and Scanning Gain
– Gates (measurements will update)
– Range (to a lower value)
– Zoom
– DAC/TVG Gain
Freeze Flag
– Rectification
38
 The MEAS/RESET key is used to perform the
following functions:
– To exit the System Menu or Datalogger Menu
and return to the live screen.
– To reset measurements that track minimum and maximums:
» Min Depth
» Max Depth
» Min Amplitude
» Max Amplitude
39
 The SAVE key is used to save the on-screen data to
the active file and ID.
 Data saved each time the SAVE key is pressed are:
– A-Scan
– All active measurements
– Instrument setup parameters
– Grid setup information
– Software option status and setup
 For additional information on the SAVE function please refer to

the Datalogger section of this presentation.
40
 The PRINT function is activated by
pressing 2nd F, SAVE [PRINT].
 This function is not currently active in production EPOCH LTC

instruments.
 When the PRINT function has been enabled it will allow the
operator to print screenshots and possibly reports created on the
EPOCH LTC to compatible USB and RS-232 printers.
 Expected release for this feature is Spring 2008.
41
 The RANGE key allows the operator to set the time
window covered by the instrument’s display.
 Range is typically expressed in mm or inches, but

this setting is really a time value (microseconds) and then the
instrument’s Velocity setting is applied to produce a distance value.
 The standard range in the EPOCH LTC is up to 200 inches

(5000mm).
 The expanded range option (PN: EPLTC-RANGE) will allow the

range setting to be adjusted to 400 inches (10000mm). Expected
release is Spring 2008.
42
 The Display Delay function is activated
by pressing 2nd F, RANGE [DELAY].
 Display delay may be adjusted from
-2 inches (-50mm) to the RANGE value.
 Display delay does NOT affect measurement values.
Delay Off Delay = 10mm
43
 Pressing the CAL key initiates the EPOCH LTC’s
Auto Calibration process.
 For more information about the Auto Calibration

process please refer to the Calibration sections in this
presentation.
44
 The Quick Calibration Recall process
is initiated by pressing
2nd F, CAL [RECALL SETUP].
 This will pull up a menu that

contains a list of all CAL files
stored in the EPOCH LTC.
 For details regarding the Quick

Calibration Recall process
please refer to the Datalogger
section of this presentation.
45
 Pressing the ID key allows the operator to edit
the current ID name. The current ID name is shown
in the ID field in the upper left corner of the instrument
display. This name is the current “save-to” location
in the active file in the EPOCH LTC’s datalogger.
 For more details about the ID function please refer to the

datalogger section in this presentation.
46
 The SYSTEM MENU key allows the operator to access
the EPOCH LTC’s main setup menu.
 The System Menu contains many instrument setup functions and

preferences.
 For more details about the System Menu please refer to the
System Menu section in this presentation.
47
 The PEAK MEMORY function is activated
by pressing 2nd F, SYSTEM MENU
[PEAK MEM].
 The Peak Memory function allows

the instrument to draw peak echo
envolopes.
 This function is helpful when

locating the peak echo height
for a defect or during calibration.
48
Display Modes and Split Screen Setup Menu
 The EPOCH has three different display modes for the operator to
choose from:
– Split Screen – This is the setup mode. Instrument parameters are arranged
into four main tabs for BASE, GATES, PULSER, and RECEIVER.
– Full Screen – This mode features a larger A-Scan as well as the four user-
customizable measurement locations
– Max A-Scan – This mode maximizes the size of the A-Scan display. This
may be used while scanning for defects when viewing measurements is not
required for the application.
50
ID Field Gain Parameter
Gate Measurement 1
Measurement Measurement 2
Mode Icon(s)
Measurement 3
Display Measurement 4
Flag Area
Delay Parameter
Setup Tab Range Parameter

Selection
Battery Indicator
SD Functional
SD Status
Indicator SD Not Functional
51
ID Field Gain Parameter
Gate Measurement 1
Measurement Measurement 2
Mode Icon(s)
Measurement 3
Display Measurement 4
Flag Area
Active Parameter
Delay Parameter
Range Parameter
SD Functional
SD Status
Indicator SD Not Functional Battery Indicator
52
ID Field Active Parameter
Gate
Measurement
Mode Icon(s)
Display
Flag Area
SD Functional
SD Status
Indicator SD Not Functional
53
EPOCH LTC – Split Screen Setup Menu
BASE TAB
54
 The BASE Tab in the Split Screen Setup Menu contains the
following parameters in all EPOCH LTCs:
– Material Velocity (VEL): 0.025 – 0.6000 in/usec (635 – 15240 m/sec)
– Zero Offset (ZERO): 0 – 750 usec
– Refracted Angle (ANGLE): 0 degree, 10 – 85 degrees in 0.1 degree
increments.
– Part Thickness (THICK)
 These parameters are critical to calibrating the EPOCH LTC to

make proper sound path measurements and for calculating
trigonometric measurements for angle beam inspections.
 The BASE Tab also contains the Curved Surface Correction (CSC)
controls if this option has been purchased.
55
GATES TAB
56
 The GATES Tab in the Split Screen Setup Menu contains the
following parameters in all EPOCH LTCs:
– Gate 1 Start (G1 ST): Adjustable over entire displayed range.
– Gate 1 Width (WD): Adjustable from G1 ST to end of displayed range.
– Gate 1 Level (LV): Adjustable from 2% to 95% of screen height.
– Gate 1 Alarm (THICK): Selectable Positive, Negative, Min Depth, or Off.
 The GATES Tab also contains GATE 2 controls if this option has
been purchased and activated in the EPOCH LTC System Menu.
57
PULSER TAB
58
 The EPOCH LTC comes with a fixed width square wave pulser.
 The Tunable Pulser is a software option (PN: EPLTC-SWP). If this
has been purchased then the operator will see the Pulse
Frequency (FRQ) setting in this tab, otherwise it will not appear.
 Pulser Design is compliant to EN12668-1.
 Voltage Range – 100V to 400V in 100V increments.

