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3D Scanning Services

Last updated: January 2026

This directory lists 80 3d scanning services across the United States, from high-precision metrology labs specializing in small, intricate parts to large-scale asset capture specialists offering on-site terrestrial laser scanning.

Buyers engage these services to solve critical problems such as ensuring dimensional compliance for manufacturing components, facilitating reverse engineering of legacy parts for CAD integration, or performing detailed deviation analysis against a nominal CAD model to validate design intent. The goal is often to transform physical objects into actionable digital assets with specific accuracy and resolution requirements.

Supplier types in this space vary significantly, including dedicated metrology houses with accredited labs, reverse engineering specialists who excel at creating fully parametric CAD models from scan data, and companies offering field services for scanning large objects like vehicles, buildings, or infrastructure. Some also focus on cultural heritage, artistic capture, or specialized medical applications.

To ensure a smooth engagement, buyers should prepare by clearly articulating their project objectives, target accuracy, desired output format (e.g., watertight mesh, dense point cloud, fully parameterized CAD model), and providing details on the part's material and surface finish. Suppliers, in turn, expect a well-defined scope to provide accurate quotes and avoid scope creep.

A notable current trend in the industry is the increasing integration of AI and machine learning for automated defect detection directly from scan data, streamlining quality control processes. Additionally, there's growing demand for real-time 3D scanning solutions deployed directly on manufacturing lines for in-process quality verification, shifting from post-production inspection to proactive monitoring.

80 companies·63 emails·70 phones

Company Directory

80 companies nationwide

3D Engineering Solutions offers specialized 3D scanning services, reverse engineering, and ISO 17025-accredited integrated metrology. They also provide contract engineering services, project management, training, tool life wear analysis, and 3D digital archiving solutions for various industries.

3DChimera provides 3D scanning services, converting physical objects into precise digital models for product design and reverse engineering. They also offer 3D printing, CAD design, and engineering solutions. Serving industrial clients across aerospace, automotive, marine, and consumer goods.

Palm Harbor, FL

Based in Palm Harbor, FL, Precision Scanning and Design LLC offers comprehensive 3D scanning services to industrial clients across the US. They specialize in digital inspection, reverse engineering, solid modeling, and CAD/CAM drawing conversions. The company serves various sectors, including casting and injection mold design.

Los Angeles, CA

Based in Los Angeles, CA, 3D Scan LA provides high-detail 3D scanning and photogrammetry services. With over a decade of experience, they create digital assets of people, objects, and environments. The company supports film, gaming, architecture, fashion, and product design clients for projects like head/body scans and VFX assets.

Brea, CA

Based in Brea, CA, 3D Scan OC provides comprehensive 3D scanning services, specializing in large or hard-to-transport objects like vehicles. They offer mobile on-site scanning in Orange County and surrounding areas, alongside 3D modeling, 3D printing, assembly, and surface finishing.

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Based in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, 3D Scan Services, LLC provides comprehensive 3D scanning and reverse engineering services. They use high-precision laser scanners to capture data, transforming it into solid CAD files for diverse applications. These include automotive, aircraft, medical devices, injection tool manufacturing, and generating models for 3D printing.

San Francisco, CA

Based in San Francisco, CA, 3D Virtual Design Technology, Inc. provides precision 3D laser scanning documentation services. They specialize in Scan-to-BIM solutions, as-built surveys, and digital twins for AEC, industrial, and historic preservation projects, transforming physical spaces into reliable digital representations.

Houston, TX

Based in Houston, TX, Arrival 3D provides expert long-range 3D laser scanning services for large-scale projects across the U.S. Utilizing advanced LiDAR technology, the company specializes in serving factories, industrial facilities, and the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.

Salinas, CA

Bay Area Metrology & Engineering, based in Salinas, CA, offers specialized metrology and engineering services. As an ISO 17025 certified company, they focus on precision measurement and calibration. They provide direct 3D scanning services for industrial and commercial clients requiring accurate dimensional analysis and quality control.

