What Does
Industrial Radiography Mean?
Industrial radiography is a non-destructive method of assessing the conditions of pipes using electromagnetic radiation in the form of gamma or X-rays. The radiation penetrates the walls of the pipe to reveal cracks and other flaws that are not visible without otherwise damaging the specimen. In addition to piping, Industrial radiography can be used to test other components including:
- Metal welding.
- Boilers.
- Vehicle parts.
- Aircraft parts.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Industrial Radiography
Industrial radiography works by pointing a beam of gamma or X-rays at the material being tested. On the opposite side of the material is a detector which records the electromagnetic radiation that has penetrated the material. The amount of radiation that penetrates the material is related to the thickness of the material, so the thinner the material, the more radiation that passes through the area. Because pipe walls tend to be thinner where cracks, fractures, and other flaws occur, more radiation rays are sent through to the detector.
Because radiation exposure can be potentially dangerous, personnel who operate industrial radiography equipment must be specially trained and certified.