Designation: E2698 – 10

Standard Practice for

Radiological Examination Using Digital Detector Arrays1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2698; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents

1.1 This practice establishes the minimum requirements for 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
radiological examination for metallic and nonmetallic material E94 Guide for Radiographic Examination
using a digital detector array (DDA) system. E543 Specification for Agencies Performing Nondestruc-
1.2 The requirements in this practice are intended to control tive Testing
the quality of radiologic images and are not intended to E747 Practice for Design, Manufacture and Material
establish acceptance criteria for parts or materials. Grouping Classification of Wire Image Quality Indicators
1.3 This practice covers the radiologic examination with (IQI) Used for Radiology
DDAs including DDAs described in Practice E2597 such as a E1000 Guide for Radioscopy
device that contains a photoconductor attached to a Thin Film E1025 Practice for Design, Manufacture, and Material
Transistor (TFT) read out structure, a device that has a Grouping Classification of Hole-Type Image Quality Indi-
phosphor coupled directly to an amorphous silicon read-out cators (IQI) Used for Radiology
structure, and devices where a phosphor is coupled to a CMOS E1316 Terminology for Nondestructive Examinations
(Complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor) array, a Linear E1647 Practice for Determining Contrast Sensitivity in
Detector Array (LDA) or a CCD (charge coupled device) Radiology
crystalline silicon read-out structure. E1742 Practice for Radiographic Examination
1.4 The DDA shall be selected for an NDT application E2002 Practice for Determining Total Image Unsharpness
based on knowledge of the technology described in Guide in Radiology
E2736, and of the selected DDA properties provided by the E2597 Practice for Manufacturing Characterization of Digi-
manufacturer in accordance with Practice E2597. tal Detector Arrays
1.5 The requirements of this practice and Practice E2737 E2736 Guide for Digital Detector Arrays
shall be used together and both be approved by the CEO Level E2737 Practice for Digital Detector Array Performance
3 in Radiography before inspection of production hardware. Evaluation and Long-Term Stability
The requirements of Practice E2737 will provide the baseline 2.2 AWS Documents:3
evaluation and long term stability test procedures for the DDA AWS A2.4 Symbols for Welding and Nondestructive Test-
system. ing
1.6 The requirements in this practice shall be used when 2.3 Aerospace Industries Association Document:4
placing a DDA into NDT service and, before being placed into NAS 410 Certification & Qualification of Nondestructive
service, an established baseline of system qualification shall be Test Personnel
performed in accordance with Practice E2737. 2.4 Government Standards:
1.7 Techniques and applications employed with DDAs are
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diverse. This practice is not intended to be limiting or restric-
tive. Refer to Guides E94, E1000, E2736, Terminology E1316,
Practice E747 and E1025, Fed. Std. Nos. 21CFR 1020.40 and
29 CFR 1910.96 for a list of documents that provide additional
information and guidance. 2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
1 3
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E07 on Nonde- Available from American Welding Society (AWS), 550 NW LeJeune Rd.,
structive Testing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E07.01 on Miami, FL 33126, http://www.aws.org.
4
Radiology (X and Gamma) Method. Available from Aerospace Industries Association of America, Inc. (AIA), 1000
Current edition approved April 15, 2010. Published July 2010. Wilson Blvd., Suite 1700, Arlington, VA 22209-3928, http://www.aia-aerospace.org.

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 E2698 – 10
NIST Handbook 114 General Safety Standard for Installa- 3.2.8 grayscale—2N signal levels for an N-bit system
tions Using Non-medical X-ray and Sealed Gamma Ray 3.2.9 gray level—one of 2N signal levels for an N-bit digital
Sources, Energies up to 10 MeV5 system
DoD Contracts any specifications called out on the DoDISS 3.2.10 mean gray level—the average of all the pixel gray
(Department of Defense Index of Specifications and levels in a given region of interest.
Standards) cited in the solicitation. 3.2.11 window width and level—contrast (window width)
21-CFR-1020.40 Safety Requirements of Cabinet X-ray and brightness (window level) adjustment of a digital image by
Systems changing how the Gray levels translate into displayed bright-
29-CFR-1910.96 Ionizing Radiation ness levels.
NCRP 144 Radiation Protection for Particle Accelerator 3.2.12 signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)—quotient of mean value
Facilities of the intensity (signal) and standard deviation of the intensity
SMPTE RP 133 Specifications for Medical Diagnostic Im- (noise). The SNR depends on the radiation dose and the DDA
aging Test Pattern for Television Monitors and Hard-Copy system properties.
Recording Cameras
3.2.13 contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR)—quotient of the dif-
3. Terminology ference in the mean values of the intensity (signal) in an area
in the object subtracted from the mean value of the intensity of
3.1 Definitions relating to the radiological examination, the background, and standard deviation of the intensity (noise).
which appear in Terminology E1316, shall apply to the terms The CNR depends on the radiation dose and quality, thickness/
used in this practice. attenuation of the object and the DDA system properties.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.14 basic spatial resolution (SRb)—indicates the small-
3.2.1 component—the part(s) or element of a system as-
est geometrical detail, which can be resolved using the DDA.
sembled or processed to the extent specified by the drawing,
It is similar to the effective pixel size/pitch and corresponds to
purchase order, or contract.

