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What is Custom-Made Non-Destructive Testing?X-ray inspection
X-ray inspection
Custom-Made X-ray Inspection
X-ray inspection is divided into two stages: first, X-rays are emitted and transmitted through the inspection target to capture an image, and second, image processing technology is used to detect defects. At NIC, we custom-make equipment and software for both stages of the process to align with the customer's specific objectives.
Equipment Custom-MadeCustom-Made Equipment
NIC handles the development and manufacturing of entire systems, including X-ray equipment. By utilizing our proprietary technology, we provide high-resolution X-ray images that enable automated judgment. Inline X-ray automatic inspection systems enable continuous, non-destructive automatic inspection of target objects.
CT scanner, computed tomography device, collects the intensity of X-rays from multiple directions using detectors to generate a three-dimensional image of the internal structure, allowing for a detailed, three-dimensional view. We offer this CT scanning device as an optional feature.
Image Detection Flow in x-ray Inspection
We customize the X-ray
output, irradiation angle,
and the position of the camera
receiving the X-rays to suit
the specific purpose.
①X-ray Generator
X-ray generators for non-destructive testing use microfocus and milifocus X-rays, which feature extremely small focal points. A small focal point helps reduce blurring in transmission images and enhances the clarity of magnified images.
At NIC, we offer a variety of X-ray inspection devices including microfocus, milifocus, and models with CT functionality. Each one is equipped with selectable X-ray output tailored to specific applications.
- X-ray Source
- Microfocus, with a focal size measured in microns, is used for radiography applications that require high resolution. Milifocus features a focal size measured in milimeters.
In general, the smaller the focal point, the higher the resolution of the radiography, resulting in more detailed and precise transmission images.
The strength of X-ray penetration is determined by the tube voltage (kV) and tube current (A). Increasing the tube voltage (kV) shortens the wavelength, producing X-rays with greater penetrating power. Increasing the tube current (A) increases the amount of X-rays, resulting in brighter images with higher contrast.
②Geometric Magnification
The geometric magnification is the ratio between the size of the inspection target and the size of the "X-ray image" projected onto the X-ray camera. The magnification changes based on the distance from the X-ray focal point to the target object and the distance from the focal point to the X-ray camera.
③Table Stage
If you want to slightly shift the displayed image to view another area, you can finely adjust the position by moving the table holding the inspection target. The table can move not only forward, backward, left, and right but also vertically, allowing for adjustments to the magnification.
④X-ray Inspection Cameras and Sensors
We offer a wide range of X-ray sources, cameras, and sensors suitable for X-ray non-destructive testing which can be integrated into the equipment through custom-made designs. When selecting a camera, it is important to understand the characteristics of both "area cameras" and "line sensor cameras."
- Features of Area Cameras
-
- captures the target object as a two-dimensional image.
- It is similar to the concept of taking a photograph.
- It captures images similar to what can be seen with the naked eye.
- Compared to line cameras, area cameras are more widely used and cost-effective.
- The imaging range is limited.
- Features of Line Sensor Cameras
-
- It is well-suited for continuous capture.
- It combines images to capture them as a flat projection, similar to an unfolded view.
- It is suitable for detecting surface irregularities and defects on the inspection target.
- It can capture images by rotating the target object.
- It is well-suited for detecting foreign objects on a conveyor belt.
- It is ideal for high-speed continuous inspections.
Software Custom-MadeCustom-Made Software
NIC has a long-standing track record of developing and custom-designing X-ray inspection and measurement software tailored to each specific needs. We accommodate various requests for inspection software and feature additions, including noise removal during the "preprocessing" stage, edge detection during the "feature extraction" stage, and defect detection during the "evaluation" stage.
Mechanism of X-ray Inspection/Image Processing Inspection
- Pre-Processing
-
This process enhances image quality to make it easier to extract features.
- Noise Reduction
- Smoothing
- Edge Detection
- Gamma Correction
- Histogram Equalization
- Feature Extraction
-
This process extracts useful information from the preprocessed image.
- Edge Detection
- Texture Analysis
- Feature Point Detection
- Pattern Recognition
- Shape Detection
- Evaluation
-
This step evaluates the quality and performance by determining whether the detected features meet the specified standards.
- Defect Detection
- Pattern Matching
- Classification and Recognition
- Dimensional Measurement
- Visualization of Inspection Results
We adjust the system
for optimal image quality
and customize it
to meet unique
evaluation criteria.
Types of Evaluation
We develop software tailored to various applications and types of evaluations. We support custom solutions for inspection targets including "condition assessment," "shape evaluation," "crack detection," "dimensional measurement," "foreign object inspection," and "weight measurement."
- Condition
- We evaluate the internal condition of the inspection target to detect defects or abnormalities.
- Shape Evaluation
- We verify the shape and structure of the inspection target to determine whether it meets the specified standards.
- Crack Detection
- We examine the condition of the inspection target and detect cracks.
- Dimensional Measurement
- We analyze X-ray images to measure the dimensions and accuracy of the shape of the inspection target.
- 異物検査
- X線画像を解析して異物が混入していないか検査します。
- Weight Measurement
- We estimate the density of the inspection target and measure its weight.
Data ProcessingData Processing
We analyze the data obtained from X-ray inspections and process and manage it appropriately. By aggregating and visualizing inspection data, it can be utilized for analysis aimed at improving product quality and optimizing processes. We also support quantity aggregation on a daily or monthly basis and provide report printing, contributing to efficient data management.
NIC’s Non-Destructive Inspection Types
- Data
Collection - We extract the necessary data from the vast amounts of information.
- Data
Preparation - We organize and adjust the collected data into the optimal format.
- Data
Cleansing - We remove or correct incomplete, inaccurate, or unnecessary data.
- Data
Transformation - We convert the data to match the format of the customer’s information management and analysis systems.
Utilize inspection data
to enhance quality.
Aggregation and report
printing on a daily or
monthly basis are
also available.
For Offline UseOffline X-ray Inspection System
NIC offers a range of X-ray inspection systems, from microfocus to milifocus, to support both "inline inspection systems" integrated into production lines and "offline inspection" (sampling inspection).