What is the purpose of radiography testing?

Radiography testing is a non-destructive testing method primarily utilized to examine the internal structure of materials, particularly metals, for deficiencies. This method employs X-rays or gamma rays to penetrate the material being tested and produce images that reveal internal flaws such as cracks, voids, inclusions, or other structural inconsistencies that may not be visible on the surface.

By providing detailed insights into the internal condition of a component, radiography testing plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and reliability of structural components, making it essential in bridge safety inspections and evaluations. This capability is valuable in identifying potential failure points that could compromise the safety and performance of infrastructure. Thus, the focus on internal structure evaluation underscores the importance of this testing method in maintaining the safety standards required for in-service bridges.