1983 - 1986 - Image Intensifier
1986 - 1989 - CDMS 460
1989 - 1993 - CD 230/340/460
1993 - 1999 - CDX 230
1999 - >>> - VXS 350

We began X-ray inspection of food products in 1993.  We were asked by a major UK food producer to inspect a batch of product for possible kidney stone contamination. This was carried out via an Image Intensifier system that was built especially for the application. The success of this batch inspection created a high level of interest from various food producers and regular batches of product were sent for inspection. While some of the larger companies decided to purchase systems for use in their quality control departments, this service still forms an important part of our service offering today.

The limitations of visual inspection using the Image Intensifier meant that the systems were not suitable for in-line inspection. In 1986 we introduced the CDMS, which was the first automatic X-ray inspection system. It was mainly developed for inspecting meat-based products where bone contamination is a continual concern. During this period enquiries from other sections of the food industry were received. The physical size (3 meters long) and cost of the systems limited the opportunities and it was decided to develop a smaller, lower cost system.

In 1989 the CD Series was introduced and significantly expanded the install base and made X-ray inspection an accepted technology in food processing lines. Because of the increase in applications, there was also an increase in features (Twin lane, Missing product, Under fill, Pack track, Channel two threshold, Product masking) which were in addition to the standard system. Among the new formats of machines developed was the 2.5" pipeline for soups, sauces, baby food, etc, and a mass flow system for inspecting beans, pulses, rice, nuts, etc. Part of the increase in sales was due to the inspection of products within foil containers where metal detectors had limited capabilities.

In the following years development continued taking into consideration the latest technology available, a customer's requirements and the experience gained with the previous three generations of the system. The main design criteria was for a small, low cost, end of line system, which was achieved with the launch of the CDX in 1993. It proved to be a flexible, multi-application system that could be installed on the line complete with reject. Although now considered as old technology, the CDX still produces on-line performance equal to and in many cases better than other alternative systems.

In 1999 the VXS was introduced and took advantage of the latest technology with consideration given to the mechanical design, ensuring hygiene, easy cleaning and maintenance. The latest Pentium© technology has allowed for an easy-to-use operator interface via touch panel, incorporating a live product image. It has also given us the ability to automate many of the systems parameters, greatly reducing the knowledge and time required to set-up for new products. Many of the detection facilities are intelligent and will expand even further the applications that can be inspected.