X-ray Inspection
Let’s You Know What’s Inside
X-ray inspection, also called radiography or radiographic testing, is a very effective method of uncovering subsurface defects in materials and products. Laboratory Testing Inc. performs both digital and film industrial radiography on solid materials such as tubing, castings, weld plates and manufactured products made of metal or plastic. The images and film created by the radiographic inspections are reviewed and evaluated by Laboratory Testing’s certified NDT Level II and Level III technicians according to the test specifications required by our customers. Like all nondestructive testing, X-ray inspection does not harm the test piece.
The need for radiographic inspection services can occur during product R&D, as part of the manufacturing, fabrication or installation processes or when a product is in service. Radiographic testing provides information to determine the soundness of a material or product and is a valuable examination method for the following purposes:
- Detect internal discontinuities such as shrinkage, cracking and porosity
- Verify the integrity of internal components
- Determine the quality of welds
- Identify the extent of corrosion
- Uncover the source in fire investigations
Most X-ray inspection performed at Lab Testing takes place in our 20 ft. x 20 ft. radiography vault with imaging equipment that can penetrate solid materials of varying thicknesses, including steel to 4 1/2 inches. This arrangement, along with our high-capacity forklifts and 3-ton crane, allows for the examination of large products and materials. Our capabilities also include radiographic testing of small products such as electronic assemblies using a special X-ray camera in a small cabinet unit. Radiography is performed to MIL-STD-453 and MIL-STD-271.
The Test Process
The radiographic process used to inspect industrial products is very similar to the more familiar X-ray used in the medical industry. Industrial radiography uses X-rays to penetrate test items made of solid materials so hidden defects, inconsistencies or features can be revealed. An image of the X-rayed location appearing as a negative is produced on film for evaluation by certified NDT inspectors and to create a permanent record of the internal condition of the test piece. Digital X-ray is also offered at LTI with the ability to create digital image files.
LTI Capabilities
- Products Tested – solid materials
- Size Limitations – very small (e.g. electronics) to large (e.g. tubing, weld plates)
- Material Thickness – X-ray equipment can penetrate up to 4 1/2 inches of steel