 PRF Rate is automatically controlled between 10Hz and 400Hz in
the base instrument.
 Manual PRF control is a software option that allows adjustment
over a range of 10 - 500Hz in 10Hz increments. (PN: EPLTC-PRF).
NOTE: PRF Rate = Measurement Rate in the EPOCH LTC.
59
RECEIVER TAB
60
 The EPOCH LTC receiver design is similar to the EPOCH XT. This
100% digital design allows many unique features:
– Gain adjustment over full 110dB range while frozen
– Gate adjustment with digital measurements while frozen
– High dynamic range for DAC/TVG and DGS/AVG
 Three fixed filter settings allow wide overall bandwidth and

EN12668-1 compliance:
– Standard Setting: 0.2 – 10 MHz
– Broadband Setting: 2.0 – 21.5 MHz
– High Pass Setting: 8.0 – 26.5 MHz
 Reject is adjustable over a range of 1% – 100% screen height.

 Rectification settings are:
– Unrectified (RF)
– Fullwave
– Positive and Negative Halfwave
61
System Menu
EPOCH LTC System Menu
 The EPOCH LTC has one tab based System Menu. The contents of this
menu are similar to the contents of the three setup menus in the EPOCH
XT. The tabs are listed below:
Measurement Setup (MEAS)
Gate Setup (GATES)
A-Scan Setup (A-SCAN)
DAC/TVG
DGS/AVG – Optional
General Preferences (GENERAL)
Date and Time Setup (CLOCK)
Instrument Status (STATUS)
Editable Parameters (EDITPAR)
Software Option Activation (OPTIONS)
Instrument Resets (RESETS)
Software Diagnostics (SW DIAG) – Factory and Support Use
Instrument Tests (TESTS) – Factory Use
63
EPOCH LTC – System Menu
Measurement Select (MEAS)
 Reading Selection Mode
– AUTO – The EPOCH LTC will choose
measurements automatically based on the
parameters chosen by the operator.
– MANUAL – The operator must manually
choose all measurements.
 Units
– Inches, millimeters, microseconds
 Resolution
– Inches: X, X.X, X.XX, X.XXX
– Millimeters: X, X.X, X.XX
– Microseconds: X, X.X, X.XX, X.XXX
– % Amplitude: X, X.X, X.XX
 Calibration Mode (Angle Beam)
– Soundpath or Depth
 X-Value
– This is the distance from the Beam Index
Point on a wedge to the front of the wedge.
The correction value is removed from
surface distance measurements.
64
Gates Setup (GATES)
 The GATES Tab is used to setup the
measurement modes for Gate 1.
 The Gate 2 Enable setting will only function
if the Gate 2 option has been purchased.
 MEASUREMENT MODE:
– Peak: Measurements are based on the
highest peak within or under the Gate.
– Edge (Flank): Measurements are based on

the first threshold crossing point of the gate.
– Measurement mode is displayed on the live
screen to the left of the A-Scan.
 RF SETUP – Gate location in RF mode
– Dual Gate: Gate is mirrored above and
below the baseline.
– Positive: Gate is above the baseline
– Negative: Gate is below the baseline
 Gate 2 Tracking – This is used for Echo-to-
Echo measurements. Gate 2 Start will
“track” the position of an echo in Gate 1. 65
A-Scan Setup
 The A-SCAN Tab allows the operator to
setup the appearance of the A-Scan
waveform as well as the grid on the live
screen.
 LIVE A-SCAN DISPLAY
– OUTLINE: A-Scan is a single line
– FILLED: In rectified modes the A-Scan is filled.
 BASELINE BREAK
– This feature forces the fullwave A-Scan to the
baseline at each point where the RF waveform
contains a zero crossing point.
– This feature is useful for tip-diffraction
techniques and for detecting cracks near the
back surface of a thick part.
 X-AXIS GRID MODE
– OFF, STANDARD, SOUNDPATH, LEG
 Y-AXIS GRID MODE
– 100%, 110%
66
EPOCH LTC – Grid Display Modes
Standard X-Axis
67
Soundpath X-Axis
68
Leg X-Axis
69
GENERAL Tab
 The GENERAL Tab contains many general
preferences and settings.
 FILTER GROUP – Only standard filter
settings are currently available.
 KEY BEEP – Controls whether or not the
instrument beeps on each keypress.
 ALARM BEEP – Turns on/off the audible
alarm horn.
 ALL LOCK & CAL LOCK – Used to lock out
specific functions to avoid accidental change
to the instrument setup.
 LANGUAGE – Currently available languages
are English, German, French, Spanish,
Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Swedish,
Italian, and Norwegian.
 RADIX TYPE – Period or Comma.
 DATE MODE – Choose among various
formats for date stamps in saved data.
 COLOR BRIGHTNESS – Controls the
brightness of the EPOCH LTC’s backlight.
70
CLOCK Tab
 The CLOCK Tab allows the operator to
set the date and time for the instrument.
 The EPOCH LTC will date and time
stamp files in the instrument’s
datalogger when they are created and
modified.
 12 hour and 24 hour formats are
available for the time.
71
STATUS Tab
 The STATUS Tab is primarily used for
support of equipment in the field. This
tab contains information about each
specific unit.
 Temperatures
 Battery capacity
 Hardware and Software versions
 Unique hardware serial number.
72
Editable Parameters
 The EDITPAR Tab manages the preset
values that appear above the EPOCH
LTC’s function keys for many
parameters.
 Customizing these values allows the
operator to place his most commonly
used values on the function keys.
 This greatly speeds up instrument setup
and inspection.
73
Software Options
 The OPTIONS Tab allows operators to see which
software options are active within their unit and
also to add new software options purchased from
Olympus NDT.
 Options in the list that are followed by “Licensed”
are installed and active within the instrument.
 Options in the list that do not have “Licensed” after
their name are not active in the instrument.
 All software options can be activated remotely by
entering an “option key” provided by Olympus NDT
for the desired option.
74
Instrument Resets
 The RESETS Tab allows operators to
reset their instrument to factory settings
should they experience a software bug
or other failure.
 MEASUREMENT RESET – Resets all
parameter values to the factory default.
 STORAGE RESET – Completely erases
the instrument data logger.
 MASTER RESET – Performs both a
MEASUREMENT RESET and a
STORAGE RESET.
75
Instrument Datalogger
EPOCH LTC DATA LOGGER
The EPOCH LTC Data Logger is managed in a separate tabbed menu
similar to the EPOCH XT. This menu is accessed by pressing [2nd F]
[ID] (FILE).
Key Features:
 The simplified Data Logger has two file types:
– Incremental Files: Name the file and give the instrument a starting ID. As
the operator saves the ID will increment automatically.
– CAL Files: These files store only one ID. Operators should store their
instrument setup files in these files to allow Quick Recall.
 Quick Recall Feature Standard
– The operator may recall any CAL file by pressing [2nd F] [CAL] (RECALL
SETUP) at any time. This will show a list of CAL files to choose from. This
will NOT change the active save to location.
77
The EPOCH LTC Data Logger is managed in a separate tabbed menu
similar to the EPOCH XT. This menu is accessed by pressing [2nd F]
[ID] (FILE).
Key Features:
 Data Logger Storage
– Up to 50,000 IDs with onboard memory

