GE Acquires X-Ray Technology Firm

General Electric's Inspection Technologies business unit has acquired Phoenix X-ray, a company specializing in computed tomography X-ray technology. The technology is used in a number of industries, including aerospace technologies, power generation, automotive and oil and gas businesses.

The technology from Phoenix X-ray was described as applicable for non-destructive testing, and uses micro and nano technology as well as the company's three-dimensional computed tomography. While the technology is not specifically designed for security applications, GE has traditionally employed technology advances developed within other business units as stepping stones for technology advances in its homeland security technology offerings. Notably, at a 2006 press conference held during the ASIS International Seminars and Exhibits, the company stressed how technologies coming from business units like its healthcare operations were being used in its homeland security offerings.

GE's Security division currently has a number of detection technologies that complement X-ray screening technology used primarily at TSA airport security checkpoints. GE recently attempted an agreement with Smiths Detection, creating a company known as Smiths GE Detection that would have offered combined detection systems offerings to airports and other critical security points. Smiths Detection is one of the leading providers of X-ray technology, however, the merged operation was suspended in September 2007 due to business differences.

Financial details for the acquisition of Phoenix X-ray were not disclosed.