Yes, 3D scanners can also scan metal. Most uses of 3D scanning for this metal scanning are seen within big manufacturing industries, the car industry, space, and engineering. As a matter of fact, in 2021, Grand View Research had set a projection that the global 3D scanning market will reach a value of USD 6.73 billion by 2027, driven by growing demands for accurate scanning of complex parts made of metals. These are very detailed geometries captured on metallic objects that can have different designs or imperfections on the surface to make precise 3-D models for several purposes: prototyping, quality checking, and reverse engineering, among others.
Laser scanners are mostly used while scanning metals as they guarantee high precision, aside from not having to touch the objects. A study by 3D Scanning International in 2020 showed that laser scanners can achieve accuracy up to 0.02mm, which makes them very effective in scanning metal components, including reflective or shiny surfaces. The example of a laser scanner that has been used for metal includes Revopoint POP 2, which boasts a 0.1mm resolution and is capable of both small metal objects, such as bolts, and big, complex ones like car parts. It thus makes sure that metal surfaces come out with either smooth or textured features very accurately.
However, the problem of metal surfaces exists because most 3d scanners, especially, have high reflective conditions. A number of structured light scanners will also run into issues with reflective metals such as aluminum or stainless steel-the pattern just distorts or bounces right off the surface. Some manufacturers recommend the use of a temporary, matte coating or powder that simply dulls the surface so that the scanner can pick up decent data. For instance, FARO Technologies, a leading provider in 3D scanning solutions, has introduced advanced scanners like the FARO Focus Laser Scanner. These use a combination of laser and photogrammetry to handle reflective surfaces effectively.
The time it takes to scan metal will also depend on the complexity of the object and the resolution of the scanner. Small and simple parts may take just a few minutes to scan, while larger or more intricate components could take several hours. The size and resolution of the 3d model will also impact the scanning time. According to 3D Systems, a global leader in 3d printing and scanning, high-resolution scans of metal parts can give very detailed models; on the other hand, it requires more time for the scanning and post-processing phases.
Industrial uses for 3d scanning of metals include digital twin creation for virtual testing, the inspection of metal part accuracy in production, and reverse engineering of obsolete metal components when original designs are no longer available. General Electric and BMW are examples of companies that have leveraged 3d scanning of metal parts to further enhance their manufacturing processes with more precise and quality production.
The 3d scanner provides a very effective solution for people who need efficiency and reliability in 3D scanning metal. Be it small, detailed parts or big, complex metal components, 3D scanners have proved to be among the indispensable tools in industries that require high accuracy and precision with metal objects.