Celina, TX

Based in Celina, TX, CAD/CAM Services is a US-based outsourced engineering firm. They specialize in 3D scanning and reverse engineering, transforming physical objects into precise digital models for design. Services also include 3D CAD modeling, design, and CAD conversion, supporting demanding industries like aerospace, energy, and defense.

Rock Hill, SC

Based in Rock Hill, SC, CADTech USA LLC provides comprehensive 3D scanning services, including LiDAR and photogrammetry. They specialize in scan-to-CAD, reverse engineering, and scan-to-inspection for diverse industrial sectors. The company also offers mechanical design, 3D printing, and rapid prototyping solutions.

Control Point Associates, Inc., based in Southborough, MA, specializes in professional 3D Laser Scanning and Modeling. The company also provides comprehensive land surveying, mobile LiDAR, and aerial photogrammetry services. With extensive field capabilities, they deliver precise data acquisition for critical client projects across the Mid-Atlantic region.

Based in Owings Mills, MD, Direct Dimensions, Inc. specializes in advanced 3D scanning and industrial dimensional measurement. They convert raw point-cloud data into high-accuracy 3D CAD models for manufacturing, analysis, and visualization. Services support design, engineering, manufacturing, art, sculpture, and architecture.

Allen, TX

Based in Allen, TX, Dynamic 3D provides 3D scanning services for metrology and reverse engineering applications. The company also supplies a range of 3D measurement solutions including cutting-edge 3D scanners, inspection software, and engineering computers, catering to manufacturing, product design, and quality control needs.

Wixom, MI

East Coast Metrology provides precision measurement solutions and onsite data capture services for industrial applications. Their certified metrology team specializes in large-scale projects, utilizing advanced tools like laser trackers for precise measurements, alignment, and comprehensive reporting. They serve industries including aerospace, power generation, marine, and infrastructure.

Los Angeles, CA

Based in Los Angeles, CA, eCadCam specializes in 3D scanning, 3D printing, and CAD designing services. With over two decades of experience, they provide high-resolution results for industries including jewelry, automotive, aerospace, and entertainment, ensuring precision and fast turnaround.

Bartlett, IL

Based in Bartlett, IL, EDM Intelligent Solutions provides in-depth, non-contact 3D dimensional metrology and inspection services. Their metrology group performs precise 3D measurement of form, surface roughness, and comparison to nominal CAD models, specializing in advanced GD&T inspection for complex industrial components.

Milwaukee, WI

Exact Metrology, based in Milwaukee, provides comprehensive 3D scanning services using advanced instruments and skilled metrologists. They offer precise measurement capture for diverse industrial applications, from medical heart stents to large components. The company also specializes in metrology equipment sales and training.

Tampa, FL

Based in Tampa, FL, Existing Conditions specializes in 3D laser scanning services. They deliver precise point clouds, CAD drawings, and comprehensive 3D BIM models. The company also provides as-built drawings and MEP documentation, primarily serving architects and engineers.

Burbank, CA

Based in Burbank, CA, Gentle Giant Studios provides professional 3D scanning services for VFX, design, and prop development. Their offerings extend to additive manufacturing, prototyping, product development, creative design, and fine art fabrication, serving various commercial and industrial clients.

Torrance, CA

Based in Torrance, CA, Global Design Solutions offers comprehensive 3D scanning services. They provide 3D laser scanning for as-built projects and 3D body scanning for metaverse, gaming, and AR/VR applications. The company delivers turnkey solutions, transforming physical objects into digital realities through modeling, software development, and fabrication.

Hitec Products, Inc. provides comprehensive 3D scanning services, specializing in structured light scanning and photogrammetry. Utilizing advanced ATOS Core optical 3D scanners, the company delivers accurate and traceable 3D data. These services support various industrial applications requiring precise dimensional analysis and quality control.

Walnut Creek, CA

Based in Walnut Creek, CA, HoneyPoint3D, LLC offers professional 3D scanning, 3D printing, and CAD design services. They specialize in delivering engineering-quality 3D files for a wide range of clients, from solo entrepreneurs to large enterprises like Google and Facebook. The company also provides 3D services education.

