Awards success for Oxford x-ray imaging firm Adaptix

Adaptix, a 3D x-ray imaging business based in Oxford, is now proud owner of the ‘most exciting emerging technology’ – as recognised at this week’s Aerospace Technology and Innovation Awards.

The award, presented by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) at its conference in Newport, celebrates technology being developed in the UK that will support the journey to net zero emissions by 2050.

Adaptix was recognised for its unique imaging capability in non-destructive testing (NDT), able to provide detailed images within minutes.

Originally developed for the medical sector, Adaptix’s low-power x-ray techn can inspect traditional, additive-manufactured and composite components (including dry form) with a high degree of fidelity.

Having received a grant from the ATI, the Adaptix team has been working closely with robotics experts at Cranfield University, who have helped evolve the tech for use in the aerospace industry.

Martin Holden, development engineering manager for NDT at Adaptix, said:“We’re thrilled that the potential of our proven imaging technology to revolutionise inspection across the aerospace industry has been recognised with this award.

“Innovation is at the heart of the aerospace industry, but irrespective of how components are made, it’s crucial that manufacturers, airframers and maintenance, repairs and operations (MRO) businesses have the tools they need to detect potential failure points quickly and efficiently.

“As the industry moves towards lightweighting components, new methods of inspection are required to ensure they’re fit for purpose.

“We’re excited by its potential of our inspection tool for the industry, and receiving this award in front of an audience of key industry experts is a proud moment for us all and recognises the hard work and ingenuity of the whole Adaptix team.”

Prof Bryn C Hughes, chief scientist for NDT at Adaptix, added: “Adaptix has shown that its technology can inspect smaller aerospace parts to the level of fidelity that is of relevance to industry.

“It’s now successfully scaled up this capability to image large aerospace parts – such as wing parts, doors and skins – while maintaining the required resolution.

“Working closely in partnership with experts at Cranfield University, facilitated through this ATI grant, has allowed us to explore the integration of the capability onto twin robotic systems.

“This is a hugely exciting development and has the potential for a real game change for in situ NDT.”

The technology will be on show at the Advanced Engineering Show at NEC Birmingham on 30 and 31 October.