CT scan: A crucial technology in modern mechanical engineering

In the high-precision world of mechanical engineering, checking the functionality of various components is of crucial importance. A key technology that helps to check products for the highest quality is computed tomography (CT) scanning technology.

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What makes the CT scan a key technology? CT scans can be used to capture and analyze complex components in 3D. The process is quick, simple and almost completely digital, meaning that in most cases CT processes have clear economic advantages over older tactile measurement methods.

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However, a CT scan is associated with high costs. For this reason, we at Q-Tech offer cost-effective CT packages that meet the needs of companies that cannot afford to purchase their own CT scanner.

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What is a CT scan?

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A CT scanner is a medical and industrial imaging system that produces a series of X-ray images from different angles. These images are then combined by a computer to create a 3D representation of the object to be scanned - the CT scan. This allows internal structures and defects to be visualized that would not be visible with other imaging methods such as optical 3D scans or ultrasound.

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How does a CT scan work?

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A CT scan system consists of an X-ray tube, a detector, a rotating platform and a computer. During the scanning operation, the platform rotates the object to be scanned while the X-ray tube sends X-rays through the object. The detector then catches the rays on the other side of the object and sends them to the computer. The computer then uses this information to generate a 3D image of the object.

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Why is a CT scan important in mechanical engineering?

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Quality assurance is of crucial importance in mechanical engineering. With a CT scan, internal structures and defects in components can be made visible that would not be detectable with other imaging methods such as X-rays or ultrasound. This allows manufacturers to ensure that their products meet the highest standards.

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The advantages of a CT scan

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A CT scan offers a number of advantages over other imaging procedures. 

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These include:

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1. Precision: A CT scan provides precise 3D images of components that make it possible to detect internal structures and defects that would not be visible with other methods.

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2. Speed: A CT scan usually only takes a few minutes, whereas other imaging procedures such as ultrasound or optical 3D scans can take longer.

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3. Non-invasive: A CT scan is non-invasive and does not require any intervention in the object to be scanned. (Non-destructive testing method) 

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4. Repeatability: A CT scan can be repeated to ensure that a component meets the highest standards.

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Applications of CT scans in mechanical engineering

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CT scans are used in various applications in mechanical engineering to ensure the quality of components. 

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These include, for example:

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1. Examination of internal diameters: CT scans can be used to measure the internal diameter of pipes and cavities. In this way, manufacturers can ensure that the internal diameters comply with the prescribed tolerances.
2. Identification of defects in components: CT scans can be used to identify critical areas in components such as air pockets, cracks and porosity. This allows manufacturers to ensure that components meet the highest standards.
3. Inspection of weld seams: CT scans can be used to inspect and monitor weld seams. This allows manufacturers to ensure that the weld seams meet the prescribed standards and are free of defects.
4. Determining wall thickness: CT scans can be used to measure the wall thickness of components such as pipes and housings. This allows manufacturers to ensure that the wall thickness complies with the prescribed tolerances.

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Advantages of CT scans compared to other procedures

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As already mentioned, CT scans offer a number of advantages compared to other imaging techniques such as optical 3D scans or ultrasound. 

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These include:

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1. Greater precision: CT scans offer greater precision than other imaging methods. This allows smaller defects and irregularities in components to be detected.
2. Increased measurement speed: CT scans are faster than other imaging procedures and can usually be performed in a few minutes.
3. Non-invasiveness: CT scans are non-invasive and do not require any intervention in the object to be scanned. This makes CT scans a non-destructive testing method. 

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Use of CT scans in other industries

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CT scans are not only used in mechanical engineering and industry, but also in other sectors such as medicine, archaeology and geology. In medicine, CT scans are used to diagnose illnesses and injuries, while in archaeology they are used to examine bones and artifacts. In geology, CT scans can be used to analyze rock samples and identify minerals.

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The future of CT scans

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CT scan technology has made significant progress in recent years and is expected to improve even further in the future. New developments in CT scan technology could lead to higher resolution, shorter scan times and better accuracy. In addition, new materials and construction techniques could help CT scans to be used in even more applications in the future.

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One area where CT scan technology has already made progress is in additive manufacturing (3D printing). CT scans can be used to check the quality of 3D printed parts and ensure that they meet the prescribed standards. Furthermore, CT scans can help to improve the performance of 3D printed parts by providing information about the structure and composition of the materials.

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Another area in which CT scan technology will play an important role in the future is the automation of quality control processes. By automating CT scans, companies are able to improve the efficiency of their quality control processes and reduce costs at the same time.

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Why do we offer CT packages?

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A CT scan is associated with high costs, both in terms of the purchase costs of the machine and the ongoing operating costs. Not every company can afford to purchase its own CT scan machine. Companies should therefore rely on service providers such as Q-Tech instead. 

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We offer cost-effective CT packages tailored to the needs of companies for whom investing in their own CT scan machine is not profitable. These packages offer the same precision and accuracy as standard CT scans that Q-Tech is known for, but are less expensive thanks to standardized and digital processes, making them a lucrative alternative.

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Overall, we rely on a linear process that is fast, simple, transparent and completely digital. 

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The points mentioned are of central importance, as the time and administrative effort involved in the traditional inquiry process is often high. In addition, there is usually time pressure on the customer, who wants to receive a satisfactory offer despite the high demands. This is exactly where we come in and offer a fast delivery time with high scan quality.

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What CT packages does Q-Tech offer? 

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Q-Tech provides a range of CT packages tailored to the needs of businesses. These include:

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1. Silver CT package: Includes 10 scans

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2. Gold CT package: Includes 20 scans

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3. Platinum CT package: Includes 50 scans

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All CT packages from Q-Tech are cost-effective alternatives to purchasing your own CT scan machine and offer the precision and accuracy of a high-quality CT scan.

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The packages contain the following properties: 

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✔️ Prioritized processing of your CT scans

✔️ Attractive tiered pricing 

✔️ Automation bonus 

✔️ Simplified quotation and ordering process 

✔️ Constant overview thanks to an innovative dashboard

✔️ Each scan contains STL files in best-fit alignment 

✔️ Optional consulting service 

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Additional advantages with CT scan packages: 

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✔️ Term: 1 year (CT scans available within 12 months) 

✔️ Fast delivery times (from one day)

✔️ Monthly billing (one collective invoice per month and no prepayment) 

✔️ Automation bonus for identical components and 10 scans

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Conclusion

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CT scans play an important role in quality assurance in mechanical engineering and offer a number of advantages compared to other imaging methods. 

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Q-Tech offers cost-effective CT packages that provide an affordable alternative to purchasing your own CT scan machine. Our CT packages offer the same high precision and accuracy as a conventional CT scan and can be sized according to your needs. 

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In addition, companies can draw on our expertise and experience in CT scanning to obtain accurate and meaningful results. CT scan technology is expected to be further improved in the future and could be used in even more applications, including the automation of quality control processes.

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