Differences Between Industrial vs. Medical CT Scanners

Industrial CT scanners are used in different industries for non-destructive testing. Some objectives of industrial CT scanning are to study the internal and external geometries of objects, analyze their properties, and identify structural flaws or defects in them.  

In the healthcare industry, medical CT scanners are primarily used for internal imaging to detect tumors, fractures, and internal bleeding.  

Industrial CT scanners use specialized software that enables them to capture images of internal and external geometries of objects. Medical CT scanners utilize software optimized for medical imaging.  

Here are some differences between industrial and medical CT scanners.  

Resolution

Industrial CT scanners, or micro-CT scanners, capture high-resolution images and can be used to inspect samples ranging from 1 mm to about 300 mm in size or larger depending on the particular equipment. They can detect minor defects in machined, printed, or assembled products and are often used to analyze micron-to-submicron structures of foams and composites.

For medical CT scanners, to capture high-resolution images, patients must be exposed to radiation for a longer time, which could cause adverse health effects. Because radiation exposure is minimized, medical CT scanners may fail to capture as detailed images as their industrial counterparts (however, the images are sufficiently detailed to help diagnose medical conditions).  

Methodology

Even a minor misalignment of the X-ray source, rotation center, or detector center can affect the quality of images, that is why industrial CT scanners use a precision rotation stage to rotate samples instead of a gantry system to rotate a heavy X-ray source and a detector around workpieces. Many industrial CT scanners are configured on a metrology-grade, granite base. This ensures mechanical and thermal stability which lends to accuracy and repeatability.

Medical CT scanners use a gantry system and rotate an X-ray source and detectors around patients at high speeds, as rotating patients at high speeds isn’t practical.  

Scale and Size of Scanned Objects

Industrial CT scanners can scan objects of different sizes, from tiny electronic components to large machine parts.

Medical CT scanners are specifically designed to scan the human body. Their tunnels are designed with different body shapes in mind and can accommodate patients of all sizes.

Radiation Dosage

Industrial CT scanners aren’t used to scan blood vessels, bones, or soft tissues, so operators needn’t worry about the safety of patients. They emit higher radiation levels than medical CT scanners to ensure deep penetration of X-rays into dense materials and minimize noise in the images.

Medical CT scanners are designed to keep radiation exposure to a minimum to ensure patient safety.

Operating Environment

Industrial CT scanners are used in controlled, industrial settings to ensure that manufactured parts meet all quality standards.  

Medical CT scanners are used in hospitals and diagnostic centers to capture images of the inside of the body.  

Nel PreTech is an industrial 3D and CT scanning laboratory accredited to ISO 17025 by A2LA.

To make an appointment, call 708-429-4887.