Computed radiography (CR) may have first appeared in the medical industry, but it has since become a popular nondestructive testing (NDT) method. Purpose-built CR solutions for manufacturers and other heavy industries are now common, but as this market matures, finding the best CR systems for industrial applications becomes increasingly complicated.
Every operation has unique needs, so there is no single answer to which CR scanner is best for all organizations. However, a few have emerged as general leaders in their class. Here is a closer look at five of the best industrial CR systems to narrow the field and streamline this decision-making.
1. Fujifilm DynamIx HR2
As a leader in Industry 4.0 technologies, Fujifilm is a reliable source for many NDT solutions. Its DynamIx HR2 is the overall best industrial CR system for most companies. The DynamIx HR2 boasts high accuracy, reaching reading densities up to 200 micrometers (μm). It’s also highly versatile, with support for multiple image plate (IP) sizes, enabling NDT for various equipment types.
Fujifilm’s IPs are flexible, so users can bend them as necessary to scan objects with unusual geometries. Its DynamIx VU software, which connects seamlessly with the HR2, takes the readings further, offering automatic thickness measurements, automatically adjusting contrast levels, and one-click switching between modes.
2. Carestream INDUSTREX HPX-1 Plus
The Carestream INDUSTREX HPX-1 Plus is another one of the best industrial CR systems available today. Like the DynamIx HR2, it supports multiple types of IPs, including long and custom plates, so it can serve a wider range of applications than many alternatives. Its throughput on extra-large IPs is also faster than the industry average.
Technicians can adjust the HPX-1 Plus’s laser power to optimize their settings for each job, enabling greater reliability and flexibility. Its accompanying software also offers a suite of automated tools for faster analysis and reduced human error. HEPA air filters and vibration-absorbing feet further remove mistakes by ensuring a cleaner operating environment for all IP scans.
3. Waygate CRxVision
Fujifilm and Carestream may be the most recognizable names in CR systems for industrial applications, but Waygate Technologies is worth consideration, too. Its CRxVision is ideal for inspecting weld quality. Waygate designed the CRxVision primarily as a weld inspection tool, but it can also function as a general-purpose CR solution.
At less than 100 pounds, the CRxVision is a relatively compact CR system, making it ideal for facilities where space is at a premium. However, it can still support IPs up to 152 centimeters long. Throughputs up to 90 plates per hour and times-to-image as low as 40 seconds also mean it is one of the more efficient models available.
4. Varex CR 3100
NDT specialist Varex is also worthy of consideration, especially for its CR 3100 computed radiography system. Formerly known as the Switchblade, the CR 3100 is a portable solution, weighing just 25 pounds and being only 13.2 by 13 inches in size. While some organizations may prefer a tabletop alternative, portability is a crucial advantage for NDT technicians traveling between facilities.
The CR 3100’s portable form factor also makes it capable of scanning some of the longest IPs available, supporting plates up to 243 centimeters. Resolutions up to 200 μm ensure that this convenience does not come at the expense of image quality. Varex also provides around-the-clock technical support, which is good for those new to CR.
5. DÜRR NDT HD CR 35 NDT
German manufacturer DÜRR NDT also makes a portable solution — the HD CR 35 NDT. It’s slightly heavier than the Varex CR 3100 but still small enough to move easily between locations. Unlike many alternatives, it can also scan multiple IPs simultaneously, enabling high throughputs without needing a faster processing time.
While the HD CR 35 NDT is the only system on this list without various reading densities, its basic resolution is 30 μm, which is higher than many alternatives’ low settings. Its built-in software also enables one-click image enhancement and offers adjustable laser sizes. These features boost its accessibility while ensuring it’s as precise as possible for various tasks.
What to Look for in an Industrial CR System
Every organization’s needs are different, but the best CR systems for industrial applications typically have some common features. A high reading density is the most critical factor to consider. Defects are costly, and greater precision means technicians are more likely to spot them before they lead to larger issues.
Many companies have economic concerns when comparing NDT solutions, but cheaper CR solutions are a double-edged sword. Saving money is generally preferable, but quality concerns can cost as much as 40% of total operations, so spending more on quality assurance is often more cost-effective. A more expensive solution yielding higher accuracies and greater throughput will ultimately be the more economical choice.
IP sizes are also worth considering. Generally, a wider range of supported imaging plate dimensions is best, as it allows technicians to use the system on a broader variety of subjects. Similarly, the best industrial CR systems can analyze multiple IP types, including fixed, strip-form, long or custom plates.
Finally, nice-to-haves like the efficiency or usability of the solutions’ accompanying software deserve attention. Adjustable settings and maintenance-related features or services are likewise beneficial, even if not strictly necessary.
Comparing the Best Industrial CR Systems
With these common factors in mind, here is another look at the core characteristics of the best CR systems for industrial applications.
1. DynamIx HR2
a. Reading Density:- 25 to 200 μm
b. IP Sizes Supported (in centimeters):-
- 35.5x43 (Fixed)
- 6x40 (Strip-form)
- 7x152 (Long)
c. Additional Features:- Real-time results, flexible IPs, support for multiple IP types
2. INDUSTREX HPX-1 Plus
a. Reading Density:- 25 to 200 μm
b. IP Sizes Supported (in centimeters):-
- 30x40 (Fixed)
- 30x216 (Long)
c. Additional Features:- Adjustable laser power, flexible IPs, support for multiple IP types, built-in HEPA filters, vibration-absorbing feet
3. CRxVision
a. Reading Density:- 35 to 70 μm
b. IP Sizes Supported (in centimeters):-
- 35x152.5 (Fixed and long)
c. Additional Features:- Flexible IPs, high throughput
4. CR 3100
a. Reading Density:- 50 to 200
b. IP Sizes Supported (in centimeters):-
- 12.7x243.8 (Fixed and long)
c. Additional Features:- Portable form factor, flexible IPs, 24/7 tech support
5. HD CR 35 NDT
a. Reading Density:- 30 μm
b. IP Sizes Supported (in centimeters) :-
- 35x200 (Fixed and long)
c. Additional Features:- Portable form factor, support for multiple IP types, simultaneous plate scanning
The Right Industrial CR System Transforms NDT
Choosing an optimal industrial CR system can lead to substantial improvements in a business’s NDT operations. The right solution will produce fewer errors, more precise defect detection, and faster throughput, enabling long-term savings. A ripple effect of positive changes starts with learning which features and factors make the greatest impact.
