By Jesse Garant Metrology Center
For Artifact part types, there are 3 primary areas that have had a large amount of success when adopting CT Scanning. These areas include: Gaining Insight into the Sample X-Ray and CT scanning technology has yielded valuable insight for research of artifacts by obtaining detailed images of internal features that were once inaccessible. Objects can be virtually sliced in 3D with CT Scanning providing critical data of features like material distribution, object construction, and original functionality. Actual/nominal comparisons are also available with computed tomography. For example, surface data from one specimen can be superimposed upon another to identify subtle differences in morphology which can be measured with a high dimensional accuracy. The versatility of CT inspection lends itself to a wide range of artifacts and other miniature samples as the samples become smaller and Micro-CT scanning allows for improved scan resolution and insight. CT can even virtually remove surrounding material like soil or gypsum from buried archaeological artifacts like coins, metal objects, tools, textiles, clay vessels, and ancient remains. Data Archiving CT scanning is a useful Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) technique for conservation and natural history, providing high resolution data files for a wide range of materials from metals and ceramics to glass and organic material. For example, computed tomography can aid in the data acquisition of museum artifacts through reverse engineering of internal and external geometries to 3D print detailed replicas. In this way, museums can showcase replicas of fragile or unique artifacts and improve interactivity within their exhibitions. As CT scan data is digital it allows for perseveration of the original sample, data archiving for long term storage purposes, and data sharing for allowing multiple people to interact an unlimited number of times with the scan data. Benefiting from Service Labs As the technology is rapidly being adopted and evolving all the time, utilizing a qualified service lab ensures proper controls during the outsourcing process. This ensures the parts are handled properly, the project is completed according to a verifiable process, data is properly stored, and the experienced lab can not only complete the results but communicate the results. As computed tomography data is complex, large in file size, and new for some people; effective communication is key to ensure all parties are properly informed of the results for effective decisions to be made.