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1⁄2 of the measured unsharpness.
3.2.2 energy—a property of radiation that determines the
penetrating ability. In x-ray radiography, energy machine rating 3.2.15 ghosting—residual signal or image from a prior
is determined by kilo electron volts (keV), million electron exposure in a current image. Signal or image can be negative
volts (MeV). In gamma ray radiography, energy is a charac- or positive and may affect interpretation of the image.
teristic of the source used. 3.2.16 bad pixel—a pixel identified with a performance
3.2.3 like section—a separate section of material that is outside of the specification range for a pixel of a DDA as
similar in shape and cross section to the component or part defined in Practice E2597.
being radiologically inspected, and is made of the same or 3.2.17 relevant cluster—a cluster with a cluster kernel pixel
radiologically similar material. (CKP), where there are fewer than five good neighboring
3.2.4 material group—materials that have the same pre- pixels surrounding this pixel as defined in Practice E2597. A
dominant alloying elements and which can be examined using CKP is a pixel that does not have sufficient good neighboring
the same IQI. A listing of common material groups is given in pixels to perform interpolation, and is therefore not correctable.
Practice E1025.
3.2.5 NDT facility—the facility or entity performing the 4. Significance and Use
radiologic examination. 4.1 This practice establishes the basic parameters for the
3.2.6 digital detector array (DDA)—an electronic device application and control of the digital radiologic method. This
that converts ionizing or penetrating radiation into a discrete practice is written so it can be specified on the engineering
array of analog signals which are subsequently digitized and drawing, specification, or contract. It will require a detailed
transferred to a computer for display as a digital image procedure delineating the technique or procedure requirements
corresponding to the radiologic intensity pattern imparted upon and shall be approved by the CEO.
the input region of the device. The conversion of the ionizing
or penetrating radiation into an electronic signal may transpire 5. Basis of Application
by first converting the ionizing or penetrating radiation into
5.1 The following items are subject to contractual agree-
visible light through the use of a scintillating material. These
ment between the parties using or referencing this standard.
devices can range in speed from many minutes per image to
many images per second, up to and in excess of real-time 5.1.1 Personnel Qualification—If specified in the contrac-
radioscopy rates. tual agreement, personnel performing examinations to this
3.2.7 digital driving level (DDL)—for computer graphics standard shall be qualified in accordance with a nationally or
display boards, the digital value that corresponds to a particular internationally recognized NDT personnel qualification prac-
monochrome grayscale level. A particular DDL “drives out” a tice or standard and certified by the employer or certifying
particular visible shade of gray. For example, in an 8-bit agency, as applicable. The practice or standard to be used and
display, a DDL assumes 256 values from 0 to 255. its applicable revision shall be identified in the contractual
agreement between the using parties.
5.1.2 If specified in the contractual agreement, NDT agen-
5
Available from National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), 100 cies shall be qualified and evaluated as described in E543. The
Bureau Dr., Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070, http://www.nist.gov. applicable edition of E543 shall be specified in the contract.

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6. Environment and Safety 7.5.1 The minimum brightness as measured off the image
6.1 The premises and equipment shall present no hazards to display screen at maximum Digital Driving Level (DDL) shall
the safety of personnel or property. NCRP 144, and/or NIST be 250 cd/m2.
Handbook 114 may be used as guides to ensure that radiologic 7.5.2 The minimum contrast as determined by the ratio of
procedures are performed so that personnel shall not receive a the screen brightness at the maximum DDL compared to the
radiation dosage exceeding the maximum permitted by the city, screen brightness at the minimum DDL shall be 250:1.
state, or national codes. 7.5.3 The image display shall be capable of displaying
6.2 Environmental conditions conducive to human comfort linear patterns of alternating pixels at full contrast in both the
and concentration will promote examination efficiency and horizontal and vertical directions without aliasing.
reliability. A proper examination environment will take into 7.5.4 The display shall be free of discernable geometric
account temperature, humidity, dust, lighting, access, and distortion.
noise.
6.3 Dust and dirt need to be kept to a minimum and the 7.5.5 The display shall be free of screen flicker, character-
image display face needs to be cleaned often to prevent ized by high frequency fluctuation of high contrast image
interference with interpretation. details.
7.5.6 The image display shall be capable of displaying a
7. Equipment 5 % DDL block against a 0 % DDL background and simulta-
neously displaying a 95 % DDL block against a 100 %
7.1 Different examination system configurations are pos-
background in a manner clearly perceptible to the user. An
sible. It is important that the user understands the advantages

