In the past, simple X-ray radiography was sufficient in providing an image needed for this inspection. However, because it views structures in 2D, simple radiography is limited in engineering applications as the objects become more complex. This is where computed tomography (CT) becomes valuable.

Almost every industry has seen explosive growth in additive manufacturing (AM or 3D printing) of metal components, either for prototyping or low to medium volume manufacture of often high value and safety critical parts.

Interest in 3D printing is remaking the manufacturing landscape. Consulting firm IDC says global spending on 3D printers, both desktop and industrial, hit about $11 billion in 2015 and is forecast to reach $27 billion by 2019.

Like other metrology technologies, X-ray CT systems must be traceably calibrated to give true metrological performance.