Overview
EN ISO 5579:2013 - "Non‑destructive testing - Radiographic testing of metallic materials using film and X‑ or gamma rays - Basic rules" establishes the general rules for industrial film radiography (X‑ray and gamma‑ray) used for flaw detection in metallic products and materials. Published by CEN as the European adoption of ISO 5579:2013, it defines fundamental techniques to obtain repeatable, economical radiographs. The standard does not prescribe acceptance criteria for imperfections - those are specified in application or product standards.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: Basic rules for film‑based radiographic testing (RT) of metals; applicable to welds, castings, forgings and other metallic components.
- Classification of techniques: Two technique classes - Class A (basic) and Class B (improved). Class B is used when higher sensitivity is required; if Class B conditions cannot be met, compensating adjustments (e.g., increased radiographic density or better film class) are specified.
- Personnel qualification: Radiographers and inspection personnel must be qualified in accordance with ISO 9712.
- Radiation protection: Protection against ionizing radiation and regulatory compliance are mandatory.
- Image quality control: Use of Image Quality Indicators (IQI) and reference to ISO 19232 series for image quality determination and classes.
- Film systems and processing: Film classes referenced to ISO 11699‑1/2 and guidance on processing control, film handling, overlap prevention and identification/marking of radiographs.
- Technique parameters: Guidance on X‑ray tube voltages (extended up to 1000 kV where applicable), source size, source‑to‑film distance (SFD), source‑to‑object distance, beam alignment, scatter reduction, maximum area per exposure, required radiographic density, viewing conditions and recommended test arrangements.
- Reporting: Minimum information and structure for the radiographic test report.
Applications
EN ISO 5579:2013 is intended for organizations performing or specifying film radiography as part of NDT and quality assurance:
- Inspection of welds in pressure equipment, pipelines and structural steel
- Verification of castings and forgings for internal defects
- Routine manufacturing quality control in heavy industry, petrochemical, power generation and aerospace (where film RT is specified)
- Training and qualification of radiographers in film‑based radiographic testing
Who should use this standard
- NDT managers, radiographers and inspection technicians
- QA/QC engineers and welding inspectors
- Inspection bodies, fabricators and contractors specifying radiographic exams
- Standards developers and procurement teams referencing radiographic rules
Related standards
- ISO 9712 (personnel qualification)
- ISO 11699‑1/2 (radiographic film systems and processing control)
- ISO 19232 series (image quality)
- ISO 5576, ISO 5580, EN 12543, EN 12679 (radiographic terminology, illuminators, focal‑spot and source sizing)
Keywords: EN ISO 5579:2013, radiographic testing, film radiography, X‑ray, gamma rays, non‑destructive testing (NDT), image quality indicator, ISO 9712, metallic materials.
