The use of 3D scanning and printing has continued to increase over the past few years, not just in the professional environment - it has become more and more popular for amateur designers and hobbyists too. From dentistry to aviation, shoe-making to environmental conservation, the applications for this technology are truly limitless. We ourselves have have first-hand experience of how adaptable this technology can be, providing 3D scanning services to a variety of clients in a wide range of settings through 3DScantoCAD.co.uk.
In our experience, the most frequent question we get asked regarding 3D scanning concern the costs associated with it. The general consensus seems to be that the technology is far too expensive to be implemented for many businesses and individuals, however we think this is just down to consumer perceptions rather than fact. The increased popularity of 3D scanning, combined with the technological advancements, has made 3D Scanning a much more affordable and attainable solution for everyone.
There is a wide spectrum of 3D Scanning solutions available, with scanners ranging from several hundred to tens of thousands of pounds. Not to mention the plethora of software applications available to handle the raw data. Finding the right solution for your needs can be a bit of a minefield, and if you're not in the know, your budget can spiral wildly out of control.
If all you require is a general scan of a space so you can make a layout of an area for say fitting out a bulkhead then it may not be necessary to go for the highest value, most accurate scanner on the market. In this example there are general scanners costing less than £1000 that will do the job, you don't need to break the bank. If on the other hand you require reverse engineering on a part to fit into an aero engine with a level of accuracy at 100% then there are 3D scanners to do this at a significant cost of many tens of thousands pounds.
As 3D Scanning service providers, we have chosen to use the EinScan Pro 2X which provides the high-end and accurate performance we need to suit any situation. We are also privileged to be the nominated resellers Shining 3D's range of EinScan products. We considered this range of scanners for some years, and after recent improvements we believe that the EinScan Pro 2X provides a level of accuracy and flexibility to provide the optimum service in any scenario.
We believe the price and accuracy from the EinScan Pro 2X gives many the chance to compete on an equal footing with others made much bigger investments. The price of the EinScan 3D scanner start with the EinScan -SP at £2218 through to the EinScan Pro 2X Plus plus Series at £5832.00 and all prices in between depending on requirements.
The examples below can give you a rough guide as to the budget needed depending upon differing requirements:
If the requirement is for small piece scans, e.g. figurines to be 3D printed, then the EinScan SP at £2218 with turntable is ideal. This scanner would be complimentary to any small start-up 3D printer enterprise and especially for educators, colleges, universities.If the requirement is for inspection of a car part, e.g. a bumper bar, then the EinScan Pro 2X (without the built-in software) at £4628 is more appropriate. To complete the scanner would require the inspection software Geomagic Control X which compares the scan data against the original CAD model.
If the requirement is for reverse engineering with surface manipulation, then the Pro connected with a reverse engineering package such as Quicksurface would work well. EinScan Pro 2X Plus has bundled software included and will be sufficient for many applications where the data needs transferring for CNC milling or 3D printing. Industries using the EinScan Pro are many.
The level of accuracy provided by the EinScan Pro 2X competes with scanners costing many times more. Here at Mintronics we support and work closely with our clients to create bespoke solutions for them, whether that's an individual hobbyist or a large corporate.
If you want to discuss what package would be best for you just get in touch and we'd be happy to help any way we can.
Please keep a link to this news blog as we are organising workshops in the coming months.
Useful links