X-RAY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY FOR EMERGING AEROSPACE MATERIALS AND PROCESSES DEVELOPMENT

Abstract : The development and qualification of new materials and processes requires characterization of the product as a function of manufacturing and operational parameters. X-ray computed tomography (CT) provides quantitative measurements of material characteristics in terms of the dimensions, density and composition. The results of studies involving CT testing of various materials demonstrate the ability of CT to provide valuable information for material process understanding and characterization. The cost benefit of CT is found in the reduction of risk and schedule savings by reducing cycle time in process development steps. CT is a tool which increases new design options by allowing internal measurement and evaluation at previously inaccessible locations in complex structures. X-ray CT will be a critical tool for organizations competing in emerging materials and processes development.