ASTM E2699-23 PDF

Overview

ASTM E2699-23, titled Standard Practice for Digital Imaging and Communication in Nondestructive Evaluation (DICONDE) for Digital X-ray (DX) Test Methods, is issued by ASTM International. This standard addresses best practices for the creation, transfer, and storage of digital X-ray test results using Digital Detector Arrays (DDA) in the field of nondestructive evaluation (NDE). It ensures interoperability between digital X-ray imaging equipment and provides a standardized format for image data communication and archival based on the DICONDE framework.

By defining information modules and supplementing existing DICONDE and DICOM standards, ASTM E2699-23 allows digital X-ray data and related test parameters to remain accessible and compatible across evolving technologies and systems.

Key Topics

• Interoperability: Facilitates the seamless exchange and archiving of digital X-ray data among different systems, manufacturers, and formats, using common protocols and data dictionaries.
• Digital Detector Arrays (DDA): Specifies practices for managing data captured via DDAs, distinct from computed radiography (CR) which is covered under a separate standard.
• DICONDE Integration: Supplements ASTM E2339 and leverages the internationally recognized DICOM standard, ensuring digital radiography (DX) NDE data is organized, stored, and displayed consistently.
• Information Modules and Objects: Defines specific modules and object definitions tailored to the unique needs of digital X-ray testing, including detector and calibration data.
• Data Decoding and Analysis: Enables personnel to decode, display, and analyze DICONDE-compliant digital X-ray records on any compatible system, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.
• Open Standards: Promotes the use of open, industry-wide data transfer and storage methods, minimizing issues associated with proprietary formats.

Applications

ASTM E2699-23 has broad practical applications across industries where nondestructive testing and radiography are critical, such as aerospace, power generation, automotive, and manufacturing.

• Quality Assurance: Supports consistency and traceability in digital radiographic inspections, critical for regulatory compliance and safety-sensitive sectors.
• Data Management: Streamlines the storage, retrieval, and sharing of inspection data throughout the asset lifecycle, facilitating collaboration across teams and organizations.
• Vendor Neutrality: Ensures that digital X-ray data created today remains accessible in the future, regardless of changes in hardware or software solutions, providing future-proofing for archived NDE records.
• Equipment Integration: Allows facilities to integrate equipment from different manufacturers within a single DICONDE-compliant environment, reducing compatibility issues and operational disruption.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meets the requirements of recognized standards bodies and regulatory agencies, supporting organizations in fulfilling mandatory reporting and documentation practices.

Related Standards

For effective implementation and broader context, ASTM E2699-23 should be used in conjunction with the following standards:

• ASTM E2339 – Digital Imaging and Communication in Nondestructive Evaluation (DICONDE): Establishes the core framework and terminology for DICONDE in NDE.
• ASTM E2597 – Practice for Manufacturing Characterization of Digital Detector Arrays.
• ASTM E2698 – Practice for Radiographic Examination Using Digital Detector Arrays: Covers specific procedures for DDA-based imaging.
• ASTM E2738 – Practice for DICONDE for Computed Radiography (CR) Test Methods.
• DICOM NEMA PS3 / ISO 12052 – Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM): The internationally recognized standard upon which DICONDE is based.

Keywords: digital X-ray, DICONDE, DICOM, nondestructive evaluation, radiographic test methods, digital detector arrays, data interoperability, ASTM E2699-23, digital radiography, NDE data management, image data archiving.