Efficient wave scattering analysis for damaged cylindrical waveguides

• Guided wave scattering at defects in waveguides is analyzed.
• Instead of using traditional FE methods, the approach is based on BE methods.
• The novel method is applicable for arbitrary types of defects.
• SHM concepts are applicable to power lines and stay cables.

This paper addresses scattering effects at arbitrarily shaped defects in waveguides with finite cross-sections. The main subject is to predict scattered wavefields induced by an incident wavefield in order to localize and characterize damages. The numerical approach involves the solution of a boundary value problem in combination with a decomposition method of scattered wavefields. In order to investigate mode conversion phenomena at defects, a boundary element model of the damaged waveguide section is built up. Implementation of the Boundary Element Method based on the elastodynamic boundary integral equation and the Waveguide Finite Element Method allows for a numerically efficient calculation of scattering coefficients. For defect characterization and mode sensitivity analysis, various types of surface opening defects as well as shear fractures are considered. Numerical results are presented for cylindrical waveguides and are verified experimentally.