COMET X-RAY insight

The Magazine of Industrial X-Ray

FLIGHT SECURITY

More efficient passenger checks in future New Facility in Shelton

#2 | 2014

COMET USA

CONTENTS

COMET SPIRIT COMET USA: beeing as close to our customers as possible

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COMET INSIDE Food inspection: Glass inspection, glass detection

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NDT: “More than the best image”

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EXPERTISE Flight security: faster, safer, smarter

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Analyzing art and cultural property: Taking a closer look at Charlemagne

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PRODUCTS & NEWS Certified: CE certification and the type approval inspection of x-ray tubes 22

Imprint Issuer: COMET AG, Flamatt (Switzerland).

Project management: Flavia Nicolai, VP Marketing & Business Communications Industrial X-Ray. Production and editing: Denon Publizistik AG, Rapperswil-Jona (Switzerland), Daliah Kremer, Fabrizio Milano.

Photos: Nick Veasey (cover), Gaëtan Bally (p. 2, 11 – 13, 16 – 17, 22), Oliver Kpognon (p. 4 – 5), istockphoto (p. 7 – 9, 10), Fotolia (p. 14), Yxlon (p. 15 + 18), Stiftung Pro Kloster St. Johann in Müstair (p. 19 – 21).

Translation and proofreading: Apostroph AG, Lucerne (Switzerland). Lithography: Küenzi & Partner/mediacheck, Langnau a. A. (Switzerland).

Printed by: Rub Media AG, Wabern (Switzerland).

Print run: 700 copies each, German and English

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EDITORIAL

Stephan Haferl, General Manager Industrial X-Ray Dear reader, The often heard phrase “think global, act local” has been used in many contexts. When COMET first decided to throw anchor in the important North American market a small sales office was opened in Cincinnati. With the acquisition of Feinfocus in 2004 both operations were merged in the latter‘s offices in Stamford.

Ten years later we‘ve outgrown the Stamford premises and have now relocated our operations to Shelton CT. With vastly improved logistics services as well as communication tools this decision might seem counterintuitive from afar. However, above-mentioned mantra necessitates in our understanding close and local contact with our customers and suppliers.

That‘s why investing in a new site in Shelton really is an investment in our relationship with you, our customers and suppliers. That always makes sense and truly is a local act.

The present edition again covers a broad set of x-ray applications. From food safety to car safety. From product safety to discovering cultural roots.

And last but not least the future of airport security checkpoints. The spectrum of different applications is vast. As challenging the diverse requirements for the equipment are, as inspiring they are for us at COMET. COVER The cover shows an image created by x-ray artist Nick Veasey. www.nickveasey.com

The Magazine of Industrial X-Ray

FLIGHT SECURITY

More efficient passenger checks in future

I hope we can pass on some of our inspiration to you, our customers and suppliers.

New Facility in Shelton

#2 | 2014

COMET USA

Stephan Haferl COMET connected Our magazine is available online: www.comet-xray.com (PDF and Issuu).

Questions, feedback, suggestions?

Drop us a line: magazine@comet-xray.com “X-Ray insight” 2/2015 The next issue will be available in spring 2015.

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET SPIRIT In order to truly enhance its potential, the US subsidiary of COMET Industrial X-Ray and ebeam Technologies (XET) moved from Stamford to Shelton. The new facility was inaugurated in the spring with a celebration.

COMET USA – new facility in Shelton CT

“Making our customers as happy as possible” In order to further enhance its growth potential, the US subsidiary of COMET Industrial X-Ray and ebeam Technologies (XET) moved from Stamford to Shelton Connecticut at the beginning of the year.

The new facility was officially opened this spring.

Jeremy Simon, General Manager XET Americas, explains how our customers can benefit from the new facility.

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X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

COMET SPIRIT

The inauguration was attended by guests from Switzerland, including Charles Flückiger, Stephan Haferl (top picture, from left to right) and Roland Vonlanthen (picture on the bottom left). Top picture, on the right: Jeremy Simon, General Manager XET Americas.

COMET is making excellent progress in the USA. The demand for x-ray technology to optimize the reliability and efficiency of our customers’ products and processes in material inspection together with public security, radiation and research applications has increased steadily in recent years. “We have been able to acquire new customers every year, devote ourselves to meeting their needs and establish long-term relationships with them. Our goal is to continue to actively promote this commitment to serving our customers through expert advice on site and fast, professional service. The move to larger, modern facilities is therefore in line with customer needs and our strategy of ex-

“We not only sell customers our products and systems, we train them as well.”

Jeremy Simon, General Manager XET Americas

panding the Nort American business,” explains Jeremy Simon, General Manager XET Americas.

