User's Handbook
AD-4991

X-RAY INSPECTION SYSTEM

X-ray Inspection SystemAD4991 Series
Tables of contents
1.

2.

3.

What is the X-ray inspection system? .................................................................................. 3
1.1.

What are X-rays?............................................................................................................ 3

1.2.

Main properties of X-rays .............................................................................................. 4

1.2.1.

Fluorescence reaction .............................................................................................. 5

1.2.2.

Penetrating action ................................................................................................... 5

1.3.

What is the radiation quality of X-rays? ....................................................................... 7

1.4.

Irradiation of X-rays ...................................................................................................... 7

1.5.

Main applicable areas .................................................................................................... 8

1.6.

Overall view of theAD4991 series.................................................................................. 9

1.7.

Outline of X-ray inspection ............................................................................................ 9

1.8.

Contaminant Inspection .............................................................................................. 11

1.9.

Masking Function ........................................................................................................ 11

1.9.1.

Brightness Mask ................................................................................................... 12

1.9.2.

Edge Mask ............................................................................................................. 12

1.9.3.

Pattern Mask ......................................................................................................... 12

1.10.

Shape Inspection....................................................................................................... 13

1.11.

Count Inspection....................................................................................................... 14

1.12.

Weight Estimation .................................................................................................... 14

Procedure to set up contamination inspection ................................................................... 15
2.1.

What is the optimal fail limit? ..................................................................................... 15

2.2.

Set-up procedure of fail limit ....................................................................................... 16

Frequently Asked Questions .............................................................................................. 18
3.1.

3.1.1.

What are the key features of theAD4991 series? ................................................. 18

3.1.2.

Is it possible to set the fail limit automatically? .................................................. 19

3.1.3.

What is the level of X-ray leakage?....................................................................... 19

3.1.4.

What is the shield curtain made of? ..................................................................... 19

3.1.5.

Is there a designated angle to set the product? .................................................... 20

3.2.

1

Key features of theAD4991 series ............................................................................... 18

Detection performance ................................................................................................. 20

3.2.1.

Is it possible to detect contaminants other than metal? ...................................... 20

3.2.2.

Is it possible to detect hair or insects? .................................................................. 20

3.2.3.

Is it possible to detect hard bones and cartilages in meats? ................................ 20

X-ray Inspection SystemAD4991 Series
3.2.4.

Is it possible to detect the contaminants in aluminized film packages? .............. 20

3.2.5.

Is it possible to detect the contaminants in aluminum foil packages? ................ 20

3.2.6.

Is it possible to detect the contaminants in canned items? .................................. 21

3.2.7.

Is it possible to detect the contaminants in a product which contains an oxygen

absorber in the package? .................................................................................................... 21
3.3.

Connection with external devices ................................................................................ 21

3.3.1.

Is it possible to connect a rejector? ....................................................................... 21

3.3.2.

Does theAD4991 have a signal tower?.................................................................. 21

3.3.3.

Is it possible to customize the lighting setting of the signal tower? .................... 21

3.3.4.

Is it possible to connect the PLC? ......................................................................... 21

3.4.

Model selection ............................................................................................................. 21

3.4.1.

What are the factors to consider when selecting a model? ................................... 21

3.4.2.

What is the detectable size? .................................................................................. 22

3.4.3.

What is the maximum conveying capacity? .......................................................... 22

3.5.

Installation ................................................................................................................... 22

3.5.1.

Is there any legal requirement to notify of device installation?........................... 22

3.5.2.

Is it necessary to periodically inspect the X-ray leakage?.................................... 23

3.5.3.

Do we need to hold a license to operate the device and measure X-ray leakage? 23

3.5.4.

Are there any seminars or trainings on how to safely use X-ray devices?........... 24

3.5.5.

Is grounding necessary? ........................................................................................ 24

3.6.

Maintenance ................................................................................................................. 24

3.6.1.

Are there any consumable parts?.......................................................................... 24

3.6.2.

How long is the lifespan of the X-ray source? ....................................................... 24

3.6.3.

What kind of tool is needed for belt adjustment? ................................................. 24

3.6.4.

What kind of tool is needed to adjust the pass line? ............................................ 24

3.7.

Test piece...................................................................................................................... 25

3.7.1.

