Dr. Uwe Zscherpel - Automatec Evaluation of X-ray radiographs of welded pipes - Best Researcher Award 

BAM Berlin - Germany 

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS 

ORCID 

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

UWE ZSCHERPEL, embarked on his academic journey with a profound interest in physics. He pursued a Diploma in Experimental Physics from the University of Leipzig in 1987, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemical Physics in 1993, also from the same institution. His early academic training laid the foundation for his career in radiology and image analysis, which would define his contributions in the field of non-destructive testing (NDT). These formative years were marked by a solid grounding in experimental and theoretical physics, which later proved invaluable in his research and professional endeavors.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 👨‍🔬

Since 1992, Uwe Zscherpel has been an integral part of the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) in Berlin. He initially served as a scientist and project leader in Division 8.3 “Radiological Methods.” His leadership and expertise led him to head the working group 8.35 “Digital Radiology and Image Analysis” from 2006 to 2012. In 2009, Zscherpel was appointed as the Governmental Director and Head of the accredited RT testing laboratory within Division 8.3, a role he continues to serve in today. Over the years, his work has shaped BAM’s approach to radiological testing, emphasizing digital radiology and advanced imaging techniques to support safety and quality in materials testing.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Uwe Zscherpel’s research primarily focuses on radiological methods and digital image analysis, particularly within the context of non-destructive testing (NDT). His contributions to the Automatec Evaluation of X-ray radiographs of welded pipes development of radiographic testing (RT) and computed tomography (CT) have revolutionized materials testing and quality control. Zscherpel’s work in image processing in RT, a sub-field he has chaired since 1998, has significantly advanced the capability of RT to detect and analyze internal structures of materials without causing damage. He is also heavily involved in the development of international standards for NDT methods through his work with ISO, CEN, and DIN committees, where he plays a leading role in shaping global guidelines for radiographic testing.

ACCREDITATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS 🏆

Zscherpel’s expertise and dedication to non-destructive testing have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Berthold Price from the German Society for Non-destructive Testing (DGZfP) in 2007, which he shared with Dr. Klaus Bavendiek. His academic and professional influence extends beyond national borders as he holds memberships in several Automatec Evaluation of X-ray radiographs of welded pipes distinguished organizations. Zscherpel’s involvement in leading technical committees for organizations such as ASTM International, the International Institute of Welding (IIW), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) further underscores his reputation as a global expert in radiographic testing and image analysis.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Zscherpel’s contributions to NDT have had a far-reaching impact, not only within the academic community but also in industrial and safety applications. His leadership in developing more efficient and accurate radiographic testing methods has improved the quality control of materials used in critical infrastructure, including those in aerospace, nuclear, and construction Automatec Evaluation of X-ray radiographs of welded pipes industries. Furthermore, as the Chair of the DGZfP technical committee on radiographic testing, he has influenced NDT education and certification, fostering international cooperation and standards. Zscherpel’s work in digital radiology has made significant strides in enhancing the precision and reliability of inspections, reducing costs, and improving safety.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🔮

Uwe Zscherpel’s legacy lies in his transformative role in advancing the field of non-destructive testing through digital radiology and image processing. His continued work in international committees and leadership in global NDT standardization ensures that his influence will be felt for years to come. As Vice-Chair of several ISO and CEN working groups and the Chair of various committees, Zscherpel is shaping the future of NDT technologies. His vision for a more interconnected and efficient NDT community, driven by technological innovation, promises to further enhance the safety and integrity of materials testing across industries. Zscherpel’s dedication to both practical applications and global standardization ensures that future generations of engineers and researchers will benefit from his work for many years.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

• Title: Analysis of angular dependent spatial frequency response of Digital Coplanar Translational Laminography
  Authors: Silva, W., Zscherpel, U., Ewert, U., Lopes, R.
  Journal: NDT and E International, 2021, 124, 102546
• Title: X-ray imaging techniques for inspection of composite pipelines
  Authors: Silva, W., Lopes, R., Zscherpel, U., Meinel, D., Ewert, U.
  Journal: Micron, 2021, 145, 103033
• Title: Radiographic film system classification and noise characterisation by a camera-based digitisation procedure
  Authors: Eckel, S., Zscherpel, U., Huthwaite, P., Paul, N., Schumm, A.
  Journal: NDT and E International, 2020, 111, 102241
• Title: Modern techniques of CT based structure analysis | Moderne Methoden der CT-gestützten Strukturanalyse
  Authors: Ulbricht, A., Gollwitzer, C., Kupsch, A., Thiede, T., Zscherpel, U.
  Journal: Technisches Messen, 2020, 87(2), pp. 81–92
• Title: Realistic Film Noise Generation Based on Experimental Noise Spectra
  Authors: Eckel, S., Huthwaite, P., Zscherpel, U., Schumm, A., Paul, N.
  Journal: IEEE Transactions on Image Processing, 2020, 29, pp. 2987–2998, 8917817