X-Ray Security Scanner Market Overview
Product Overview and Scope of X-Ray Security Scanner Market
X-ray security scanners are a cornerstone of modern security systems, designed to inspect items such as luggage, cargo, and personal belongings to detect concealed weapons, explosives, contraband, or other prohibited materials. These scanners utilize X-ray radiation to create images of the contents of scanned objects, allowing security personnel to identify potential threats without opening the items. The primary goal of X-ray scanners is to enhance security at critical locations such as airports, borders, government buildings, prisons, and public events, helping mitigate threats to public safety.
X-ray security scanners operate by transmitting X-ray beams through objects. As the rays pass through, they are absorbed to varying degrees depending on the material's density and composition. The detectors capture the intensity of the rays that pass through, and this data is processed to generate a detailed image. Dense materials like metals absorb more X-rays, appearing dark in the image, while less dense objects like organic materials or plastics appear lighter. This distinction allows security staff to quickly recognize items like firearms or explosives.
For example, in an airport, carry-on luggage is passed through a dual-energy X-ray scanner. This type of scanner uses two energy levels to distinguish between organic and inorganic materials, providing security staff with color-coded images where explosives or drugs stand out from harmless items. Such scanners are in use at major airports like London Heathrow and Dubai International, ensuring the safety of millions of passengers daily.
Airports are one of the largest users of X-ray scanners. Both passengers' baggage and cargo shipments undergo rigorous X-ray inspections. For example, at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), all checked baggage is screened using high-tech X-ray scanners that can detect hidden explosives or dangerous items. Modern systems, such as computed tomography (CT) scanners, generate 3D images that give security officers more detailed views of suspicious items, improving detection rates and reducing manual inspections. In April 2024, Smiths Detection launched the SDX 10060 XDi - a “ground-breaking” X-ray scanner powered by diffraction technology - marking a new era in airport security screening. The technology behind X-ray scanners has evolved significantly in recent years. Modern advancements have improved the accuracy, speed, and convenience of the scanning process. Dual-view X-ray scanners, for example, can produce two images from different angles, providing a more comprehensive view of the scanned item. This reduces the chances of missing hidden threats that might be obscured in a single-view image.
In addition to dual-view technology, the development of 3D X-ray scanning is transforming the security landscape. These scanners can create 3D representations of objects, allowing security personnel to rotate and zoom into the image for more detailed inspections. This is particularly useful in high-traffic locations like airports, where quick yet thorough inspection is necessary.
Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in X-ray security scanners is making the scanning process more efficient. AI algorithms can automatically identify potential threats by comparing scanned images to a vast database of known dangerous items. For instance, AI-powered scanners are being tested in various locations, including Chicago O'Hare International Airport, to enhance the detection of explosives and weapons, reducing reliance on human operators. In February 2024, Autoclear launched AI Threat Assist for X-Ray Security Scanners, an artificial intelligence (AI) powered threat detection tool that helps to identify concealed guns, knives, and other concealed objects such as backpacks, handbags, and other items are being inspected using Autoclear's x-ray security scanners.
The X-ray security scanner market is significantly growing as the need for enhanced security measures continues to expand across the globe. From airports and government buildings to international trade routes, these scanners provide vital protection against security threats. Technological advancements, including the integration of AI and 3D imaging, promise to further enhance the capabilities of X-ray scanners, ensuring they remain a crucial component in the global security landscape.
Global X-Ray Security Scanner Manufacturers Profiles
Astrophysics Inc.
- Astrophysics Inc. Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area, and Competitors
|
Sr. No. |
Item |
Description |
|
1 |
Company Name |
Astrophysics Inc. |
|
2 |
Website |
astrophysicsinc.com |
|
3 |
Established Date |
2002 |
|
4 |
Headquartered |
United States |
|
5 |
Market Position/ History |
Astrophysics Inc. was founded in 2002 by François Zayek and is headquartered in California, USA. Its primary R&D facility, the Astrophysics Research Center (ARC), is near Ontario, CA, USA. The company also has additional U.S.-based offices in Texas and Washington D.C. and international offices in Mexico, the United Kingdom, Lebanon, India, and the Philippines. Its global dealer network includes over 1,000 Astrophysics Inc.-trained and certified Field Service Technicians operating in over 150 countries. |
|
6 |
Sales Area |
Worldwide |
|
7 |
Manufacturing Location |
United States |
|
8 |
No. of Employees |
Around 296 employees |
|
9 |
Competitors |
Nuctech, Rapiscan Systems, L3 Security and Detection Systems, Inc., Westminster International Limited, Smiths Detection, Autoclear, and others |
|
10 |
CEO |
François Zayek |
|
11 |
Ownership Type |
Private |
|
12 |
Contact Information |
21481 Ferrero Parkway, City of Industry, CA 91789 USA Tel: +1.909.598.5488 |
- Business Segment/ Overview:
Astrophysics Inc. is engaged in designing and manufacturing X-ray and screening systems. The company offers mailroom, small parcel and checkpoint inspection, screening baggage, cargo screening, mobile and vehicle screening solutions, and metal detector products.
