Puffer Machine

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A Trace Portal Machine, technically known as an "explosives trace-detection portal machine", is a security device that seeks to detect explosives and illegal drugs at airports and other sensitive facilities. [1] The machines are intended as a secondary screening device, used as a complement to, rather than a substitute for, traditional X-ray machines.

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[edit] Specifications

The Icon Sentinel ll edition, developed by Smiths Detection, uses "Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS)" technology and can detect explosives such as RDX, PETN, TNT, Semtex, and NG. It can also detect narcotics such as cocaine, heroin, PCP, THC, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Its dimensions are 74" x 55" x 90" (188 x 140 x 229 cm) (W x L x H) and weighs approximately 1900 lbs (860 kg). This specific model also includes a digital camera and color printer that will automatically print photos taken while the screening process occurred if an alarm was raised. This new model was created in response to complaints from consumers regarding the first model. [2]

[edit] Improvements

The Sentinel ll, unlike the Sentinel l, "requires less power, has a more modular frame design, which incorporates the compressor into the unit for easier installation and as a result, requires less space."[3] It also "has a more ergonomic design, improved passenger interface and easier maintenance."[4] According to the Transportation Security Administration's website, the machines "can be instantly updated through their vast information technology network to stay ahead of the curve." [5]

[edit] Process

The machine operates by releasing multiple puffs of air at a passenger who is standing upright within the machine. This will flush out any particles on the person inside the machine then analyze and identify them in seconds. [1] According to an article in the 16 June, 2005, New York Times, it is capable of screening up to 180 passengers an hour. [6]

[edit] Manufacturer

Puffer Machines were originally developed by Sandia National Laboratories in 1997. According to an article in the 3 September, 2006, New York Times, they are now manufactured by General Electric and Smiths Detection [2] (based in London) at a cost of about $160,000 each. Smiths Detection also produces biological, metal, chemical, and radiation detectors for military and commercial use. Prototypes have been under improvement since 2001 at the Science and Technology division of the Homeland Security Department of the United States. Delays in testing at the Homeland Security Department laboratory and questions about reliability have hindered their deployment. Early models were loud and slow, and required a lot of power. Durability has also been a concern. Puffers are currently the only airport screening devices that automatically examine passengers for explosives.[7]

[edit] Usage

About 95 machines have now been installed in 34 airports. According to an article on the 10th of October, 2007, USA Today, the TSA had planned on installing 434 machines, however due to maintenance problems like breaking down they have halted installation and "have no plans to acquire more." [8] Among those airports where they are in place are:


While many people have complained that passing through the Puffer is an uncomfortable experience, the technology is virtually foolproof in preventing false-negatives.

As well as having been implemented in US airports, there are also Puffer machines at the Statue of Liberty[[3]], just before visitors enter the statue itself. This is one example of the many increased security measures taken for popular New York landmarks post September 11th 2001.

On September 3 2006, the Transportation Security Administration announced that it is suspending installation of the Puffer after "seeing some issues that [it] did not anticipate with the devices."

[edit] References

  1. ^ http://www.smithsdetection.com/eng/Sentinel.php. IONSCAN Sentinel ll. 2007-12-12.
  2. ^ ibid
  3. ^ ibid
  4. ^ ibid
  5. ^ Trace Portals. TSA. Retrieved on 2008-05-09.
  6. ^ Lipton, Eric (2005-06-16). Airport Device To Ease Need For Pat-Down. New York Times. Retrieved on 2008-05-29.
  7. ^ Lipton, Eric (2006-09-03). Screening Tools Slow to Arrive in U.S. Airports. New York Times. Retrieved on 2008-05-29.
  8. ^ Frank, Thomas (2007-10-01). TSA security puts technology to the test. USA Today. Retrieved on 2008-05-29.