This article describes some experimental findings obtained from NDI results of VARTM aircraft structures. Inherent inspection difficulties due to the VARTM process, such as fiber waviness, surface creases and wrinkles, are discussed and some technical suggestions are given to overcome them. It is demonstrated that pulsed thermography and 3-D (Array) ultrasonic system are applicable for the inspection of the structure manufactured by VARTM process. 3-D ultrasonic system provides much higher quality NDI results compared with conventional ultrasonic system. Furthermore, this system shows the ability to inspect the thickness change or complex shape part in highly integral VARTM structure. Pulsed thermography is an effective NDI tool to evaluate the depth and the area of the flaw especially in large area because of its fast inspection rate and easy operation.
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