Their products are designed and assembled in the United States, and they have multiple global offices and a dealer network. Since 2002, more than 40,000 systems have been deployed in over 150 countries.
The company manufactures over 40 X-ray scanners, designed for 7 major screening categories:
• X-ray baggage scanners: For screening carry-on luggage, checked baggage, and cargo
• Mailroom and small parcel inspection scanners: For screening mail and small parcels
• Checkpoint inspection scanners: For screening at checkpoints
• Cargo screening: For screening boxes and cargo
• Mobile screening: For mobile screening solutions
• Vehicle scanners: For screening vehicles
• Metal detectors: For metal detection
The company’s security solutions serve three major markets including Critical Infrastructure, Aviation, and Ports and Borders.
- X-Ray Security Scanner Product Types Specification
|
Product |
Product Description |
|
Cargo Security |
Cargo systems utilize powerful generators to screen loose, bulk, and palletized freight shipments. Designed to meet the strict regulatory standards of the world’s leading aviation authorities, including TSA, STAC, and Air Canada, they allow airlines and cargo carriers to keep pace with accelerating demand. MULTI-VIEW CT Product Highlights:
The Astrophysics Multi-View CT is the world’s first 3D CT Cargo System. Combining multi-view radiography and high-speed computed tomography, it allows airlines, freight forwarders, and customs agencies to perform rapid and effective cargo inspections. Equipped with a powerful generator, the multi-View CT delivers twice the power of conventional cargo systems. Operators can generate dozens of viewing angles of a single pallet, using Astrophysics’ unique algorithms to reconstruct the views into a single 3D image that allows operators to examine the cargo from all angles. This singular combination of radiography, tomography, and imaging power makes it easy to locate suspicious items with near-perfect accuracy anywhere on a pallet. XIS-1517 200kV Product Highlights
The XIS-1517 200kV is an X-Ray Inspection System (XIS) designed to scan baggage and hold cargo. It is equipped with a 200kV generator for improved steel penetration and a heavy-duty roller bed to speed the loading and unloading of freight. With Astrophysics comprehensive visual software, the XIS-1517 200kV™ allows operators to perform quick and thorough inspections of dense cargo pallets, making it the ideal solution for high-volume checkpoints that require both power and precision. XIS-1517 320kV PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
The XIS-1517 320kV is an X-ray inspection System (XIS) with exceptional steel penetration. Able to image dense cargo pallets with exceptional clarity, the XIS-1517 320kV allows operators to inspect ISO standard pallets with speed, accuracy, and precision. To accelerate the throughput of heavy cargo, its heavy roller bed is only 35.6 cm (14”) above the floor, convenient for loading and unloading freight. The XIS-1517 320kV is equipped with an incredible range of imaging tools that allow operators to enhance images as they are generated. Rich material discrimination and high-contrast object analysis ensure operators can confidently identify threats. Its superior imaging ability makes the XIS-1517 320kV an ideal solution for cargo centers that require high throughput and airtight security. Specifications
XIS-1517DV 200kV Product Highlights:
The XIS-1517DV 200kV is a dual-view X-ray inspection System (XIS) designed to scan baggage and hold cargo. Its generator delivers improved steel penetration and its heavy-duty roller bed speeds up freight loading and unloading. The XIS-1517DV 200kV dual imaging system provides operators with two views of scanned objects. Each view can be manipulated independently, allowing operators to examine objects with separate imaging filters at the same time. Combined with Astrophysics’ best-in-class software, the XIS-1517DV 200kV™ allows operators to recognize objects, identify materials and isolate threats with greater speed and accuracy. |
|
Checkpoint |
trusted and reliable checkpoint security machines have been trusted by airports and TSA checkpoints around the world. Checkpoint and access control systems’ imaging technology inspects backpacks, suitcases, purses, and luggage and allows operators to detect threatening objects hidden in cluttered bags. XIS-6040 Product Highlights
The XIS-6040 is a high-performance Mail & Parcel X-Ray Inspection System (XIS) is designed for screening backpacks, purses, mail, and parcels. Its high-resolution imaging and best-in-class software allow operators to recognize objects, identify materials and isolate threats with greater speed and accuracy. That unsurpassed image quality and its proven field reliability make it clear why the XIS-6040™ is the top choice among Astrophysics x-ray scanners. Specifications
XIS-5335S Product Highlights
