Ultrasonic sensor self test for integrity/performance verification

The present invention relates to a self test system for use with an ultrasonic transducer mounted on a wave guide plate assembly or wall and which is used for contaminant detection. The ultrasonic transducer is bonded to the wave guide wall or plate, or other wave guide, and the self test procedure determines that the transducer is working and whether the transducer is aconstically bonded or coupled to the wall or pale. A contaminant sensor is provided which has an ultrasonic guided wave transducer that is bonded to a wall in which the ultrasonic energy is transmitted. A detector reflector is provided at a selected distance from the transducer, which will reflect signals that are affected or changed by contaminants collecting on an exposed surface of the wall. A self test reflector is positioned closely adjacent to the transducer and provides a reflected signal that is substantially unaffected by contaminants on the exposed surface of the wall, but which reflects signals only when the transducer assembly is functioning properly, and is properly bonded to the wall. The signal that is reflected by the self test reflector changes when the bond loosens. The receiver is activated right after transmission ceases to determine if the transmitter is operating.