Yxlon supplies CT scanner for tyre R&D centre

Hamburg based Yxlon International, a leading supplier of industrial X-ray inspection and computed tomography (CT) solutions, is to build a high-energy CT system for a leading tyremaker’s development centre in the US.

In addition to X-ray inspection for final checks in tyre production, there is now also increasing use being made of CT in tyre development. The non-destructive, three-dimensional analysis of the tyre enables a wealth of detailed information to be gained about its inner structures. In order to realistically reproduce the tyre’s behaviour on the road, a special tyre-loading unit forms part of the CT system.

According to the company, the use of Comet’s new 600kV high-energy X-ray tube shortens the analysis time and broadens the scope of application compared to traditional X-ray tubes without having to use a linear accelerator that requires greater radiation protection and higher maintenance.

“By virtue of our long-established relationships with the tyre manufacturers we are in a position to adapt the systems specifically to the requirements of this market,” explains Joseph Kosanetzky, general manager. “This system enables the tyre’s structures to be identified even when under load, which is not possible with a traditional X-ray system.”

Yxlon International GmbH has been a member company of Comet Holding AG (Switzerland) since 2007.