Houston, TX

HTS Advanced Solutions, based in Houston, TX, offers comprehensive 3D scanning and metrology services. Their technicians deploy state-of-the-art equipment to project sites, conducting fieldwork and processing 3D data. The company also provides 3D scanner rentals, model making, and mapping solutions with nationwide support.

Norton Shores, MI

Based in Norton Shores, MI, Industrial Inspection & Consulting LLC provides comprehensive 3D scanning and metrology services for dimensional inspection and reverse engineering. They reproduce real objects into design CAD models using calibrated hardware and software. The company also offers industrial X-ray and CT scanning, serving critical industries such as automotive, aerospace, and medical.

Cincinnati, OH

Kinetic Vision, based in Cincinnati, OH, offers ISO 9001-certified structured light scanning services. They provide fast, accurate measurements to enable the creation of 3D CAD assets, supporting innovative product development. Their expertise spans metrology, engineering, and artificial intelligence for comprehensive technology solutions.

Dallas, TX

Based in Dallas, TX, Dimensions provides 3D scanning services using LiDAR and Photogrammetry. They capture existing conditions for renovations and compliance, offering Scan to BIM services, detailed as-built documentation, and business intelligence tools for diverse industrial clients.

Henderson, NV

Based in Henderson, NV, LiDAR As-Built Drawings provides professional 3D laser scanning and as-built survey services. Specializing in LiDAR technology, they create accurate as-built drawings, BIM models, and digital twins for architecture, construction, and engineering projects using Leica and Faro equipment.

Riverside, CA

Based in Riverside, CA, Mobile 3D Imaging offers mobile dental CT scans across Southern California. The company utilizes advanced cone beam technology to provide accurate 2D images and 3D volume data for diagnostic and treatment planning in dentistry.

Katonah, NY

Based in Katonah, NY, MYND Workshop provides 3D laser scanning and reality capture services across the U.S. They specialize in high-precision LiDAR scanning for detailed point clouds, as-built surveys, and Scan to BIM conversions. Services support AEC, historic preservation, and creative industries.

NeoMetrix provides 3D scanning services to rapidly convert physical parts into CAD-friendly files, catering to a wide range of sizes from small dental implants to entire buildings. The company also offers 3D printing, reverse engineering, and computer-aided inspection solutions for comprehensive product development.

Southlake, TX

Based in Southlake, TX, NVision, Inc. provides comprehensive 3D non-contact scanning, measurement, inspection, and reverse engineering services. With over 30 years of experience, they serve diverse industrial clients in automotive, aerospace, defense, oil/gas, medical, and power generation sectors, handling large and small objects with precision.

Dearborn, MI

Based in Dearborn, MI, PMC offers high-precision 3D scanning services for manufacturing. Utilizing precise measurement, analysis, and visualization capabilities, the company helps clients improve productivity and efficiency. PMC boasts over 40 years of experience in optimizing operations.

Atlanta, GA

Based in Atlanta, GA, Proto3000 provides advanced 3D scanning services for metrology, reverse engineering, and quality inspection. They deliver reliable, accurate, and non-destructive measurement data for critical projects. The company also offers end-to-end product development, including 3D design and additive manufacturing services.

Newark, CA

Based in Newark, CA, ProtoCafe offers direct 3D scanning services as part of its comprehensive additive manufacturing and prototyping capabilities. They specialize in various 3D printing methods, laser cutting, rapid casting, overmolding, and design consultation. Operating a secure, state-of-the-art facility, ProtoCafe emphasizes speed and ISO-compliant quality.

Brooklyn, NY

PrintAworld, based in Brooklyn, NY, offers high accuracy 3D scanning services for rapid prototyping projects. The company also provides high-quality 3D printing solutions. They specialize in precise digital capture and physical realization of designs, supporting clients with comprehensive additive manufacturing needs.