More space means greater possibilities for our customers The new facility was inaugurated in the spring with a celebration attended by cusX-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET SPIRIT

The modern facilities at the new site in Shelton are around 50 percent larger, with on-site warehousing to ensure rapid delivery to customers.

COMET facility in Shelton/USA The US subsidiary of Industrial X-Ray and ebeam Technologies (XET) was founded in Stamford CT in 2004 as a sales center with four employees. The facility grew and increasingly developed into a production and service center. For capacity reasons, XET moved from Stamford to Shelton at the beginning of 2014, with the new site measuring around 1,650 m2 and featuring a new techno­ logy lab and a range of facilities for training customers. Jeremy Simon heads up COMET’s US subsidiary in his position as General Manager XET Americas.

Learn more: www.comet-xray.com 06

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

tomers, employees and senior managers from Switzerland. Jeremy Simon is proud of the new facility: “We have 50 percent more space in Shelton than we used to.

The area of around 1,650 m2 comprises modern production facilities, a test and technology lab for production and repair, a test facility for ebeam as well as our service and sales offices. Customer service and sales offices are geared to the needs of our customers, who can visit our technology and application lab and see exactly what a 450 kV or 600 kV tube can do.

We are equipped to carry out customized feasibility studies and using exact parameters of customers imaging requirements so they select the most suitable XRS. At our training center, customers can deepen their knowledge on products and projects. We also have facilities available for group training events. Extensive, on-site warehousing and new product launches ensures that COMET-customers benefit from the quick delivery of tubes and XRS modules.”

Accessibility and customer satisfaction a top priority The US subsidiary moved from Cincinnati, OH to Stamford in 2004. The sales organization has continuously grown with the business ever since, starting off with just four and now employing twenty staff, explains Jeremy Simon. With the growth came a change of focus, with the facility also becoming increasingly important as a service center optimize performance of COMET x-ray sources so they deliver value for their customers. Simon contin-

ues: “We can cater to our customers’ individual needs in a more targeted manner at the new facility which permits us to get involved earlier in the project cycle and to provide the right product solution to meet their needs. This is what getting to know your customers is all about! Customers regularly visit us. In addition to selling customers our products and systems, we also train them as well. This enables them to optimize performance of COMET x-ray sources so they deliver value for their customers.”

Numerous growth markets Being even closer to the customers is the motto. But in which markets are the greatest opportunities for growth? “There are numerous areas. We see potential in NDT, particularly in Aerospace and in the oil and gas sector. For example, the expansion of energy pipelines in North America which and have to undergo regular testing represent a major opportunity for our new portable x-ray tubes. In addition, we are focusing on the security segment, where we are breaking new ground in close cooperation with our customers. Among other fields, this includes CT scanners at airports for luggage inspection. However, we are also seeing movement in the surrounding countries of Central and South America, with Mexico developing into a very interesting market.” Mexico has established itself as an important production location for the international automotive industry. Furthermore, Canada is also among the countries with great growth potential.

COMET EXPERTISE SPIRIT

Flight security

Security controls of the future – faster, safer, smarter Today, lengthy security controls and various rules for hand luggage are part and parcel of the flying experience. Guido Peetermans from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in Geneva is convinced things can be done differently. In the future, passengers should be able to reclaim air travel as a positive experience from the outset, with faster processing at the airport and greater certainty about security requirements.

Air travelers should be aware of security requirements as soon as they start packing their suitcase. In most of the world, liquids are restricted in hand luggage, as are scissors, nail files, and other sharp objects. Laptops and other electronics may have to be removed from the bag, while passengers will have to empty their pockets of all metallic items and may have to remove shoes and belts for the airport security screening process. Alarms will be

resolved by intrusive pat-downs and bag searches. This results in long queues, especially at peak times. Things have gotten progressively worse since 9/11 and other events that marked recent air travel history, such as the attempted terrorist attack of the “Christmas Day bomber,” who tried to blow up a Northwest Airlines flight from Amsterdam to Detroit on December 25, 2009, after smuggling explosives on to the plane in his underwear.

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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EXPERTISE

“Smart Security” is developing neutral criteria, based on which “high-risk” passengers are checked more intensely than others.

This will ultimately result in shorter queues.

Events such as these have led to massive changes in screening practices, enhancing security but turning checkpoints into chokepoints. Guido Peetermans, from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), says: “We have added layer upon layer of security protocols, but when it comes to the core processes and technologies underlying security controls, little has changed. Today’s system works, but poses a great burden on authorities, on the aviation industry and on our passengers, who are becoming increasingly dissatisfied with long queues and intrusive measures.”

