Where do new ideas go when it’s time to prove they work? At Comet X-ray, they now enter the Application Lab, a purpose-built space where our R&D team gets hands-on with the entire image chain, testing and refining technology under realistic conditions. It’s here that innovation becomes concrete, tailored to help our customers succeed. Join Dirk Schneider for an inside look at how the lab brings development and application closer together.

With the launch of the new water-cooled EVO 300DW/1200, we sat down with Product Manager Jan Bressendorff to discuss what sets the EVO 1200-watt portable systems apart, the design thinking behind them, and how they enhance the daily work of field inspectors.

The HP11 is one of the most widely used tubes in the field. Despite its popularity, it has notable limitations. By default the HP11 is a non-cycling tube, but with the right setup it can be operated in cycling mode. That means operators must respect a clear trade-off between maximum power and the allowable number of exposure cycles. Too often, we see systems running at full power while cycling far beyond safe limits. The result? Accelerated wear, premature failures, and higher costs.

High-voltage X-ray systems are built for performance and durability, but even robust hardware has its limits. One behavior we see far too often in the field is abrupt high-voltage shutdowns—often caused by well-meaning operators or misconfigured systems. This type of event may seem harmless in the moment, but over time it puts serious stress on the X-ray tube and can quietly reduce system longevity. With BLOX, we give OEMs, integrators, and end users the insight needed to detect these patterns early. The result is a smarter, more proactive approach to performance and uptime—driven by data, not guesswork.

Arcing is a common but critical event in high-voltage X-ray systems. While occasional arcs are normal, repeated or clustered arcs over time can signal instability in the module and lead to long-term damage. BLOX helps OEMs and users detect these patterns early – and take preventive measures before failure occurs.

Nanoscale inspection is becoming essential in advanced manufacturing. But achieving sub-micron resolution while maintaining stability, speed, and long lifetime has remained a challenge. With FYNE 160 NF4, we present strategies, data, and results that show how X-ray inspection can meet these demands and open new paths for semiconductor, electronics, and materials applications.

High-voltage X-ray systems are designed for endurance and stability, but even the most robust technology can falter under the wrong environmental conditions. One of the most overlooked factors in system health is temperature, specifically, high ambient temperatures and clogged filter mats. These silent threats often go unnoticed until it's too late, leading to unplanned shutdowns or long-term hardware degradation. With BLOX, you gain early visibility into abnormal temperature patterns, allowing OEMs, integrators, and end users to act before damage occurs. This article breaks down what causes overheating, how to detect it, and how to stay ahead of costly surprises.

X-ray tubes are precision components designed for years of service, but like any high-performance part, they have operating limits. One issue we sometimes see in the field is accelerated filament wear, especially in systems running at low kV and high tube current. Left unchecked, these operating conditions put heavy stress on the filament. While high current increases the number of X-rays produced, leading to a higher flux density and potentially faster acquisition times, it also puts more stress on the tungsten filament, shortening its lifespan. Conversely, a lower kV reduces the energy of the X-ray photons, potentially requiring a higher mAs value to achieve the same image quality, which can also impact tube life. 

X-ray imaging is often judged by one word – resolution. But achieving sharp, detailed images isn’t the result of a single component or parameter; it depends on the entire imaging chain working together. From the size of the focal spot to pixel pitch and magnification, every element contributes to how clearly structures appear. This article explores the key factors that define resolution in industrial X-ray systems and explains why it must always be viewed as a system-level property.

With over 35 years in aerospace, oil and gas, and even the space program, Allen Gress has built a career in Non-Destructive Testing rooted in curiosity, continuous learning, and a clear sense of purpose. We caught up with Allen, Technical Sales Manager at Comet X-ray, shortly after a panel discussion on careers and skills in aerospace NDT, where he shared honest reflections, practical advice, and a look toward the future of the field.

A smart, connected tool that helps reduce the risk of unplanned downtime? Meet BLOX – our Industrial IoT health monitor for X-ray tubes and generators. By providing deep insights into system performance, BLOX enables users to detect early warning signs, take preventive action, and keep production running more reliably.

Sharper insights. Faster decisions. Learn how the latest upgrades to the FXE-190 can streamline your imaging and elevate your results. The improved FXE-190 nano CT provides more power, clarity, and resolving power than ever before.

Pinnacle provides customer-centric X-ray and CT imaging solutions, combining technical expertise and an entrepreneurial mindset. Driven by innovation, tailored solutions, and strong industry partnerships, Pinnacle’s dedicated team continuously advances imaging technology to meet the market’s evolving needs.