Beaverton, OR

RapidMade, based in Beaverton, OR, provides professional 3D scanning services using handheld systems for applications like reverse engineering, quality inspection, and digital archiving. They also offer a full suite of manufacturing capabilities, including 3D printing, CNC machining, and urethane casting, serving industrial and commercial clients across diverse sectors.

Lakewood, CA

Based in Lakewood, CA, Rapid Scan 3D provides professional 3D scanning services, including reverse engineering and inspection. The company utilizes advanced AI-powered equipment like Artec Leo and Scantech Trackscan for no-target scanning applications. They also offer 3D scanner sales and training.

Tustin, CA

Based in Tustin, CA, Robert J. Lung & Associates, Inc. specializes in geospatial data acquisition and mapping services. The company provides Lidar mapping, aerial photography, and digital terrain modeling, employing airborne differential GPS for precise data collection and spatial data handling. They are CPUC Certified DBE.

Miami, FL

Based in Miami, FL, Robotic Imaging provides cutting-edge 3D laser scanning and data capture solutions. They generate precise point clouds with laser scanners and drones to accelerate design and streamline construction workflows. Serving industries from retail to residential, the company offers fast, accurate, and seamless services for informed decision-making and project efficiency.

Glendale, CA

RP Depot, based in Glendale, CA, specializes in high-precision 3D scanning and 3D printing services. They offer digital fabrication solutions, including expert CAD design and laser engraving. Serving businesses, engineers, and designers across industries like jewelry, product development, and manufacturing, RP Depot ensures accurate, production-ready results.

Based in New York, NY, ScanM2 offers comprehensive 3D laser and LiDAR scanning services in the US. They specialize in documenting exterior and interior building geometry, providing BIM models, point clouds, and as-built drawings for architects and designers across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.

Cypress, CA

Based in Cypress, CA, SNL Creative delivers additive manufacturing and 3D printing solutions. The company offers direct 3D scanning services, alongside CAD design, digital sculpting, rapid prototyping, and production parts. Serving diverse industries, they provide integrated solutions for projects from concept development to custom finishes and scaled production.

Fresno, CA

Based in Fresno, CA, Streamline 3D offers comprehensive 3D scanning and CAD services. They specialize in high-accuracy structured light and laser scanning for reverse engineering, quality control, and product design. Serving industrial clients in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and medical sectors with advanced equipment.

Based in Rockville, MD, Tejjy Inc. specializes in 3D laser scanning services for the AEC sector. They provide high-definition point cloud data and scan-to-BIM models, particularly for historic preservation projects. The company also offers comprehensive BIM, VDC, and reality capture solutions.

Houston, TX

Based in Houston, TX, Texas Prototype provides direct 3D scanning services, using laser technology to create digital files and prints from physical parts. They are a full-service concept-to-production company, also offering additive manufacturing, machining, and injection molding for prototyping and low-volume production.

San Diego, CA

The AEC Associates, headquartered in San Diego, CA, offers direct 3D Laser Scanning services, specializing in Scan to BIM and Point Cloud to CAD conversions. They provide comprehensive BIM, architectural, MEP, and structural engineering solutions for the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.

Burbank, CA

Based in Burbank, CA, There You Have It 3D provides professional 3D scanning services, delivering precision and quality for projects from parts to CAD models. The company also offers comprehensive on-demand 3D printing, fabrication, and design services for industrial and commercial clients in the Los Angeles area.

Los Angeles, CA

Based in Los Angeles, The Scan Truck provides mobile, onsite 3D scanning services, specializing in photogrammetry and LiDAR. Their proprietary Scan Truck utilizes 160 DSLR cameras to capture high-quality, photorealistic 3D assets. They serve feature films, VR productions, video games, TV, and commercials, offering avatar creation, modeling, texturing, and game engine integration.

Concord, CA

Based in Concord, CA, Towill, Inc. provides comprehensive surveying, mapping, and GIS services. Their offerings include LiDAR, photogrammetric mapping, and terrestrial and mobile 3D scanning for various industrial and government clients. They deliver high-quality topographic and planimetric data solutions for sectors like transportation, energy, and water/wastewater.