– Virtually unlimited storage available with Mini SD card. Every EPOCH LTC
ships with one 512MB card installed.
 Default Incremental File – NONAME00
– The EPOCH LTC has a default incremental file called NONAME00. This
allows the operator to begin storing data immediately on power-up. The
filename can be changed later for reporting purposes.
78
Creating a CAL File
 Press 2nd F, ID (FILE) to enter the Data
Logger menu.
 Use the arrow keys to highlight the
CREATE Tab.
 Press ENTER to select the FILE NAME
field.
– Enter a file name using the arrow keys and
the function keys.
– The UP Arrow allows letter entry
– The DOWN Arrow allows number and
symbol entry
– The LEFT and RIGHT Arrow keys move the
cursor.
– The function keys allow you to Insert, Delete,
and Backspace.
 Once the FILE NAME has been entered
press the ENTER key to continue.
79
Creating a CAL File
 The DESCRIPTION, INSPECTOR ID, and
LOCATION NOTE fields are optional. Use
the Arrow Keys and the function keys to
enter any desired information.
 Press the ENTER key to move through the
available fields to reach the FILE TYPE
Field.
 Choose CALIBRATION for the file type and
press ENTER.
 Enter a CALIBRATION ID. This can be any
number or character. This is required.
 Press ENTER to highlight the CREATE
button and press ENTER again.
 The CAL file will be created and placed in

the list of available files.
80
Creating an Incremental File
 Press 2nd F, ID (FILE) to enter the Data
Logger menu.
 Use the arrow keys to highlight the
CREATE Tab.
 Press ENTER to select the FILE NAME
field.
– Enter a file name using the arrow keys and
the function keys.
– The UP Arrow allows letter entry
– The DOWN Arrow allows number and
symbol entry
– The LEFT and RIGHT Arrow keys move the
cursor.
– The function keys allow you to Insert, Delete,
and Backspace.
 Once the FILE NAME has been entered
press the ENTER key to continue.
81
Creating an Incremental File
 The DESCRIPTION, INSPECTOR ID, and
LOCATION NOTE fields are optional. Use
the Arrow Keys and the function keys to
enter any desired information.
 Press the ENTER key to move through the
available fields to reach the FILE TYPE
Field.
 Choose INCREMENTAL for the file type and
press ENTER.
 Enter an ID PREFIX if desired.
 Enter a START ID. This can be any number
or character. This is required to create a file.
 Press ENTER to highlight the CREATE
button and press ENTER again.
 The Incremental file will be created and

placed in the list of available files.
82
Opening a File
 The EPOCH LTC data logger maintains
a list of stored files in the data logger
menu in the OPEN Tab shown in the
screenshot to the right.
 To open a file follow the steps below:
– Press 2nd F, ID (FILE) to enter the data logger
menu.
– The OPEN Tab will be highlighted.
– Press ENTER to move into the file list.
– Highlight the desired file using the Up and
Down Arrow keys.
– Press F2 (OPEN).
 The instrument will open the file and NOTE: Opening a file does NOT recall a
setup. This action only makes the opened
bring the operator back to the live
file the active “save-to” location.
screen.
83
ID Field
Saving to Files
 When a file has been opened the
EPOCH LTC will allow the operator to
save to its currently selected ID by
pressing the SAVE key.
 Incremental files will increment their

ID each time the operator saves. This
is shown in the screenshots to the
ID Field
right.
 CAL files will only allow one ID to be

stored. Once an ID has been saved
the operator can only over-write the
previously saved ID.
84
Reviewing File Information - Details
 File Details can be viewed in the OPEN,
REVIEW, and DELETE Tabs within the
EPOCH LTC’s data logger menu.
 File Details include the following information:
– File Name
– Description (if entered by operator)
– Inspector ID (if entered by operator)
– Location Note (if entered by operator)
– File Type
– Date & Time created
– Date & Time of last modification
– Total number of saved IDs
85
Reviewing File Information –
Contents & ID Review
 File Contents and ID Review are
accessed in the REVIEW Tab in the
EPOCH LTC’s data logger menu.
 To review a file’s contents the file must

be highlighted in the REVIEW tab and
the operator must press F2
(CONTENTS)
86
Reviewing File Information – Contents &
ID Review
 The operator will first see a waveform &
measurement view of the first ID in the
selected file. This is shown in the screenshot
to the right.
 The Up and Down Arrow keys are used to
move from one ID to another.
 Press F1 (SETUP) to view the setup for the

currently displayed ID. This is shown in the
87
Recalling an ID from the Contents / ID
Review
 When reviewing IDs in a file the operator can
recall the selected ID and its setup by
pressing the F2 (RECALL) key.
 When an ID is recalled the instrument will

prompt the operator with a message that
says: “New setup recalled. Press MEAS to
continue.”
 Press MEAS/RESET to release the recall

freeze and see a live A-Scan waveform.
88
Quick Calibration Recall
 The operator can quickly recall any
stored calibration from the live screen
without entering the data logger menu.
 Press 2nd F, CAL (RECALL SETUP)
 The EPOCH LTC will display a list of
all stored CAL files as shown in the
 The operator highlights the proper file
and recalls the stored calibration by
pressing the F2 (RECALL) key.
 Recalling a CAL file using the Quick

