Digital radiography is an advanced technology based on digital detector systems in which the X-ray image is displayed live on a computer screen without the need for developing chemicals or intermediate scanning.
The incident X-ray radiation is converted into an equivalent electric charge and then to a digital image through a detector sensor.
Compared to other imaging devices flat panel detector provides high quality digital images with better signal to noise ratio and improved dynamic range, which in turn provides high sensitivity for radiographic application. A component with varying thicknesses and densities can often be X-rayed in a single digital radiographic image, using the high dynamic range to pick out subtle variations in thick and thin sections alike.
Digital radiography displays the X-ray image directly on the computer screen allowing the user to see instantly whether the shot has been optimally setup and to alter rapidly the orientation of the part, often remotely using the built-in manipulation system, to reveal the detail required.
Compared to film radiography, where it can often take over 10 minutes to produce radiograph from the point of exposure, digital radiography can reveal the inner features of a component in a matter of seconds.
TWI has the following resources:
- Five laboratory digital X-ray systems: a 450kV broad focus system, two 450kV microfocus systems, a 240kV microfocus system and a 225kV microfocus system
- A 160kV potable digital radiography setup with a range of detectors to either fit inside small spaces or to image large objects on-site
Benefits
- Shorter exposure times
- Real Time Applications
- Use of analysis tool and defect recognition software
- Improved detail detectability
- Enhanced SNR and linearity
- Reduced inspection time as no chemical processing of film is required
- Eliminates processing Chemical hence safe for environment
- Digital image enhancement and data storage
- Higher productivity
- Portability
- Increased dynamic range enables multiple thickness to be inspected in one shot
- Immediate feed back
Applications
- Aerospace product examination
- Detection of corrosion under insulation (CUI) in petrochemical, oil and gas and power generation industries
- Detection of flow accelerated corrosion
- Weld assessment
- Foreign object detection
- Casting and weld inspection
- Inspection of composites and fibre reinforced components
- Adhesive and brazing bonds
- Failure investigation
Training
An Appreciation of Advanced Radiography (CR, DR and CT) – 4 day training course covering: Computerised Radiography (CR), Digital Radiography (DR) and Computerised Tomography (CT). Suitable for Radiographic Testing Operators qualified to at least Level 1, in accordance with ISO 9712, engaged in radiographic testing/interpretation who need to update their knowledge to incorporate digital radiography, and personnel engaged in the supervision, control and interpretation of radiographic images who wish to expand their knowledge to incorporate digital radiography.
For more information about TWI's non-destructive testing (NDT) services, please email contactus@twi.co.uk.