Portland, OR

Based in Portland, OR, Truepoint Laser Scanning provides 3D laser scanning services for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industries. They use advanced Leica scanners and LiDAR to deliver precise as-built documentation, point clouds, 2D CAD drawings, and 3D BIM models, streamlining project planning and construction.

West Chester, OH

Based in West Chester, OH, TrueScan provides 3D laser scanning and reality capture services for the built environment. They specialize in generating BIM models, CAD drawings, and Matterport tours. Serving commercial, retail, entertainment, and historic building sectors, TrueScan delivers accurate documentation to support diverse project requirements.

East Hartford, CT

Based in East Hartford, CT, United-BIM provides Scan to BIM services, converting point cloud data into accurate 3D BIM models and 2D CAD drawings. They also offer comprehensive Revit modeling, architectural, structural, and MEP-FP BIM services for various industry sectors.

Irvine, CA

Tangent Solutions is a U.S.-based company specializing in reverse engineering and 3D scanning services. They provide ultra-precise laser scanning, CAD modeling, and product development solutions. Their expertise helps clients accurately capture physical objects and convert them into digital designs for various applications.

Houston, TX

Virtual Building Studio provides architects and engineers for Scan to CAD services and projects across the USA. The company specializes in converting 3D scanned data into detailed CAD models, offering efficient solutions for architectural and engineering documentation. They emphasize quick client onboarding.

Woolpert provides comprehensive 3D laser scanning services for clients across various project phases. They specialize in documenting, mapping, and visualizing complex projects, supporting all stages from initial planning and design through construction and long-term asset management.

Irvine, CA

3D ScanTech, located in Irvine, California, provides specialized 3D scanning services. They utilize advanced technology for precise data acquisition, particularly for cultural heritage preservation. The company offers experts valuable insights into artifact conditions, guiding precise interventions and delivering detailed digital models for analysis.

Metro Detroit, MI

Applications 3D, based in Metro Detroit, Michigan, provides 3D scanning services. They utilize portable white light, blue light, and laser digitizing for reverse engineering, inspection, and quality control. The company serves industrial clients with in-house and on-site scanning capabilities.

Alpharetta, GA

Based in Alpharetta, GA, Clove Technologies provides comprehensive 3D Laser Scanning services, capturing precise spatial data. The company specializes in transforming these scans into accurate CAD and BIM models, supporting digital construction, geospatial intelligence, and digital reality initiatives for various industries.

Lamsco West provides precision 3D laser scanning services, leveraging state-of-the-art processes for detailed part analysis. They specialize in serving the aerospace and defense industries, offering expert solutions for complex manufacturing requirements. This company focuses on high-precision scanning for industrial applications.

San Diego, CA

Based in San Diego, CA, San-Lo Aerial Surveys provides comprehensive aerial mapping and surveying services. Specializing in LiDAR and point cloud generation, orthophotography, and topographic mapping, they serve civil engineering, construction, government, and utility sectors. The company delivers detailed digital elevation and terrain models.

Davis, CA

Tech Foundry, associated with UC Davis, specializes in providing reverse engineering services. They assist clients in deriving new designs from existing physical components, particularly when parts are no longer commercially available. This process often involves precise 3D scanning and digital reconstruction to create detailed models for manufacturing.

Las Vegas, NV

ZEISS provides precision 3D scanning services tailored for quality assurance, engineering, manufacturing, and design applications. The company emphasizes fast turnaround times, expert technicians, and reliable customer support, serving industrial B2B customers in the United States.

Aliso Viejo, CA

Based in Aliso Viejo, CA, 4NSI provides industrial X-ray and 3D CT scanning services, including high-energy options. The company specializes in computed tomography for precise inspection, quality control, and failure analysis of dense parts, offering detailed 3D imaging with quick turnarounds for various industrial applications.

