| The CF188 Hornet's flight control surfaces (FCS) are known to be susceptible to water ingress, especially the rudder which has departed aircraft on two occasions, due to loss of structural integrity.;One of the inspections used at main operating bases (MOBs) to identify water ingress is X-radiography. As a faster, more economical and environmentally friendlier alternative to film-based X-radiography, computed radiography (CR) is investigated in this thesis specifically for this application.;A methodical and intensive study of X-ray film and computed radiography was carried out in accordance with the Nondestructive Evaluation System Reliability Assesment Handbook (MIL-HDBK-1823A) to generate Probability of Detection (POD) curves to assess the applicability of computed radiography in comparison with film-based radiography.;As well, a detailed study of the computed radiography system was accomplished through the use of standards set out in the American Society for Testing and Materials to classify the computed radiography (CR) system. CR settings and their effect on image quality were assessed and optimized in order to obtain the best quality image.;It was found that computed radiography can perform up to and even surpass the CF188 rudder X-ray film radiographic inspection results. It was also found that CR can perform a rudder inspection in approximately half of the time. |
