ASTM E746-02

This test method provides a relative means for determining the image quality performance response for a given film chemistry system used for industrial radiography. It is only to be used for relative comparisons. It is not intended to qualify performance of a film chemistry system to detect specific discontinuities in a product or specimen undergoing X-ray examination.

Film chemistry image quality performance is described by EPS, Equivalent Penetrameter Sensitivity. For a detailed description of EPS, see Practice E 1025.

It is not the intent of this standard to specify performance requirements of the film chemistry system. Test Method E 1815 can be used to specify performance requirements at 200 kV. This test method was used, and can be used to corroborate Test Method E 1815 results at 200 kV. This test method is a subjective means of determining film chemistry image quality performance, whereas Test Method E 1815 uses instrument measurements to calculate performance and is therefore an objective test method.

This test method could be used to evaluate relative film chemistry system image quality performance at Net Density 4.0 where some instrument measurements are currently not feasible.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the relative image quality response of industrial radiographic film when exposed to 200-kV X rays. The evaluation of the film is based upon the threshold visibility of penetrameter holes in a special image quality indicator (IQI). Results for a given film type may vary, depending upon the particular development system used. It is, therefore, necessary to state the development system and geometric conditions used in this determination. By holding the technique parameters (except exposure time) and processing parameters constant, the image quality response of radiographic film may be evaluated on a relative basis.

1.2 Alternately this test method may be used for determination of the relative image quality response of a radiographic film when exposed to 200-KV X-rays as any other single component of the system (such as screens) is varied.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.