X-ray scanning system

16/11/2018

Cast iron production is vulnerable to a number of critical defects, in particular voids and microporosity. These defects cause a reduction in the sample strength and their detection is therefore essential as part of the quality control process. X-ray inspection is the most obvious, fastest and most reliable means of non-destructive inspection.

InnospeXion has developed, constructed and supplied a number of tailored X-ray systems for manual, semi-automatic and automatic inspection of both light alloy castings and large sand cast iron castings.

The systems are used for quality control, as well as for production and process control, in direct relation to the production line.

InnospeXion know-how combines the best possible technology for a specific inspection task in the most cost-effective way. The cast iron system is based on a powerful X-ray tube, combined with a flat-panel CMOS detector for the identification of voids. Microporosity (evenly distributed), however, cannot be detected by imaging and instead requires measurement of the radiation attenuation within a small volume, which must be correlated to a reference. The cast iron inspection system integrates both the imaging and the microporosity measurement inspection. Sample scanning is accomplished using servo-motors with a pre-programmed scan sequence, which is controlled through PLC software. This provides a robust solution that is highly user-friendly in relation to adjustments and fine-tuning sequences for new products.

In the new cast iron inspection system, image and data (microporosity) validation is based on human decision-taking, but with the option to be computer-based.

Basic specifications of the cast iron X-ray system include:
  • High-contrast, high-resolution imaging with a flat-panel detector;
  • 300 kVp X-ray source for imaging through up to 50 mm of iron;
  • Radiation cabinet (300 kVp) designed for pieces up to 600 mm × 600 mm × 300 mm;
  • Complete X-Y manipulation system, PLC controlled and prepared for automatic operation;
  • Optional counting detector technology for microporosity determination and quantification;
  • PC-based operation with PLC as master;
  • High-performance image acquisition and processing hardware and software;
  • Automatic image analysis and rejection of ‘out of compliance’ samples;
  • X-ray safety certification according to prevailing regulations or US/European general regulations;
  • Inspection cycle 30 s or less (sample size and inspection area number dependent); and
  • Operator-based or automatic decision taking.

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