The new Xtra Performance, XP, tube is designed as the natural successor to the HP11. To provide engineers and technical buyers with a clear, no-nonsense view of what changes matter and why, we sat down with Tony Williams, Head of Sales in the Americas, for a brief Q&A. 

In this episode of the Level Up podcast, we sit down with Allen Gress, President of NDTMA and ASNT Level III, to talk about his journey from Grumman Aerospace to Comet X-ray – and what the future holds for the NDT industry.

At Pinnacle X-ray Solutions, reliable performance and fast customer support go hand in hand – powered in part by Comet’s MesoFocus systems. In this interview, Service Manager Logan Freeman shares how features like pinpoint diagnostics, remote monitoring, and modular design help reduce downtime and keep customers productive.

Paul shares his journey from electronics applications in medical X-ray to his role at Comet, where he now oversees technical services for the East Coast and supports customers across the U.S. With his wealth of experience, Paul discusses the value of Comet’s applications lab, the importance of hands-on support, and his ongoing motivation from the evolving challenges and innovations in the field.

As inspections are increasingly integrated into production lines, the tolerance for downtime drops. Inline, 100% inspection processes demand continuous reliability. Our core competency at Comet is in developing high-performance X-ray modules. The challenge our customers face is clear: unplanned downtime.  Our solution is BLOX – a smart, data-driven IIoT health monitoring system that enables operators to plan maintenance precisely when needed. The following chapters explore how BLOX achieves this through real-world examples.

Meet Jochen Dietel, a key Comet X-ray TCS team member dedicated to helping our customers and partners succeed. He shares his journey, challenges, and motivations, offering a glimpse into Comet X-ray's commitment to every partnership.

At Pinnacle, success lies in choosing the right components to build customized X-ray solutions that meet every customer’s unique needs. From leveraging X-ray technology like the MesoFocus for precision imaging to selecting the perfect detectors and generators, Pinnacles expertise ensures seamless integration and exceptional performance.  With a deep understanding of industry requirements and strong supplier partnerships, Pinnacle delivers systems that combine flexibility, reliability, and innovation.

Mr. Cesar Malpica is a seasoned Electronics Technician with over 20 years of hands-on experience in electronics, including a six-year tenure as a radar electronics technician in the U.S. Navy. Known for his commitment to continuous learning and technical expertise, Cesar brings a deep understanding of complex systems and a relentless drive to solve challenging issues. Since joining Comet X-ray, he has become a trusted expert, instrumental in reducing equipment downtime and enhancing customer satisfaction. His dedication to quality and efficiency sets a high standard within the industry.

See how digital X-raying is applied in concrete inspection. Nova Advanced Imaging Inc. demonstrates a fast, safe, and accurate method that supports engineers in making confident, informed decisions on construction sites. Read more about concrete inspection and Nova Advanced Imaging Inc. in the case story below.

For many, Iceland's rugged landscapes are a postcard-perfect destination. But for professionals like Harald, they are a daily workplace, complete with icy winds, snowstorms, and midnight calls. With 20 years of experience under his belt, Harald embodies resilience, determination, and deep technical expertise that keep Iceland’s critical infrastructure running smoothly.

In the fast-paced world of construction, precision is everything. A mistake such as accidentally severing a post-tension cable or electrical conduit can cause significant project delays, costly repairs, and even safety hazards. Engineers and contractors rely on imaging technology to identify embedded elements before drilling, cutting, or coring to avoid such risks.

For more than 25 years, IMS and Comet X-ray have been working together - characterized by technological progress, a spirit of innovation and a partnership of equals. What began as a search for a more robust X-ray solution has developed into a success story of two market leaders who are revolutionizing industrial quality assurance together.

Meet Jorge, the logistics team leader at Comet X-ray Shelton. He focuses on efficiency and teamwork to keep the service department running smoothly. From managing inventory to supporting his colleagues with repairs, Jorge helps ensure reliable service for customers and colleagues.

At Comet, reducing lead times and enhancing customer satisfaction are top priorities. Senior Order Management Representative Melissa L. shares how streamlined documentation and cross-functional teamwork allow us to respond faster and keep orders on track. With improved processes and a customer-first mindset, Melissa is focused on delivering a seamless, efficient experience every time.

With safety, efficiency, and digitalization driving change in NDT, many companies are reevaluating gamma inspection. This whitepaper explores how modern portable X-ray systems are emerging as a safer, more flexible alternative.

Richard Serna is the Repair Center Manager at Comet X-ray's Shelton location. With a career spanning over three decades in manufacturing and production, Richard has brought his expertise in lean management and operational efficiency to Comet, transforming the repair center into a reliable, customer-focused service hub. In this interview, Richard shares insights into his journey, approach to overcoming operational challenges, and vision for building a cohesive, agile team.