Smart Security brings everyone to the table Since 2011, Guido Peetermans has been project manager for “Smart Security”, previously known as “Checkpoint of the Future”, and now a joint initiative of IATA and ACI, the Airports Council International. The aim of the project is to make airport

In combination with advanced screening technologies and a certain level of unpredictable measures, this will strengthen security while making life easier for most passengers. security controls more efficient and – at the same time – more secure. Today’s “onesize-fits-all” approach should give way to a risk-based approach that increases secu08

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

rity, ensures a passenger-friendly process, and is underpinned by innovative technologies such as advanced x-ray systems.

“The fact that the ‘underwear bomber’ was able to bring explosives on board an aircraft in the post 9/11 era was a wake-up call for governments and industry to start considering a paradigm shift in security screening. But this can only be done in a collaborative effort, and nobody managed to actually bring all the important stakeholders, such as governments, airports, airlines, and solution providers, around the table, never mind on an international level. IATA started the Smart Security project precisely to fill this vacuum.”

The IATA succeeded in bringing stakeholders together to develop a joint roadmap for next generation passenger screening.

“It was a crucial step forward when, in 2013, IATA and ACI merged their respective initiatives under the ‘Smart Security’ banner, allowing the aviation industry to speak with one voice,” says Peetermans.

The ACI is the global trade association of the world’s airports.

The Smart Security Management Group, comprised of governments, airports, and airlines, provides strategic guidance and direction to the project. One of the guiding principles is a move towards differentiated screening: “Today, all passengers are subjected to the same screening measures, which are primarily aimed at finding prohibited items. For instance, a family with children traveling to their holiday destination is screened in the same way as an individual about whom little or nothing is known and who flying to a higher risk destination,” says Peetermans.

EXPERTISE

Consequently, Smart Security suggests a more targeted approach, based on neutral criteria, that will allow those travelers deemed to be of lower risk to benefit from an expedited screening experience, while others may be subjected to enhanced security checks. In combination with advanced screening technologies and a certain level of unpredictable measures, this will strengthen security while making life easier for most passengers.

Risk-based, intelligent approach Peetermans is convinced: “The vast majority of travelers do not pose a threat. If we concentrate our efforts on where the greatest risk is perceived, controls will not only be in general much faster; they’ll be safer, too.” Airports and airlines are equally interested in this development. After all, what’s good for passengers is good for business as well. “The international hubs are in competition with one another. Passengers often have the choice between various routes and can choose whether to fly via London, Paris, Amsterdam, or Zurich, to name a few. I generally choose the hub that I find most comfortable, i.e., fast, efficient and passenger-friendly.”

The Smart Security team has developed a “blueprint” that charts the evolution of passenger screening over time, and includes proposals that are believed to be operationally achievable, technically feasible, and politically acceptable in the short, medium and long term. “There are many technology and process innovations that are ready for prime time in the immediate future, and we are conducting pilot projects at a select number of leading airports to demonstrate the benefits of these solutions”, explains the IATA project manager. So far, three airports have signed up for the pilot program, supported by their respective regulators and home carriers: Amsterdam Schiphol, London Heathrow, and the recently opened Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar. Several more are set to follow, in different parts of the world.

“Multi-view x-ray equipment allows screeners to inspect items from different angles improving threat detection ability.”

Guido Peetermans, IATA project manager “Smart Security“

Eliminating bottlenecks – X-ray technologies help Technology will play an important role in effectively and efficiently screening cabin baggage without the need for passengers to unpack liquids, laptops and other electronics. “Multi-view x-ray equipment allows screeners to inspect items from different angles improving threat detection ability, and can run algorithms to assist the operator with the detection of threat items such as firearms and explosives.

Emerging technologies such as Computed Tomography (CT), diffraction x-rays and liquid explosive detections systems will further enhance these screening capabilities and bring us closer to the efficient and passenger-friendly future that we envision,” confirms Peetermans.

The future is here “While realizing our vision will be a long term effort, we can start to make a real difference with process and technology innovations that are available today.

Many of the individual components we’re looking at have the potential to be game changers in their own right, but the greatest benefits will come from an integrated solution that removes the bottlenecks from the process.” Guido Peetermans is pleased with the progress that has been made. “We see growing support from leading governments and industry players to make this paradigm shift happen.

The pilot projects we’re conducting with our government and airport partners are the living proof that change is right around the corner, and that great strides can be made already in the near term to making airport security faster, more convenient and less intrusive.”

Evaluation of new technologies used in baggage control The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland FHNW is conducting research on flight safety. One of the projects that Stefan Michel and his team are working on is security controls for carry-on luggage. „At Zurich airport alone, the screening teams screen millions of baggage items each year. This means they primarily analyze x-ray images of the items. In this process, they have to make split-second decisions as to whether a piece of baggage is suspicious or not,“ explains Michel. Screeners must receive excellent training if they are to be able to recognize dangerous items. However, the imaging system used plays a key role, too. Whereas the systems in use today usually deliver two-dimensional images, new CT systems produce 3D images. At FHNW the use of such technologies in relation to the interplay between man and machine is evaluated with the aim of improving this interaction.