2

Are there any standard test pieces?...................................................................... 25

X-ray Inspection SystemAD4991 Series

1. What is the X-ray inspection system?
The X-ray inspection system is an inspection device with which
we can determine the presence / absence of contaminants,
appropriateness of the products’ shape, quantity, assumed
weight and the position of the products.
1.1. What are X-rays?
X-rays are electromagnetic waves with specific wavelengths discovered by a German scientist Wilhelm
Conrad Roentgen. They are named after the unknown quantity X in mathematics. X-rays are radioactive
rays which have a very small wavelength. There are several types of radioactive rays including alpharays, beta rays, gamma rays, neutron rays and X-rays. Gamma rays and X-rays are electromagnetic
waves.
Name

Wavelength

1km
100m
10m
1m
100mm
10mm

Use

Maritime communication
Low frequency
Medium frequency
AM radioHigh frequency
FM radio (analog TV broadcasting)
Very high frequency
Ultra-high frequency Radio Terrestrial digital broadcasting
Microwave
Millimeter wave
Sub-millimeter wave

Wave Satellite broadcasting, microwave oven, mobile phone

Radar
Radio astronomy

1mm
10μm
1μm
700nm
360nm
100nm
10nm

Far infrared
Intermediate
infrared
Near infrared
Red
Green
Blue violet
Near ultraviolet
Vacuum UV

X-rays10pm Gamma rays

3

Infrared Heater
Thermography
rays

Infrared ray remote control

VisiblelightsUltraviolet
lightsRadioactive
rays

Sunburn, disinfection,
Semiconductor manufacturing
X-ray inspection system, baggage inspection,
Roentgen photographX-ray Inspection SystemAD4991 Series
Voltage (several ten kV to several hundred kV)

X-rays are produced when thermal electrons
emitted by the cathode filament of an X-ray tube
hit the anode target at high speed accelerated bya high voltage applied between the cathode andanode. The voltage is approximately 20 to several
hundred kV (referred to as the “tube voltage” inthe AD4991 series).
An X-ray tube is composed of the elements
illustrated in Fig. 1. The efficiency of X-ray
production is quite low. Approx. 0.5 to a few percent of energy is converted into X-radiation,
whereas most of the energy is converted into heat.

X-ray tube
High speed electrons
Anode
CathodeGlass envelope
X-ray beam
Fig.1 X-ray
Generation
Tube voltage 100kV

The X-rays emitted by the X-ray tube show the
distribution of the wavelength and the radiation
intensity as shown in Fig. 2. The X-ray tube emits
X-rays with many different wavelengths. Whenthe tube voltage increases, total radiation

Strengthof X-rayintensifies while covering a shorter wavelength.

Fig. 2 X-ray Strength

Wave length (nm)Emitted by the X-ray Tube

1.2. Main properties of X-rays
1)

When X-rays hit a crystal, they diffract and interfere.
Applied product: X-ray diffraction equipment

2)

Chemical properties: X-rays can sensitize photographic film.
Applied product: Roentgen photograph, film badge

3)

Fluorescence reaction: When X-rays hit a fluorescent substance, it emits fluorescence.
Applied product: Scintillator

4)

Physiological effects: X-rays can cause damage to cells, which is also called radiation exposure.

5)

Penetrating action: X-rays pass through the material.
Applied product: Thickness gage, density meter, nondestructive tests

6)

Ionizing action: X-rays ionize the gas, which thereby becomes conductive.
Applied product: Dosimeter

An X-ray inspection system inspects the presence or absence of contaminants in the product and theappropriateness of the shape by converting the X-ray penetration amount into a two-dimensional image,utilizing the above 3) fluorescence and 5) penetrating actions.

4

X-ray Inspection SystemAD4991 Series
1.2.1. Fluorescence reaction
When ultraviolet rays or radiation hits a special
substance, the substance emits light that it
absorbed. This is called the fluorescence reaction.
The light is called fluorescence, and thesubstance which emits fluorescence is called afluorescent substance. This mechanism isapplied to the fluorescent lamps, which are quite
familiar to most people.
In the AD4991 series, a scintillator (rare earth
fluorescent substance such as Gd2O2S:Tb) ismounted as a fluorescent substance on the line
sensor unit embedded under the conveyer belt.
The fluorescence generated when the X-ray hits
the scintillator is converted to an electric quantity
by the photodiode and determines the brightnessof the X-ray image.
When the intensity of the X-rays that hits the
scintillator is high, the amount of electricity also
increases and the X-ray image becomes brighter.

Fluorescent substance(inside the glass)
Mercury atom

Electron

UV radiation

Mechanism of fluorescent lamp
When a voltage is applied to the two electrodes, electrons flow
between the electrodes. The moving electrons collide withmercury atoms in the tube, which generate the UV radiation.
The UV is converted into visible light by the fluorescent
substances.

