Image Quality Indicator(s) and Software for Computed Radiography (CR)

Most NDT applications require some gauge of image quality prior to evaluation of the image for defects. In order to assess and quantify the image quality of a radiograph, a numerical value is assigned based on accepted imaging criteria. Film radiographs are typically characterized by the film density and by the visual detection by the inspector of an image artifact intentionally placed on the test article during exposure these artifacts are contained in IQI"s called penetrameters. When using a penetrameter originally developed for wet film techniques to validate a CR exposure there is not always a good correlation between IQI detection and CR image quality. One reason for this is simply because the imaging processes of CR do not respond the same way to radiation exposure as film. ATS and is subcontractors look to qualify individual CR exposures utilizing commercially available software that is user friendly and compatible with different CR systems maintained by the Air Force while also looking at IQI designs that may be more suited to CR processes.