SEE BENEATH THE SURFACE WITH
DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY TESTING
Digital radiography NDT is a standard method for non-destructive testing and examination of underlying features, feasible for all industry sectors. The testing technique benefits the non-destructive testing community, offering real-time applications, improved detail detectability, and lowered inspection times.
In the marine and offshore industry, digital radiography pipe inspection is essential for assessing piping, pressure vessels, and valves for defects and discontinuities. In the electronics industry, digital radiography can be utilised for X-ray inspection for electronic components, providing a quick and effective approach to identify and locate components with defects, burns, or misalignment without taking the assembly apart.
How it works
An X-ray source penetrates through the sample of various densities, and the attenuated X-ray beam then forms a latent image on the digital detector. This testing technique can detect discontinuities in multiple materials, including aluminium, steel, plastics, and composites. It can be used for volumetric flaw or inclusion detection for deployed and commercialised products.
It is an advanced technology based on digital detector systems in which the X-ray image is displayed directly on a computer screen without the need for developing chemicals or intermediate scanning. The incidental X-ray radiation is converted into an equivalent electric charge and then to a digital image through a detector. These readouts can be filtered and enlarged to enhance defect detectability.
Advantages of
digital radiography testing
Capable of performing tasks covered by film radiography
Reduced inspection time, as no chemical processing of film is required
Eliminates processing chemicals, hence making it safe for the environment
Digital image enhancement and data storage
Real-time preview of the specimen
Safety is assured when performed in an enclosed chamber
Comparing 2D vs 3D X-ray Inspections
Factor | 2D Digital Radiography | 3D Computed Tomography (CT) | Output | Flat 2D radiograph | Full 3D volumetric model |
|---|---|---|
Speed | Faster, with real-time imaging | Longer scan times |
Best for | Weld inspection, pipe inspection, quick defect screening | Complex geometries, internal feature measurement, porosity mapping |
Interpretation | Limited information on defect depth with 2D radiograph | Depth, location, and volume of defect can be determined |
Overlapping features | Can obscure defects | Sliceable data eliminates overlap issues |
Cost | Generally lower | Higher, but more detailed |
Between the two, 2D is better when fast, cost-effective inspection is needed, such as for welds, pipes, or castings, where a single-plane view is sufficient. In cases where you need full internal visibility, dimensional data, or are inspecting complex assemblies where features overlap in 2D, 3D X-ray Computed Tomography is the recommended option.
Common Test Methods
ASTM E2736
ASTM E2699 (DICONDE)
ISO 17636-2
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Our testing experts ensure the quality of your finished products and materials while delivering the certainty your radiographic inspection projects require. By choosing Professional Testing Services, you can rely on our inspectors’ knowledge and expertise to accurately interpret findings when assessing the integrity of your equipment and assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What's the difference between 3D X-ray vs 2D X-ray inspection?
3D X-ray vs 2D X-ray inspection comes down to output and application. 2D digital radiography produces a flat image, which is fast and effective for weld inspection, pipe assessment, and quick defect screening. In contrast, 3D X-ray computed tomography builds a full volumetric model, allowing you to slice through the data and measure internal features, pinpointing exact locations of individual defects and enabling qualitative and quantitative analysis. 2D is better for speed and cost-efficiency, while 3D is ideal for complete internal visibility or dealing with complex, overlapping geometries.
2. What types of defects can digital radiography detect?
Digital radiography can identify a wide range of internal discontinuities, including cracks, porosity, voids, inclusions, corrosion, and weld defects such as lack of fusion or incomplete penetration. For electronic assemblies, it offers X-ray inspection for electronic components to detect solder voids, misaligned parts, and internal damage without disassembly.
3. Is digital radiography NDT safer than traditional film radiography?
The radiation source is the same, so exposure protocols remain equally important. However, digital radiography is often considered safer in practice, as inspections can be performed in enclosed chambers with real-time viewing, reducing the need for repeated exposures. It also eliminates hazardous developing chemicals, making it more environmentally friendly.