Further information: www.iata.org/smart-security

Further information: www.fhnw.ch X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET INSIDE

Glass jars and containers are in demand – but can break easily. The specialists at the Turin-based company Dylog can detect even the smallest glass fragments and remove the defective items from the line.

Safety inspections in food, pharmaceuticals and textiles

Clear perspectives on detection Purity standards in the food and pharmaceutical industries are becoming ever more stringent, with the modern consumer expecting quality first every time.

Producers need to prove there are no foreign bodies in their products. X-ray technology offers real added value not only in this area, but in the clothing industry too – the designer brand Ferragamo uses x-rays to search for pins in their clothing. Italian inspection system manufacturer Dylog has its finger on the pulse and relies on a combination of in-house software and x-ray components from COMET.

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COMET INSIDE

Anyone opening a jar of honey, fruit preserves or baby food expects something that tastes good, and not – as is sadly sometimes the case – a shard of metal or glass inside a peach. Fortunately, the likelihood of this happening in Europe continues to diminish. “The technologies used to find impurities and foreign bodies in foodstuffs and packaging have improved rapidly in the past 20 years,” explains Marco Pipino, qualified engineer and Managing Director of Dylog Hi Tech in Turin. “Thanks to x-ray technology, we are able to detect metal, glass, stones and plastic fragments in products and reject the offending items,” explains Pipino, who remembers how it all began back in 1991. “Italian customers such as Ferrero and Nestlé were the first to show an interest in eliminating all kinds of impurities from their foodstuffs. All production sites are now equipped with quality inspection systems, something that is also required by the Food Act.” Smaller manufacturers are also following suit, with all producers now having to prove they have taken all

possible precautions to detect and root out products with impurities if claims should arise.

Marco Pipino (left) explains what makes Dylog so strong: The very best technology is used (top) in order to satisfy even the most demanding customers – such as those in the baby food industry (bottom).

Glass packaging back in fashion Glass fragments pose a particularly dangerous and sensitive issue. Although in-

“We specialize in detecting even the smallest glass fragments.”

Marco Pipino, Managing Director, Dylog Hi Tech Departement

spection technologies for detecting foreign bodies were around 20 years ago, they were not yet advanced enough to detect glass. “This is why we specialize in detecting even the smallest glass fragments.

Glass, one of the oldest packaging materials known to mankind, is experiencing a revival across Europe,” says the Managing Director. “Glass is delicate and can break easily in the rapid inline filling process. ReX-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET INSIDE

Dylog Hi Tech Dylog was founded in 1980 as a software company in the Italian city of Turin. The staff developed algorithms for computer systems in major companies. In 1991, Dylog founded the Hi Tech division to specialize in x-ray inspections. For over 20 years, Dylog has developed x-ray systems to detect foreign bodies in the food and pharmaceutical industry in more than 50 countries.

The company’s biggest customers are in Italy, France and South Africa. Argentina and other markets in South America offer expansion opportunities. Dylog employs some 300 staff members at four production facilities in Turin. The software and technology company has an annual turnover of 30 million – and rising.

More information: www.dyloghitech.com

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liable x-ray systems are needed to detect fragments,” emphasizes Marco Pipino.

The filling machines for glass jars and containers must operate precisely to avoid damage. “If a glass breaks, the entire system has to be halted and cleaned. Plastic is flexible and more durable,” he says.

taining three or five kilos of food are extremely rare in Europe, but commonplace in America and Africa. Such volumes are usually packed in cans or plastic containers here rather than breakable glass. Let’s not forget that glass also weighs something too.”

Averting disaster Why is detecting glass fragments so important to food manufacturers? Marco Pipino has the answer: “If you bite into a piece of metal you might end up with a broken tooth. While this is unpleasant and you might need to see the dentist, it is not potentially fatal. Glass fragments, on the other hand, can have much more serious consequences – even life-threatening ones.” Glass container screening is in demand across Europe given that glass is popular, recyclable and considered a high-quality material. “Glass is associated with cleanliness and high quality. It is odor-free and aroma-neutral. Alcohol, for example, can trigger a chemical reaction in plastic containers and honey tastes different when it comes from a glass jar.

Consumers can even recognize differences in mineral water,” explains Marco Pipino. Last but not least, sensitive baby food products are packaged in small glass jars.

In America, Asia and Africa, glass packaging is used for goods in the higher price range. “However, supersize packs are usually sold in these countries. Packs con-

Dylog x-ray systems with in-house software solutions Demands from food producers for better and more exact foodstuff inspections are growing constantly; after all, they want to be able to guarantee the best possible quality. “It goes without saying that demands are increasing as stricter inspections become possible,” says Pipino. The success of the Turin-based company is not only down to hardware – they can offer the right software solution too. “Dylog was originally founded as a software company, which is a big advantage as we already have this critical expertise at our disposal.

