You care about the safety of your food products, but human workers can’t catch everything. That’s where x-ray inspection systems come in. These systems find contaminants in food products, such as rocks, bones, and glass, that could injure consumers or make them seriously sick.
As you’re budgeting for an x-ray system, you might wonder: How much do x-ray systems cost? Below, learn the answer, as well as several factors that affect the price of these machines.
How Much Will You Pay for an X-Ray Inspection System?
The cost of an x-ray system depends on whether you can make do with a basic system or require a more advanced model with additional capabilities. Entry-level systems are ideal for standard applications and moderate throughput needs. A system like this will cost you anywhere from $60,000 to $120,000.
If you want a top-of-the-line system with the latest features, like artificial intelligence or automation, you’re going to pay much more. Advanced systems can cost $150,000 to $500,000 or even more. Those prices may give you sticker shock, but keep in mind that not every food packaging business needs such a high-tech system. Unless you need to process hundreds of items per minute, a more basic model may still be able to fulfill your needs.
What Factors Impact the Cost?
The next question everyone asks after “How much do x-ray systems cost?” is “Why do x-ray systems cost so much?” Exactly what are you getting for all that money? Let’s take a look at some of the factors that influence the price of these machines.
Technology and Special Features
Basic x-ray systems do a decent job of detecting big chunks of glass, stones, and other unwanted junk in food. However, they’re not equipped for high-resolution image processing, which means they may miss very small objects or contaminants with poor contrast. If you want a system that’ll catch everything, you’ll need to pony up for an advanced model.
Some advanced systems also employ dual-energy technology, which scans products with both high and low x-ray frequencies, allowing you to find more contaminants. Naturally, such systems are more expensive than those without this feature.
Throughput and Capacity
As with other types of equipment, speed plays a big part in the cost. Advanced systems offer speedy throughput, making them ideal for production lines with heavy processing demands and stringent food safety standards. The more speed you need, the more you’ll pay. A basic model may serve you well if you only require moderate throughput.
Handling capacity is another factor influencing the price. More expensive models can handle larger objects than cheaper systems can..
Construction and Materials
If your business processes meat, fish, cheese, or other food products prone to contamination, you’ll need a system of durable materials rated for operation in harsh environments. For example, you’ll want to pick a stainless steel system with an IP69K rating for washdown conditions.
On the other hand, if you don’t need to regularly clean your system with harsh cleaners, a basic model might be fine for you.
Compliance and Certifications
Companies that process items like meat products and vegetables must meet stricter government regulations than those that don’t. If you lack an x-ray system that doesn’t meet regulatory standards, expect the government to crack down on you.
Such systems cost more because the costs of rigorous testing and validation processes are built into the price.
Integration and Customization
You likely want your x-ray system to integrate seamlessly with the rest of your production line. If you expect your new system to play nice with other equipment, you’re going to pay more for that benefit.
Additionally, if you’d like to customize the system to meet your production line’s needs, you’re going to pay quite a bit extra. On the plus side, you’ll get a machine that does exactly what your business needs it to do.
What Training and Certifications Will Employees Need?
How much do x-ray systems cost? The price of the unit itself isn’t the only factor you’ll need to consider. You’ll also need to think about the price of training, as well as any special certifications required for your business.
- Operator Training: X-ray systems are fairly easy to use but not exactly intuitive. You’ll need to train your employees on how to calibrate, run, and maintain the machines. They must know what to do if the machine detects a contaminant and how to proceed if something goes wrong with the system. In some cases, you might need to pay for training for each employee; in others, the manufacturer might offer training that’s included with the cost of the system.
- Radiation Safety Certification: X-ray operators might need to undergo radiation safety training. This training instructs employees on the effects of radiation on humans, radiation protection, and how to handle radiation emergencies. A radiation safety course can cost anywhere from $500 to more than $1,000 per employee.
- Regulatory Compliance: Getting your operators trained and certified may seem like an expensive hassle, but by doing so, you’ll ensure that your business is in compliance with regulatory standards. When the alternative is a pricey fine, it’s easy to see how training x-ray operators is worth the cost.
More Factors To Consider When Shopping for an X-Ray System
Purchasing product inspection machinery isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it thing. You’ll need to have the machine regularly calibrated and maintained to keep it humming along in top shape. Without regular maintenance, the system could break down, leaving you in quite a lurch. And if you forgo calibration, the system may have trouble detecting contaminants.
On top of that, you will likely need software upgrades from time to time. Without these upgrades, the machine could experience glitches or even become vulnerable to hacking. Some x-ray manufacturers offer free upgrades, while others charge for theirs.
So, should you buy a high-end system or stick with a mid-range model? Advanced systems may cost more up front, but they tend to offer a higher return on investment (ROI). That’s because such systems offer the best detection capabilities, which means you’ll have less risk of contaminants getting into your food products.
Without the help of a capable system, you might end up facing expensive recalls, lawsuits, and fines from the government. Recalls and lawsuits don’t just hit you in the pocketbook, either. They can also do serious damage to your brand’s reputation. That’s why it’s wise to go with the best x-ray system your business can afford.
How To Choose the Perfect X-Ray System
If you’re looking for metal detection alternatives and considering an x-ray system for your food processing line, you’re probably wondering how to pick the right model. Here’s what to consider:
- Operational efficiency and speed: How fast do you want your x-ray system to be? If you’re on a very tight production schedule, you might need a system capable of processing dozens of items a minute. If you own a small business that works at a slower pace, you could be fine with a basic system.
- Contaminant detection: More advanced models are better at detecting tiny contaminants and debris in liquid products, like milk and orange juice.
- Ease of use: Although all x-ray systems require some level of training, the model you choose should include software that’s easy to use. Overly complicated software presents an opportunity for operator error.
- Cleaning requirements: The x-ray system you pick should be simple to clean. That’s especially true if your business processes raw meat, fish, or dairy products. You may need to look for a system that’s rated for stringent washdown procedures.
- Manufacturer reputation: Be sure to choose an x-ray machine from a manufacturer with a reputation for quality systems and good support. The best manufacturers also assist with maintenance and repairs if something goes wrong.
X-Ray Systems Designed for Every Food Processing Need
How much do x-ray systems cost? The quick answer is that you’ll pay anywhere from $60,000 to more than $500,000, depending on the features your business needs. Whether you’re looking for a basic x-ray system or need a more advanced unit, TDI Packsys offers a wide range of systems to choose from.
Browse our selection of standard, dual-energy, bulk-flow, and large-format x-ray systems, or call TDI Packsys at (877) 834-6750 to get a quote for an x-ray system today.
