Industrial computed tomography is applied in many industries and in research to examine components non-destructively and without contact.
At Element, modern CT scanning systems are available to visualize material structures and flaws in components with high accuracy.
Industrial computed tomography (ICT) is a non-destructive testing method for the precise examination of components.
It can be used to create precise internal views of parts, weld seams, and electronic components.
How does an industrial CT scan work?
In principle, industrial CT scanning works like digital radiography: X-rays directed at the test object are absorbed to varying degrees depending on the density and thickness of the material.
The residual radiation hits a detector producing a grayscale image. CT scans produce images by rotating the test object by 360°, producing hundreds of individual images.
A 3D model is calculated from these images, which can be examined with analysis software or processed in CAD programs.
Which materials are suitable for scanning?
Depending on the material and size of the test object, the resolution of CT scans is a few micrometers (μ).
Industrial CT scanning is suitable for almost all materials and is particularly good for:
- Plastics
- Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP)
- Glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRP)
- Aluminum
- Magnesium
Which non-destructive testing method best suits your needs?
Other materials can be better inspected for flaws using other non-destructive testing methods such as:
Application of industrial CT scans
The high-resolution and three-dimensional imaging of objects of industrial computed tomography offers numerous applications and possible uses:
Defect analysis
By localizing and evaluating defects such as pores, voids and inclusions, industrial computed tomography supports the improvement of operational processes such as
- Production start-up
- Tool optimization
- Production control and optimization
- Quality assurance
- Failure analysis
3D Measurement and metrology
Precise 3D measurement of external and internal components enables metrological applications
- Target/actual comparisons and actual/actual comparisons
- Wall thickness measurement
- Surface determination
Assembly and joining inspection
Assembly defects can be detected by industrial CT non-destructively and without disassembly of the assembly:
- Final assembly inspection
- Incorrectly inserted or forgotten components
- Position of seals
- Analysis of soldering points
- Visualization of leaks and corrosion
Reverse engineering
CT scans of existing components enable the creation of drawings or CAD data sets, e.g. for the
- Digitization of handmade prototypes
- Digitization of spare parts that are no longer available
Industrial CT scanning at Element
Element's global network of conveniently located laboratories deliver industrial CT scanning results on time and on budget. The Element Aalen laboratory in Germany uses modern CT scanners with up to 450 kV power for high-precision examination of components and encapsulated electronic assemblies. The examination and evaluation can be carried out according to individual customer requirements and industry-specific standards.
For more information about our industrial computed tomography services or to request a quote, contact us today.
Ready to request a quote?
Our deliverable is certainty - high quality data, test reports and certificates that you can absolutely rely on when making decisions about your materials and compliance. Engage with an expert today.
¹ó±ð²¹³Ù³Ü°ù±ð»åÌý²õ±ð°ù±¹¾±³¦±ð²õ
Find out more about our core Materials Testing Services
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
Find out about the range of NDT services Element uses to evaluate the properties of a material, parts, products, welds, or systems without materially affecting the integrity of the items being tested.
Mechanical Testing
Element's experts in materials testing labs across the US, UK, Netherlands, Germany, and Spain provide mechanical properties testing such as tensile, fatigue, fracture mechanics, and more.
Chemical Analysis
Find out more about our chemical analysis laboratories that offer a critical resource for both material and product manufacturers.
Polymers Testing
Element performs a range of mechanical, electrical, flammability tests and utilizes thermal analysis tests to characterize the composition of polymers and composite materials.
Failure Analysis
Find out how Element's global team of failure analysis experts learn from the past, to help prevent failures in service.Â
Corrosion Testing
As a world leader in corrosion testing services, Element provides effective corrosion testing programs to help you ensure your materials are safe, reliable, and fit for purpose.
Fracture Toughness Testing
Element provides fracture toughness testing for determining material characteristics and longevity of metallic, nonmetallic, and advanced materials.
Additive Manufacturing
Find out how Element are leading the way in creating reliable and repeatable new test programs that deliver accurate results for the early adopters of additive manufacturing in Aerospace and other leading industry sectors.
Metallurgical Testing
Find out more about our metallurgical testing expertise and our comprehensive range services, from grain size analysis to fractography.
Fire and Flammability Testing
Learn about Element's complete range of flammability testing methods for aerospace and transportation, textiles, consumer goods, and furniture materials.
ASTM E466 High Cycle Fatigue (HCF)
High cycle fatigue is used for materials that experience low applied forces and where deformation is primarily elastic in nature.
RoHS Compliance Testing
Find out how Element's RoHS Compliance testing services can help you verify levels of restricted substances and determine concentrations of RoHS substances in test samples.