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image display test pattern, in accordance with the requirements
and limitations of each (see Practice E2597 and Guide E2736).
of SMPTE RP 133, shall be configured for the system display
The provider and the user of the examination system should be
resolution and aspect ratio. Alternate test patterns may be used
fully aware of the capabilities and limitations of each system
provided they include the features described in SMPTE RP 133
proposed.
required to perform the quality tests specified in this practice.
7.2 The DDA cannot be operated without computing hard-
ware and software for image acquisition, image display and 7.5.7 The monitor shall be capable of discriminating the
image storage/retrieval. horizontal and vertical low contrast (1 %) modulation patterns
7.2.1 The software shall be capable of acquiring images at the display center and each of the four corner locations.
frame by frame from the DDA and integrating, or averaging the 7.6 Image Quality Indicators (IQI):
frames, or both. 7.6.1 IQIs shall be in accordance with a recognized standard
7.2.2 The software shall perform an image calibration to or approved by the Cognizant Engineering Organization. Hole
correct the inhomogenities of the detector and to determine and plate type indicators shall comply with Practice E1025 or
correct bad pixels (that is, bad pixel map) as defined in Practice Practice E1742, Annex 1. Wire type indicators shall be in
E2597. accordance with Practice E747 and correlated to the hole type
7.3 The software to display resulting imagery from a DDA penetrameters in accordance with Practice E747.
shall be capable to scale images in size (geometrical 7.6.2 The IQI shall be constructed from material in the same
magnification—zoom) and gray levels (window and level material group (see Practice E1025) as the material to be
adjustment—brightness and contrast, for example from 16 bit radiologically inspected. If an IQI material of the same
to 8 bit). Additional functions shall be required such as a line material group is not available, a material that is radiologically
profile measurement, histogram, and statistics window for less dense shall be used.
measuring an region of interest (ROI) (mean and standard
7.6.3 The use of alternative IQIs that are approved by the
deviation).
CEO shall be documented in a written procedure with the
7.4 The Digital Detector Array (DDA):
design, materials designation, and thickness identification or
7.4.1 Only DDAs shall be used in practice as established in
documented on a drawing and that drawing referenced in the
Guide E2736.
procedure.
7.4.2 Users shall comply with the manufacturers’ require-
ments of temperatures and humidity conditions for both 7.6.4 The IQIs shall be procured or fabricated to the
operation and shipping. requirements of Practice E1025 or Practice E747 with a
7.4.3 The DDA shall be calibrated using the manufacturers’ manufacturer’s certification of compliance with respect to alloy
recommendation both for frequency of calibration and the and dimensions. Users shall visually inspect IQIs for damage
method used. Other calibration methods are allowed as long as and cleanliness in accordance with Appendix X1.
approved by the CEO. 7.7 Radiation Sources:
7.4.4 The user shall ensure that all exposures are within the 7.7.1 X-Radiation Sources—Selection of appropriate X-ray
linear operating range of the DDA, using either information voltage and current levels is dependent upon variables regard-
obtained from the manufacturer or data obtained by the ing the specimen being examined (material type and thickness)
user/CEO. and exposure time. The suitability of these exposure param-
7.5 The image display shall meet the following require- eters shall be demonstrated by attainment of the required
ments as a minimum. Alternate image displays or requirements radiographic quality level and compliance with all other
may be used with CEO approval. requirements stipulated herein.

