The mode of operation of computed tomography (CT) is based on conventional x-ray technology.
The radiation generated by an x-ray tube penetrates a component that is to be tested and is then measured by a detector. If neccessary, it is weakened to varying levels, depending on the material and structure of the component. This technology allows to make geometries and structures inside the component tangible in a way that cannot be achieved with other measuring methods.
A three-dimensional image requires several x-rays of the same object from different directions. In
contrast to medical CT scans, the object to be examined is usually moved in an industrial CT. Several
images are taken while the object is rotating around its own axis on a turnable between the x-ray
tube and the detector. From these images a high-resolution 3D model is calculated, which not only
depicts the external geometries, but also the internal structures of the scanned object.
The v|tome|x by GE comes with two different x-ray tubes that cover a particularly wide range of
applications. The nanofocus tube (180kV) permits exceptionally high-resolution images with a
resolution of detail of up to 0.2 micrometers; the powerful microfocus tube (300 kV) is used for more
absorbing materials.