Smiths Detection has won the biggest ever single order for its next-generation hold baggage scanner after Frankfurt Airport signed an agreement to purchase 35 of its HI-SCAN 10080 XCT machines.

The contract is in line with the gateway's desire to upgrade to the ECAC Standard 3 explosives detection systems.

According to Smiths Detection, its solution will deliver increased security and operational efficiency, and can easily be upgraded to meet future requirements to identify evolving threats, such as homemade explosives.

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Frankfurt is Europe’s second busiest airport in terms of cargo and fourth in terms of passenger numbers, with over 60 million in 2016, making a high-speed, high volume hold baggage system critical to screening efficiency.

The HI-SCAN 10080 XCT scanner combines high-resolution X-ray technology, medical-quality computed tomography (CT) and advanced detection algorithms to deliver "excellent" levels of security, says Smiths Detection.

It supports a high throughput of up to 1,800 bags per hour, can accommodate items measuring up to 1,000 x 800 mm, and operates with a low false alarm rate to deliver a highly efficient screening process.

Delivery will take place on a rolling basis between 2018 and 2021 with the order also including an eight year service agreement.

The scanners will be used in Terminals 1 and 2 and will be operated by the German Federal Police.

“This contract represents our largest single order to date for ECAC Standard 3-complianthold baggage scanners,” commented Tony Tielen, VP of EMEA for Smiths Detection.

“Frankfurt was one of the very first airports we supplied with security equipment over fifty years ago, and we’re delighted to have the opportunity to continue protecting Germany’s busiest airport.”