Fig.3 Mechanism of Fluorescent Lamp

Prepared by A&D based on the information provided by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology(http://www.mext.go.jp/b_menu/shuppan/sonota/attach/1314239.htm)

1.2.2. Penetrating action
Penetrating action refers to the action of X-rays passing through the material. Passing through thematerial is called penetration.
In theAD4991 series, X-ray intensity before and after penetrating the material is represented by below
formula:I= e−μdI0
μ ≅ kZ 3 λ3 ρ

I：X-ray intensity after penetration
k：Constant
I0 ：X-ray intensity before penetration Z：Atomic number of the substancee：Napierian number（= 2.718 ...） λ：Wavelength of X-ray
μ：Attenuation coefficientρ：Density of the substance(Since approximate values are included, the above formula does not always apply.)

5

The 1st formula indicates that the thicker the substance through which X-rays are penetrated, theweaker the intensity of the X-rays will be after penetration.
The 2nd formula indicates that the bigger the atomic number or the higher the density of the substancethrough which X-rays are penetrated, the weaker the intensity of X-rays will be after penetration.

Intensity of X-rays
before penetration
Inspection object

Thin

Thick

Intensity of X-rays

X-rays become
weaker after
penetrating the thicker
substance when thesubstances are madewith the samematerials.

after penetration

Intensity of X-rays
before penetration
Inspection object

Atomic #: small

Atomic #: big

Intensity of X-rays

X-rays become weakerafter penetrating thesubstance of bigger
atomic number when
the thickness of thesubstances are thesame.

after penetration

Intensity of X-rays
before penetration
Inspection object

Intensity of X-rays

Low density

High density

X-rays become
weaker after
penetrating thesubstance of higher
density when thesubstances are
made with thesame materials.

after penetration
Fig. 4 Image of X-ray Penetration of Different Substances to be Inspected6

1.3. What is the radiation quality of X-rays?
The radiation quality of X-rays corresponds to the colors such as blue and red of the visible rays.
Although the colors of visible rays can be detected by human eyes, X-rays are invisible; therefore, theradiation quality is defined by the penetrating power.
As a qualitative expression, X-rays with higher penetrating energy are called hard X-rays, and X-rays
with less penetrating energy are called soft X-rays. Hard X-rays have wavelengths of approx. 0.01nm
to 0.06nm, and soft X-rays have wavelengths of approx. 0.6nm to 12nm.
Food and medical inspection systems including the AD4991 series mainly use hard X-rays whose
wavelengths are approx. 0.01nm or more with the tube voltage of 20kV to 100kV.

Radiation quality

Hard

Soft

X-ray intensities
are the same
beforepenetration…

Inspection object
Soft X-rays
become weakerafter penetration.
Fig. 5 Image of X-ray Penetration of Different Radiation Quality

1.4. Irradiation of X-rays
When X-rays are irradiated to the inspection object through the glass tube, the glass decreases the Xrays intensity.
In order to irradiate X-rays efficiently, there are X-ray tubes equipped with thin beryllium plates attachedto the glass tubes, which provide 6 to 10 times higher permeability of X-rays. However, they cost higher
when compared to glass-only X-ray tubes.
Among the AD4991 series, AD4991-2510 has glass-only X-ray tubes, and theAD4991-2515/AD49913530 systems have X-ray tubes with beryllium plates.

X-ray intensity

Glass

Fig. 6 Image of X-rays Irradiated from X-ray Tube

7

Beryllium

1.5. Main applicable areas
In general, X-ray inspection systems are broadly used for baggage inspection in airports, examinations
in hospitals, and nondestructive testing to check inside materials.
X-ray inspection systems, such as theAD4991 series, are used for contaminant and shape inspectionin the product lines for the below industries:⚫

Food, beverage, confectionary⚫

Agricultural products, livestock products, fishery products⚫

Pharmaceutical products⚫

Clothing

⚫

Toys

⚫

Industrial products such as resin molded products

To check for metal contaminants, metal detectors are widely used. The X-ray inspection system candetect nonmetal contaminants as well as contaminants in aluminum packages, which cannot be
detected by a metal detector.
You may think that the X-ray inspection system can detect any type of contaminants? However, it is nottrue. The X-ray inspection system and the metal detector work on the different operational principles,
therefore, you should choose the correct one for your application. Alternatively, you may use both by
first obtaining a good understanding of the inspection procedures required.
Difficult

X-ray
Inspection
SystemDetectable by Metal
Detector
Metal particles (rust, etc.)

Matters thatfloat in watercannot be
detected.