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 E2698 – 10
7.7.2 Gamma Radiation Sources—Isotope sources that are and procedure for production inspection. It shall be the
used shall be capable of demonstrating the required radio- responsibility of the user NDT facility to develop a workable
graphic quality level. examination technique recorded as a written procedure that is
capable of consistently producing the desired results and
8. Equipment Monitoring Requirements radiologic quality level. When required by contract or purchase
8.1 The image display monitor shall be checked in accor- order, the procedure shall be submitted to the CEO for
dance with Appendix X1. approval.
8.2 Radiographic images shall be free of relevant bad pixels 9.2 The following items shall be addressed in the written
or other artifacts which may interfere with image interpretation procedure:
(See Practices E2597 and E2737). 9.2.1 Name and address of the NDT facility, the date, and
8.3 Detailed schedule and tests for monitoring the DDA revision of the procedure.
performance over time shall be performed in accordance with
9.2.2 Radiological Image Identification scheme used to
Practice E2737.
correlate the exposure to part. If the examination procedures
8.4 The user shall adopt the manufacturer’s recommenda-
are similar for many components, a master written procedure
tions for DDA gain, offset and bad pixel calibration, method-
shall be used that covers the details common to a variety of
ology and the frequency thereof, and alterations as needed
components. All written procedures shall be approved by an
defined by the CEO based on the object under test.
individual qualified and certified as a Level 3 in Radiographic
8.4.1 In the event that any non-uniformities or artifacts
Testing in accordance with 4.1.
(other than bad pixels) appear in an image between recom-
mended intervals of gain and offset calibration, the detector is 9.2.3 The thickness and type of material.
to be immediately recalibrated for gain and offset correction so 9.2.4 A drawing, sketch, or photograph of a component
that these discontinuities are removed. showing the location of the part and IQI with respect to the
8.4.2 In the event that any non-uniformities or artifacts radiation source for each exposure. The angle of the radiation
remain in the area of interpretation in an flat x-ray field image beam in relation to the component, the source to DDA distance,
(no object) after recalibration, then the detector shall be tested part to DDA distance, and any blocking or masking, if used
in accordance with Practice E2737 for requalification and long shall be documented. For robotic or similar systems with hard
term stability testing, where a determination will be made if the fixturing and controlled scan plans, a drawing, sketch or
detector needs to be removed from service. If the detector is photograph is not required.
removed from service, than the part under question will be 9.2.5 The nominal exposure for the x-ray machine: voltage,
re-inspected with a fully qualified detector, and this new milliamps, filter, exposure time, frame averages, beam- or
detector will be used for all future inspections. If the detector detector- collimation, and effective focal spot size. For radio-
is returned to service following testing with recommended isotope sources: the isotope type, source strength, exposure
changes to methodology, these changes shall be implemented time, frame averages, beam- or detector- collimation, and
prior to re-inspection and approved by the CEO. source size.
8.5 In the event that any new bad pixels appear in an image 9.2.6 The make, model and manufacturer of the DDA used
between recommended intervals of bad pixel mapping and are in the inspection.
in the area of interest and interfere with interpretation and 9.2.7 The geometrical magnification factor used including
disposition of the object, a new bad pixel map is to be source to object and object to detector distances.
generated so that these bad pixels may be corrected. The object 9.2.8 The IQI size and type, the required radiologic quality
is to then be re-imaged with the fresh bad pixel map. level and a minimum quality level to achieve in the region of
8.5.1 In the event that these new bad pixels still appear in interest. If alternate IQIs are used, include details of the design
the image following the bad pixel recalibration for example or reference to documents where such information is found.
cluster kernel pixels (uncorrectable pixels), then the detector 9.2.9 Thickness and type of material for shims or blocks, or
shall be tested in accordance with Practice E2737 for re- both if used.
qualification and for long term stability testing where a
9.2.10 The window width and level used to visualize the
determination will be made by the CEO if the detector needs to
image as well as any digital image zoom.
be removed from service. If the detector is removed from
service, than the part under question will be re-inspected with 9.2.11 Any image processing parameters used to obtain the
a fully qualified detector, and this detector will be used for all required image quality or improve fine detail detection. This
future inspections. If the detector is returned to service follow- would include noise reduction methods, contrast enhancement,
ing testing with recommended changes to methodology, these or other filtering procedures.
changes shall be implemented prior to re-inspection and 9.2.12 The acceptance limits shall be documented and if
approved by the CEO. applicable, the zones or sections of the part or assembly to
which they apply. If permitted, the acceptance criteria may be
9. Procedural Requirements separate from the procedure but documented and available to
9.1 Digital systems shall be qualified by the CEO for a the image interpreters.
particular material type, thickness range, application, and 9.2.13 A system of measurement verification shall be docu-
product acceptance. The radiologic parameters specified during mented. If a physical standard is used to verify the accuracy of
qualification shall be used to develop the inspection techniques a measurement, the standard shall be certified annually using

