How do X-ray Detectors work?
Contaminants entering the supply chain may include wood, plastic, and other solid non-metallic materials, none of which can be identified using conventional metal detection systems. In these instances, X-ray inspection technology provides an effective solution for detecting non-metallic contaminants.
Components of an X-ray System
(A) X-ray generator
(B) Detector
(C) Control system
- Although invisible, X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation.
- Their short wavelength enables them to pass through materials that are opaque to visible light.
- X-rays do not penetrate all materials equally; denser materials are more resistant to transmission.
- Contaminants such as glass or metal absorb more X-rays than the surrounding product, making them visible during inspection.
- X-ray systems function as scanners, identifying contaminants as high-contrast areas within the image.
- When predefined thresholds are exceeded, the system triggers an alarm or rejection mechanism.