Gauge Capability Analysis in Data Collection for Acoustic Tomography

Abstract

Acoustic tomography is the art of imaging the internal structure of a specimen through the use of sound waves. In this research, the James Instruments, Inc., Chicago, velocity meter (v-meter) was examined for travel time measurement reliability. To help ensure that data collected for acoustic tomogram production were reliable, gauge potential studies were performed prior to data collection. A gauge potential study is a short-term statistical study that examines the measurement system's potential to be capable in the long term. The case studies indicated that the system does have the potential to be capable in the long term. Based on these results, a standard operating procedure was developed for the v-meter measurement system, and conclusions offered regarding the resolution of the tomograms produced. The U.S. Bureau of Mines 3DTOM software program was used to produce the acoustic tomograms.