Computed tomography (CT) scanning is one of the best non-destructive techniques available to analyze and model the structure and distribution of materials such as hardwood and softwood; oil and gas; geological samples; or mechanical, automotive, and manufacturing equipment, amongst others.

FPInnovations’ Vancouver laboratory is equipped for many years now with a computed tomography (CT) scanner—a specialized scanning device that makes use of computer-processed combinations of many X-ray images taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional (tomographic) images of specific areas of a scanned object, allowing the user to see inside the object without cutting it.

FPInnovations’ CT scanner, one of the world’s largest non-military CT scanning machines, can scan large and dense objects, which makes it unique. The scanning envelope, with a height of 5000 mm and a diameter of 1000 mm, can handle an object with a weight up to 2 tonnes, and its spatial resolution is 0.4–0.8 mm. The CT scanner is also certified with the Controlled Goods Program Certification.

The technology offers a wide range of practical applications: inspecting mechanical parts and assemblies, analyzing porosity, reverse engineering, scanning logs for internal defects, detecting anomalies at the glue-line interface in engineered wood products, characterizing density profiles in composite panels, etc. It could be used for equipment manufacturing as well as in a wide variety of sectors and industries, including mechanical, geological, automotive, archeological, oil and gas, and mining.

If you are interested in learning more about what the CT scanner can do for you, visit our Solutions and Technologies webpage or contact solutions@fpinnovations.ca.