Intensification of the X-ray image in industrial radiology

The paper deals with the application of the X-ray image-intensifier tube in industrial fluoroscopy and radiography. It considers the factors governing resolution¿i.e. brightness, blurring and contrast¿and discusses the improvement expected from the use of the image intensifier. Industrial fluoroscopy with this technique is compared with conventional fluoroscopy and contact radiography. Results are given of measurements obtained with D.I.N. penetrameters for steel and aluminium in the voltage range 30¿200kV. The conclusion drawn is that the image intensifier allows new applications of industrial fluoroscopy and miniature radiography owing to the enhanced resolution which brings it near to contact radiography. It therefore permits more economical X-ray testing.