Minimum Requirements Document (MRD).pdf

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT

Title: Digital Detector Array (DDA)

Document Date: 12 August 2026

Background:

The AFRL High Explosive Research and Development (HERD) facility currently utilizes an integrated VJT

XCT system and Varex M6A high-energy X-ray source to perform critical, non-destructive diagnostic imaging of energetic materials, experimental munitions, and explosive fills. This system requires an additional detector panel due to the high-scan times utilized for a classified, high-priority Test Wing project.

Acquiring this replacement flat panel detector will restore the facility's capability to safely characterize explosive fills, detect internal cracks or voids, and generate CT data of objects.

Scope:

AFRL/RABE requires the procurement, configuration, and integration of one (1) high-energy flat panel

Digital Detector Array (DDA) into the existing proprietary VJT XCT system. Due to the high scan times required for upcoming classified, higher headquarters-directed projects, the replacement detector must support larger-volume imaging and deliver a higher level of diagnostic fidelity than previous systems. The contractor must supply the hardware, matching software controls, and system calibration required to synchronize the new panel with the Varex M6A high-energy source.

Requirements/Salient Characteristics:

1. Imaging Area (Active Area): Must have an active imaging area of at least 17 inches by 17 inches to accommodate large-volume imaging of experimental munition casings and large-scale explosive cast structures.

2. Resolution (Pixel Pitch): Must have a pixel pitch of no greater than 140 micrometers (µm) to ensure the spatial resolution is sufficient to detect micro-cracks, density gradients, and void formations in high explosives.

3. Scintillator Performance: Must feature a high-contrast scintillator (DRZ+ Gadox or equivalent) paired with a protective screen (such as copper) to optimize MV imaging under high-energy x-ray penetration.

4. Radiation Tolerance & Shielding: Must include integrated internal shielding (such as tungsten) designed to protect internal detector electronics from scatter radiation under high-energy environments.

5. Interface & Data Transfer: Must utilize a high-speed Gigabit Ethernet interface card to link with existing laboratory workstations and support digital data transfer speeds of at least 4 frames per second (at 1x1 binning) and 15 frames per second (at 2x2 binning).

6. System Compatibility & Source Synchronization: Must be fully compatible with the existing, proprietary VJT XCT software, calibration controls, and VJT’s proprietary HE Sync Lync Box hardware to ensure safe, precise synchronization with the Varex M6A source.

7. Software Support: Must include operating software that supports automated bad pixel mapping with multi-point corrections under a standard non-exclusive software license.

8. Warranty & Lead Time: Must include a minimum of a 12-month commercial parts and labor warranty, with a delivery and integration lead time of no more than 10 weeks.