Detectable by the X-ray
Inspection System

Resin

Hair, Paper,Cloth
Vinyl, InsectsCartilage, Wood chips

Hard Bone

Aluminum

Stone, Glass

Iron, SUS

Iron, SUS (Wire)Iron, SUS (In Aluminum Foil )Easy

Metal Detector
Fig. 7 Inspectable Range of X-ray Inspection System

8

Difficult1.6. Overall view of theAD4991 series
Signal tower

Main power switch

Touch panel
LCD

Emergency stop
buttonUSB terminal

Emergency stop
buttonShield curtain

Key-switch
Conveyor belt

Fig. 8 AD4991-2515

1.7. Outline of X-ray inspection
Step 1: Shooting of X-ray images

Incoming products

Shipped products
Products under test
Note:
The front cover is removed in thisimage diagram to explain the imageof the test. In reality, the test cannot
be performed without the front cover.
Fig. 9 Image of Inspection

1)

Products are conveyed into the inspection room through the inspection room opening.

2)

X-ray images are taken in the inspection room.

3)

Preset mask processing, inspection, and judgment are performed on X-ray images.

4)

Products are transported out of the inspection room through the inspection room opening on theside opposite to 1).

9Step 2: Analysis of X-ray image taken

X-ray irradiation port

X-ray
Product under test
Contaminant
Tester belt

Line sensor

Radiography

BrightDark
Fig. 10 Image of X-ray Image Shooting

1)

When the product passes between the X-ray irradiation port and the line sensor, X-rays passthrough the product and reach the line sensor. The x-rays are weakened when they pass throughthe product, and the x-ray image becomes darker when compared to the image taken when there
is nothing on the conveyer belt.

2)

When contaminants with higher density than the product are present in the product, the X-ray image
becomes darker when compared to the image of the product without the contaminant. The X-ray
image similarly becomes darker when contaminants are adhered to the product.

3)

The X-ray image is assessed in quality for each inspection purpose, such as contaminant inspection
and shape inspection.

101.8. Contaminant Inspection
TheAD4991 series has 5 kinds of contaminant inspection methods.
Inspection
methodSmallcontaminantMediumcontaminantLarge
contaminant

Brightness
contaminantWirecontaminant

Function
Designed to detect small-sized contaminants.
Estimated size
- AD4991-2510:φ4mm or less- AD4991-2515:φ2mm or less
Designed to detect medium-sized contaminants.
Estimated size
- AD4991-2510:φ8mm or less- AD4991-2515:φ4mm or less
Designed to detect large-sized contaminants.
Estimated size
- AD4991-2510:φ16mm or less- AD4991-2515:φ8mm or less
Designed to detect X-ray images that are darker than the set value.
Use this method when the contaminant cannot be detected with thelarge contaminant inspection method due to its size being greater thanlisted above.
Designed to detect wire contaminants.
Use this method when the contaminant cannot be detected with thelarge contaminant inspection method due to it being too long.

1.9. Masking Function
TheAD4991 series has a masking function that excludes a specified area from the contaminant
inspection in order to avoid false detection. The following mask functions are available:
Mask Area
Dirt or water droplets surrounding the product
Edges of the productSpecific regions of a product (example: plastic clips
attached to sausages.)

Masking Function
Brightness Mask
Edge Mask
Pattern Mask

Note:
When using a masking function, if there are unwanted contaminants in an excluded area, theproduct may still be judged as a product that does not contain contaminants. Please make surethat any masked area will not contain unwanted contaminants before using this function.

111.9.1. Brightness Mask
You can set the area where the brightness of the X-ray image is either equivalent or more than the set
value that should be excluded during the contaminant inspection.

X-ray image
Brightness
Product

mask

Area out ofcontaminant
inspection

Dirt or water
droplets
False detection
Fig. 11 Brightness Mask

1.9.2. Edge Mask
You can set the boundary line of the area where the brightness of the X-ray image is either equivalentor more than the set value that should be excluded during the contaminant inspection.

X-ray image
Product

Edge mask

Area out ofcontaminant
inspection

False detection

Fig. 12 Edge Mask

1.9.3. Pattern Mask
By registering a certain area of the product, you can set an area to be out of contaminant inspection
zone by placing a shape over the X-ray image.

X-ray image
Product

Pattern mask

False detection

12

Area out ofcontaminant
inspection

Fig.13 Pattern Mask

1.10.

Shape Inspection

The AD4991 series has 5 kinds of shape inspection methods. Please select an appropriate method in
accordance with the shape of the contaminant to be detected.
MethodArea
Perimeter
Brightness
peak
Brightness
variation
Crack

Function
Check that the product area is within the set value range.
Check that the perimeter of the product is within the set value range.
Check that the brightness of the X-ray image of the product is within the set value
range.
Check that the variation in the brightness of the X-ray image of the product is within
the set value range.
Detect cracks within the product.

