NDE reliability gains from combining eddy-current and ultrasonic testing

We investigate statistical methods for combining the results of two complementary inspection techniques, eddy-current and ultrasonic testing. The reliability of rejection/acceptance decisions based on combined information is compared with that based on each inspection technique individually. Combination methods, ranging from a simple OR of individual decisions to more sophisticated data fusion algorithms, are assessed. We find that the measured reliability increases with the amount of information incorporated in the decision.