FIELD: methods of study and analysis of material with use of acoustic waves. ^ SUBSTANCE: proposed process of nondestructive test of degree of damage in elements of thermal power equipment is based on establishment of criterion of degree of damage of metals in elements and on its usage to find time dependence from moment of test to moment of probable destruction of element of thermal power equipment. Delay of surface wave of ultrasonic oscillations on surface of new element, in zone of emergency destruction of metal of element and on surface of metal in tested zone of used element is measured. ^ EFFECT: capability to give both quantitative estimation of degree of damage to surface metal in element in process of its working and to relate it to time of maximum permissible usage. ^ 3 dwg