X-ray image

Product

Area OK

Area NG

Perimeter OK

Perimeter NG
As the number of stacked
products decreases, the Xray image becomesbrighter.

Product

Brightness peak OK

Brightness peak NG

Fig. 14 Shape Inspection (1/2)

13

If the product surface isuneven, the brightness
variation of the X-ray
image becomes larger.

Product

Brightness variation OK

Brightness variation NG

Crack OK

Crack NG

Fig. 15 Shape Inspection (2/2)

1.11.

Count Inspection

You can inspect if the quantity of the product is within a set value range.
X-ray image
Product

Count OKCount NG

Fig. 16 Count Inspection

1.12.

Weight Estimation

The AD4991 series has a function to estimate the weight of the product based on the brightness of the
X-ray image. You can inspect that the estimated weight is within the set value range, both for the total
package and individual product. The estimated weight can be displayed on the screen.
X-ray image
Product

Weight OK
14

Fig. 17 Weight Estimation

Weight NG

2. Procedure to set up contamination inspection
This chapter provides examples for the procedure to set up the fail limit for contamination inspection.
We conduct the sample tests, following the same procedure to confirm the optimal fail limit andinspection performance. The fail limit can be set for each inspection method.
Note:
In the AD4991 series, the fail limits can be stored up to 1,000 per product.

2.1. What is the optimal fail limit?
The optimal fail limit means the set values with which neither “false detection” nor “inspection failure”
occurs. “False detection” means the rejection of good products and “inspection failure” means the failure
in detecting contaminant.
The below chart illustrates the relationship between the fail limit, false detection, and inspection failure.

Contaminant detection sensitivity
High

Low

False

NormalInspection

detection

detection

failureOptimal fail limit

Low

Fail limit

High

Fig.18 Relationship between the fail limit, false detection, and inspection failure・

If the fail limit is set too low, the possibility of false detection will increase.

・

If the fail limit is set too high, the possibility of inspection failure will increase.

The optimal fail limit, the range indicated by the red arrow, can be obtained by searching the points
where neither false detection nor inspection failure occur, and fine-tuning the fail limit value.
However, depending on the shape and/or density of the product or the shape, density and/or position of
the contaminant, there may be cases where the optimal fail limit cannot be obtained. In such cases there
is no point where both false detection and inspection failure do not occur. In such situations, it isconsidered that required inspection exceeds the limit of detection capabilities.

15

2.2. Set-up procedure of fail limit1)

By using Auto-set, the fail limit can be automatically set.

Contaminant detection sensitivity
High

Low

NormalInspection

detection

failureFalse
detection

Fail limit

Low

Fail limit automatically set

High

Fig. 19 Image of the fail limit automatically set

Note:
The fail limit set by Auto-set is not always at the position shown in Fig. 19. If the margin is
automatically set where inspection failure often occurs, it can be fine-tuned with the following
procedure.
2)

Inspect a good product several times and confirm that there is no false detection.

3)

If there is a false detection, set the fail limit higher and repeat the procedure 2).

Contaminant detection sensitivity
High

Low

Low

False

NormalInspection

detection

detection

failureFail limit

Fail limit after fine-tuning

High

Fig. 20 Image of the fail limit fine-tuning when false detection occurs

16

4)

Inspect a contaminated product several times and confirm that there is no inspection failure.
Use a contaminated test piece or a product with real contaminants for the above test.

5)

If there is inspection failure, set the fail limit lower and repeat procedure 4). If the fail limit is set
lower than the fail limit defined in 2), repeat the procedure from 2).

Contaminant detection sensitivity
High

Low

False

NormalInspection

detection

detection

failureLow

Fail limit

Fail limit after fine-tuning

High

Fig. 21 Image of the fail limit fine-tuning when detection leakage occurs

Note：
The attached position of contaminants sometimes negatively affects the inspection performance.
When you use the contaminated test piece or a product with real contaminants, it isrecommended to try every position at which contaminants will possibly be present.
Product
Positions where performance decline is likely to be caused
・Position contacted with the edge of the product・Position appeared most darkly
・Position overlapped with the edge of the productFig.22

6)

Contaminants’ positions which performance decline is likely to be caused

If there is no false detection and inspection failure, it is judged that an optimal fail limit is set. If either
false detection or inspection failure still occurs, it is considered that required inspection exceeds thelimit of detection capabilities.

Note:
The optimal fail limit is subject to change depending on the consecutive inspection conditionsor the environment of the production line.