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standards traceable to NIST (or other recognized standardizing assigned on the basis of IQI thickness and the perceptibility of
body). The user and the CEO shall agree to the tolerance of this one, two, or three holes in the Hole-Type IQI image on the
standard. image. If the quality level is not specified on the drawing or
other applicable documents, it shall be 2-2T. Unless otherwise
10. Examination Details specified by the CEO, Hole-Type IQIs used for examination of
10.1 Components shall be examined without surface prepa- material 6.35-mm (0.25 in.) or less in thickness shall be 0.13
ration or conditioning except as required to remove surface mm (0.005 in.) minimum thick.
conditions that may interfere with proper interpretation of the 10.6 IQI selection shall be based on a thickness not greater
image. than the nominal thickness to be radiographed. For double-wall
10.1.1 Castings, forgings, and weldments shall be exposed exposure and double-wall viewing techniques, the IQI shall be
in the as-cast, as forged or as welded condition provided the based on the double-wall thickness of the component. For
surface condition does not interfere with interpretation. double-wall exposures and single-wall viewing techniques, the
10.2 Each exposure shall carry the identification or serial IQI shall be based on the single-wall thickness of the compo-
number of the component and view number, when multiple nent. In no case shall the IQI thickness be based on a thickness
views are taken. Each radiological exposure shall also carry the greater than the thickness to be radiographed.
identification of the NDT facility inspecting the component and 10.7 The IQI shall be placed on each part radiographed for
date of the examination. Digital labeling shall never perma- the duration of the exposure, unless a number of identical parts
nently alter the nature of the image or hinder interpretation of are simultaneously exposed in a single image. In such a case,
an area within the image. Images of a repair/rework area shall a single IQI shall be placed upon the source side of a part at the
be identified such that it can be uniquely related to the outer edge of the cone of radiation or farthest extremity from
repair/rework that was attempted. For explosives and propel- the central beam of radiation. For examination of irregular
lants, the conditioning temperature shall be identified on the objects, the IQI shall be placed on the area of the part farthest
exposure if the ordnance has been conditioned to a temperature from the detector. The IQI shall be placed adjacent to the area
other than facility ambient for purposes of examination. Other of interest since accept/ reject decisions cannot be made in the
methods of identifying repairs may be used with prior approval area directly beneath the IQI. Where it is not practical to place
of the CEO. the IQI on the part, the separate block technique or detector
10.3 The radiological exposure coverage of each part and side technique may be used as applicable as described in 10.8.
sampling if used shall be as specified by drawing, exposure 10.8 Where it is impractical to place the IQI upon the part
techniques, radiologic manuals, handbooks for aircraft techni- radiologically inspected, the IQI shall be placed on the source
cal orders, or other specifications as applicable. Examination side of a separate shim, block, or like section, from the same
areas shall be identified on the drawing by using the symbols material group. The shim, block, or like section and IQI shall
in accordance with ANSI/AWS A2.4 or other systems of be placed onto the outer edge of the cone of radiation. The
designations that are easily identified on the drawing. If the shim, block, or like section shall exceed the IQI dimensions so
number of parts to be examined and coverage is not specified, that at least three sides of the IQI shall be visible in the image.
all parts shall be examined and 100% coverage will be If required, the shim shall be placed on a low absorptive
necessary. material (such as polystyrene plastic or its equivalent) to ensure
10.4 The sequence for radiological examination in the that the IQI shall not be any closer to the detector than the
production operation shall be specified in the manufacturing or source side of the part, or area of interest being evaluated.
assembly process, specification, and contract or purchase order. 10.9 When examining double-walled parts such as tubing or
If not specified, radiological examination shall be performed at hollow castings, where it is not practical to place an IQI on the
a stage in the process of manufacturing or assembly at which source side of the part, IQIs may be placed on the detector side
discontinuities can be detected. Radiological examination may of the part and a lead letter F shall be placed adjacent to the
be performed prior to heat treatment providing liquid penetrant IQI. Alternatively, the resulting image may be labeled accord-
or magnetic particle examinations are performed after heat ingly, in an overlaying manner delineating that the IQI is
treatment. placed on the front surface of the part. As an overlay, the label
10.5 The five quality levels listed in Table 1 shall be can be removed so that region of the part may be interpreted.

TABLE 1 Quality Levels of Examination

IQI Radiologic Maximum Minimum Equivalent
Designation Quality IQI Hole IQI
Level Thickness, %A DiameterB Sensitivity, %C
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00 1-1T 1 1T 0.7
0 1-2T 1 2T 1.0
1 2-1T 2 1T 1.4
2 2-2T 2 2T 2.0
3 2-4T 2 4T 2.8
A
Expressed as a percentage of material thickness.
B
Expressed as multiple thickness of IQI.
C
Equivalent IQI sensitivity is that thickness of the IQI expressed as a percentage of the specimen thickness in which a 2T hole would be clearly visible under the same
radiologic conditions.

