Security checking systems for air cargo
ULD X-ray systems and flight simulators

Unlike flight baggage, air freight is based on the 'known shipper' principle — freight has to be declared. Contents, weight and information on the consignor and consignee have to be known and correct. But just checking these details is not enough. The increasingly stringent security requirements facing airports and flight operators necessitate a complete check of the freight for any dangerous elements. New systems are needed for supplementary inspections. These include X-ray inspections of pre-packed ULDs or low-pressure chambers for simulating flight conditions prior to aircraft loading. These additional security checks constitute a major intervention in the work flow in the terminals, yet at the same time they provide an opportunity to test the entire logistics process. Improving security checks can thus help the operator optimize throughput times and costs.

Flight simulation chambers - a new dimension in security

X-raying pre-packed ULDs and using low-pressure chambers and flight simulation chambers reduce the risk of dangerous freight getting on board. Explosives can be found by applying low or high pressures, ultrasound and time-triggered sensors — audio signals are also detected. Specially designed simulation programs reproduce the varying external conditions during a flight, thus reducing the risk of attacks in the air. Any hazardous objects in the freight can be dealt with by a controlled explosion in the chambers, thus preventing any further damage.
Pressurized chambers are available in different sizes, depending on requirements. Whether a ULD X-ray system or a flight simulation chamber is needed, Siemens Industrial Solutions and Services can supply a correctly dimensioned and perfectly integrated system for any application.