CT scanning technology can inspect the interior structure of the injection forged, molded or cast parts made from composites, polymers, plastic and metal products, without causing any damage to the objects. Seeing through a solid object was once a fantasy, but the technology of computed tomography imaging has made it possible. It is now being used in various industrial metrology settings for packaging integrity and product evaluation.
What Are The Benefits Of Using CT Scanners?
The biggest advantage that comes with CT scanning technology is the inspection of the package’s functionality and the interior structure of an object, without causing any damage. The technology employed here is synonymous with those in hospitals. Multiple readings are taken and converted into a grey scale image, forming 3-D point clouds. This is followed by construction of a 3D model by a specialist. Industrial scanners obtain the interiors of the object with high-resolution imaging, no shaded zones, no post-processing work and extremely accurate internal dimensions.
What Are The Applications?
Some common uses of CT scanning in metrology applications include:
- No-contact measurement: Capturing the internal structure of an object using laser technology, without actually getting in contact with that object.
- Reverse Engineering: Creating an exact replica, by taking measurement of an existing object. It is extremely useful when you don’t have original design data.
- Contact measurement: Basically, 2 types of solutions are employed with portable CMMs. One is for capturing large volumetric projects including photogrammetry units and laser trackers. The other one is for capturing small or localized volume information.
- Model to manufacture processing: Preparing a model, human or fashioned, and scanning for dimension before casting a solid stature or producing a piece of attire.
- Long range scanning: It is used for a detailed 360 degree snapshot of a plot of land, bridge, operational plant or any structure.
Industries Making Use Of CT Scanners
3D Imaging devices and scanners has served a wide array of industries, with the highest level of accuracy and precision. A few industries making use of this technology include:
- Moldmaking: For checking structural integrity of the part and validating precise injection molds, the technology provides a powerful measurement and inspection tool.
- Manufacturing: For inspecting the internal structure and functionality of the components and ensuring that all specifications are met. It includes injection molded, forged, fabricated or cast parts made from polymers, plastic, composites, metal or even 3D printed products.
- Nuclear or Power Generation Industry: Use in traditional power generation facility for containment building stability, boiler integrity and pipe alignment. The technology allows you to reach hazardous and complex areas of a nuclear power plant.
- Metal Casting: Checking the overall porosity and air bubbles.
- Automotive and aerospace: 3D scanning technology works as an R&D tool for analyzing structure or simulating reactions. It allows the engineers to understand failures by undertaking virtual testing of machinery.
- Medical: CT scan has revolutionized the field of medicines. With advanced equipment and devices, it is possible to get inside the human body without operating on it.
