BAE SYSTEMS BRINGS IN NEW TECHNOLOGY IN FOCUS ON QUALITY MUNITIONS
10 Sep 2007 | Ref. 285/2007
London, United Kingdom. - BAE Systems has taken quality control at its Glascoed munitions facility to a new level with the introduction of a world-leading X-ray imaging process that can detect air pockets as small as 1mm in diameter within explosives.
David Allott, managing director for BAE Systems Land Systems Munitions, said the new system – which cost some £750,000 to develop and install – is believed to be unique. "We are leading the way in developing image enhancement capability, and as a result we are able to provide our customers with even greater confidence in our quality inspection process," he said.
Further work is planned to enhance the system to provide the ability to produce images showing pockets smaller than 1mm, with the development work taking place "at the limits of existing technology", he added.
The new X-ray process was developed in consultation with a range of experts, including Cranfield University, AWE Aldermaston, NDT Consultants and X-innovations, who designed the system.
"The system we have installed is unique and very powerful," he said, "but there is still potential improvement in imaging software to further enhance image contrast and resolution."
David Allott said the new X-ray imaging process was part of the transformation of BAE Systems’ Munitions business to meet the current and future needs of the UK Ministry of Defence. Air pockets in munitions can affect accuracy and, in severe cases, can lead to premature detonation.
"As a result of our investment and continued focus on lean techniques, our manufacturing facilities are delivering record performance levels. These are clear signs that the Munitions business is progressing well with its transformation programme and this is at the heart of the long-term partnering relationship with the MOD under the proposed MASS (Munitions Acquisition, the Supply Solution) contract," he said.
About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier global defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 96,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £15 billion (US $27 billion) in 2006*.
*On a pro forma basis, assuming BAE Systems had owned Armor Holdings Inc, for the whole of 2006
For further information please contact:
Kate Roberts, BAE Systems
Tel +44 191 3226 7026 Mobile +44(0)7771 767385
kate.roberts@baesystems.com
Mike Sweeney, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 383074 Mob: +44 (0) 7801 716452
mike.sweeney2@baesystems.com
Issued by:
BAE Systems, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 6YU, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 384605 Fax: +44 (0) 1252 383947
24hr media hotline: + 44 (0) 7801 717739
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