What is 4D CT? OR3D explains

"4D CT is increasingly capturing attention in material science and additive manufacturing due to its ability to reveal how samples respond to varying environmental conditions, such as temperature and force."

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In this article, we will be exploring the innovations in 4D Computed Tomography (CT), what exactly the technology is, and the wide range of applications it can be used in with OR3D. Whether it's industrial inspections or research and development, 4D CT can assist users in the visualisation and understanding of complex processes in both temporal and spatial resolutions.

OR3D has also provided a case study where 4D CT will be used to monitor the local density of a stress ball whilst it’s being compressed. The experiment was conducted utilising the RX Solutions EasyTom 230 CT Scanner.

What is 4D CT?

OR3D explains that Four-Dimensional Computed Technology, more commonly known as 4D CT, “is an advanced imaging technique that goes beyond traditional 3D CT by incorporating the element of time or space.” The process works by capturing a series of 3D scans over a period of time which will reveal any changes and movements within the scanned object. This will provide the user with insights into the functionality of the object.

"4D CT is increasingly capturing attention in material science and additive manufacturing due to its ability to reveal how samples respond to varying environmental conditions, such as temperature and force," said Robert Wells, Service Manager and CT Specialist at OR3D. "At OR3D, we’re expanding this technology’s potential by collaborating with clients beyond these fields to visualise complex assemblies and observe how internal components interact as they move. Our design team creates customised apparatuses, enabling us to perform 4D CT studies on unique samples to achieve insights that others cannot."

4D CT enhances quality and efficiency levels in industrial inspection

In terms of applications where users can utilise 4D CT, OR3D outlines industrial inspection as one of the “most promising uses.” This is because 4D CT can provide non-destructive testing, which is helpful in manufacturing processes that require high levels of quality assurance. The technology does this by:

  • Monitoring Structural Integrity: 4D CT can monitor how materials react under stress, observe reactions over time, and detect any potential weaknesses or errors. This will allow for more robust materials and a decreased chance of an error occurring.
  • Analysing Mechanical Movements: The technology can help users visualise movements within machinery and mechanical components to identify potential areas where wear and tear may occur to help improve durability and the design of the scanned object.

4D CT in action

Sometimes the easiest way to understand a technology or concept is to see it in action. OR3D have provided a use case where RX Solutions’ EasyTom 230 CT Scanner has been used to track the local density of a stress ball. In the video below, you will be able to see the dynamic changes during the compression process.

During the experiment, the stress ball was subject to various levels of compression which resulted in over 70 detailed tomographies. Each scan showed how the stress ball deformed and recovered, which allowed the design team to create a load cell specifically designed for this application. The experiment also showcased the versatility of 4D CT, showing that the technology can be used in the monitoring of mechanical properties and material integrity.

Additionally, the whole scanning process was conducted using automated scanning processes. This allows the scanning process to occur at any time of the day, unsupervised without having to compromise on precision and consistency. Focusing on precision, 4D CT’s ability to capture the fine details of an internal structure proves that the technology can be utilised in various applications, including quality control processes in manufacturing, material science research, and other industrial applications.