We are very proud that many of our staff members have been with us for many years. This allows us to keep on refining and developing our skills and expertise as part of the same team.” Thanks to software from Turin, glass fragments can be detected immediately and eliminated with outstanding reliability. Additionally, the number of glass containers that are mistakenly discarded remains extremely low.

“The percentage of incorrectly discarded glass containers should not be underes-

COMET INSIDE

timated,” cautions Marco Pipino. “Each container that is mistakenly disposed of means lost money and wasted resources that have to be destroyed unnecessarily.

Our software offers real added value in this area,” emphasizes Pipino.

Another strength of the Torinese company lies in inspections for pharmaceutical applications, where glass packaging is commonly used (for example, for large ampoules). Inspections can also be made to check whether all blister packs are filled with tablets, for instance.

Finding the needle in a haystack A new field of application is the textiles industry, where clothing from the designer brand Ferragamo is inspected for pins. “Checking men’s suits is not always easy, as a suit can also have metal parts such as buttons. To find pins or needles, their shape has to be defined. The x-ray systems then detect this shape of any pins and sort out these items of clothing. The same goes for shoes to check that no nails are stuck in the heel and ensure all nails have been correctly inserted,” explains the Dylog manager.

Always surpassing themselves Dylog is constantly developing and refining its technology and software. “We are in constant contact with our customers and always aiming to perform better than

the day before,” says Pipino, summing up the company philosophy. The latest development at Dylog is in the field of fat analysis. “Fat analysis will become very important over the next few years,” believes Pipino. That’s because food producers will be required to declare the precise percentages of meat and fat in salami or mortadella products. “There will be laws to stipulate fat content. Thanks to our xray systems, we can already determine fat content with only minimal deviations.”

This year will also see the launch of a brand new inspection system. With three integrated COMET x-ray tubes, this system will be able to inspect a product si-

Dylog was originally founded as a software company. This means that the company is also able to develop the appropriate X-ray software.

“To find pins or needles, their shape has to be defined. The x-ray systems then detect this shape of any pins and sort out these items of clothing.”

Marco Pipino, Managing Director, Dylog Hi Tech Departement

multaneously from different sides, and do so more quickly and accurately than ever before. “This opens up new opportunities for us. It’s another major step forward for ourselves and our customers in the field of food inspection.”

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET INSIDE

Non-destructive testing

“More than the best image“ Time is money. Production processes are speeding up and becoming increasingly flexible. Customers require X-ray inspection and measuring systems which offer maximum precision and reliability, because every minute that the production line stands still costs money.

“YXLON‘s high-precision X-ray inspection systems are world class where the key requirements of speed, reliability and precision are concerned,“ explains Stefan Moll, President of X-Ray Systems YXLON, in the interview.

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COMET INSIDE

X-ray inspection of a wheel in the YXLON inline system.

Stefan Moll, your slogan is: “More than the best image”.

What do you mean by that?

There is no question that we are obliged to provide the best possible image. However, we want to do more than just meet our obligation. That is why our slogan is “More than the best image”. “More”, for instance, applies to our in-depth understanding of the process, solving problems in close cooperation with our customers and our service. “More” also refers to our easy-to-use systems and the fact that our customers´ individual specifications are taken into direct consideration.

YXLON is the world´s leading supplier of tire and wheel inspection systems, with a global market share of well over 50%.

What are the strengths of your systems?

“Our high-quality systems quickly pay off for customers.”

Stefan Moll, President of X-Ray Systems YXLON

Their reliability and, in particular, our inhouse software. We are world leaders when it comes to uptime. The corresponding figure is more than 98 percent. Uptime indicates how long a system is available or in operation without standing idle.

Why is uptime so important?

The high percentage of 98 percent means: the systems virtually never fail and operate practically 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is a hugely relevant factor for customers, because our wheel inspecX-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET INSIDE

tion systems are generally operated on an in-line basis. They are part of a large production line where every idle minute costs money. Automatic Defect Recognition (ADR) software is at the heart of all our systems. Thanks to this software, faulty parts are automatically detected and removed from the production line.

“We help our customers to make tech­ nological advances.”

Stefan Moll, President of X-Ray Systems YXLON With uptime of almost 100% we ensure that our customers´ productivity levels are high. Their production facilities operate at maximum speed and YXLON inspection systems keep up.

Would it be fair to say that ADR is a type of standard software used in inspection systems? How do customers benefit from YXLON´s ADR software?

