WHAT WE DO
3D Scanning
Tried and True Metrology team has successfully scanned several components/spaces and are fully prepared for your scanning needs.
High-Accuracy 3D Scanning for Any Part, Facility, or Structure
3D scanning is one of the most versatile tools in modern metrology. Whether you need to capture a small precision component, a large assembly, or an entire facility space, our team delivers accurate, high-resolution scan data trusted by engineering, manufacturing, MRO, and construction teams across Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C..
Using industry-leading scanners such as the Surphaser, Z+F, and FARO Focus, we collect millions of data points to produce detailed point clouds, meshes, and 3D models. These datasets can be used for inspection, documentation, reverse engineering, digital twins, and more.
What 3D Scanning Can Capture
3D scanning provides complete surface coverage, making it ideal for complex or hard-to-measure parts. Our scans produce precise digital representations of:
- Machined components and precision parts
- Tooling, fixtures, jigs, and moulds
- Weld assemblies and BIW structures
- Large industrial equipment and machinery
- Rooms, shop floors, facility spaces, and layout environments
- Marine, aerospace, and power generation components
From small tools to multi-room environments, our scanning process ensures clean, accurate data ready for downstream use.
Benefits of 3D Scanning
Compared to traditional tools like calipers, tape measures, or CMM touch probes, 3D scanning captures complete geometry in minutes — without interrupting operations.
- Fast measurement of large or complex surfaces
- High repeatability with minimal operator influence
- Non-contact measurement ideal for delicate parts
- Full digital point cloud for engineering, inspection, or modelling
- Reduced downtime for production environments
Learn more about how 3D data is used on our 3D inspection and reverse engineering pages.
3D Model Creation: As-Found or Design-Intent
Once data is captured, we can convert your scan into a precise digital model. These 3D models are suitable for CAD workflows, machining, fabrication, simulations, digital twin creation, and quality control.
- As-found models — exact representation of the scanned object
- Design-intent models — cleaned, idealised, CAD-ready surfaces
- Hybrid modelling — blend of true geometry and engineered features
Our modelling workflows follow industry guidelines such as ASME Y14.5 and recognised engineering best practices.
Industries That Rely on 3D Scanning
We support scanning needs across a wide range of sectors:
- Aerospace — composite structures, turbine components, MRO work
- Automotive — BIW fixtures, tooling, stamping, and trim validation
- Power Generation — turbine housings, pump assemblies, structural elements
- Marine — hull scanning, propellers, structural inspection
- General manufacturing — prototypes, assemblies, machine tools
Typical 3D Scanning Workflows
- Initial review — drawings, CAD, tolerances, or measurement goals
- Onsite or in-house scanning with Surphaser, Z+F, or FARO systems
- Data processing — noise removal, registration, meshing
- Analysis — inspection, modelling, deviation mapping
- Final deliverables — CAD files, point clouds, inspection reports
3D scanning pairs seamlessly with automation and precision alignment solutions to create complete digital measurement processes.
Deliverables You Can Expect
We provide a wide range of digital outputs depending on your needs:
- Point clouds (.e57, .las, .xyz, .ply, and more)
- Watertight or open meshes
- Aligned datasets for CAD comparison
- Deviation colour maps and GD&T inspection
- Design-intent CAD models
- Digital twins for facility or equipment documentation
3D Scanning FAQs
How accurate is your 3D scanning?
Accuracy varies by scanner, but most systems achieve between ±0.001” and ±0.020” depending on size, distance, and material.
Can you scan large areas or factory spaces?
Yes — long-range scanners like FARO Focus and Z+F allow us to capture whole rooms, production floors, or large machinery.
Do you create CAD models from the scan data?
Absolutely. We can generate as-found or design-intent CAD models ready for machining, fabrication, or engineering workflows.
What file formats do you provide?
We support all major point cloud and mesh formats (.e57, .xyz, .stl, .ply, .obj, .igs, .step, etc.).
Do you offer onsite scanning?
Yes — we support onsite scanning across Virginia, the Mid-Atlantic, and nationwide for large or sensitive parts.
From the initial scan to the final CAD model, you can trust us with your scanning/modeling needs. Below are a few examples of scans we do:
HOW WE WORK
You can trust Tried and True Metrology with your measurement needs. See below for our work process.
