ASTM E2861 Standard Test Method for Measurement of Beam Divergence and Alignment in Neutron Radiologic Beams

ASTM E2861 Introduction

The DAI enables the user to decide whether the imaging plane is parallel to the beam centreline and the beam divergence for a thermal neutron beam. It helps to assess whether the imaging system is parallel, parallel only in one plane, or parallel in no plane the degree of misalignment, and the divergence angle of the said imaging system

ASTM E2861 Test Method

ASTM E2861 Equipment and Sample Preparation

ASTM E2861 Results and Interpretation 

The information obtained from ASTM E2861 testing is valuable in understanding the parallel behavior and dispersion of the thermal neutron beams used in imaging. Cadmium wire images of wire, observed from the divergence and alignment indicator (DAI), allow users to decide whether the imaging plane of the sample is parallel to the beam centreline, the extent of misalignment, and the divergence angle. A well-aligned system suggests efficiency and the level of misalignment shows what needs to be changed. Moreover, the divergence angle suggests the beam properties that determine the imaging resolution and allow deciding on the further adjustment of the system to provide the best neutron radiographic outcomes.

Tests Related to ASTM E2861

ASTM E2861 is related to tests including ASTM E543 for non-destructive testing specification, ASTM E545 for thermal neutron radiographic examination to assess the image quality, and ASTM E748 for neutron radiography.

Use of ASTM E2861 Testing in Various Industries

This testing is used in industries that require thermal neutron radiography for inspection and imaging services. In nuclear, this technique guarantees the correct orientation and separation of neutron beams applied in the examination of reactor parts and spent nuclear fuel. In the aerospace industry, it helps in assessing the reliability of materials and structures especially to detect flaws in complicated shapes. The medical field also gains from this testing by enhancing methods of handling imaging for radiological diagnostics. Further, in car manufacturing, the automotive industry uses ASTM E2861 to evaluate welds and structural adequacy.

Materials Commonly Tested with ASTM E2861 

This standard is often applied in nuclear power, medical diagnosis, and research fields. In nuclear energy, it aids in verifying that neutron radiographic systems are correctly positioned for safety and effectiveness. In most cases, this technique enables medical imaging to enhance the thermal neutron beams that are used for diagnosis. The standard is crucial in any application that requires accurate properties of the beam divergence and alignment for neutron imaging.

Safety and Best Practices in ASTM E2861 Testing

The best practice for safety while conducting this testing is minimizing external source interference with the test, such as radiation exposure and other dangerous events. Users should receive basic training in operating neutron imaging equipment and know the configuration of the divergence and alignment indicator (DAI). Appropriate body cover to protect the patient as well as personnel must be worn, and shield known radiation areas, lead aprons, or other shielding where required.

Importance of ASTM E2861

The significance of ASTM E2861 is based on it providing the measures required to increase the accuracy and reliability of thermal neutron radiography, the technique widely used in the industry, including the nuclear energy, aerospace, and materials science fields. This test method proves useful in optimizing the imaging systems, by providing a standard procedure for measuring beam divergence and alignment.