Although ADR is used as standard in inline inspection systems, our YXLON ADR software is recognized as being a reference point as far as error identification

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X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

and correct separating out of faulty parts are concerned. However, it is also used as a benchmark in many other areas: due to the exceptionally high precision, not only are errors reliably identified and faulty parts separated out, but the number of pseudo rejects is reduced to a minimum.

Pseudo rejects constitute parts which are erroneously deemed to be faulty and separated out, which is also associated with unnecessary costs. Over and above this, our software continuously records statistical process data and provides feedback on the process, so that in case of any increased incidence of errors it is possible to immediately und purposefully intervene in the process and to implement improvement measures. Thanks to these process optimization opportunities, our high-quality systems pay off for customers.

Have customer requirements changed over the years?

Customers increasingly expect us to have a better understanding of their processes.

In other words, we are no longer only suppliers but also consultants and strategic technological partners. We respond to the request to be even faster, more stable and more accurate by providing innovative products and optimal solutions. We

COMET INSIDE

help our customers to make technological advances.

Customers of the auto industry act on a global scale. YXLON also has a worldwide presence with its many sites: how important is cross-site cooperation?

We have customers all over the world who act on an international scale – just like we do. With our eight sites and a network of representatives in over 50 countries, we are close to our customers and able to provide on-site assistance where necessary. We offer standardized and customized systems, as well as our expert service, training courses and consultations, in a uniform manner, which means for our business partners with an international presence that they receive the same quality and support at all of their sites. The casting processes are standardized in order to achieve the same quality everywhere. Through our local presence, we are able to directly support customers with these processes in any location and guarantee the quality of our products We talked about aluminum wheel inspections. Is YXLON also so well positioned where tire inspections are concerned?

This business segment has a similar structure to the wheel segment. Here, too, we act on a global scale – in close proximity to the customer. However, we can also offer a special feature where tire inspection is concerned: we have developed our own X-ray detector which we manufacture ourselves in Hamburg. So we have the entire “X-ray production chain” in our own hands, and all of our know-how relating to core components, such as tubes, detectors and software is concentrated in Hamburg.

“We are not only suppliers but also technologie partners.”

Stefan Moll, President of X-Ray Systems YXLON

What is cooperation between YXLON and COMET like?

It is about creating enthusiastic end customers. Our cooperation in this respect is extremely important and enriching. Together we can offer customers a customized product. It is also important to us that we receive reliable components, because we make no compromises where quality is concerned.

X-ray systems with ADR software. The tires are inspected with the utmost care.

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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COMET INSIDE

YXLON International GmbH As a direct successor to Philips, YXLON‘s roots go back to C.H.F. Müller, the manufacturer of the firstever X-ray tubes. YXLON International is now the world‘s leading supplier of X-ray systems for industrial applications. Thanks to its long-standing experience and innovative spirit, YXLON has earned the trust of the most renowned manufacturers in the auto, aerospace, electronics and other sectors of industry. YXLON International has been owned by COMET Holding AG since January 2007.

With its headquarters in Hamburg and sales and service points in Tokyo, Osaka, Hudson (Ohio), San Jose (California), Beijing, Shanghai, Hattingen and Heilbronn, as well as a network of representatives in over 50 countries, YXLON is always close to its customers wherever they are in the world.

After all, YXLON is not only a leading supplier in the tire and wheel inspection segment, but also in the field of CT systems. YXLON presented its new CT systems, the FF20 CT and FF35 CT, at this year´s “Control”, the International trade fair for quality assurance. What sort of response did the systems get?

Our expectations were greatly exceeded.

Customers were curious and wanted to order our new systems, the FF20 CT and FF35 CT, immediately. With these systems, we are breaking new ground in user-friendliness. At Control, we demonstrated fully functional prototypes so customers were able to discover the new possibilities on site.

What is so special about these new systems?

They have a touchscreen like a Smartphone with self-explanatory graphic symbols. They are based on a new innovative software platform which will be a dominant feature for the next few years.

In future, it will also be used in larger CT systems which are equipped with 600kV COMET tubes. With its first two small

products, YXLON is entering a microcosm where customers are interested in details down to the nanometer. These are not inline production applications, but rather ones relating to labs, research and development, such as material analysis and the high-precision 3D measurement of components.

YXLON systems are unmatched where quality is concerned. Does the same also apply to service?

Absolutely! Thanks to our worldwide service network, we are always in close proximity to our customers. In our ten service centers, we not only offer application services but also seminars and customer training courses. Training courses can also be held on customers´ premises on request. With the Service Pass, customers can order a selection of our services tailored to their specific requirements.

Moreover, customized services are also possible with us at any time. Only a company which is close to its customers can provide them with products that meet their particular needs.

Further information: www.yxlon.com

Even the smallest faults are registered and examined during the tire inspection.

