FEATURE INSPECTION & MEASUREMENT UNCOVERING SOME COMMON


MYTHS ABOUT X-RAY INSPECTION I


t is true to say that more of today’s food businesses are recognising the


benefits of X-ray inspection systems for the reliable detection of contaminants such as glass, calcified bone, rubber, stone and ferrous, non-ferrous and stainless steel metal in their products. Although largely due to major retailers’


codes of practice and the British Retail Consortium (BRC) recommending the use of X-ray inspection systems as standard for optimum quality control and safety throughout the food industry, the increasing demand for X-ray can also be attributed to advances in technology and better education from inspection specialists. However, despite this, the same questions often arise about X-ray contaminant inspection; therefore, Loma Systems has re-visited some of the common myths – especially in relation to employee and food safety, cost and ease of use.


Is X-ray inspection a commercially acceptable solution?


Early X-ray systems had reliability problems and were expensive. However, the involvement of mainstream inspection specialists ensures that latest generation models are as robust and reliable as conventional metal detectors.


X-ray systems cost more than metal detectors. Why should I pay more to do the same job?


In terms of contaminant detection, X-ray systems do a better job. Improvements in technology means the latest models can detect a wider range of non-metallic and metal contaminants. However, there are other financial considerations that should be taken into account. An X-ray machine reduces recall costs and minimises the risk of lost customers. It also offers the opportunity to win new business and increase market share in applications where stringent quality control is critical. However, Loma has developed the super


compact X5C X-ray inspection machine (pictured top right), which has made a significant step forward in making this technology accessible and affordable to many food factories. With a host of user benefits designed for first time users, it has ultimately lead to a 26 per cent improvement in the cost of ownership


18 NOVEMBER 2017 | FACTORY EQUIPMENT


over five years in comparison to a conventional X-ray machine. It offers many product design improvements and has simplified and reduced the overhead costs of X-ray systems for manufacturers, whilst offering safety, durability, flexibility, and user friendliness.


Are X-ray systems suitable for products with a variable density, such as a wedge of cheese or chicken fillets?


The latest image processing software is designed to adapt to differences in product density, while maximising sensitivity. This overcomes the problems associated with conventional systems.


If I introduce X-ray inspection, will my line run at a slower speed?


Some of today’s X-ray inspection systems are designed to operate continuously at speeds in excess of 600ppm or 85m/min (300ft/min).


Will I need to take special precautions to protect my staff against radiation?


Many of today’s X-ray inspection systems require minimal training. It is worth remembering that a low level of naturally occurring radioactivity is always present generated from cosmic rays, diet, medical, gamma rays from rocks and radon gas. This background rate of radioactivity amounts to a world average of 2.7mSv per year. Emission levels from X-ray systems


are less than one third of naturally occurring background radiation. Cabinet X-ray systems used or built in the UK or USA must be below 1.0/5.0uSv/hr. If a person worked next to a leaking X-ray machine for 40 hours per week for 48 weeks, they would still only be exposed to 1.92mSv per year.


All machines should comply with CE


and other International regulations with mechanical and electrical protection.


Will my products be contaminated by X-ray systems?


No, the X-rays used in the food industry are different from that used in radioactive materials which continuously emit radiation. The dosage a food product can be subjected to is governed by strict controls and some of the latest X-ray machines operate at around one millionth of the current limit.


The X-ray inspection system in use, detecting contaminants in these trays of food and presenting the results


Loma Systems www.loma.com T: 01252 893300


/ FACTORYEQUIPMENT


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