BS EN 13477-2:2021

What is BS EN 13477-2 about?  

BS EN 13477-2 specifies test routines for the periodic verification of the performance of acoustic emission (AE) test equipment, i.e., sensors, pre-amplifiers, signal processors, external parametric inputs. BS EN 13477-2 is intended for use by qualified personnel to implement an automated verification process.   

Note 1: The procedures specified in BS EN 13477-2 do not exclude other qualified methods, e.g. verification in the frequency domain.  

Note 2: Safety aspects of equipment for use in potentially explosive zones are not considered in BS EN 13477-2. 

Who is BS EN 13477-2 for? 

BS EN 13477-2 on performance of AE test equipment is beneficial to a range of applications and materials included in structures, processes and machines. Specific users are: 

• AE technicians 
• Civil engineers 
• Mechanical engineers 
• Suppliers of test equipment such as sensors, pre-amplifiers, signal processors, external parametric inputs. 
• Quality testing departments in industries such as aerospace and construction, amongst others 

Why should you use BS EN 13477-2? 

AE testing is a powerful method for inspecting and monitoring the behaviour of equipment and materials performing under stress. AE is used for continuous monitoring of structures like bridges, pipelines, dams, and cables, and for detection of in-service damage or leaks. 

BS EN 13477-2 is intended for use by qualified personnel to implement an automated verification process. Verification of the measurement characteristics is advised after the purchase of equipment, to obtain reference data for later verifications. Verification is also advised after repair, modifications, use under extraordinary conditions, or if one suspects a malfunction. 

Overall, using efficient AE equipment will enable you to detect a range of damage mechanisms such as fibre breakages, cracks, delamination and corrosion in their early stages, before they turn into more serious issues. For this purpose, BS EN 13477-2 is extremely helpful as can help you determine structural integrity and monitor health of components. The products thus manufactured keeping the test routines in mind will help establish a quality benchmark that can improve credibility and trust in your product or service for the end-user.  

What has changed since the last update? 

BS EN 13477-2:2021 supersedes BS EN 13477-2:2010. The technical modifications include improvements in Clause 3, Clause 5, Clause 6, Clause 7 and Clause 8