2D Radiography (x-ray) is a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) method. Industrial 2D radiography is used daily to inspect a large variety of components and materials for a diverse range of flaws, such as cracks, porosity, delamination’s, and others. The method includes both gamma radiation and x-rays. Because both can travel through water, air, and soil, industrial radiography is extremely useful in inspecting components and materials. Neither will damage the material. Objects in the field often do not need to be relocated to be inspected. The method is applied in a multitude of manufacturing, repair industries, and in every type of inspection program. 2D X-ray is the most used NDT method outside of visual inspection.
X-rays were discovered in the late 1800’s and shortly after, physicians began using them in medical procedures to identify the presence of metal in the human body. Nobel Prize winner, Marie Curie, really pushed this into the spotlight when she began using her x-ray methods to help doctors in or near battlefields to identify shrapnel and bullet fragments in injured soldiers. X-rays remained primarily in the medical field for decades. As the ability to produce stronger, more dependable, and safer x-ray sources developed, trades began to take notice, and their usage expanded into industrial applications. As the source production continued to be proven and accepted, and in tandem, as gamma radiation development also evolved, these applications began to grow at a steady pace.