Measuring stresses in hard-to-access locations is a major concern that impacts a range of industries. Detrimental stresses in these locations lead to expensive inspection/repair costs and potential loss of aircraft and personnel. X-ray diffraction, a technique for measuring surface stresses, has been taken from laboratory to field. Limitations have existed with field-measuring devices due to size, weight, safety, time, and power requirements. MAX, Miniature Apparatus for X-Ray Diffraction, is a tool developed by TEC under DOD SBIR Contract F09650-02-C-051. MAX has overcome limitations through integration of miniature x-ray tube and detectors in a battery-powered system.

Measurements have been made on C5 aircraft structures made of 7075-T6 aluminum, an alloy of significance to the Air Force. Previously, components were removed from aircraft for inspection. MAX enables in situ measurements quickly and safely.

MAX's creation will be presented along with examples of how it is being used to solve engineering concerns.