Davies Turner Air Cargo leads the way with dual-view X-ray scanning

Initiatives to enhance safety and security in the worldwide supply chain has seen Davies Turner Air Cargo (DTAC) become the first UK freight forwarder to acquire and install a cutting edge, large Rapiscan pallet-sized X-ray machine which uses innovative dual-view technology.

As part of the Davies Turner Group, the UK’s largest independent freight forwarder, DTAC has invested a six-figure sum in purchasing the Rapiscan 638DV advanced dual-view X-ray screening system for ULDs, ISO standard, lower deck and large cargo pallet-type freight. The machine, which is over 11m in length and stands almost 3.5m high is capable of handling individual pieces up to 3,000 kilos and has been installed at DTAC’s Heathrow gateway and company HQ.

Denham Baxter, Managing Director of DTAC, commented: “At Davies Turner, our commitment has always been to train our staff to the highest level and support that with the necessary hardware. As long ago as 1997, DTAC pioneered the installation of Rapiscan X-ray machines at our London Heathrow freight hub to keep abreast of industry thinking on airfreight security.

“We are proud that this latest installation is the first of its kind in the UK and it clearly demonstrates our commitment with Rapiscan to the safety and security of the global supply chain.”

The key advantage presented to DTAC’s clients is that the innovative dual-view technology generates a horizontal and vertical view of the object under inspection. By providing two perpendicular views, the Rapiscan 638DV provides a more detailed perspective of scanned items, regardless of orientation, which aids threat detection. The tunnel entrance at 1,800 mm x 1,800 mm allows large pieces to be screened and reduces the need to break down and reassemble freight.

Mr Baxter says “Our safety and security systems are robust as evidenced by our gaining full AEO accreditation back in 2008, as well as compliance with the DfT aviation security programmes. X-ray screening is only one part of the safety and security procedures undertaken by the Company and will stand us and our customers in good stead as new, and more restrictive, regulations are due to be introduced later this year by international authorities, demanding the use of dual scan technology to achieve “Known Cargo” status.”

David Kent, Vice President Sales EMEA at Rapiscan Systems, added: “We are thrilled to continue working alongside Davies Turner Air Cargo, as it once again leads the UK market in airfreight security. Having established a long term relationship, we know that Davies Turner always embraces new and innovative technologies so that it can continue to offer best of breed in security screening and set an example to others in how to ensure the safety of goods and ultimately air passengers.”

About Davies Turner Air Cargo

Davies Turner Air Cargo specialises in highly flexible logistics, import and export airfreight and express services.

The company moves shipments on a worldwide basis for its customers and, by maintaining this flexibility, has developed partnerships with a wide range of scheduled, charter and non-IATA airlines. With expert knowledge of routes, airlines and local facilities, DTAC offers customers a quicker, professional and more efficient service at competitive rates.

DTAC operates economy, full and part charter airfreight services and sea/air worldwide. Its express/logistics division operates its ‘DTAC Express’ product. Having developed this service over many years it offers the speed and timed deliveries of the integrators combined with the flexibility and accountability of DTAC’s airfreight service.

About Rapiscan Systems

Rapiscan Systems, Inc., a division of OSI Systems, Inc. is a leading global supplier of security inspection solutions utilising X-ray and gamma-ray imaging, and advanced threat identification techniques such as neutron and diffraction analysis. The company's products are sold into four market segments; Baggage and Parcel Inspection, Cargo and Vehicle Inspection, Hold Baggage Screening and People Screening. The company has an installed base globally of more than 70,000 security and inspection systems. The Rapiscan Systems product line is manufactured at four locations and supported by a global support service network. As the world’s leading security screening provider, Rapiscan Systems provides state of the art products, solutions and services that meet its customers’ most demanding threat detection needs --- while improving their operational efficiency.