Radiographic Testing (RT) | Radiography

Radiographic Testing (RT) is an imaging method of non-destructive material testing. It is preferably used when internal material defects such as pores, shrinkage cavities, bonding defects or cracks must be reliably detected. The basis are standardized procedures such as DIN EN 12681, DIN EN ISO 5579, DIN EN ISO 10893-6 and DIN EN ISO 17636-1/-2 as well as accreditation according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025, which ensure high comparability and quality of results.

Image quality indicators (IQIs) are used to ensure image quality. These enable an objective assessment of contrast and resolution. Radiographic testing is particularly prescribed according to standards such as DIN EN 12681 for castings, DIN EN ISO 10893-6 for steel pipes as well as DIN EN ISO 17636-1/-2 for welded joints and is one of the most important standard methods of non-destructive material testing.

We offer both laboratory and mobile radiographic testing. This allows inspections to be carried out directly in production or on construction sites – as well as in our accredited laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment.

1. Step 1 – Preparation and Positioning

   The component is cleaned and precisely aligned together with the X-ray source and the detection medium (film or digital detector). This ensures uniform irradiation of the entire inspection area.

2. Step 2 – Exposure

   The X-ray radiation is applied in a defined dose to create an image of the internal structures of the component. Depending on the material and component thickness, different energy levels (up to 300 kV) or isotopic sources such as Iridium 192 or Selenium 75 are used.

3. Step 3 – Image Acquisition and Evaluation

   The resulting radiographic image is recorded either on X-ray film or with digital detectors. Afterwards, qualified personnel analyze the image and identify possible irregularities based on contrast and density differences.

4. Step 4 – Documentation and Quality Assurance

   All results are documented in detail and, if necessary, validated with image quality indicators (IQIs). These proofs serve as the basis for quality assurance and the release of safety-relevant components.

• Digital Radiography (DR) – fast, high-resolution digital imaging with immediate evaluation
• Film-Based Radiography – classical method with X-ray film for permanent archiving

Radiographic testing is one of the most precise methods of non-destructive testing. It ensures reliable detection of internal defects and is therefore an essential part of modern quality assurance and approval processes.