The Mail & Parcel Scanner Model XIS-5335S is a compact X-ray inspection System (XIS) that provides more power than any comparable system. Capable of fitting through standard doorways, the system’s small footprint allows for easy relocation and installation, while its powerful generator provides improved detection of small objects such as bags, backpacks, and mail parcels. 6-Color Imaging and high-contrast filters help operators locate threats quickly, making the XIS-5335S the ideal space-saving solution for sites that demand powerful protection against weapons, narcotics, and contraband. XIS-6040SE Product Highlights
The XIS-6040SE is a unique mobile X-ray inspection System (XIS) designed to be both mobile and waterproof. Its shock-absorbing wheels, stainless-steel handles, and collapsible roller table and screen make it easy to set up and relocate. Plus, its waterproof belt protects its electronics from spills meaning liquid containers do not need to be removed during screening. Equipped with Astrophysics’ best-in-class software, the XIS-6040SE is the ideal solution for schools, sports stadiums, and special events where speed and flexibility are critical. |
|
Hold Baggage |
XIS-5878 The Cargo X-Ray Security Scanner XIS-5878 is an efficient solution for screening heavy bags and bulky objects with a low conveyor that eases loading and unloading. XIS-7555R Ruggedized system designed with water and corrosion-resistance and built to operate in extreme climates. XIS-7858 Practical solution for small and medium checkpoints offering image enhancement software that ensures greater accuracy and throughput. XIS-7858DVS Dual-view system with a small footprint and advanced data software that improves image clarity and object recognition. XIS-1080 Versatile X-Ray Inspection solution well-suited to screening luggage, oversized baggage and dolly-sized crates. |
|
Mobile |
XIS-Minivan The XIS-Minivan is a mobile, vehicle-based X-Ray Inspection System (XIS) built to operate in rugged and urban terrain. Its wide tunnel dimensions make it an effective screening solution for large and small objects, and its customizable adapters allow it to run on either shore power or generators making it the ideal option for roving security checks. The XIS-Minivan generates high-resolution images that allow for detailed inspections, and its enhanced material discrimination and image analysis make it possible to assess threat objects with increased precision. Additionally, it features a climate-controlled cabin, power steering, hydraulic disc brakes, and exterior lighting for enhanced comfort and operational effectiveness. XIS-Truck The XIS-Truck is a heavy-duty, vehicle-based X-Ray Inspection System (XIS) designed for screening large and small objects. Built within a Ford F-450 Super Duty Truck, it is capable of quick relocations and maneuvering through difficult terrain. It features an extended conveyor belt and built-in monitor stand, as well as a retractable awning for sun protection. Its high-quality imaging and best-in-class software allows operators to analyze objects in detail using imaging filters that allow them to easily distinguish between threatening and non-threatening items. With its rugged construction and superior imaging, the XIS-Truck ensures greater accuracy and throughput, making it the ideal security solution for mobile operations in urban and rural environments. |
- Recent Developments:
|
Year |
Latest News |
|
June 2020 |
Astrophysics Announced the Multi-View CT Cargo System In June 2020, Astrophysics Inc. announced the introduction of its Multi-View CT cargo system for screening medium-to-high density cargo. The Multi-View CT is an innovative technology that combines multi-view radiographic (x-ray) transmission with 3D computed tomography (CT) to examine complex and cluttered pallets. The system is powered by a 450kV generator that provides contrast screening of dense cargo and twice the penetration of a standard cargo x-ray system. The clarity of the Multi-View CT images allows operators to identify threats in any location within the cargo pallet, often with four times the screening speed of conventional cargo x-ray systems alone. |
- Business Strategy
Astrophysics Inc. heavily invests in research and development which has led the company to develop innovative x-ray imaging. It strategically focuses on customer needs and requirements. Over 50% of its products are made-to-order. The company partners closely with customers to design and deliver X-ray scanners tailored to each customer’s security mission.
The company continuously introduced new features, including 6-Color Imaging, Remote Diagnostics, and Real Time Diagnostics. For instance, in June 2020, Astrophysics launched a Multi-View CT Cargo System that features multi-view radiographic (x-ray) transmission with 3D computed tomography (CT) to examine complex and cluttered pallets.
Astrophysics Inc. targets high-demand sectors like aviation, government, and border security, expanding its market reach across the globe, including emerging markets in Asia and the Middle East.
S.W.O.T Analysis