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Digital labeling shall never permanently alter the nature of the effects of scattered radiation or undercutting. Light materials
image or hinder interpretation of an area within the image. may also contribute to scatter, if not properly applied. The shot
10.10 When performing double-walled radiography in may be filtered by a mixture of many thicknesses to provide a
which both walls or a single wall is viewed for acceptance, the uniform density. Heavy chemical solutions used for masking
detector side radiologic technique shall be demonstrated on an may be toxic. Follow the proper health and safety require-
exposure of a like section in which the required IQI shall be ments.
placed on the source side, and sets of wire IQIs (or a series of 10.13.5 Filters shall be used whenever the contrast reduc-
hole-type IQIs) ranging in thickness from that of the required tions caused by low energy scattered radiation occurring on
IQI to one fourth that thickness shall be placed on the detector production radiographs are of significant magnitude to cause
side. If the required IQI on the source side indicates the difficulty in meeting the radiologic quality level or radiologic
specified radiologic quality level, then the image of either the coverage requirements as specified in the contract, purchase
smallest IQI hole in the thinnest IQI, or the image of the order, or drawing.
smallest wire, visible on the detector side shall be used to 10.14 When placed directly on the component, one IQI shall
determine the proper detector-side IQI to be used for produc- represent an area with a pixel Gray Level equal to or less than
tion images. the least radiologically dense area of the represented area of the
10.11 When included in the written procedure and approved image.
by the CEO Radiographic Level 3, a single exposure with the 10.14.1 Additional IQIs may be used, as necessary to cover
applicable IQI may be made to qualify the examination the entire thickness range of the object. For components such
process. When it is impractical to continually place IQIs on a as castings and forgings, where there are changes in wall
part requiring more than one exposure, or a series of similar thickness and wall alignment and the use of multiple IQIs is not
parts, using the same radiologic technique are to be made, a possible, the use of one IQI is acceptable. The IQI thickness
single exposure of an IQI may be made to qualify the shall be based on the thinnest wall being radiographed and
examination process. As long as the radiologic technique is not shall be placed on the thickest wall section.
changed, subsequent exposures may be performed without an 10.15 The IQIs are not required under the following condi-
IQI. A new qualification exposure with an IQI shall be made tions.
daily, or whenever any of the following parameters are 10.15.1 Examining assemblies for debris.
changed: 10.15.2 Conducting radiography for defect removal pro-
10.11.1 X-ray Tube Potential (Kilovolts, Megavolts) vided final examination of the area includes an IQI.
10.11.2 Tube current (milliampere) 10.15.3 Examining to show material details or contrast
10.11.3 Integration time (s) between two or more dissimilar materials in component parts
10.11.4 Source to detector distance or assemblies including honeycomb areas for the detection of
10.11.5 Object to detector distance fabrication irregularities or the presence or absence of material.
10.11.6 Collimation, masking or filters 10.16 When surfaces are inaccessible, an alternative method
10.11.7 Digital Detector Settings of qualification shall be used subject to the approval of the
10.11.8 X-ray source or detector change or repositioning/ CEO.
relocation 10.17 Fabrication welds shall be processed in accordance
10.11.9 Software settings like brightness, contrast, filters, with Practice E1742, Annex A2.
etc. 10.18 Explosives / propellants, rocket motors, and their
10.12 Subsequent exposures shall be positively tied to the components shall be processed in accordance with Practice
qualification exposure by serialization or another method. A E1742, Annex A3.
copy of the qualification shall be provided to all parties with 10.19 Geometrical Considerations—(See Fig. 1)
review authority. 10.19.1 Establish Image Quality and Geometric Magnifica-
10.13 Scatter radiation reduces the contrast in the image. tion:
Five different physical effects can be used to reduce the 10.19.1.1 The image quality requirement (such as 2-1T) and
influence of scatter radiation in the image: IQI type shall be defined by the CEO and be based on the
10.13.1 The energy should be as low as possible. requirements for the inspection application. This may be done
10.13.2 A diaphragm in front of the tube should be used to using hole or wire type IQIs.
mask out all radiation which would not penetrate the region of 10.19.1.2 The magnification requirement shall be set by one
interest in the object. of two methods as determined by the CEO.
10.13.3 A distance between object and detector reduces 10.19.1.3 The first method is based on ensuring that an IQI
scatter significantly. For example, at 160 keV, scattered radia- hole is larger than the largest allowed bad pixel cluster. This is
tion for a given material and thickness may be half of the defined by stating how many pixels (for example, 4 by 4) are
detector signal, when the object is directly on the DDA. With required to be in the IQI hole of interest as defined in 10.19.1.1.
a distance of 500 mm (20 in.) the signal from scattered This method requires the use of hole-type IQIs. The second
radiation is down to 3 %. method is based on setting the magnification as a function of
10.13.4 Shot, masking solutions, sheet lead and foils, poly- the basic spatial resolution of the DDA and the required
tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), plastic, or other low density, non- normalized image unsharpness as defined for small focal spot
metallic absorbers shall be used as masking to minimize the sizes (F << UIm) by the following equation if 1.6 * SRb> UIm:
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FIG. 1 Flowchart for Setting Geometry, Image Unsharpness and Image Quality (see 10.19)

