3D Scanning a train – but not the kind that moves
Arrival was asked to perform a 3D scan on a turbine train in the Houston area. Scanning a turbine train requires about a day of long range scanning. Preparation for scanning such as laying out targets, inspecting crucial and tight spots, and planning the scanning locations takes about an hour. A turbine train can require around 25 to 32 scans depending on its size. Each scan can take up to 10 min depending on the customer’s accuracy requirement. Raw scans are then processed and merged together into a single, unified point cloud. Creating the CAD model with all of the details such as skids, flanges and pipes then begins and can take up to a week or two. The total duration can be any time from a week to 4 weeks.
This is a good example of a large part 3D scan. If falls somewhere in between long range 3D scanning and part scanning, because although it is treated like a mechanical assembly in CAD, we utilize a long range scanner due to its large size. We have especially good 3D scanners for this type of thing and can hold good accuracy while capturing large parts and surfaces. It is always necessary to balance the trade-offs and compromises when choosing the right scanning technology. We always make sure your minimum accuracy and level-of-detail requirements are met. So you can rest assured that you are getting the most for your money when you hire Arrival 3D for 3D Scanning Services.
