For newly assembled components as well as archaeological finds, micro-CT allows for non-destructive examination of assembled products in an as-manufactured state. This eliminates the worry of pieces shifting position during disassembly for a visual inspection, and in the case of artifacts that can’t easily be opened, researchers are able to visualize the interior parts without damage to the object. Micro-CT is a useful tool for manufacturing process optimization, additative manufacturing (AM), reverse engineering, insight of complex industrial parts, and for nondestructive investigation of archaeological objects.
Three‐Dimensional Computed Tomography X‐Radiographic Investigation of a 17th‐Century Watch from the Wreck of the Swan, off Duart Point, Mull, Scotland
This article presents an in-depth 3D micro-CT study of a pocket watch found in the wreck of the Swan, which foundered during a bad storm in 1653 and lay at the bottom of the Sound of Mull until 1979. Although initially studied by 2D X-rays, the watch was examined with high resolution 3D micro-CT scanning in 2007. The 3D examination exceeded expectations and made a virtual reconstruction of the mechanism possible. The very high resolution provided by the scan enabled the engraving of the maker’s name to be visualised and confirmed the date of the watch.
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X-Ray Microcomputed Tomography in Additive Manufacturing: A Review of the Current Technology and Applications
“Additive manufacturing (AM) is a layer-by-layer manufacturing method that has grown considerably in recent years, especially for producing functional metal parts for critical applications in medical and aerospace industries.” AM production issues include unwanted porosity, surface imperfections, deformation caused by residual stresses, and anisotropic mechanical properties. Manufactured parts require careful testing, especially for high value and critical parts such as those for aerospace or medical applications. This article explores how micro-CT is used in manufacturing for nondestructive qualitative imaging and quantitative analysis.
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A New Test Piece For Geometry And Defect Measurements With Micro-CT
Micro-CT is an established method for quality control in industrial production. Quantitative information to measure geometry and defects can be obtained by measuring a calibrated test piece as a reference standard. This study utilized a test piece with similar properties to actual casting pieces and then presented a new test specimen for both dimensional measurement and defect detection with non-invasive micro-CT scanning. This procedure makes it possible to create test-pieces for which reference data for defect and dimensional measurements can be obtained. “A really quantitative analysis of the dimensional measurement is only possible with a reference data-set obtained by tactile measurements.”
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Non-destructive PCB Reverse Engineering Using X-ray Micro Computed Tomography
Reverse engineering of electronics systems is performed for failure analysis, fault isolation, trustworthiness verification, and obsolescence management. Micro-CT advanced characterization and imaging tools and software facilitate the automation of reverse engineering, lowering time and cost. This study explores the processes to develop a more efficient workflow for reverse engineering applications.
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Related Articles:
X-ray Microscopic Examination of an Analog Pocket Watch
Applications of Micro-CT for Tensile and Compression Testing
