Neutron radiography to simplify Army munitions inspection
NewsJanuary 31, 2020
FITCHBURG, Wis. Nuclear technology company Phoenix, LLC. won a $10 million ceiling indefinite quantity, indefinite delivery contract with the U.S. Army to demonstrate improved neutron radiography and x-ray techniques applicable to the quality assurance of ammunition, armaments, or components of weapons and defense systems.
This contract includes the development of software packages, which will allow Army radiographers to more easily identify defects and interpret part or assembly quality.
Phoenix will also develop and run training programs which will introduce Army personnel to the fundamentals and practical applications of neutron radiography. Phoenix will work with Army officials and American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) committees to develop standards for computed neutron radiography.
Neutron radiography, or N-ray, is an industrial non-destructive testing technique that can reveal flaws and defects in objects such as munitions, missile payloads, ejection mechanisms, and other critical components with high costs of failure without dismantling or damaging them, according to the company.