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EXPERTISE

Analyzing artwork and cultural treasures

An in-depth look at Charlemagne What is the real age of the statue of Charlemagne in the Saint John Abbey in the Swiss village of Müstair?

A research project marking the 1,200th anniversary of the death of Charles the Great intends to find out the answer. In the process, the UNESCO-listed cultural treasure that stands on a pillar next to the central apse of the abbey will be analyzed in detail.

The statue of Charlemagne (AD 747– 814) is a particularly important example of international art history. “It is considered the oldest statue of the emperor Charlemagne,” explains Jürg Goll of the Swiss archaeological association in Graubünden. While the statue was originally made between the 8th and 12th century, it has not been possible to date it more precisely up to now. “We need to be able to determine the age of the statue more precisely in order to classi-

fy its position in art history,” continues Goll. “This research project is an important Swiss contribution to international art history.”

COMET expertise in demand There is a special reason why the statue is being analyzed right now: 2014 marks the 1,200th anniversary of Charlemagne’s death, and has been dubbed the ‘Charlemagne Year’. The emperor was a patron of the Benedictine monasX-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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EXPERTISE

Charlemagne (AD 747–814) – a pioneering strategist The emperor Charlemagne was surely the most important ruler of the Middle Ages, with his influence eventually culminating in the restoration of the Roman Empire. A hardened warrior, he also introduced reforms of church and education. As King of the Franks, he conquered Saxony and the Lombard kingdom in northern Italy.

‘Charles the Great’ introduced not only military structures to his empire, but also political structures with binding laws. The church was also called on to promote education and establish schools.

Canonized in 1165, Charlemagne also left an indelible mark on Switzerland. Among others, he was reputedly responsible for founding the Saint John Abbey in Müstair. According to legend, Charlemagne was caught in a snowstorm on the Umbrail Pass on his return from being crowned King of the Lombards in 774, and vowed to establish a monastery to mark his salvation from the storm. The result was the construction of the Saint John Abbey in Müstair from 775 onwards.

tery in Müstair, which was confirmed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The Swiss National Science Foundation is financing this complex project to mark the anniversary, with analysis of the historic statue taking place over two years between 2013 and 2015. In order to be able to determine the statue’s composition and resolve questions on its creation, alterations, function and age, researchers from the Institute of Art History at the University of Bern and the Swiss archaeological association in Graubün-

“We need to see as close to the core as possible in order to classify the statue accurately.”

Jürg Goll, archaeological association in Graubünden

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X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

den first contacted the x-ray experts at COMET in Flamatt. COMET’s specialist expertise, technological know-how and comprehensive customer support were all essential to the strategic preparation of the project. This helped to define the correct course of action for the project and launch the initiative quickly.

Since the statue can only be subjected to non-destructive testing for conservation reasons, specialists from YXLON International and network partners at the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) in Berlin were also consulted.

No touching!

There are many reasons why analysis of the statue is such a long and complex affair. For one thing the artwork is a palimpsest, which means it has been repeatedly revised, resculpted and mod-

EXPERTISE

Charlemagne was a patron of the Benedictine monastery in Müstair, which was confirmed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

ified over the years. “The goal is to analyze the structure and composition of the statue right into its core. Only then will it be possible to differentiate between parts that may have been made at different times. In so doing, we also have to identify the seams between the different layers,” says Jürg Goll. Moreover, it is not possible simply to remove this historically significant work and send it to the laboratory for analysis as the statue may not be moved from its position. “We know, for example, that there are some interesting findings on the back as we were able to take pictures in a hollow cavity behind the statue using a smartphone. However, the bigger picture is still missing as we cannot access the area properly.”

The x-ray experts from COMET take up the theme: “If it were possible to remove the statue from its base, an x-ray

analysis using computer tomography would give the clearest results.” However, the piece is around 800 years old and so valuable that it cannot be moved or even touched during the analysis.

First findings from inside the statue To depict the possible structures inside the statue, the material inspection was carried out using a 7.5 MeV betatron xray tube assembly and an imaging plate system as detector. Initial measurements taken by the BAM have shown that the plaster statue comprises at least two parts. They were able to determine that a stone base plate had been installed in the area around the frock coat. The plate is invisible to the naked eye and supports the entire weight of the torso.

Further inspections are continuing. The final results, which are expected in 2015, will be made available as part of a detailed publication.

Analyzing artwork and cultural treasures with two strong partners: COMET and YXLON X-ray inspections are ideal for analyzing rare cultural treasures using imaging processes. The products and innovative solutions from COMET and YXLON complement each other perfectly in this field.

COMET delivers the heart of the system – the x-ray tubes with matching generator for inspections in the low-energy and high-energy sectors.