ymin 5 1.6 * SRb/UIm (1) 10.19.2.3 Third, if the maximum unsharpness is less than
The required value of UIm is given in Table 2. required in Table 2, the inspection shall proceed with the
10.19.2 Determine and Test for Maximum Normalized Im- defined geometry and continue in 10.19. Otherwise, a change
age Unsharpness (UIm): shall be made to decrease the x-ray focal spot size until the
10.19.2.1 First, determine the maximum image unsharp- recomputed image unsharpness meets Table 2. If at the smallest
ness, UIm, that shall be met for the inspection as shown in Table focal spot size, the required total image unsharpness is not met,
2. it means that the DDA being tested is not suitable for the
10.19.2.2 Second, compute the expected image unsharpness inspection.
for the geometry and DDA in use as defined in Guide E1000, 10.19.3 Evaluate IQI Visibility Using Contrast to Noise
Eq. 9 (shown here in a modified form for DDAs): Ratio (CNR):
1 3 10.19.3.1 Once the image unsharpness requirement is met,
UIm 5 y · =U3g 1 ~1.6 · SRb!3 (2)
the image quality (IQI visibility) must be assessed. If the
Ug 5 ~ y – 1 ! * F (3) required hole is not clearly visible it shall be evaluated by
measuring CNR on a hole-type IQI or other method approved
where Ug is the geometrical unsharpness (see Eq 3, where F
and documented by the CEO.
is the focal spot size.
10.19.3.2 For hole-type IQIs, the appropriate IQI shall be
placed on the object and the mean of the pixels inside of the
TABLE 2 Maximum normalized image unsharpness (UIm) hole of interest and a neighbouring region on the IQI (but
Under 1 in. through 1 in. 0.010 in. outside of the hole) shall be measured. The difference in the
(# 25.4 mm) (0.254 mm) two means shall be divided by the standard deviation of the
Over 1 through 2 in. 0.020 in.
(>25.4 through 50.8 mm) (0.508 mm) same region outside of the hole and the resulting quantity
Over 2 through 4 in. 0.030 in. (contrast to noise ratio) shall be at least 2.5 unless otherwise
(>50.8 through 101.6 mm) (0.762 mm) specified by the CEO. If the CNR is sufficient, the DDA and
Over 4 in. 0.040 in.
(>101.6 mm) (1.016 mm) geometry are ready for inspection. If the contrast to noise ratio
is less than the required amount proceed to 10.19.4.
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10.19.3.3 For wire type IQIs, the required wire shall be 11.3 The viewing room or enclosure shall be an area with
clearly visible along at least two third of its length without variable control lighting as each operator will have different
interruption. The CNR measurement requires a profile mea- background lighting needs. Subdued lighting in the viewing
surement perpendicular to the wire direction which is averaged room is preferred rather than total darkness and shall preclude
over 11 lines. A minimum CNR of 2 in. the averaged line objectionable reflective glare on the surface of the image that
profile shall be exceeded, unless otherwise specified by the could interfere with the interpretation.
CEO. 11.4 The interpreter shall wait sufficient time, after entering
10.19.3.4 If the CNR of the IQI is not accessible, alterna- the viewing area, before interpreting the radiological image
tively the Signal to Noise ratio (SNR) shall be measured in an that the features of the IQI are visible (hole and IQI outline).
area of homogeneous grey level in the unprocessed image. The 11.5 Retention and delivery of images and other records
SNR shall exceed 130 for 2 % contrast sensitivity and 250 for shall be in accordance with the provisions specified in the
1 % contrast sensitivity (see Practice E2597). contract. For DOD contracts they shall be in accordance with
10.19.4 Increasing contrast to noise (and signal-to-noise) the contract data requirements list. If no specific requirements
ratio by increasing X-ray exposure and/or changing X-ray tube are specified for retention or delivery of images, they shall
potential. become the property of the purchaser of the component.
10.19.4.1 For the following three methods used to increase 11.6 When the exposures are to be printed on film, paper, or
the X-ray exposure for the image, there are two limits. First, other medium, there shall be a procedure controlling the
the DDA will approach a limiting contrast to noise ratio value printing and this procedure is subject to approval by the CEO.
related to the quality of the calibration of the DDA. Increasing
12. Marking and Identification
the frame averaging further will not increase the image quality,
but just take a longer time to complete the image. Second, there 12.1 Parts that conform satisfactorily to applicable radio-
is a practical economic time limit on the total exposure time logical examination requirements shall be marked in accor-
that should be considered. dance with the applicable drawing, purchase order, contract or
10.19.4.2 Increase X-ray source output and/or energy to as specified herein. Markings shall be applied in such a manner
bring the gray level of the brightest area in the image (largest and location to be harmless to the part. Identification shall not
gray level value) to no more than 90 % of the maximum gray be smeared or obliterated by subsequent handling. When
level of the DDA. subsequent processing would remove identification, the appli-
10.19.4.3 Increase the exposure or frame time of the DDA. cable marking shall be affixed to the records accompanying the