Alexandria, VA

Applied Technical Services (ATS) provides industrial CT scanning services, a nondestructive testing method. Specializing in advanced material analysis, ATS identifies microscopic structural flaws in client samples. These precise 3D scanning capabilities support quality control and failure analysis across various industrial applications.

Bowman Consulting provides advanced 3D laser scanning, lidar, and reality capture solutions tailored for modern industries. Their services encompass geospatial data collection, BIM integration, and as-built documentation. They support a wide range of engineering and infrastructure projects, offering comprehensive solutions for complex reality capture needs.

Datum Tech Solutions delivers 3D laser scanning, mapping, and surveying services across Florida. The company offers custom quotes for these services, utilizing their advanced equipment. Additionally, Datum Tech Solutions sells a wide selection of 3D laser scanning and surveying equipment for direct purchase.

Commerce Township, MI

Engineering & Manufacturing Services, Inc. (EMS 3D), based in Commerce Township, MI, provides comprehensive 3D scanning, laser tracking, photogrammetry, and CAD modeling services. They offer on and off-site precision measurement for quality control, inspection, and product design, serving aerospace, automotive, and industrial manufacturing. The company also supplies 3D scanners and software.

Minneapolis, MN

Laser Design provides comprehensive 3D scanning services from its metrology lab, leveraging over 30 years of experience and 25,000 completed projects. The company offers 3D as-built documentation solutions for a diverse range of building projects, including historic homes and international airports.

Irwindale, CA

Metrology Labs Inc., based in Irwindale, CA, provides comprehensive 3D scanning and CMM inspection services. Specializing in high-precision data acquisition, reverse engineering, and quality control, they serve diverse B2B industries including aerospace, automotive, and medical. The company utilizes advanced metrology equipment for accurate dimensional analysis and detailed reporting.

MicronPA, based in York, PA, provides specialized 3D modeling services for reverse engineering. They expertly create precise computer-aided design (CAD) models from existing physical parts, especially those lacking complete original documentation. This service aids industrial clients in crucial product development, manufacturing, and quality control applications.

Indianapolis, IN

Based in Indianapolis, IN, Neomek provides comprehensive 3D scanning services with over 15 years of experience. The company specializes in reverse engineering and 3D part inspection, capable of scanning diverse objects for industrial clients. Neomek also offers RTV molding, rapid prototyping, and design services.

Chesapeake, VA

Based in Chesapeake, VA, Rice Associates, Inc. is a full-service geospatial consulting firm. They specialize in comprehensive 3D scanning services, including terrestrial, mobile, and aerial LiDAR laser scanning. The company also offers photogrammetry, precise mapping, surveying, and GIS solutions for diverse commercial and industrial clients.

Elsinore, CA

Rick Engineering provides comprehensive planning, design, engineering, and surveying services across the western US. They offer specialized photogrammetry for topographic mapping and reality capture services using aerial imagery. Their expertise supports clients in developing resilient communities and infrastructure projects.

Novato, CA

Based in Novato, CA, Scansite Incorporated provides 3D scanning and reverse engineering services with over 20 years of experience. Capabilities include studio and onsite 3D scanning, scan to CAD, 3D modeling, and inspection. They serve diverse industries, including automotive, aerospace, cultural heritage, and entertainment.

Los Angeles, CA

Bowman provides comprehensive 3D laser scanning and reality capture services, transforming physical environments into immersive data. Specializing in point clouds, 2D and 3D BIM as-built documentation, they support engineering, architectural, and construction workflows. Services include drone intelligence, VR-ready models, and clash detection to enhance project efficiency.

TPM offers comprehensive 3D scanning services, capturing measurements from tiny components to historical buildings. Supporting midmarket manufacturing and AEC firms, they navigate digital transformation with laser scanning, software, hardware, and expert assistance. Additional services include outsourced 3D printing, training, and reprographics.

Nikon Metrology, LLC provides comprehensive 2D and 3D X-ray inspection services for various industrial parts. They offer advanced scanning services, emphasizing competitive contracts, quick turnaround, and tailored solutions for their clients.

