Digital Radiography combines conventional radiography with digitized computer imaging. The radiographic technique remains the same, except now, the headaches are eliminated and the advantages are overwhelming. The era of evacuating whole structures, floors and entire operating areas of personnel in order to perform radiography has all but been eliminated. In place of the traditional x-ray emulsion film, the use of phosphor imaging plates, are used which allows images to be captured more readily with the use of Ir-192, Cobalt, X-Ray, etc… The radioactive source strength required has significantly decreased. For Ir-192, using 3 – 9curies is sufficient. This allows for smaller barriers, virtually eliminating the need to evacuate areas. In addition, exposure times have decreased 75%, which in turn has increased productivity, yielding higher results. Exposures can be taken within 10’ – 15’ of personnel, safely without interruption. The phosphor imaging plates can be re-used 10-20-30 thousand times, eliminating film costs. Because chemicals are no longer required to develop the images, there is no time lost in developing and drying nor do you generate any hazardous waste. The imaging plates are sent through an electronic scanner and in less than 90 seconds is on your computer screen. The image can then be reduced, magnified, rotated, inverted or switched between a positive and negative image for better viewing. The unique software package has the ability to adjust the contrast and density thresholds making it possible to evaluate a multitude of thicknesses from one exposure. This feature in its self has virtually eliminated the need for re-shots and use of multiple film speeds. Densities of each area of concern can be controlled for the best possible viewing, enhancing definition and contrast to interpret any and all discontinuities with precision and accuracy. A built-in analyzing feature allows for taking measurements and evaluating wall thicknesses. Because the software is PC based, this allows for insertion of annotations and digital picture for better overall documentation. Results can be printed, e-mailed or inserted into word documents for others to examine. X-rays are typically viewed through an intense light source and is difficult to replicate. Film storage has become obsolete. Images are archived on CD’s or your hard drive, retrievable and transmittable effortlessly to others whether it be next door, in another state or in another country. This allows multiple inspectors/engineers the efficiency of real-time evaluation of the same radiographic image no matter where they are.
Because of Digital Radiography, inspections, which were once impractical or unachievable, can now be successfully completed! In process piping under insulation in close proximity with personnel, large bore piping; valves and castings can now be inspected safely and cost effectively. The detection of corrosion under-insulation, (CUI), flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC), under-deposit corrosion, and corrosion under insulation while in process or the internal inspection of smaller pressure vessels using digital radiography has been a proven significant cost savings.
Speed, cost savings, precision, accuracy, reproduction, ease of archiving and accessibility and most importantly, knowing that your equipment is safe for continued use all have made Digital Radiography an invaluable asset to the Industry.
If you would like to speak with a QISI / Applus RTD representative, call the Corporate Office at 877-747-4633 or (716) 853-2611, or click here to contact the office nearest you. Thank you for your interest in Applus RTD / Quality Inspection Services, Inc.
