X-ray devices transmit energy in the form of a short wavelength X-ray beam through the product, and a detector on the opposing side measures the amount of absorption of the X-ray beam passing through to create a density graph of the product. Elements denser than the product will be seen as dark spots including metal, glass, calcified bone, stone, and cement. Other objects, including wood, paper, fabrics, and plastics, are the same density of the products so they are difficult to detect.

Let’s start with the “Where”: The optimal locations for inspection devices on processing lines, and the technologies that are most effective, can vary in accordance with such factors as space availability, product temperature, and the size of the product undergoing inspection. Equipment selection and placement also will differ in accordance with a processor’s inspection objectives, and can include the use of multiple technologies in different sections of the processing line to support functions ranging from bulk inspection of raw ingredients to case inspection prior to palletizing. Earlier placement, however, can help prevent damage to processing equipment by enabling operators to detect dense matter before the objects have contact with processing machinery.

In addition, inspecting products at the head of the process can help ensure that larger objects are not reduced into smaller, harder to detect pieces, while end-of-the-line inspection guards against the chance that foreign matter will elude monitoring. Placement becomes more critical when the primary goal is finding low-density contaminants like bones, glass, or stones. Often, this dictates upstream placement where product thickness is low and consistent and creates more ideal conditions for detecting the matter.

Now let’s discuss the “How”: X-ray inspection systems can consist of single energy or dual energy technologies. Single energy X-ray is the traditional technology used by most facilities and excels at detecting metals, stone and glass and bones in certain applications. Dual energy is an upgrade in technology that uses two energy levels to identify the difference between organic and inorganic material and is better able to detect low density matter such as glass, stone, rubber, and bone. Dual energy more effectively “tunes out” product effects when detecting foreign matter and is ideal for inspecting products consisting of layers and overlapping pieces.

Remember, performance should be your highest priority, as that is the key to reducing consumer complaints, preventing recalls, and minimizing rework and holds. Aim for higher performance than you think you need, as that will result in the fewest false rejects.

Lastly, consider available line space, speed, cost, and delivery time.

X-ray inspection systems can detect a wide range of non-metallic and metallic materials. When used in combination with metal detectors, they offer effective protection against foreign object contaminations.

Typically, we recommend an annual inspection to certify the performance of X-ray systems for HACCP audits. If you need more frequent inspections, we can accommodate quarterly or semi-annual inspections.

We have X-ray systems for both packaged and unpackaged products, as well as fluid and semi-solid products, with additional options and sizes available to cater for every production requirement.

X-ray systems can also detect quality defects, such as cracks, uneven filling levels, or missing parts in composite products.