Inspection on Iceland - an Interview with Magnus Sleight
December 16, 2025 | David Campos
For decades, heavy and cumbersome X-ray equipment made non-destructive testing, NDT, physically demanding and time-consuming. Field technicians often had to navigate rough terrain with bulky devices, slowing down workflows and increasing fatigue. But today, lighter, more efficient tools are transforming the industry. Magnus Mar Bjornsson Sleight, a seasoned NDT specialist at HB Technology Services ehf., has witnessed this transformation firsthand in Iceland. With over 20 years of experience, Magnus shares how the ECO system and EVO 225D/1200 X-ray tools have streamlined inspections, enhanced safety, and redefined efficiency in the field.
“Having the right tools means we can work faster, safer, and more precisely - and that’s the future of NDT”
Magnus Sleight, NDT specialist
A small but essential industry
NDT plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity of infrastructure, from industrial facilities to pipelines and construction projects. The NDT sector in Iceland is small but essential,” Magnus explains. “Only a handful of companies perform X-ray inspections here, so efficiency is everything. That’s why tools like the ECO system are so important; they make our work faster, easier, and more reliable. Magnus and his colleagues at HB Technology Services specialize in high-quality X-ray inspections, ensuring structural safety across industries. With a limited workforce, they rely on cutting-edge tools to maximize productivity without compromising accuracy.
The ECO system is changing X-ray inspections
Equipment weight and mobility are major concerns for field technicians. Traditional X-ray systems were often heavy and difficult to transport, requiring extra personnel and effort to carry them over rough terrain. The ECO system is a game-changer,” Magnus says. “It’s lightweight, perfectly balanced, and easy to maneuver, something we couldn’t say about older models. Previously, moving X-ray equipment required at least two people, especially for inspections in remote or challenging environments. With the ECO’s compact design, a single technician can handle the job more efficiently. “Carrying older, heavy equipment over hills and rough landscapes was exhausting,” Magnus recalls. “With the ECO, that struggle is gone.
A day in the field
A typical NDT inspection follows a structured process, from site preparation to image analysis. Magnus describes how the ECO system has improved their daily operations.
After arriving at the inspection site, the team begins with paperwork, safety checks, and equipment setup. Once everything is in place, they take the first X-ray shot. Each shot takes between five and ten minutes, depending on setup. “We manage about 8 to 10 shots per hour. The process includes taping up the film, positioning the product, clearing the area, exposing the film, and repeating the cycle.” Faster setup and reduced handling time keep inspections running smoothly without unnecessary delays.
A methodical approach
Once field inspections are complete, the team moves to film development and analysis. “We gather all exposed films and organize them efficiently,” Magnus explains. “In the darkroom, I unwrap each film, remove the lead shields for recycling, and feed them into the developing machine.” Certified inspectors then analyze the developed images and report findings to customers. Some companies retain their films for documentation, while others rely solely on reports. Organization is critical, as a single mistake can result in a costly reshoot. “Yesterday, we left one film behind at the site, and it was overexposed. That meant redoing the shot, which cost us time. That’s why we follow a structured workflow, ensuring every film is accounted for. To maintain efficiency, team members rotate tasks based on workload and physical strain. “If someone’s feet are sore, they handle documentation instead. We balance roles to keep efficiency high and mistakes low.”
The future of NDT technology
As technology evolves, Magnus believes lighter, more efficient tools will continue to drive the industry forward. “The ECO system has already had a huge impact, it’s easier to handle, improves workflow, and reduces physical strain. Looking ahead, smart automation, AI-assisted analysis, and even more portable systems could further streamline X-ray inspections. But one thing is certain.
“Having the right tools means we can work faster, safer, and more precisely. And that’s the future of NDT. With two decades of experience, Magnus has seen firsthand how technology transforms the NDT industry.
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