Strictly considered, Computed Tomography (CT) covers a variety of imaging methods that assemble multiple 2D images to reconstruct a full 3D image of a sample. The most common specific modality involves the use of x-rays to produce the individual images, and software algorithms produce the final image from the underlying sectional images. While CT or CAT scans are a common medical imaging technology, this market profile focuses on the industrial applications of x-ray CT. In this context, CT imagery provides an ideal means for producing images of complex samples in a nondestructive manner.

In CT, as in a standard x-ray, an x-ray source is directed toward the sample, and detectors are placed on the opposite side, so that the method is based on x-ray transmission. The x-rays interact with the sample in many ways, but the primary effect is that the sample absorbs the x-rays, and this absorbance is proportional to the radiodensity of the sample. Radiodensity is a combination of two primary factors: the mass density of the sample and the atomic number of the elements present in the sample. Atoms with a high atomic number more readily absorb x-rays, thus allowing fewer x-rays to pass through the sample.

A single x-ray radiograph involves interactions with the entire 3D sample “flattened” into a single 2D image in the plane of the detector. By rotating the sample or the x-ray source and detector, multiple images are captured by the CT scanner. Following the acquisition of the sequence of flat images, software reconstruction takes place, generating the 3D image of the sample. This image can be manipulated in various ways to focus on particular areas or present certain sections of the image. Industrial x-ray CT products are differentiated primarily by the x-ray source (which can be mini- or micro-focus x-ray sources for better resolution), the detectors, the software capabilities and the physical size of the sample chamber. Some systems also have integrated automation to image multiple samples, or have been integrated into in-line inspection tools for real-time process analysis in a manufacturing setting.

Applications for industrial x-ray CT can be found in virtually any material manufacturing setting, but a number of industries make particular use of the technique. The primary application is found in semiconductors and electronics, where the technique is commonly used as a QC tool for inspecting defects, such as improperly bonded components, breaks in solder, and other features of printed circuit boards, integrated circuits and other electronic components. The aerospace and automotive industries are also a significant source of demand. The high-performance materials and complex subassemblies in both industries are very suitable for nondestructive testing of this type. Cracks in alloys or imperfectly joined components can be investigated in situ with complete components. Similarly, the medical device industry also makes use of industrial x-ray CT to examine critical components in products.

More generally, industrial x-ray CT can be applied in many manufacturing situations to verify that finished parts match the specification of the CAD design, or to reverse engineer an existing component to determine its dimensions. The nascent industry of 3D printing technology is also making use of industrial x-ray CT to explore new materials and assemblies. Other customer types include plastics manufacturers, metal foundries and materials-research laboratories. Outside of specific industries, there is also a significant source of demand stemming from independent test laboratories, which provide CT imaging as a service to clients who cannot justify the expense of their own systems.

There are a number of suppliers of industrial x-ray CT systems, and for the most part they are distinct from the major medical imaging suppliers of CT systems for use with patients. The market leader is YXLON, which offers a broad range of solutions for x-ray and x-ray CT inspection for various specific types of customer. In November, the company introduced the Cheetah EVO and Cougar EVO product lines; both lines have models with CT, in addition to traditional x-ray imaging. Nikon also has a strong position in this market, particularly for industrial metal products. ZEISS is another major supplier and offers several high-end research systems. In October, ZEISS introduced a new version of its LabDCT diffraction CT solution, which adds diffraction analysis to 3D reconstructions, providing more information on grain structure within alloys and other advanced materials.

Other significant market participants include Bruker, GE Measurement, North Star Imaging (Illinois Tool Works), Shimadzu and Wenzel. In June, two spinoff companies from the Ghent University Centre for X-ray Tomography merged, as XRE and Inside Matters joined forces as XRE. The total market demand for industrial x-ray CT is estimated to be about $300 million in 2017.

Industrial X-ray CT at a Glance:

Leading Vendors:

• YXLON
• Nikon
• ZEISS

Largest Markets:

• Semiconductors and Electronics
• Aerospace and Automotive
• Medical Device

Instrument Cost:

• $100,000–$750,000