173. Frequently Asked Questions
3.1. Key features of the AD4991 series
3.1.1. What are the key features of the AD4991 series?
1)

Cost effectiveness
AD4991 offers excellent cost effectiveness while offering high accuracy and reliability.

2)

Compact design
The minimum size of 488 mm(AD4991-2510) / 532mm(AD4991-2515) width, which are the mostcompact system on the market, makes integration painless.

3)

Easy and intuitive operation
AD4991 is designed to allow for easy and intuitive operation, just like A&D’S highly recognizedweight checkers and metal detectors.

4)

Test reports can be output and screenshots stored in USB memoryA) To check the inspection performance, the results are output to USB memory up to 10 times fora product in an AD4991 original reporting format. The report includes test conditions, registeredpre-settings for the product, test piece image and X-ray image (patent pending).
B) The screenshot can be saved in USB memory only by pressing a button, making it easy to
prepare reports.

5)

Up to 1,000 products can be stored with image data
For convenience, the products can be stored in 10 groups with 100 products in each group.

6)

Various inspection functions
Contaminant inspection, shape inspection, piece counting, mass estimation and positioning
inspection can be conducted in combination.

7)

The belt can be attached/detached with single operation, which allows for easy maintenance andcleaning (patent pending).

8)

The inspection room complies with IP66
Even wet products can be inspected.

9)

Safety designA) The shield curtains and the safety sensors are equipped as standard.
B) When an error occurs, inspection automatically stops and the error location is visually displayed.
C) The emergency stop buttons and signal tower are equipped as standard.
Emergency stop can be operated and X-ray irradiation can be confirmed from completelyaround the device (compliant with FDA standards).

18

3.1.2. Is it possible to set the fail limit automatically?
Yes.
AD4991 has an Auto-set function with which the fail limit is automatically set by inspecting a good
product 1 to 10 times. You can manually change the automatically-set fail limits after this function isenabled.
Depending on the product, the automatically-set fail limits sometimes induce a lot of false detection or
inspection failure. In such cases, you should adjust the fail limit manually.

3.1.3. What is the level of X-ray leakage?
The leakage is 1 μSv/h (0.001 mSv/h) or less.
If an operator works near the AD4991 series for 8 hours a day and 5 days a week, the exposure level
would be 0.52 mSv per three months or 2.08 mSv annually.
In Japan, the exposure dose limits to radiation workers are specified in Article 4 and 6 of the Ordinanceon the Prevention of Ionizing Radiation Hazards. Please refer to the provisions for details.
Radiation dose examples:
Air radiation doseTokyo
Top of Mt. Fuji
Kerala area, India
Flight between Tokyo and New York
Inside International Space Station

Exposure dose (approx. value)
0.03～0.08 μSv/h
0.1 μSv/h
1.05 μSv/h
7.4 μSv/h (177 μSv/ 1 round trip)
20～40 μSv/h

Medical examination
Chest radiography
Upper GI series (barium swallow)
CT
PET
Mammography
Dental X-rays

Exposure dose (approx. value)
0.06 mSv
3 mSv
5～30 mSv
2～10 mSv
2 mSv
0.002～0.01 mSv

3.1.4. What is the shield curtain made of?
The material of the shield curtain is made of tungsten sheet.
The sheet is made of a thermoplastic elastomer filled with tungsten powder and laminated with resin on
its surface. It is more harmless and environmental friendly than a lead sheet.

193.1.5. Is there a designated angle to set the product?
There is no specific angle to convey the products except when the pattern mask or positioning inspection
functions are being used.
When using the pattern mask function, the products should be conveyed at the same angle as what was
set in order to put the mask in a correct position.
For a positioning inspection, the products should be conveyed so that their longitudinal direction isprecisely in parallel with the conveying direction to avoid detection errors.

3.2. Detection performance
3.2.1. Is it possible to detect contaminants other than metal?
Yes.
But it is difficult to detect contaminants whose density is lower than or similar to the product.
AD4991 does not always detect the contaminants depending on the shape of the product or thecontaminant.

3.2.2. Is it possible to detect hair or insects?
It is difficult to detect matters that float in water.

3.2.3. Is it possible to detect hard bones and cartilages in meats?
Hard bones can be detected depending on the conditions. It is difficult to detect cartilages.
It is difficult to detect matters that float in water.

3.2.4. Is it possible to detect the contaminants in aluminized film packages?
Yes.
But it is difficult to detect contaminants whose density is lower than or similar to the product.
AD4991 does not always detect the contaminants depending on the shape of the product or thecontaminant.