MISTRAS Group provides advanced 3D Measurement Technology for high-precision component and system measurement on-site, supporting industrial reverse engineering and automation processes. Specializing in asset protection solutions, the company offers direct 3D scanning capabilities across various industries globally.

Multivista provides advanced construction documentation services globally, specializing in 3D laser scanning for fast, precise data capture. They convert point cloud data into 3D as-built models (Scan to BIM) or 2D CAD plans (Scan to Plan), supporting construction professionals with comprehensive reality capture solutions.

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How to Choose a Company

  • Verify their demonstrated expertise in metrology-grade accuracy for your specific part geometry and size, requesting case studies with reported measurement uncertainty values.
  • Inquire about their scanning technology (e.g., structured light, laser triangulation, photogrammetry) and confirm it's suitable for your material properties, surface finish, and part complexity.
  • For critical dimensional inspection, require proof of ISO 17025 accreditation for their measurement processes and documentation of NIST traceable calibration for their scanning equipment.
  • Clarify their post-processing capabilities: Can they deliver a clean watertight mesh, a dense point cloud, or a fully parameterized CAD model for reverse engineering, specifically in the exact file formats you require?
  • Red flag: Be wary of suppliers quoting solely on 'scan time' without a clear breakdown of post-processing, data registration, deviation analysis, or conversion to your preferred output format; these are often significant hidden costs.
  • Discuss their experience with GD&T analysis if your project involves inspecting parts to engineering drawings, and ensure they can provide detailed inspection reports with pass/fail criteria.
  • For large-scale or on-site scanning projects, confirm their logistical capabilities, portable equipment (e.g., portable CMM arms, terrestrial laser scanners), and any required safety certifications for working in industrial environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the practical difference between a point cloud and a mesh file for my 3D scanning project?

A point cloud is the raw, unorganized data set of individual points captured by the scanner, ideal for custom processing and high-precision dimensional inspection. A mesh file is a triangulated surface created from the point cloud, better for visualization, reverse engineering into CAD, 3D printing, and generally smaller file sizes, but may lose some raw data detail in the process.

How do I determine the right accuracy and resolution for my 3D scanning service?

Accuracy (how close measurements are to true dimensions) dictates suitability for metrology-grade applications and critical tolerances. Resolution (the density of captured points or triangles) determines how finely detailed features can be captured. Specify your part's tightest dimensional tolerances and the smallest features you need to reproduce or inspect to guide the supplier in selecting the appropriate scanner and settings.

Should I prioritize structured light or laser scanning for my part, and why?

Structured light scanning is generally faster and offers very high detail on stable, non-reflective, and lighter-colored surfaces. Laser scanning is often more versatile, handling challenging surface properties (dark, shiny, transparent) better and is typically preferred for larger objects, on-site scanning, or when environmental vibrations might be a factor.

What information should I provide to get an accurate quote for 3D scanning services?

Provide part dimensions, material, surface finish, the required accuracy and resolution, the desired output format (e.g.,.STL,.OBJ,.STEP, native CAD), the ultimate purpose of the scan (e.g., reverse engineering, inspection, archival), and any specific deadline. Photos or 2D drawings of the part are also extremely helpful.

What impact do part surface finish and material color have on 3D scan quality and cost?

Highly reflective (e.g., polished metal), transparent (e.g., clear plastic), or very dark/black surfaces often scatter or absorb light, making them difficult for scanners to capture accurately. These typically require pre-treatment with an anti-glare spray or specialized scanning techniques, which can increase scan time, post-processing effort, and overall cost. Matte, light-colored surfaces are generally easiest to scan.

How can I ensure the 3D scan data integrates smoothly with my existing CAD software?

Clearly specify the exact CAD software and version you use, and the precise file format you require (e.g.,.STEP,.IGES for parametric models;.STL,.OBJ for mesh data; or even a native CAD file if reverse engineering). Confirm the supplier has experience delivering data in that specific format, and inquire if they offer services to convert the scan data into intelligent, editable CAD features within your preferred software.

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