Modern 3D scanning solutions include dimensional inspection for complete 3D voxel data sets.
CT scanning is an advancing technology that today can be used for more than just internal defect inspection.
Modern CT scanning uses technology similar to computerized topography, that allows a tool maker to inspect the quality of a part without destroying a sample and all in a very short amount of time.
“It’s the same concept, except we’re calibrating it like a machine tool to very high accuracy levels, which we can use for dimensional inspection,” Steven Young, president of Exact Metrology, told ENGINEERING.com.
“To give an example, say we’ve got an x-ray source and we’re projecting a pattern onto a detector. The part will rotate over time through this area and then all those 2D images get put together for a 3D voxel data set,” Young explained.
Today, very complex internal geometries are possible thanks to technologies and techniques like additive manufacturing and conformal cooling. Modern CT scanning solutions are ideal for these applications, as many 3D printed parts for example, have internal intricacies that cannot be seen during the production process.
Full dimensional inspections can be performed on a part to analyze internal quality.
CT scanning technology can be used today in applications including:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Castings
- Electronics
- Food
- Additive Manufacturing
- Injection Molding
Exact Metrology’s CT scanning solutions also offer non-destructive 3D testing for 3D quantitative porosity analysis, assembly control and materials structure analysis.
The company also offers nominal-actual CAD comparison, as well as dimensional measurements, wall thickness analysis and reverse engineering.
“Right now, for the systems we have in-house, we can scan parts 16” in diameter and 16” tall,” said Young. “However you could build a system to scan an entire car or aircraft engine if you wanted.”
For more information about Exact Metrology’s CT scanning solutions, visit www.exactmetrology.com.
