Industrial radiography uses X-ray or gamma radiation to detect hidden flaws and defects in materials. It is non-destructive and can be used in various industries. Radiation penetrates the object and exposes a film, with cracks and fissures appearing as anomalies. Radiation sources include betatrons, linear accelerators, and radioactive isotopes. Safety measures must always be followed.
Industrial radiography is a method of testing for hidden flaws and defects in various types of materials with X-ray or gamma radiation. Industrial radiography is similar to medical x-ray technology in that a film records an image of an object placed between it and a radiation source. The penetrating nature of the radiation produces a clear picture of the internal structure of the material with any density anomalies such as cracks clearly visible. This “hidden view” feature of industrial radiography makes it a non-destructive testing vehicle for checking wear on work-in-progress parts and uniformity of newly manufactured items and any defects. Although the radiation sources used in radiography generally pose no health risk, the relevant safety measures should always be observed.
Hidden flaws and defects within the structure of any object are impossible to detect without invasive or destructive testing techniques or X-ray imaging. Since sawing off newly welded parts to check the integrity of the weld is somewhat counterproductive, for example, the Industrial radiography is an attractive choice for non-destructive diagnostics. The technology can also be used in the construction industry to locate rebar or pipes in concrete structures prior to chasing or cutting. It is even used as a security aid to scan closed containers for contraband, weapons or stowaways.
The basic principle of the process is quite simple and common to all radiographic applications. Radiation from a controlled source can penetrate the test object and expose a specially formulated film. As the radiation passes through the object, some of it is absorbed by the material’s molecular structure. The amount of radiation absorbed depends on the density and composition of the material. Simply put, the amount of radiation that passes through the object to expose the film depends on the density of the material.
Since cracks, fissures and pockets in the material obviously have different densities, they will have different exposure values as more or less radiation enters those spots during the exposure. This creates a very accurate picture of the internal structure of the item. Objects placed within an enclosed space will also show themselves as anomalies when exposed to radiation, thus making investigative scans possible without opening a container. Industrial radiography can be used to scan a variety of materials in this way, including metals, ceramics, concrete, masonry, plastics, wood, and organic fibers.
The radiation sources for industrial radiography depend on the process used. Betatrons and linear accelerators are typically employed for the generation of X-ray photons, and radioactive isotopes such as caesium-137, cobalt-60 and iridium-192 are used to generate gamma radiation. While these radiation sources are considered safe, operators must always strictly adhere to all safety measures specific to the equipment being used.
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