Calibration Recall does NOT change
the active “save-to” location. If a data
file has been previously opened for
storage of inspection data it will remain
active for saving after the calibration is
recalled.
89
Deleting Files
 The operator can remove unwanted
files from the instrument data logger by
deleting them.
 To delete a file the operator must:
– Access the Data Logger Menu
– Access the DELETE Tab
– Highlight the file to delete
– Press F2 (DELETE)
90
File Export to Mini SD
 The EPOCH LTC allows the operator
to export any file to the Mini SD card in
the form of a .csv file that can be
opened in Excel.
 This data can be used as exported or it
may be imported into other customized
spreadsheets and databases.
 The File Export is done by highlighting
the desired file in the OPEN Tab and
pressing F3 (EXPORT).
 Excerpt of resulting file is shown
below:
ID Units R1 R1 Type R2 R2 Type R3 R3 Type R4 R4 Type Gain Range Delay Vel Zero Angle Thick CSC Mode
ID-01 MM 2.513 Gate1Thickness 2.44 Gate1MinimumDepth -100 Off 81.75 Gate1CurrentAmplitude 54 24.618 0 5.8097 10.267 0 0 OFF
91
Copying Files
 The operator can copy the file structure
and/or the file content of one file into a
new file using the COPY feature.
 To copy a file the operator must:
– Access the Data Logger menu
– Access the COPY tab
– Select the file to be copied
– Define a new file name for the copy
destination file
– Determine if the data of the file should be
included as part of the copy
– Press Copy to complete the process
 This feature is excellent for users following
the same inspection plan on a regular basis
92
Editing File Details
 The operator can edit the file details of
a preexisting file after its creation using
the EDIT tab.
 To edit file details, the operator must:
– Access the Data Logger Menu
– Access the EDIT Tab
– Highlight the file to edit
– Use the available fields to edit the desired file
detail information
– Press Done to complete the edit process
93
Viewing File Reports
 The operator is able to create a report live on
the EPOCH LTC using the REPORT tab.
 To create a live report:
– Access the Data Logger menu
– Access the REPORT tab
– Highlight the file from which to create the report
» Note: Use the DETAILS key to review basic information
about any file listed in this view
– Select the units of measurement to be used in
creating the report
– Use the F2 key to create the REPORT
94
Straight Beam Calibration
 Materials:
 TRANSDUCER  CABLE
– A109S-SM – LCM-74-6
 COUPLANT
 TEST BLOCK – B-2
– 2214E
96
 Place a Drop of Couplant on the .200” and .500” Steps and set the
transducer on the .200” (THIN STANDARD) step.
INSTRUMENT PARAMETERS SETUP
10 dB of Gain =
.2320 in/uS Velocity  BASE setup tab, VEL,
97
Base Instrument
PULSER Setup Tab
DAMP = 50 Ohms
MODE = P/E
(pulse – echo)
ENERGY = 100V
RECEIVER Setup Tab

FILTER = Broadband
REJECT = 0%
RECT = FULL
Instrument Options
Receiver Setup Tab
PRF = Auto or 60+Hz
Frequency = 5MHz
98
Position Gate 1 on the Thin Reference Echo:
♦ Press F4 (AUTO-80%) to position the reference echo at
80% full screen height
99
Calibrate for Thin Reference Echo
♦ Press the CAL key
♦ Press F2 (CAL THIN)
♦ Use the Arrow Keys to enter the

proper thickness value.
♦ Press F1 (CONTINUE).
100
Position Gate 1 on the Thick Reference Echo:
♦ Press F4 (AUTO-80%) to position the reference echo at
80% full screen height
101
Calibrate for Thick Reference Echo
♦ Press the CAL key
♦ Press F2 (CAL THICK)
♦ Use the Arrow Keys to enter the

proper thickness value.
♦ Press F1 (DONE).
♦ Straight Beam Calibration is

complete.
102
Shear Wave Calibration
 Materials:
 TRANSDUCER + WEDGE  CABLE

– A431S-SM – LCB-74-6
– ABWS-6-45
 COUPLANT
– B-2
 TEST BLOCK
– TB7541-1
104
 4 Steps for an Angle Beam Calibration
– 1. Locate the Beam Index Point (BIP) of the Probe.
– 2. Verify the Refracted Angle
– 3. Calibrate for Distance (Using the Auto-Cal Feature)
– 4. Calibrate for Sensitivity
105
 Base Instrument
– Gain = 40dB
– Range = 10 in.
– Velocity = 0.1280 in/usec
– Angle = 45 degrees
– Damping = 50 Ohms
– Mode = Pulse – Echo
– Energy = 200V
– Filter = Standard
– Reject = 0%
– Rectification = Full
 Instrument Options
– PRF = Auto or 60+Hz
– Pulser Frequency = 2.27MHz
106
Shear Wave Calibration 1/4 Locate Beam Index Point
 Locate the Beam Index Point:

– 1. Align the wedge with the zero mark on the “IIW Type I Block”
– 2. Move the transducer forward and backward until the echo amplitude from the 4” arc is peaked
(The Peak Memory function can be used for this by pressing 2 nd F SYSTEM MENU (PEAK MEM)
– 3. After the signal has been peaked,

mark on the wedge directly over the zero
mark on the IIW. This is the Beam Index
Point.
107
Shear Wave Calibration 2/4 Verify Refracted Angle
 Verify the Refracted Angle
– 1. Position the transducer over the appropriate angle mark on the IIW Block (In this
case it is the 45 deg located on the bottom side of the IIW).
– 2. Move the transducer forward and backward to “peak up” echo from the large
circular hole in the block. Peak Memory aids in this process by pressing 2 nd F
SYSTEM MENU (PEAK MEM).
108
Shear Wave Calibration 2/4 Verify Refracted Angle
 Verify the Refracted Angle
– After the signal is peaked, hold the transducer stationary. Look at the Beam Index
Point on the wedge. The Beam Index Point will be located above an angle marker
on the IIW block.
» This is the REFRACTED ANGLE (Beta) for the transducer and wedge.
– If the Beta Value differs from the one initially entered, enter the proper angle in the
Base Setup Tab shown below:
109
Shear Wave Calibration 3/4 Calibrating for Distance
 Couple the transducer to the IIW Block so that the Beam Index Point
is directly over the 0 deg mark.
 Adjust the Gain so the 4” and 9” Reference Echoes are visible.
4” 1”
110
 Position Gate 1 over the 4 in.
reference echo and press F4
(AUTO-80%) to bring it to 80%
screen height.
 Press the CAL key.
 Press F1 (CAL THIN).
 Enter the proper sound path

