Standard Practice for Evaluating the Imaging Performance of Security X-Ray Systems

1.1 This practice applies to all X-ray based screening systems, with tunnel apertures up to 1 m wide 1 m high, whether it is a conventional X-ray system or an explosives detection system (EDS) that provides a projection or projection/scatter image for an operator to interpret.

1.2 This practice applies to X-ray systems used for the screening for prohibited items such as weapons, explosives, and explosive devices in baggage, packages, cargo, or mail.

1.3 This practice establishes quantitative and qualitative methods for evaluating the systems. This practice does not establish minimum performance requirements for any particular application.

1.4 The values as stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.5 This practice relies upon the use of a standard test object (ASTM X-ray Test Object) to determine the applicable performance levels of the systems. The specific test object is subsequently described and referred to in this document as the "Test Object."

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Examples are Title 21 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 1020.40 in the United States and Health Safety Regulation No. 1333 in the United Kingdom.

1.7 Film Safety—If film safety, defined as 2.58x10^-7 C/kg (1 mR) per screening, is of importance, refer to Test Method F 1039.