3.2.5. Is it possible to detect the contaminants in aluminum foil packages?
Yes.
But it is difficult to detect contaminants whose density is lower than the product.
AD4991 does not always detect the contaminants depending on the shape of the product or thecontaminant.

203.2.6. Is it possible to detect the contaminants in canned items?
Yes.
But it is difficult to detect contaminants whose density is lower than the product.
AD4991 does not always detect the contaminants depending on the shape of the product or thecontaminant.

3.2.7. Is it possible to detect the contaminants in a product which contains an oxygen
absorber in the package?
It is possible depending on the conditions.
It is difficult to detect the contaminants located in the position of the oxygen absorber, depending on thedensity of the contaminants.

3.3. Connection with external devices
3.3.1. Is it possible to connect a rejector?
Yes.
A&D offers several types of rejectors. For detailed specifications, please consult with your sales person.

3.3.2. Does the AD4991 have a signal tower?
The signal tower with buzzer is equipped as standard.

3.3.3. Is it possible to customize the lighting setting of the signal tower?
The lighting conditions and time can be customized or configured.

3.3.4. Is it possible to connect the PLC?
It is possible to connect the DIO, Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP as standard.

3.4. Model selection
3.4.1. What are the factors to consider when selecting a model?
The appropriate X-ray output, namely the suitable model, is determined by the thickness and density ofthe product, and intended inspection. We, in principle, recommend the most suitable model after
conducting the sample tests. Please consult with your sales person for further information.

21

3.4.2. What is the detectable size?
Please see below chart for the maximum size of the products for each model.
Model

AD4991-2510

AD4991-2515

AD4991-3530
215

107

Detectable size

167

120

240

150

120

240

340

Unit: mm

For the other models, please consult with your sales person.

3.4.3. What is the maximum conveying capacity?
Please see below chart.

Model

AD4991-2510

Maximum
conveying

5kg

capacity

AD4991-2515
10～30m/min: Max5kg

30～40m/min: Max 4kg

40～60m/min: Max 3kg

60～70m/min: Max 2kg

AD4991-3530(to be released)

5kg

For the other models, please consult with your sales person.

3.5. Installation
3.5.1. Is there any legal requirement to notify of device installation?
Yes.
In Japan, you have to notify to the Chief of the Labour Standard Inspection Offices as specified in Article
88 of the Industrial Safety and Health Act and Article 85 and 86 of the Ordinance on Industrial Safety
and Health, no later than 30 days prior to the date of commencement for the installation work. For detailsof the documentation, please consult with our sales person in charge.
For overseas regions, please comply with the applicable laws and regulations in each country and area.

22

3.5.2. Is it necessary to periodically inspect the X-ray leakage?
Yes.
In Japan, it is necessary to measure the X-ray leakage around the device once every six months inaccordance with Article 54 of the Regulation on Prevention of Ionizing Radiation Hazards.
The measurement can be conducted by users (employers engaging in a business undertaking radiationwork) and A&D provides this measurement service as well. For details, please consult with your sales
person.
Article 54 of Regulation on Prevention of Ionizing Radiation Hazards
An employer must periodically measure the dose equivalent rate or dose equivalent due to external radiation in theControlled Areas once every period within six months by using a radiation measuring instrument, record the following
matters in each measurement, and store the records for five year.
(i)date and time of measurement;(ii) measurement method;(iii)

type, model and performance of radiation measuring instrument;(iv) point of measurement;(v) measurement conditions;(vi) measurement results;(vii)

name of the person who performed the measurement; and(viii)

general description of the measures taken based on the measurement results.

3.5.3. Do we need to hold a license to operate the device and measure X-ray leakage?
In Japan, it is not obliged under the law.
However, the Labor Standards Inspection Office recommends to have a license holder.
A&D also recommend to operate the device and measure X-ray leakage under the supervision of alicense holder.
In Japan, the Regulation on Prevention of Ionizing Radiation Hazards specifies that areas where the Xray dose due to leakage from the device is likely to exceed 1.3 mSv per every three months, it must be
designated as a “Controlled Areas”. Additionally. an Operations Chief of Work with X-rays must be
appointed.
However, the X-ray dose around the device is 1 μSv/h (0.001mSv/h) or less anywhere around the device,so there is no place where the dose exceeds 1.3 mSv per every three months.
Therefore, although the inside of the device falls under the “Controlled Areas” jurisdiction, you do nothave to demarcate the area and appoint an operations chief of work with X-rays.