value using the arrow keys.
 Press F1 (CONTINUE).
111
 Move Gate 1 over the 9 in. reference echo.
 Press F4 (AUTO-80%).
4” 1”
112
 Press F1 (CAL THICK).
 Enter the proper sound path

value using the arrow keys.
 Press F1 (DONE).
113
Shear Wave Calibration 4/4 Calibrating for Sensitivity
 Flip the IIW block over and face
the transducer toward the 0.060 in 0.060” side
side drilled hole. drilled hole
 Reduce the instrument’s Range to
2 inches.
 Peak up the echo from the side
drilled hole to 80% screen height.
– The Peak Memory function is
helpful with this task.
 Press 2nd F, GAIN (REF GAIN) to
lock in the instrument’s Reference
Gain and enable the Scanning
Gain function.
 The Shear Wave Calibration is
now complete.
114
Software Features and Options
Software Feature
Dynamic DAC/TVG
116
EPOCH LTC – Dynamic DAC/TVG
The EPOCH LTC includes DAC and TVG capabilities as a
standard feature. The EPOCH LTC includes the following
standard DAC/TVG modes:
 ASME
 ASME-3
 JIS
 Custom
117
EPOCH LTC – Dynamic DAC/TVG Setup
The first step in setting up DAC/TVG is to calibrate the
instrument for the intended material, inspection range
and general sensitivity. This includes:
 Appropriate Pulser and Receiver adjustments (filters, energy,

square wave pulser, etc)
 Calibration for probe delay (zero offset) and material velocity
 Appropriate screen range selection
 Gain adjustment to bring first reference echo to 80% full screen

height
118
EPOCH LTC – Dynamic DAC/TVG Setup
Properly Calibrated EPOCH LTC
119
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Software Activation
DAC/TVG is activated using the SYSTEM MENU key on
the LTC keypad.
 Press the key
 Use the right arrow to

select the DAC/TVG
menu tab
 Press ENTER to make

adjustments within the DAC/TVG tab
120
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Software Activation
 In the DAC/TVG MODE control box, use the function keys to
select the desired type of DAC:
Menu #1 (F1 – F4)
opens next menu
Menu #2 (F1 – F3)
returns to
previous menu
121
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Reference Correct
Reference Correction: While inspecting using DAC/TVG, it is common to
digitally compare the height of a reflector to the height of the curve. It is
also common to use scanning gain while inspecting for defects.
Scanning gain increases the height of the echo without changing the
level of the curve.
An echo compared to a curve (in % or dB) while using scanning gain will
not yield a true digital comparison. Reference Correction automatically
removes scanning gain from the digital comparison only to allow the
inspector to scan with scanning gain while still making a correct digital
comparison between the echo and the curve.
 Use the REF CORRECT control box to turn Reference

Correction ON or OFF
122
EPOCH LTC – Acquiring DAC Points
Building a DAC curve on the EPOCH LTC is fast and accurate!
 Capture the reference

reflector
 Press F1 [ADD] to add this

reflector as a DAC point
 Move GATE1 to capture the

next reference reflector
 Repeat until curve is built
 Press F3 [DONE] to finish
123
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Adjustments
 While building a DAC curve, the EPOCH LTC allows the operator to adjust
signal height of each reference reflector using the AUTO-80% feature.
 Using AUTO-80% to acquire each point increases the accuracy of the

curve, especially in longer sound paths or attenuating materials.
124
 While building a DAC curve, the operator can make adjustments to the
following gage parameters:
– RANGE
– SCREEN DELAY
– GAIN
– ANGLE
– PART THICKNESS
– OUTER DIAMETER (CSC)
Live Range Adjustment
125
 While building a DAC curve, the operator can delete a point that is
acquired incorrectly using the F3 [DELETE] key.
Wrong Point Acquired DELETE to Remove
126
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Inspection
After building or recalling a DAC/TVG curve, inspection adjustments can be
made using the DAC/TVG tab in the EPOCH LTC’s live screen.
 These adjustments
include:
– DAC GAIN
– GAIN STEP
– CURVE NO
– VIEW
127
DAC GAIN adjustment either raises or lowers the gain of both the
echo and the curve.
 Since DAC codes require that any indication be sized above 20%
full screen height, the usable range of a basic DAC curve is often
limited.
 DAC Gain allows an operator to inspect indications that occur at

longer sound paths in a material by simply adjusting the overall
gain to bring the curve and indication higher than 20% FSH.
 Previously, multiple DAC setups would have to be built and

stored to inspect the full range of a test piece.
 GAIN STEP defines the magnitude of the DAC GAIN adjustment
128
Inspection with DAC at multiple depths/sound path distances:
DAC GAIN = 0.0 dB DAC GAIN = +10.8 dB
Valid Inspection Invalid Inspection Area

Valid Inspection
(Over 20% FSH) (Curve Under 20% FSH)
(Over 20% FSH)
129
CURVE NO adjustment changes the warning curve which defines the digital
comparison being made between an indication and the DAC/TVG setup.
 Warning Curves allow inspectors to

more accurately size indications that
are relatively larger or smaller than the
main DAC curve.
 Typical warning curves are set at

