X-Ray testing is a method that is predominantly practised in the industrial segment of a business. The benefit of using the x-ray testing method offers a view of the internal composition of solid materials that are generally not visible to the naked eye. The tests also look for hidden defects and inconsistencies in the materials that are used to form a product.
Advantages of using X-rays for inspection:
Inconsistencies are common with designs where there is also a change in the materials or new production process. Finding inconsistencies is important as they affect the performance of the product. The inconsistencies are common with new designs and new products, changes in the materials and also the new production processes.
The consequences of poorly made and defective products are that, they have a short life cycle, have low performance ratios and they can fail to meet the quality requirements and the industrial standards.
Process of X-ray inspection:
The regulations that guide the practice of x-ray imaging view the product with the help of imagery. A qualified and trained inspector and a certified third party assessor perform the in-house evaluations and also document his findings on the test pieces. The AQL specifies the number of tests per product per batch along with the prescribed percentage of failure to meet the standards.
Pioneers and leaders in electronic and industrial manufacturing units make use of X-ray inspection equipment. This process renders high resolution of failure analysis at different stages of the production process. Customers are the focus and they help to ensure that the product is reliable with the highest performance, after it leaves the facility.
Helps in discovering subsurface defects:
The advantage of X-ray testing in the discovery of subsurface defects is pivotal in the industrial sector. Click here to learn more about how x-ray testing is beneficial in delineating defects. Each of these methods uses a specific analysis and material composition. It evaluates the raw materials, components, and assemblies. The service inspector looks for differences and non-conformities in the characteristics of the material without destroying the serviceability of the system. The advantages of employing this method are that it penetrates most of the materials even those with multiple layers and varying thicknesses.
Product acceptance or failure analysis:
The tests that determine the fitness of the product for reliability and service make use of X-ray equipment. The benefits of x-ray testing during the entire inspection process render keen details on the fabrication products according to the build specifications of the product. Clear viewing of the attributes and features of the product helps in generating rejections and approvals based on the findings.
Inspection to determine Corrosion:
It is the industry norm to inspect the end products for corrosion. As a general rule, industries follow conformance requirements and make use of NDT inspection to verify the quality of the product prior to leaving the manufacturer’s facility. Sometimes the parts are sent back for repair and rework. There are also instances to destroy the part owing to testing failures. Inspection is generally carried out
- During the manufacturing and production phase
- Post-production to identify defective components and product
- In-service inspection
- After repair inspection
Benefits of X-Ray Testing During Inspection
Every single industry follows some form of testing as a part of its manufacturing and quality control process. The integration of smaller components with higher performance process is the reason behind the need for X-ray testing. There are two major benefits of X-ray testing. The manufacturer produces a higher quality product demanding fewer rework and the consumer receives consistent reliability and enhanced longevity of the product. Indeed, capturing a high resolution image with that of overlapping inner structure and welding makes it easy for the manufacturer to assure reliability by identifying defects. Click here to learn more about the advantages of the X-ray testing process. As a general rule, it helps in the identification of cracks and overlays, in stress measurement, and in material testing.
The process of X-ray inspection:
The process of X-ray inspection helps in examining the final products of the industrial manufacturing process which is similar to the familiar method of radiography used in the medical industry. Industrial radiographic testing makes use of X-rays to penetrate the test items that are made of solid materials such as castings, tubings, weld plates, circuit boards, batteries, etc. It is also possible to reveal the hidden features and inconsistencies.
Industrial radiography applications:
- The inherent need for industrial radiography occurs during product R&D
- As part of the product manufacturing, fabrication, and the installation process
- Offers information to determine the soundness of the material or the product
- Helps in detecting internal discontinuities in the product such as porosity, shrinkage and cracking.
- Verify the integrity of internal components of the products
- Helps in determining the quality of welds.
Final words:
Inspection with X-rays is cost effective strategies of manufacturing process and part of the business risk evaluation strategies.
