Element Materials Technology (Element) has invested more than $3m in Computed Radiography (CR) equipment and training to expand its aerospace NDT testing capabilities across the UK and the USA.

The Group’s laboratories in Hillsboro, Ore.; Houston, Texas; Rancho Dominguez, Calif.; in the USA and Dudley and Sheffield (shown above) in the UK have acquired CR systems from Fujifilm and constructed X-ray vaults and machines to perform state-of-the-art testing on large structural investment castings, the company reports.

Element says CR technology enables them to utilize flexible phosphor imaging plates to capture high resolution digital images instead of using conventional film. The transfer of digital images allows for faster collaboration and the elimination of physical film saves customers both time and money Element says. Element’s technicians then interpret the digital images to ensure the investment castings being tested meet desired aerospace specifications.

“The aerospace industry is demanding a shift toward CR and this significant investment in equipment and training allows us to expand our capabilities and ensures that we’re providing customers with the most technically demanding service offering available, Rick Sluiters, EVP Aerospace at Element, comments. “We’re committed to embracing innovation and change with emerging technologies and this investment is further evidence of Element leading the way for the Aerospace NDT industry into the digital future.’’