+/- 6.0dB from the main curve, as well
as -14.0 dB (ASME-3).
 An echo below the main curve that

exactly matches the height of a
-6.0dB warning curve indicates a flaw
½ the size of the reference reflector.
130
VIEW adjustment toggles between the DAC curve view and TVG view.
 TVG (Time Varied Gain) represents

indications from the same sized
reflector at varying depths within a
material as a 80% FSH echoes by
varying GAIN across the EPOCH
LTC’s screen range.
 TVG allows faster flaw scanning by

bringing potential defects to code-
compliant sizing heights without
constant adjustment of DAC GAIN.
 VIEW adjustment allows dynamic

switching from DAC to TVG based on
a single DAC setup, providing the
power of both methods to an operator
without extensive setup time.
131
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Custom
 Various inspection codes exist in different markets that prescribe the use of DAC
and/or TVG for flaw sizing.
 Within these codes, Warning Curve levels are often defined to meet the code’s
sizing requirements. Examples are:
– ASME – One DAC curve representing the reference reflector height
– ASME-3 – Three DAC curves at Reference, -6.0dB and -14.0dB
– JIS – Positive and Negative curves at every +/-3.0dB
 The EPOCH LTC features CUSTOM DAC/TVG Mode, which allows the operator to
define up to 3 Warning Curves (in addition to the main Reference curve) from
-24.0dB to +24.0dB from Reference.
132
EPOCH LTC – DAC/TVG Custom
CUSTOM DAC/TVG Mode also allows the operator to define the Curve Type
for these custom Warning Level curves:
 POLYNOMIAL – Connects the acquired reference points with a curved line which
interpolates the attenuation of sound between each reference reflector (similar to ASME
and ASME-3 code requirements).
 STRAIGHT – Connects the acquired reference points with straight line segments (similar
to the JIS code requirements).
133
Software Options
DGS/AVG
134
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG
The EPOCH LTC offers on-board DGS/AVG capabilities as an optional
feature. The DGS/AVG software option features a comprehensive
library of transducers from both Olympus NDT and competitors.
135
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Overview
DGS/AVG is a flaw sizing method that compares the height of a reflector to a
curve which represents the expected height of a known defect size at
various sound path lengths within a part. DGS/AVG is similar to the DAC
flaw sizing method, but with notable differences:
 Reference Curve(s) not built point by point using reference reflectors – instead, curve(s)
based on DGS Diagrams which predict the echo response (and attenuation) of multiple
reflector sizes over a particular sound path range in carbon steel.
DGS Diagram
136
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Overview
 DGS Diagrams are specific to the transducer being used for inspection.
 DGS Diagrams/Curves are based on attenuation in an “ideal” carbon steel. The operator must make
attenuation adjustments based on the inspection material to accurately predict the true attenuation,
especially in the “far field”
 DGS/AVG Setup only requires ONE reference point to create the required sizing curve
137
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Setup
The first step in setting up DGS/AVG is to calibrate the
instrument for the intended material, inspection range
and general sensitivity. This includes:
 Appropriate Pulser and Receiver adjustments (filters, energy,

square wave pulser, etc)
 Gain adjustment to bring reference echo to 80% full screen height
138
139
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Software
Activation
DGS/AVG is activated using the SYSTEM MENU key on
the LTC keypad.
 Press the key

select the DGS/AVG
menu tab
 Press ENTER to make

adjustments within the DGS/AVG tab
140
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Parameters
DGS/AVG setup includes up to 10 parameter selections/adjustments
before the operator can begin inspections:
 Probe Type – The operator must select the type of probe used in the
inspection (either Straight Beam, Angle Beam, or Dual Probe)
 Probe Name – The operator must indicate exactly which probe is to be used in
the inspection (DGS curves are based partially on the response of a specific
probe in steel)
 Reflector Type – A single reference reflection is required to build the DGS

curve(s) on the EPOCH LTC – this can be from a Backwall, Flat-Bottom Hole
(FBH), Side-Drilled Hole (SDH), K1/IIW Block Radius*, or K2/DSC Block
Radius*
*used only with Angle Beam probe
141
 Reflector Diameter – When a Reflector Type of SDH or FBH is selected, the
operator must indicate the size of the reference hole.
 Delta VT – Also known as Transfer Correction, Delta VT is a calculated value

the accounts for an overall attenuation difference between a
reference/calibration block and the actual inspection piece (typically caused by
surface conditions or subtle material variation)
 Registration Level – The value of the “critical” reference reflector for the
inspection. This defines the relative height of the DGS curve and the
comparison to unknown flaw reflections for rejection/acceptance criteria.
 Warning Level – DGS/AVG allows for one Warning Curve in addition to the
main DGS curve. This can be set from +6.0dB to -14.0dB below the main
curve, or to 0.0dB to turn this curve off.
142
 ACV Specimen – An attenuation compensation value for the inspection piece.
This value is used to adjust the DGS curve, which is based on attenuation in an
“ideal” or “perfect” carbon steel, to reflect accurate attenuation response in a
“real-world” test piece. This is especially important for longer sound paths.
The calculation for this attenuation adjustment is defined in the code EN 583
and other documents.
 ACV Calibration Block – An attenuation compensation value for the

calibration block. This value serves the same purpose as ACV Specimen, but
is used when capturing a reference reflector from the calibration block.
 X-Value – This parameter is only used with Angle Beam probes. This value is
the distance from the Beam Index Point to the front of the angle beam
probe/wedge. It is used to remove this wedge distance from the Surface
Distance measurement and allows operators to locate a flaw on a test piece by
measuring from the front of the transducer, instead of from the Beam Index
Point, which can be less accurate or difficult during inspection.
143
Properly Adjusted DGS/AVG Parameters

*ACV Specimen/Cal Block have not been calculated
144
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Reference
Once the DGS/AVG parameters have been appropriately adjusted, the
operator must capture the Reference Reflector to complete the DGS/AVG
setup.
 Capture the Reference Reflector

with Gate1
 Use AUTO-80% to bring the

reflector to 80% FSH
 Press F1 [REF] to capture

the Reference Reflector and
build the DGS/AVG curve
 Press F3 [YES] to save the

reference value
145
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Reference
 While acquiring the Reference Reflector, the operator can make adjustments
to the following gage parameters:
– RANGE
– SCREEN DELAY
– GAIN
– ZERO OFFSET
– ANGLE
– PART THICKNESS
– OUTER DIAMETER (CSC)
Live Range Adjustment
146
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG
Completed EPOCH LTC DGS/AVG Curve
147
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Inspection
After building or recalling a DGS/AVG curve, inspection adjustments can be
made using the DGS/AVG tab in the EPOCH LTC’s live screen.
 These adjustments
include:
– DELTA VT
– REG LEVEL
These are the same Transfer Correction and Registration Level values initially
set up in the DGS/AVG tab. Both values can be changed during live
inspection as needed.
148
EPOCH LTC – DGS/AVG Inspection
During inspections, the operator can choose to view a variety of digital measurements
based on the gated indication. Specific measurements for DGS/AVG are:
 FBH – Displays the FBH size

of the gated indication
 % to Curve – Compares the

height of the gated indication
to the DGS/AVG curve in
amplitude %
149
Software Feature
AWS D1.1/D1.5
150
EPOCH LTC – AWS D1.1/D1.5
The EPOCH LTC includes AWS weld rating software as an optional
feature. The EPOCH LTC AWS software is intended to assist weld
inspectors performing AWS-compliant inspections.
151
EPOCH LTC – AWS D1.1/D1.5
The AWS code provides inspectors with a method to classify discontinuities found in
welds using ultrasonic inspection. This code uses the following formula to develop an
indication rating for a reflector found during an inspection:
A–B–C=D
A = Discontinuity Indication Level (dB)