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10.19.4.4 Average multiple frames of data into one image parts or assemblies.
using the manufacturer provided acquisition software. 12.2 Impression stamping, laser marking, or vibro engrav-
10.19.5 After increasing the exposure, if the IQI is still not ing shall be used only where permitted by the applicable
visible, the DDA system is not suitable for inspection. If the specifications or drawings. Unless otherwise specified, mark-
IQI is visible or meets the CNR criteria, the DDA and ing shall be located in areas adjacent to the part number.
geometry are acceptable and ready to proceed with the inspec- 12.3 When impression stamping, laser marking, or vibro
tion. engraving is prohibited, parts may be marked by etching.
10.20 Window Width and Window Level : Suitable echants and application methods shall be employed.
Etching methods other than fluid etching may be used.
10.20.1 The inspections shall be conducted using a defined
12.4 Where etching, impression stamping, laser marking, or
window width. The window width value shall be based on the
vibro-engraving are not appropriate, identification may be
feature of interest and approved by the CEO.
accomplished by dyeing or ink stamping.
10.20.2 Window level shall be adjusted during inspection
12.5 Each part that has successfully passed radiologic ex-
with a fixed window width. Window level adjustment maybe
amination shall be marked as follows:
necessary to view the entire part thickness range.
12.5.1 When impression stamping, laser marking, vibro-
10.21 Image Zoom:
engraving, etching, or ink stamping is applicable, symbols
10.21.1 The inspections shall be conducted with a fixed shall be used. The symbol shall contain an identification
image zoom. The image zoom shall be based on the feature of symbol of the facility.
interest and approved by the CEO. 12.5.2 Except for specialized applications, use the symbol
“X” enclosed in a circle to denote 100 % radiologic examina-
11. Quality Assurance Provisions tion.
11.1 The NDT facility is responsible for furnishing all 12.5.3 When using the sampling method, parts that are
supplies in conformance to contract or purchase order require- actually radiographed shall be marked as specified in 12.5.1.
ments and, unless otherwise specified in the contract or All items in the lot accepted on a sampling basis (part of the lot
purchase order, the performance of all examination require- but not actually radiographed) shall be marked using the
ments contained herein. The examination provisions contained symbol “X”: enclosed in an ellipse.
herein shall become a part of the NDT facility overall exami- 12.6 When dyeing is applicable, blue dye shall be used to
nation system or quality program. indicate 100 % radiologic examination. When sampling is
11.2 The results of all radiologic examinations shall be used, orange dye shall be used to indicate parts accepted on a
recorded and kept on file in accordance with the contract or sampling basis (part of the lot not actually examined), while
purchase order. Additionally, refer to 7.1.7 of Practice E2002. the parts of the lot actually examined shall receive blue dye.

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13. Notes 14. Keywords
13.1 Government Contracts: 14.1 amorphous selenium; amorphous silicon; digital detec-
13.1.1 The current issue of DOD 5010.12-L, Acquisition tor array; image processing; image quality indicator; nonde-
Management Systems and Data Requirements Control List structive testing; penetrating radiation; radiography; radiologic
(AMSDL), must be researched to ensure that only current, examination; X-ray
cleared DIDs are cited on the DD Form 1423. Reference DID
number DI-MISC-80653, Test Reports.

APPENDIX

X1. MINIMUM PERIODIC PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS

Reference qualification std Paragraph Reference Frequency (minimum)
Light Meter Must be calibrated Every 6 months
Image Display Evaluation
Image Brightness 7.5.1 Once per month
Monitor 7.5.2-7.5.7 Daily
bad pixel, gain and offset maps 8.4-8.5 In accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations or CEO
IQI Evaluation for Application 10.5 Each examination

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