Discriminating surface-breaking from subsurface cracks in pressurized water pipes by means of a parametric modulation technique

The discrimination of surface-breaking cracks from cracks that are entirely embedded within the material is paramount to the assessment of the integrity of pressurized water pipes. This work addresses this issue investigating the use of a parametric modulation technique towards this end. Tests are conducted on 1D surface-breaking cracks that are either dry or contain water. The response of these defects is investigated as a function of crack depth and closure, as well as of amplitude and frequency of the modulation. The ensuing results suggest that fluid-filled and dry cracks can be discriminated from each other. The origin of the different response of these defects is discussed in terms of both crack's stiffness and modulation-induced dynamics.