B = Reference Indication Level (dB)
C = Attenuation Factor: 2 x (soundpath in inches – 1 inch) (dB)
D = Indication Rating (dB)
An AWS D1.1 inspector must take the Indication Rating (D) that is calculated based on
A, B, and C to an Ultrasonic Acceptance – Rejection Criteria table produced by the
AWS in order to classify the severity of the discontinuity that has been located.
152
EPOCH LTC – AWS Setup
The first step in using the AWS weld rating software is to calibrate the
instrument for the intended material, inspection range and general
sensitivity. This includes:
 Appropriate Pulser and Receiver adjustments (filters, energy, square wave pulser,
etc)
 Verification of wedge characteristics, such as Beam Index Point and Refracted

Angle
 Sensitivity adjustment from reference
153
154
EPOCH LTC – AWS Software Activation
AWS is activated using the SYSTEM MENU key on the LTC keypad.
 Press the key

select the AWS
menu tab
 Press ENTER to turn the AWS

feature ON or OFF
 Enter the value to be used

for the REFB (50% FSH or
higher)
 Press MEAS RESET to return

to the live screen
155
Once AWS is activated, the user must record the Reference Gain value.
 Bring the sensitivity reflector from the

calibration block to reference height
– Note: This reference height is the value
entered during setup and will appear
as the AUTO-XX% value above F4
 Use the F1 key to record this gain value as REFB

(Reference Gain Indication Level)
 Use F3 to accept this gain value as REFB
The EPOCH LTC will now automatically rate

all gated echoes with a D value
156
EPOCH LTC – AWS Reporting
 When the user saves inspection data in AWS mode, the instrument will record the
A, B, C and D values for later review and reporting
157
Software Feature
API 5UE
158
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE
The EPOCH LTC includes API 5UE
crack sizing software as an
optional feature. The EPOCH LTC
API 5UE software is intended to
aid operators using API
Recommended Practice 5UE in
the evaluation of crack height
sizing during the pipe fabrication
process.
159
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE
The API Recommended Practice 5UE was developed specifically for OCTG
manufacturers to inspect and characterize inner-diameter (ID) cracking in newly
fabricated pipe. The API 5UE code uses two crack sizing methods to characterize ID
cracking: the Amplitude Comparison Technique (ACT) and the Amplitude-Distance
Differential Technique (ADDT). The software developed for the EPOCH series aids in
performing the ADDT method, which uses the following formula to determine ID crack
size:
di = Amax*(T2-T1)*k
di = imperfection size
Amax = Maximum amplitude returned from defect area (usually 80%)
T1 = 6dB drop point from leading peak of Amax (distance or time)
T2 = 6dB drop point from trailing peak of Amax (distance or time)
k = a constant calculated from calibration to a reference notch
An inspector utilizing API 5UE must use the formula above to establish a crack height
and refer to the API code for rejection or acceptance criteria.
160
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Setup
The first step in using the API 5UE crack sizing software is to calibrate the
instrument for the intended material, inspection range and general
sensitivity. This includes:
 Appropriate Pulser and Receiver adjustments (filters, energy, square wave pulser,
etc)
 Verification of wedge characteristics, such as Beam Index Point and Refracted

Angle
 Sensitivity adjustment from reference
161
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Setup
162
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Software Activation
API 5UE is activated using the SYSTEM MENU key on the LTC keypad.
 Press the key

select the API 5UE
menu tab
 Press ENTER to turn the API

5UE feature ON or OFF
 Use the REF. DEPTH box to

enter the known height of the
calibration reference notch
 Press MEAS RESET to return to the live screen
163
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Setup (Peak Envelope)
Once API 5UE is activated, the user must collect data from a reference notch to
calibrate for inspections using the RP5UE method. This can be done using one of
two operational methods:
 Press 2ndF and SYSTEM MENU to

activate PEAK MEMORY
 Find the reflection from the calibration notch and use

AUTO-80% to bring this indication to 80% FSH
 Adjust GATE1 so that it surrounds the indication
 Move the transducer forward and backward

over the notch to draw a peak envelope of
the echo dynamics of the notch
 Press F3 to COLLECT the Amax, T1 and T2

data from the envelope
 Press F3 to move from calibration mode to INSPECT

mode
164
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Setup (Point by Point)
 Find the reflection from the calibration notch and use

AUTO-80% to bring this indication to 80% FSH
 Adjust GATE1 so that it surrounds the indication
 Press F1 to collect the Amax point
 Move the transducer forward over the notch until

the peak drops to 40% FSH
 Press F2 to capture the T1 point
165
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Setup (Point by Point cont.)
 Move the transducer backward over the notch until

the peak drops rises to 80% and then falls back
to 40% FSH
 Press F3 to capture the T2 point
 Press the F3 key to complete the calibration and

move to INSPECT mode
 The operator can always us the F4 key to

CLEAR the current calibration points and start
again
166
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Inspection
Once API 5UE is calibrated, the user can evaluate a live indication:
 Find the reflection from an unknown crack height
 Use either PEAK MEMORY or the Point by Point

method to collect values for Amax, T1 and T2
from the unknown indication
 Note: The operator can size an unknown crack

from the same reference gain level as used for
calibration, OR by adjusting the peak to 80% FSH
before collecting data points
 Once the Amax, T1 and T2 data points are

collected, the instrument shows the correct di
indication height reading as a digital readout
 Press F4 to CLEAR the current collect points and

continue inspecting
 Press F1 at any point to return to calibration mode
167
EPOCH LTC – API 5UE Reporting
 When the user saves inspection data in API 5UE mode, the instrument will record
the Amax, T1, T2 and di values (both calibration and inspection) for later review
and reporting
168
EPOCH LTC – Other Software Options
The EPOCH LTC has a number of additional software options, including:
 Curved Surface Correction (CSC)

