Industrial CT Metrology

Q: What is reverse engineering and what is it used for?

Reverse engineering means creating a digital CAD model from an existing part – for example, when design data no longer exists, a spare part needs to be reproduced or a part needs to be optimized afterwards. We digitize the part using 3D scanning or CT and derive an editable CAD model from it.

When is a CT measurement worthwhile?

With industrial computed tomography, we make visible and measurable what cannot be accessed from the outside: internal geometries, wall thicknesses, pores and voids. The part is X-rayed from many angles and reconstructed into a complete 3D model – without cutting it open.

Checking internal dimensions
Bores, channels, undercuts and internal geometries that no probe can reach.

Finding pores and voids
Defect and porosity analysis before a flaw ends up in series production.

Assessing wall thickness
Material and wall thickness analysis across the entire part, displayed in color.

Inspecting assemblies without taking them apart
Assembly condition and the fit of clips, connectors and inserts – in the assembled state.

Comparing with CAD
Nominal/actual comparison as an easy-to-read false-color map, up to a detailed first article inspection report.

Digitizing parts
CT scan with STL output, also as a basis for reverse engineering.

How a CT measurement works

Describe your measurement task: part, drawing or CAD data, and what you want to know.
Feasibility and quote: we check whether the material and size are suitable for CT and send you a non-binding quote.
Scanning and evaluation: X-raying, reconstruction and evaluation – in our climate-controlled measuring room to quality class 3 (VDI/VDE 2627).
Results: measurement report, color maps, cross-sections or STL data – whatever you need.

Why Hanimann for your CT measurement

You have the inspection task. We choose the right measuring method. Computed tomography, tactile and optical metrology under one roof: we use whatever answers your question best, or combine the methods. Where accredited results are required, we complement CT with tactile coordinate measurement from our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited testing laboratory.

What we offer you:

Industrial CT with the ZEISS METROTOM 1500
Typically 3–4 working days from receipt to results
You are welcome to attend any measurement on site
Climate-controlled measuring room, temperature and humidity continuously recorded
Experienced 3D metrology technicians and personal contact
Optionally combined with accredited tactile measurement

“We make the hidden visible!”

Sacha Frei 3D Measurement Technician

Frequently asked questions about CT measurement

Which parts can be measured – are there any size or material restrictions?

We work with coordinate measuring machines, CT systems and optical scanners of various sizes, covering a wide range of part sizes – from small precision parts to larger assemblies. Material makes practically no difference for tactile and optical measurement; with computed tomography, whether X-rays can penetrate a part depends on its material and wall thickness. The best thing is to ask us directly whether your part fits our measuring volume.

What is computed tomography (CT) and when is it worthwhile?

In computed tomography, a part is X-rayed from many angles; from these X-ray images, a computer calculates a complete 3D model – inside and out. This is particularly worthwhile if you want to make internal geometries, cavities or material defects such as voids and cracks visible without destroying the part, or if a part would be very difficult to access using conventional methods.

What is reverse engineering and what is it used for?

Our Testing Laboratory

Precision measurements for the most demanding applications—our measurement lab offers comprehensive 3D measurement technology and reverse engineering for all industries.

Do you have a specific inspection task?

Briefly describe your part and your question – ideally with a drawing or CAD data. We will get back to you with an assessment and a non-binding quote.

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