23

3.5.4. Are there any seminars or trainings on how to safely use X-ray devices?
Yes.
Article 19 of the Industrial Safety and Health Act specifies that “The employer shall endeavor to provide
education and training or the chance of receiving education and training to the safety officers, healthofficers, safety and health promoters, health promoters and others in charge of other functions forpreventing industrial accidents in order to enhance their individual abilities to improve the safety andhealth control level at the workplace.” Based on this provision, the Japan Inspection Instruments
Manufacturers’ Association periodically holds a “Safety Seminar for X-ray Device Operators.”

3.5.5. Is grounding necessary?
Yes.
Be sure to ground with class D grounding (grounding resistance of 100Ω or less) before use. Failure to
do so results in the risk of electric shock, fire and malfunction.

3.6. Maintenance3.6.1. Are there any consumable parts?
Please see below list of major consumable parts.
Conveyer belt

Resin gear

Motor unit

Shield curtain

Driving pulley

Driven pulley

X-ray source

Line sensor

Fuse

Backup battery

Cooling fan

Fan filter

General-purpose external
output relay

Safety relay

For replacement, please consult with your sales person.

3.6.2. How long is the lifespan of the X-ray source?
We recommend to replace it after approx. 10,000 hours of use. The lifespan depends on the environmentand conditions.
The AD4991 series provide one-year product guarantee after shipment.

3.6.3. What kind of tool is needed for belt adjustment?
Two spanners (width across flats: 8 mm) are needed.

3.6.4. What kind of tool is needed to adjust the pass line?
A spanner (width across flats: 30 mm) is needed.

24

3.7. Test piece
3.7.1. Are there any standard test pieces?
Yes.
We offer the standard test pieces provided by the Japan Inspection Instruments Manufactures’
Association. Please consult with our sales person in charge of your area.
Material

25

Shape

Size

5 pieces／Single piece

SUS

Ball

φ0.3～3.0

5 pieces

SUS

Ball

φ0.3～3.0

Single piece

SUS

Wire

L=2 or 5、φ0.2～0.6

5 pieces

SUS

Wire

L=2 or 5、φ0.2～1.0

Single piece

AluminumBall

φ1.5～7.0

5 pieces

AluminumBall

φ1.5～9.5

Single piece

Ceramic

Ball

φ1.0～8.0

5 pieces

Ceramic

Ball

φ1.0～8.0

Single piece

EPDM rubber

Ball

φ3.0～8.0

5 pieces

EPDM rubber

Ball

φ3.0～8.0

Single piece

PTFE

Ball

φ1.6～8.0

5 pieces

PTFE

Ball

φ1.6～8.0

Single piece

QuartzBall

φ1.0～6.0

5 pieces

QuartzBall

φ1.0～6.0

Single pieceSpec Confirmation Sheet
Salesperson in change
Company (Organization)
Name
Size (mm)Product

Weight (g)Conveying interval(mm)# of inspection(#/min）
Package
Condition
Temperature
Wetting

Target detection
sensitivity

Ball

Wire
Contaminants

Conveying method
Environment
Waterproof
Transportation method
Belt speed（m/min）
Conveyor length（mm）
Belt width（mm）
Pass line height（mm）
CasterSignal tower
Rejector
Other conditions including
quotation and delivery

Max
Min

LengthLengthRegular

×Width
×Width×Height
×Height/min, Max/min

Bulk goods, Plastic bag, Resin-made package, Aluminized film package,
Aluminum foil package, Aluminum top package, Others ()
Bulk goods, Individual packaging, Box, Others ()
Room temperature, Refrigerator, Freezer, Others ()
N/A, Applicable, Others ()
SUS/Fe φ.
mm・Aluminum φ.
mm・
Ceramic φ.
mm・EPDM rubber φ.
mm・
PTFE φ.
mm・Quartz φ.
mm・
Others (）
SUS／Fe φ.
×Lengthmm, Others ()
Needle, Stapler needle, Screw/nut (size:), Others ()
Conveyed at the pitch of () mm in the first part (mechanically /manually) .
The conveyor in the first part runs at () m/min.
Temperature: 0 to 35°C, Humidity 30 to 85% RH, Others (Non-waterproof, IP66,Others (Belt conveyor, Pipe-type, Falling-type, Chute-type, Others (10 - 45, 10 - 70, Others (800, Others(
250, 350, Others (720 - 860, Others(
Without/ With
N/A, 1 color, 2 colors, 3 colors, 4 colors, buzzer, Others (N/A, Flipper, Conveyor drop, Pusher, Air jet, Others (* Appearance and specifications are subject to change without any prior notice.
Please note that Modbus® is a trademark or registered trademark of AEG Schneider Automation International.

26

)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)