SNB’s Blog

Inspecting products throughout the food manufacturing process has become vital for all manufacturers. Having the correct equipment in place allows to meet HACCP and other codes of practices in place. Not having this equipment in place could have serious consequences as contaminated products could end up on retailers’ shelves.

This blog intends to look at the importance of X-Ray equipment and how they work.

 

X-Ray Importance

Most manufacturers use metal detectors across their site as they are useful for inspecting products non-magnetic and magnetic metals. However, their capabilities are reach especially for those running aluminium coated products. That’s where X-Ray inspection can step in.

Certain X-Ray systems work by “radiographing”. Products passing on the conveyor belt are measured at lower (low density) or high (higher density) degree through a line-shaped detector radiating. After passing through the product, this detector converts any remaining radiation into an electrical signal. This differences the density and therefore creates an image of each product. The higher density the product, the darker the picture is.

 

Can X-Rays be dangerous for operators or food products?

Some X-Rays can be dangerous to people and the environment if used improperly. The potential for risk depends on the dosage of radiation and the energy. However, since the processing and production of food is highly sensitive the European Union passed specific legislation in order to keep operators and products safe.

All X-Rays supplied from SNB have safety features such as they use low energy and a variety of safety switches are fitted.

 

What type of Contaminants can be found by an X-Ray?

Compared to a metal detector, X-Rays can look for a wider variety of contaminants. In short, X-rays can find contaminants that has a density differing from the products. This means an X-Ray can find:

• Metals such as Ferrous, Non Ferrous and Stainless Steel
• Soda Lime Glass
• Ceramic
• PTFE
• Bronze
• Aluminium

Certain equipment is able to pick up on parts of bone, making this type of equipment suitable for the meat, poultry and fish industry. Additionally, some X-Ray equipment is able to find certain plastics.

Whilst being able to check for contaminants, other X-Ray Inspection Equipment can check for anomalies in products such as fill levels, broke items, parts missing and product count.

 

How can SNB help with your X-Ray Equipment?

SNB Electronic Services have a close working partnership with UK suppliers of X-Ray equipment. This allows SNB to offer customers, calibration work, hire units, new units and advice to any customers who require these services.