With high power density, a wide beam, and a compact design, the Xplorer series ensures precise imaging, easy integration, and future-proof performance. Maximize uptime and stay competitive in an ever-evolving market.

Meet FYNE – the newest innovation in open X-ray tube technology, designed specifically for high-resolution applications. As AI and smart manufacturing reshape the tech landscape, manufacturers face increasing pressure to deliver better, faster solutions while optimizing yield and time-to-market. FYNE is our response to these challenges, redefining what’s possible for X-ray inspection. Discover how it can transform your manufacturing processes:

Introducing the Xtra Performance series - a game-changer in continuous uptime. With redundancy built-in, this product line ensures your production never skips a beat. Two filament systems, two target areas, and the ingenious ability to switch between them when one wears out guarantees uninterrupted operation. 

Mr. Eric Vogel is the head of electronic engineering and has been with Applus+ RTD since 1996. He started as an airplane technician and has always worked with X-ray and non-destructive testing. Mr. Frans Sprenger is a service engineer who has been with Applus+ RTD for 39 years. He has always worked in the service department, ensuring that the systems are up and running and ready for field inspection. Both Eric and Frans years ago started working with the Andrex CMA, the Y.SMART, and then moved on to the EVO.

With the rapid growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market, ensuring battery safety and quality has become more critical than ever. At Comet X-ray, we collaborate closely with our partners, like diondo, to tackle the toughest challenges in battery testing. Together, we develop innovative solutions that push the boundaries of non-destructive testing (NDT) technology and set new standards for the industry.

The FXE redefines microfocus X-ray technology for NDT, balancing precision, efficiency, and longevity. See how it integrates seamlessly into your workflows, delivering reliable performance and global support.

BIIT Electronics, a leader in advanced battery inspection technologies, is setting new industry standards by adopting Comet X-ray’s MesoFocus 225 sealed X-ray tube. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and reliability of modern battery systems.

Explore the latest in portable X-ray technology with JME's battery-powered solution, developed with Comet X-ray. This breakthrough lithium battery technology redefines off-grid X-ray inspections, offering reliable power, eco-friendliness, and exceptional efficiency. Ideal for challenging, remote environments, the low-weight JME PBU battery eliminates the need for petrol generators, providing a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable option for NDT professionals. 

Precision, consistency, and reliability define the new ION series from Comet X-ray – and our latest film brings that story to life. The ION series is purpose-built for scanning applications where uptime and repeatability are critical. Every detail has been designed with the customer in mind – from stable, high-power performance to long-term reliability in demanding environments.

The Xplorer series is designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern production environments, enabling efficient and cost-effective operations. The Xplorer series allows you to inspect even minute components in detail thanks to the combination of high magnification and high-resolution capabilities, ensuring superior quality control and production reliability. The system excels with a homogeneous intensity distribution and a symmetric focal spot, delivering consistent, high-quality 3D and CT images that make defect identification easier and more accurate.

The new High-Density Power (HDP) target upgrade for the FXE 225 Range significantly enhances X-ray inspection performance by doubling power density without sacrificing resolution, making it ideal for high-speed, high-precision applications. This upgrade offers increased efficiency and reliability while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.

iWP (inovative Werkstoffprüfung GmbH & Co. KG) is a leading service provider for innovative materials testing and measurement technology in Neuss, Germany. As the market shifts towards more e-mobility and additive manufacturing, more and more jobs get done with their MesoFocus 450 X-ray system, which helps them get through complex, dense parts and still see important details. Read on to find out more about inspecting batteries and other parts, creating the perfect image and iWP.

Building on the success of the EVO Series, the ECO Series has earned the prestigious Red Dot Product Design Award. Both portable X-ray system series have gained international acclaim for their innovative features, ergonomic design, and sleek appearance. This recognition underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and delivering user-friendly, high-performance solutions for industrial applications.

"Precision Imaging and minimal downtime – the Xtra performance series." Find out how the Xtra Performance series' dual square focal spots, independent filaments, a larger beam and field of view, and a 15-degree target angle will give you a competitiv

Discover premium EVO and ECO accessories, crafted to combine cutting-edge technology with durable materials

Join us as Magnus details his intriguing journey from the world of opera singing to mastering the rigorous demands of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in Iceland. In this interview, he discusses the unique challenges he faces, such as extreme heights, unpredictable weather, and navigating tight spaces, sharing how his background in performance has prepared him for this demanding field.

