X-Ray Computed Tomography Applied as a Comprehensive Technique for Material Analysis and Dimensional Measurement of Metallic Parts

Abstract

X-ray computed tomography, first conceived to image internal structures of the human body, has become an important metrology technique for material quality control and dimensional quality control. As a material quality control tool, discontinuities, cracks and voids can be detected without physically destroying or damage the sample under analysis. As a dimensional metrology technique, the complete examination in a non-destructive manner of inner and outer geometries of parts and components has become possible. In this paper, material investigation of connecting rods manufactured through both casting and forging processes and dimensional evaluation of intricate geometries found on connecting rods are described and discussed from the metrology point of view.