 Tunable Square Wave Pulser
 Extended Range
 Gate 2 (including Echo to Echo functionality)
 Manual PRF Adjustment
169
EPOCH LTC – Curved Surface Correction
Curved Surface Correction (CSC) is a specialized calculator for use when performing
angle inspections on a pipe, tank, or other curved surface.
The standard angle beam inspection calculations on the EPOCH LTC include
soundpath, depth to reflector, and surface distance. Soundpath is measured directly
by the flaw detector, and the remaining two measurements are calculated (using the
known refracted transducer angle and thickness of the test piece).
However, on a curved surface, the standard surface distance measurement will not be
correct. The CSC option allows the operator to enter the diameter of the curved test
piece, and with this additional piece of data, the instrument can properly calculate the
surface distance from the transducer to the reflector.
170
EPOCH LTC – Curved Surface Correction
The EPOCH LTC allows the operator to operate CSC in two modes:
 Outer Diameter – Customer is inspecting from the OD surface of the piece

 Inner Diameter – Customer is inspecting from the ID surface of the piece
171
EPOCH LTC – Tunable Square Wave Pulser
The EPOCH LTC come standard with a fixed-width square wave pulser, which
closely mimics the response of a standard spike pulser.
The Tunable Square Wave Pulser option allows the user to adjust the width of
pulser to match the center frequency of the transducer. For transducers with
a center frequency of 10MHz and lower (and especially below 5MHz) this
results in much more efficient use of the transducer.
By tuning the square wave pulser to match lower frequency probes, the user
can expect to need less gain to size a particular defect at 80% screen height
than when in standard, fixed-width mode.
172
EPOCH LTC – Extended Range
The EPOCH LTC has a standard measurement range (in steel) of
0.144” – 200” (4mm – 5,000mm)
The Extended Range option allows a measurement range (in steel) of

0.144” – 400” (4mm – 10,000mm)
173
EPOCH LTC – Gate 2
The EPOCH LTC comes standard with one measurement gate. Measurement Gate 2 is an optional
measurement gate that allows:
 Independent Digital Measurements from Gate 2

 Gate2-Gate1 Comparative Gate Measurement
 Gate 2 Tracking (Echo-to-Echo mode)
Gate 2 can be turned on and off from the GATES tab in the SYSTEM MENU.
174
EPOCH LTC – Manual PRF Adjustment
Manual PRF Adjustment is an optional control over the Pulse Repetition Frequency
(PRF) on the EPOCH LTC. PRF adjustment is typically used in very long soundpath
applications, where ‘wrap-around’ signals can occur, or in high speed scanning
applications.
Manual PRF adjustment allows the operator to adjust the PRF of the EPOCH LTC from
10Hz to 500Hz in 10Hz increments. Lower PRF settings are used to avoid wrap-around
noise, and higher PRF settings are used to facilitate higher scanning speeds.
Manual PRF adjustment is controlled through the PULSER tab. The user must first use
the F2 key to turn the MANUAL control on, and may then use the arrow keys to adjust
the PRF value up and down.
175
Question or Comments?
176

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EPOCH LTC Training Presentation 5-09

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EPOCH LTC

Operator Training Presentation

 Introduced in the Fall of 2007

 Full VGA color LCD with transflective

 Truly hand-held design

 Sealed to IP67 – Extensively tested in Waltham.

– Adaptors are available.

 VGA Output for PC monitors and/or projectors will be enabled in

 RS-232 Communication Port for PC communication will be enabled

Thumb Screw Gasket Seal Rechargeable Li

 Beginning in February 2008, all units

 AA Battery Tray – For use with AA Rechargeable Lithium Ion cells.

 Chest Harness (requires RPC)

Display / Setup key

– In the Full Screen and Max A-Scan modes

– In the SYSTEM Menu the ENTER

 When adjusting parameter values the UP and DOWN arrow keys

Standard Gain REF Gain + Scanning

 GATE 2 is an added-cost option in the EPOCH LTC. If this option

Max A-Scan Mode No Zoom Max A-Scan Mode Zoom G1

 For additional information on the SAVE function please refer to

 This function is not currently active in production EPOCH LTC

 Expected release for this feature is Spring 2008.

 Range is typically expressed in mm or inches, but

 The standard range in the EPOCH LTC is up to 200 inches

 The expanded range option (PN: EPLTC-RANGE) will allow the

Delay Off Delay = 10mm

 For more information about the Auto Calibration

 This will pull up a menu that

 For details regarding the Quick

 For more details about the ID function please refer to the

 The System Menu contains many instrument setup functions and

 The Peak Memory function allows

 This function is helpful when

ID Field Gain Parameter

Setup Tab Range Parameter

ID Field Gain Parameter

ID Field Active Parameter

 These parameters are critical to calibrating the EPOCH LTC to

 Voltage Range – 100V to 400V in 100V increments.

NOTE: PRF Rate = Measurement Rate in the EPOCH LTC.

 Three fixed filter settings allow wide overall bandwidth and

 Reject is adjustable over a range of 1% – 100% screen height.

– Edge (Flank): Measurements are based on

– Up to 50,000 IDs with onboard memory

 The CAL file will be created and placed in

 The Incremental file will be created and

 Incremental files will increment their

 CAL files will only allow one ID to be

 To review a file’s contents the file must

 Press F1 (SETUP) to view the setup for the

 When an ID is recalled the instrument will

 Press MEAS/RESET to release the recall

 Recalling a CAL file using the Quick

INSTRUMENT PARAMETERS SETUP

.2320 in/uS Velocity  BASE setup tab, VEL,

RECEIVER Setup Tab

♦ Use the Arrow Keys to enter the

♦ Use the Arrow Keys to enter the

♦ Straight Beam Calibration is

 TRANSDUCER + WEDGE  CABLE

– 1. Locate the Beam Index Point (BIP) of the Probe.

– 2. Verify the Refracted Angle