Application of Metris X-ray tomography in the aviation industry

There are currently two main types of X-rays on the market, namely transmissive targets and reflective targets. The former can produce multiple, high-pixel images, while the latter can provide powerful X-rays. One thing to note is that the smaller the microfocus source, the clearer and more accurate the real-time image (see Figure 1). This technology helps the user to observe the internal structure of the part, and is suitable for testing PCB electronic components, small castings and plastic products, to facilitate the detection of material defects and assembly and interconnection problems.

Figure 1: Moving the sample closer to the X source will magnify the resulting image

Computed tomography (CT) refers to the use of permeable radiation (such as X-rays) to obtain an image of an object from different directions. First, place the parts to be inspected on a precision rotating table for 360-degree rotation to take high-precision digital radiographs (see Figure 2). Then, use the computer to reorganize the internal structure of the part. This technique allows the structure of the item to be stored and inspected to obtain its internal dimensions and shape. The most important thing is to be able to check for defects inside the object in a non-destructive way.

Figure 2: 3D image of the sample rotated around an axis

One of CT's applications is in the design and manufacture of turbine blades for the aerospace industry. Boeing, the world-renowned aircraft manufacturer, and Bell Helicopter, a helicopter manufacturer, use Metris' inspection systems throughout the production process.

The user can first use ceramic as a turbine blade model, add wax to it, and then scan using the CT function of the Metris BladeRunner 450kV system (see Figure 4). The X-rays of the Metris system can completely penetrate materials such as plastics and ceramics, making a comprehensive scan at one time and obtaining precise data from the inside out. After that, accurate 3D data set reconstruction is achieved through existing PC hardware. The system can be quickly reconfigured as a general analysis. In addition, detailed reconstruction and instant CT tomography can be performed for a certain area.

The Metris system also instantly outputs data to STL files (point cloud), helping users save a lot of time converting prototypes into STL files, thereby reducing costs. The output of the STL file can be opened directly using the third software, as a design or reverse engineering, to make the design and improvement of the turbine blade work with less effort (see Figure 3).

Figure 3: X-ray scanning of turbine blades and computerized tomography

Figure 4: Metris BladeRunner 450kV System

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