In the town of Akranes, just outside Reykjavik, Iceland, HB Technology Services ehf., led by Haraldur Baldursson, Andri Haraldsson, and Magnus Mar Bjornsson Sleight, is conducting central heating pipe inspection. They are using the low-weight Comet X-ray ECO 200DS.

Andri talks about Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in Iceland, recounting his journey to becoming an integral member of the NDT community through his involvement in his father's business. He also shares his perspectives on future developments and potential advancements within the NDT field.

Exploring the creation of X-rays: From electrical power to photons. Follow the journey as electricity travels from the outlet via the Control EVO to the EVO tube head, culminating in the generation of photons for X-ray imaging.

ANDT Inspection, LLC, a Future Tech Consultant (FTC) subsidiary, stands at the forefront of non-destructive testing, offering innovative solutions across various sectors, including aviation, oil, gas, and education. Embracing state-of-the-art technology, ANDT has been pivotal in enhancing inspection standards for safety and efficiency.

Discover just how big of a difference the new cooling system revolutionizes microfocus X-ray inspection, tackling the challenge of balancing speed and resolution. This focus topics paper showcases the difference clearly thanks to X-ray images and drift measurements. This is the future of non-destructive testing.

How do you seemlessly blend design with function? David Heiner Campos, Senior Specialist Global Marketing, worked hand in hand with engineering to come up with the best solution for our newest portable X-ray system. Read on to discover the role of marketing in the ECO's story.

Bo Bossen, a Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) professional, talks about his career, from an early interest in mechanics to a fulfilling role in NDT. He highlights the industry's transformation since 1998, technological shifts, and the challenges and rewards of the field.

As part of #NDTtough, we are sharing messages from professionals in the non-destructive testing industry. Earlier this year, we had the chance to talk to Jason Robbins, Division Lead Commercial for VisiConsult X-ray Systems & Solutions.

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Kenneth, a seasoned mechanical engineer with a wealth of experience solving complex engineering problems. Kenneth shares his journey in addressing the daunting mechanical challenges of reducing weight while maintaining optimal performance and the crucial role of CAD simulations and cross-functional collaboration in achieving these objectives.

As part of #NDTtough, we are sharing messages from professionals in the non-destructive testing industry. AT ECNDT 2023, we sat down with Paolo Casareale, the owner of ADG S.r.l. in Como, Italy. He, alongside his companions Albens Bushati and Roberto Uneddu, founded the company in 2005 and is providing portable and stationary NDT solutions to customers across Italy.

As the technical project manager for portables, Andreas Taarning was deeply involved in the ECO project at each step. Watch the interview to learn why it was so exciting, how simulations helped create the ECO and how the team overcame challenges while working on the new portable X-ray system.

Jan Bressendorff is the product manager for portables at Comet X-ray. When developing the new low-weight ECO X-ray system, having good collaboration within the teams was essential. Watch the interview to find out how they ensured excellent teamwork, what drove them to reach the sub-15-kilogram weight goal and how important field testing is when creating a new product.

As part of NDTtough, we are sharing messages from professionals in the non-destructive testing industry. AT ECNDT 2023, we had the chance to talk to Jérémy Fuentes, NDT Sales Manager France, Belgium & Eastern Europe at Carestream NDT.

At ECNDT 2023, the European Conference on non-destructive testing, we had the chance to talk to Erlend Bjørkvold about the portable X-ray market and our newly released low weight system, the ECO. Keep reading to find out the insights Erland had to share.

As part of #NDTtough, we are sharing messages from professionals in the non-destructive testing industry. AT ECNDT 2023, we sat down with Ole Fredrik Brovold, a technical sales person with a finance and engineering degree working for the Norwegian NDT distributor Holger Hartmann AS. Fredrik has worked mainly with Advanced Ultrasonics, Conventional Ultrasonics, and Eddy Current careering to the Norwegian markets.

This focus topic explores the benefits of using a smaller focal spot in X-ray technology. By reducing the size of the focal spot, geometrical un-sharpness is minimized, resulting in a sharper image with improved detail detectability.

At ECNDT 2023, the European Conference on Non-Destructive Testing, we had the chance to talk to our fellow industry professionals about the portable X-ray market and our newly released low-weight system, the ECO. Keep reading to find out the insights Paolo had to share.

APPLUS+ RTD is a world-leading authority in radiographic testing – a technique ideally suited for detecting imperfections in materials throughout industrial operations and applications. For their inspection jobs, the EVO 300DS plays an important role.

Located in a manufacturing plant in Esbjerg, humming with the constant rhythm of industry. Here, Schaldemose meticulously inspects compensators, intricate mechanical devices that adjust for variations in pressure or temperature in complex systems. His tool: a Comet EVO 300P.

