Radiographic Testing (RT) is a non-destructive testing method that uses penetrating radiation to produce an image of the internal structure of a material, component, or weld. Differences in material thickness, density, and internal discontinuities affect the amount of radiation reaching the radiographic film, creating an image that can be evaluated by a qualified technician.

Radiography provides a permanent visual record of the examination and is widely used for the volumetric inspection of welds and components where internal discontinuities must be detected and evaluated.

Common Applications

Rivest Technologies provides conventional film Radiographic Testing for applications including:

Weld and welded component inspection
Pressure piping and pressure equipment welds
Fabrication and construction welds
Pipeline weld inspection
Castings and components where radiographic examination is applicable
Code and specification-required volumetric examination

How Radiographic Testing Works

During radiographic examination, radiation is directed through the component being inspected onto radiographic film positioned on the opposite side.

Variations within the material affect the amount of radiation reaching the film. After processing, these variations produce differences in film density that allow internal features and discontinuities to be identified and evaluated.

Image Quality Indicators (IQIs), also commonly referred to as penetrameters, are used as part of the examination to demonstrate that the required radiographic technique and image quality have been achieved.

The completed radiograph is evaluated by qualified personnel in accordance with the applicable procedure, construction code, standard, or client specification.

Gamma Radiography

Rivest Technologies performs industrial gamma radiography using Iridium-192 (Ir-192).

Gamma radiography is particularly well suited to field inspection because the equipment is portable and can be used in locations where conventional X-ray equipment may be impractical.

Ir-192 is commonly used for industrial radiographic examination of welds and components within appropriate material thickness ranges. The suitability of a radiographic technique depends on factors including material type, thickness, geometry, accessibility, and applicable inspection requirements.

X-Ray Radiography

Rivest Technologies also provides conventional X-ray film radiography.

X-ray equipment produces radiation electrically, allowing radiographic examinations to be performed without a radioactive isotope source. X-ray radiography can provide excellent image quality and is particularly useful where component configuration, accessibility, material thickness, and inspection conditions make X-ray examination appropriate.

The selection of gamma or X-ray radiography is based on the component, examination requirements, accessibility, applicable specifications, and inspection environment.

Advantages of Radiographic Testing

Radiographic Testing offers several advantages for industrial inspection:

Detection of internal discontinuities
Volumetric examination of welds and components
Permanent radiographic film record
Visual representation of internal conditions
Effective detection of volumetric discontinuities
Examination of a wide range of materials and components
Established acceptance criteria within many construction codes and standards
Radiographs can be retained for future review and comparison

Because a permanent film record is produced, radiographic results can also be independently reviewed or retained as part of a client's quality documentation.

Rivest Technologies Radiographic Testing Services

Rivest Technologies Inc. provides conventional film Radiographic Testing using both Ir-192 gamma radiography and X-ray equipment for industrial, fabrication, and construction applications.

Our radiographic examinations are performed by CGSB Level II certified RT technicians using established procedures and the applicable code, standard, or client specification.

Our RT capabilities include:

Gamma Radiography — Conventional film radiography using Ir-192 for suitable field and industrial applications.

X-Ray Radiography — Conventional film radiography using X-ray equipment where the component and inspection conditions are suited to X-ray examination.

Weld Inspection — Radiographic examination of welded joints for internal discontinuities and evaluation in accordance with applicable acceptance criteria.

Film Interpretation — Evaluation of completed radiographs by qualified personnel to identify and assess relevant indications in accordance with applicable requirements.

Rivest Technologies provides both shop and field radiographic inspection services with an emphasis on reliable examination, quality radiographs, clear documentation, and responsive service.

Radiographic Film and Record Retention

Conventional film radiography produces a permanent physical record of the examination. Properly identified and maintained radiographs can be retained as part of project quality documentation and reviewed when required.

Rivest Technologies also provides Film Digitization services for clients who wish to convert conventional radiographic film into digital files for electronic storage, retrieval, distribution, or long-term record management.

Codes, Standards and Inspection Requirements

Radiographic examination requirements vary according to the component, industry, governing construction code, and client specification.

Depending on the application, examinations may be performed in accordance with applicable CSA, ASME, ASTM, or other industry codes, standards, procedures, and client specifications.

Radiographic technique, examination coverage, image quality requirements, film evaluation, and acceptance criteria are determined by the requirements applicable to the specific inspection.

Qualified Inspection Personnel

Rivest Technologies' radiographic examinations are performed by CGSB Level II certified RT technicians.

CGSB certification provides an established framework for the qualification and certification of non-destructive testing personnel, including requirements relating to training, experience, and examination.

Our technicians combine this qualification with practical industrial radiography experience to produce and evaluate radiographs in accordance with applicable inspection requirements.

Radiation Safety

Industrial radiography involves ionizing radiation and requires strict controls to protect workers, clients, and the public.

Rivest Technologies conducts radiographic operations in accordance with applicable Canadian radiation-safety requirements, established company procedures, and site-specific safety requirements.

Radiographic work is planned and controlled to allow required inspections to be completed while maintaining appropriate radiation protection and work-area controls.

Need Radiographic Testing Services?

For information about radiographic testing, inspection requirements, scheduling, or pricing, contact Rivest Technologies Inc.

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