Joe Markey, Engineering Technology Leader, represented Dowty, a GE Aerospace company, at Advanced Engineering 2025 to discuss the role and impact of digital tomosynthesis in non-destructive testing.
The panel discussed the use of AI and machine learning within non-destructive testing, highlighting the challenges in an aerospace environment from the number of specimens to train models efficiently given the complexity of composite defects.
As Joe explains: “The panel was a wonderful opportunity to discuss the many challenges posed by the next generation of aircraft part manufacture for sustainable aviation. Having industrial and academic representation allowed for a deep dive into automation, novel techniques, and changes to the technical solution and business approach to non-destructive testing as manufacturing evolves to meet the needs of our aerospace customers.
“It was incredibly insightful overall and a pleasure to be asked to join the panel.”
The Adaptix panel discussion at Advanced Engineering 2025 demonstrated the need for evolution as we move into the next generation of non-destructive testing of composite parts and products.
Joe has 13 years’ experience in the aerospace industry, predominantly revolving around composite materials, advanced processes, and automation. As Dowty’s Engineering Technology Leader, Joe is responsible for introducing new technologies, engaging with development partners, and integrating them within the business.
Joe first worked in conjunction with Adaptix on the 18-month Auto 3DX NDE4.0 project that studied the opportunity of digital tomosynthesis in propeller blade manufacturing and inspection. During this Innovate UK funded project (through the NATEP grant), Dowty provided products and component use-cases for verifying defect identification of both dry fibre and cured composite materials.
“It’s been a great opportunity for us to be the driver of development with our parts and our use cases,” said Joe. “We’ve really seen the technology grow and show its potential within aerospace.”
While digital tomosynthesis is usually linked to medical imaging that improves cancer detection, Adaptix have expanded their use of the 3D X-ray imaging technology to perform during non-destructive testing inspections of composites, batteries, metal additive, and welding.
Research of digital tomosynthesis in aerospace began at the National Composites Centre and Cranfield University, before being supported by major aerospace companies including Dowty.
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