Speed equals value - Integrated X ray scanners are a vital part of today’s efficiency driven production flows. Delivering consistent quality control on high-speed production lines is crucial to product integrity. The challenge is always how fast can this be achieved without compromising quality.

This focus topic explores the benefits of using a smaller focal spot in X-ray technology. By reducing the size of the focal spot, geometrical un-sharpness is minimized, resulting in a sharper image with improved detail detectability.

It's with great pleasure and enthusiasm that we unveil the much-anticipated ECO series, marking a significant milestone for our company. After months of anticipation, we are thrilled to officially announce the launch of our groundbreaking product series. Say hello to the ECO 160DS and ECO 200DS, the first members of the ECO family! Embodying innovation, the latest ECO models are not just lighter but notably more manageable, designed with even a single person's use in mind. Sporting a sturdy, ergonomically superior design and weighing only 14 kg, the ECO series has been conceptualized with an aim to speed up workflows while enhancing safety and reducing fatigue.

When you need the right tool for the job, the ECO delivers where it counts. With its rugged, low weight and accurate performance, you simply get more from your working day with less effort.

Comet X-rays portable systems are light, of high quality and have been designed for flexible field inspection, in all types of industrial environments.

Getting quality data from your portable NDT process requires a high degree of accurate manipulation and positioning by the onsite technician. Whether it’s seam-testing on pipelines or checking aviation component integrity, there’s no way that getting good results isn’t going to involve some physical effort. That’s why we’ve designed the new ECO with lower weight and to be more manageable - even for just one person.

The German BAM is revolutionizing the quality assurance in additive manufacturing (AM) within the initiative QI-Digital. From metal powder to non-destructive testing with X-ray technology, every step of the production chain is digitally mapped, to manufacture components with consistent quality. The MesoFocus 450 X-ray tube plays a crucial role in helping to achieve this goal. Learn more about BAM's project and the future of quality assurance in additive manufacturing.

Hear directly from Michael Hubler, Product Manager X-ray Tubes. In a world where speed is a crucial part of the production equation, the new Ultra Performance tube pushes the limits of what is possible.

"We choose the XMB system at sites with areas that are hard to reach and limited maneuvering room".

“When researching artworks, we often need to determine; how, when, and by whom they are made. X-ray examination is unique in the way that it enables us to look inside, behind, and as it were - back in time,” explain Jakob and Troels from the gallery.

We invite all of our peers in the NDT industry to join us in proudly identifying as being NDT TOUGH.

The ION integrated X-ray series is tailor-made for X-ray scanning applications and ideal for industries such as food processing, sorting, thickness gauging, and security in particular. 

Lithium-ion batteries are an integral part of our daily lives. You may not see one very often, but they are used in a variety of products, such as electric cars, cellphones and power tools. As the need for more lithium-ion batteries is increasing rapidly, giant production facilities (a.k.a Gigafactories) are being built around the globe to keep up with this demand. X-ray inspection is a crucial step in the production line of lithium-ion batteries, as faulty batteries can become very dangerous. By conducting a thorough inspection, one can ensure that the batteries will be safe to use, which is why X-ray inspection systems are such an important tool in the battery industry.

The best innovation of the canton of Fribourg - that's MesoFocus! Not only the customers are enthusiastic about the new X-ray technology, but also the Canton of Fribourg recognizes MesoFocus as an innovation with big potential creating true value in X-Ray inspection.

Every two years, the Canton of Fribourg awards the Innovation Prize to companies and start-ups to reward their innovative inventions and to make them known in the canton and beyond. This year, Comet X-ray is among the top three companies with its new MesoFocus technology!

This focus topic explores the challenges and limitations of conventional X-ray tube technologies in providing cost-efficient quality control for battery inspection, for complex casts in the automotive industry, or for large and additively manufactured parts in aerospace. Also introduced is Comet X-ray’s MesoFocus technology which offers a better balance for production lines between resolution, speed and reliability in the NDT X-ray inspection process.

Sharpen your performance with MesoFocus Flexibility, stability high-throughput and ease of use are the key advantages the MesoFocus brings to your application. With three perfectly circular focal spot sizes you can analyse, detect, and measure a range of material densities from small to large features. The combination of sophisticated internal geometry and a stable generator give tube stability that provides consistent CNR, SNR, image quality and repeatability for longer scans, as well as metrology measurements.

This edition introduces the Facts & Features series, giving you insights into the Comet X-ray product series. The first edition is about FXE modules presented by Dirk Schneider, Product Manager for open and sealed MicroFocus products at Comet X-ray. Dirk talks about how the features of the FXE benefit the customers of the open microfocus modules.