Meanwhile YXLON offers innovative CT system solutions with simple and intuitive operating control systems. COMET is a partner in this field of application and advises customers in advance of a planned project. Reputable museums including the Tokyo Museum, New York’s Metropolitan Museum and various institutes and museums across Europe and Switzerland rely on COMET’s expertise.

Further information: www.comet-xray.com www.yxlon.com www.muestair.ch www.ikg.unibe.ch/content/ forschung/forschungsprojekte/kloster_muestair/ index_ger.html

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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PRODUCTS & NEWS

The SIQ certification mark and CE conformity mark are visible to customers on the corresponding products and documents.

CE certification/type approval inspection of x-ray tubes

Certified: Industrial X-Ray for the highest degree of product safety COMET x-ray tubes are subject to regular testing at globally recognized testing laboratories, thus ensuring that our customers can rely on certified product safety and dependability.

“We offer our customers clear added value here, as the type approval gives them an additional degree of safety while at the same time consolidating our own in-house quality assurance.”

Marcel Dysli, Quality Assurance & Testing at COMET IXT

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X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

The “CB Scheme” testing procedure is a globally recognized process designed and monitored by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) that is aimed at simplifying the international certification process. “52 countries around the world have adopted this scheme. Furthermore, there are around 65 IEC-recognized National Certification Bodies (NCBs) worldwide that are permitted to conduct such tests in a total of 276 accredited CB Testing Labo-

PRODUCTS & NEWS

ratories (CBTLs),” explains Marcel Dysli.

The National Certification Body SIQ was responsible for testing the COMET x-ray tubes.

Over a period of four months, a large team made up of staff from R&D, Production, Quality and Support successfully completed the complex certification according to the standard IEC/EN 61010-1 and the “CB Scheme” testing procedure at the COMET Industrial X-Ray facility in Flamatt, Switzerland. First and foremost, this important approval guarantees the electrical safety of the x-ray tubes. “Among other aspects, this means that customers are safe from electric shocks, that nothing overheats and that nothing can burn,” explains Marcel Dysli, Head of Quality Assurance & Testing at COMET IXT.

In addition to the “CB Scheme” procedure, COMET has also obtained an internationally recognized type approval.

“This means that the National Certification Body SIQ audits our production and the corresponding products at regular intervals. This ensures that a specific product always complies with the same guidelines and standards as the product that was originally tested and approved. We therefore offer our customers clear added value here, as the type approval offers them an additional degree of safety while at the same time consolidating our own in-house quality assurance,” adds Dysli.

GLOBAL X-RAY-EVENTS 2014/15 27 – 30 October 2014 ASNT, Annual Conference 2014 Charleston/ South Carolina, USA 12 – 14 November 2014 6th international symposium on NDT in in aerospace Madrid, Spain 17 – 19 February 2015 NDT Russia – 14th International exhibition for non-destructive testing and technical diagnostics Moscow, Russia

www.iecee.org www.siq.si

8 – 15 March 2015 SPIE Smart Structures/ Non-Destructive Evaluation 2015 San Diego, USA

Show us your images!

16 – 19 March 2015 ASNT 24th Research Symposium 2015 Garden Grove, CA, USA 25 – 26 March 2015 2nd Intern. Sympos. on Optical Coherence Tomography for NDT Dresden , Germany “Late Summer Harvest” by Paul Ellis, NDT Sales Manager, COMET Technologies USA X-ray images are an integral part of our everyday work and continue to fascinate us, so we are always pleased to receive your correspondence. Send us your best x-ray images, whether these are imaginative shots of everyday objects or items from your workplace. The best entries will be published in upcoming editions of ‘X-Ray insight’.

Send your images (300 dpi/max. 5 MB) and your personal details (name and company), with a description of the subject and how the image was taken, to magazine@comet-xray.com.

4 – 6 May 2015 NDT of Composites II Seattle, WA, USA 27 – 29 May 2015 6th International Conference on Emerging Technologies in NDT Brussels, Belgium 1 June 2015 NDT Canada 2015 Edmonton, Canada

X-RAY insight 2 | 2014

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XRS-600 for highest penetration

COMET is pleased to offer all the necessary components for a customized X-Ray Source: The new XRS-600 module contains a COMET MXR-601HP/11 tube, XRP generator 600 kV, HV-cables, cooler and interconnections designed for easy integration that will optimized system performance. The XRS-600 module is factory pre-tested for hassle free installation and operation.

Stepless control of kV and mA Easy to install, easy to operate Suitable for factory floor application Arc resistant design increases efficiency Higher resolution by using HP-Technology Higher penetration, shorter exposure times Arc suppression minimizes number of restarts

COMET – Marketleader with over 65 years of experience

SERVICE CENTER EUROPA & ROW COMET Switzerland Herrengasse 10 3175 Flamatt Switzerland

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