For larger-scale projects, such as buildings, landscapes, and infrastructure, see our professional 3D laser scanning services.
3D scanning services
Our 3D scanning service digitises your physical parts or models, generating precise data for reverse engineering, inspection, design or 3D printing. Working with companies, individuals and hobbyists.
Metrology-grade scans
Scan to CAD
3D scan to print
High detail
3D scanning services we offer
3D Scanning
Scanning is where it all begins, by taking your object into the digital world, using the latest laser 3D scanning technology.
Scan to CAD
3D scanning to CAD, gives you the options to modify, repair, inspect, digitise and visualise your scanned parts.
Scan to Print
Turning your 3D scans into a 3D print from the data we capture. Or supply your own STL file & we can print that.
What can we 3D scan?
3D scanning is used for many objects, cars, prosthetics, large items, small items, the list goes on. We have a range of scanning devices and hardware to meet the needs of your project. Here’s a guide to just some of the items we can 3D scan
Large objects
3D scanning large objects is not a problem with our mobile, handheld 3D scanners. We can capture full colour highly accurate scan data using structured light.
Cars
Statues
Boats
Furniture
Small parts
Small items and parts such as jewellery, are captured using our desktop 3D scanners. We can capture very high detail and texture with these devices.
Components
Cogs
Coins
Miniatures
Textured items
We can 3D scan texture and colour. This can be helpful for industries such as VR, historical artefacts and museums. Tricky surfaces such as glass can also be scanned.
Fabric
Glass
Shiny
Black
Recent 3D scanning work...
bumper
This is an unedited digital 3D scan of a Ford front bumper. The holes on the bumper are from markers to help the scanner capture the information.
The client wanted to use the data for several different reasons. The main aim was for fixing locations and modifications.
MG Ashtray
A customer took advantage of our 3d digital scanning services to create a mount for the main badge to fit the ashtray. We 3d scanned the ashtray and the badge to capture both curves, and we then used our SLA 3d printing machine to create what looked like an OEM badge mount.
Chopper Frame
We used our mobile 3D scanner for Raw Steel Choppers to digitally scan this rare chopper frame.
They were asked by one of their customers to reproduce the frame and make any modifications needed. Then send the 3D data to a CNC company.
death penny
Here we used our desktop scanner for this World War One death penny. The customer wanted to reproduce the coin so they could have their own copy. The coin was scanned with our desktop 3D scanner, we then cleaned the data ready for printing. The coin was printed on one of our resin printers. The end result was fantastic.
Ready for your 3D scan?
Do you need a fast & accurate way to digitise your 3D objects? Taking it to the next stage of development? Maybe you need to reverse engineer, inspect or reproduce your parts. Our UK 3D scanning services offer highly detailed full-colour accurate scans. We also offer 3D printing services.
What our customers say...
Accuracy. Precision. Quality.
Metrology-Grade Scanners
6500000
Measurements per second
10 μm
Resolution
0.02 mm
Accuracy
Our engineers use metrology-grade equipment to achieve impressive efficiency, with the capacity to take 650,000 measurements per second, while also capturing ultra-fine details with a resolution as precise as 10μm and an accuracy of up to 0.020 mm.
Plus, thanks to the integrated photogrammetry system, we can target scanning areas up to 2500 mm by 3000 mm, and take advantage of a volumetric accuracy of 0.035 mm/m.
How 3D scanning works?
Our 3D scanners utilise laser & structured light technology to convert any physical object into a precise, accurate digital model.
It works by projecting a pattern of light onto the surface, cameras then read the deformation of this pattern, which is then triangulated to calculate the object’s complexity and dimensions.
How much does 3D scanning cost?
How cheap is a 3D scan? It’s a question we get asked all the time, and it’s not an easy one to answer. Every item we handle is different. They vary in size, complexity and shape.Â
We start by asking you to send a few photos and dimensions. We work out how many hours it will take and apply our hourly rate to calculate a realistic quote.
What adds to the cost?
Travel
Use our in-house service to minimise any travel costs.
Markers
Some parts require markers for tracking and accuracy.
Reflective spray
If the surface is reflective or black, then it may require spray.
3D scanning an object...
Before we scan any part, we assess what scanning equipment is best suited to the object’s size and shape. We need to see if it needs target markers or non-reflective spray.Â
If the model lacks substantial geometry or texture, we will use target markers. These serve as guides for the scanner, assisting it in maintaining its location and enhancing its precision.
Not sure if your model can be 3D scanned? You can send us some images, and we’ll take a look. There isn’t much we can’t scan.
3D scanning with markers
What happens if the model has very little geometry or texture?Â
If there are no features for the scanner to recognise, we’ll apply target markers. These help the scanner keep track of its positioning and aid with accuracy.
3D Scanning Spray
What happens if the model is shiny or black?
We use a specialist non-reflective spray. It doesn’t leave any coating or residue on the item. You can see how well it works in our short video here:
Commercial 3D scanning
We help businesses find innovative solutions to once-complex problems and cut costs versus traditional methods. Here are just a few examples from some of the biggest industries we serve:
Automotive
Aerospace
Replicate damaged & discontinued parts
Vehicle customisation
Heritage projects, museums & art galleries
Restoration
Insurance
Fashion & costume design
Movie & TV props
Video game assets
Virtual Reality & Augmented Reality
Musical instruments
Prosthetics
Orthotics
Medical machinery
Scanning the human body
Product design
Tooling
Manufacturing equipment
Archiving & inspection
Companies we've worked with...
Surface Scan provided 3D scans in STP format of a precision subassembly for our project. The team were very responsive and helpful, including providing extra detail/dimensions within a day of request. The data enabled us to quickly establish accurate datums for integrating the subassembly.
Andrew Christie
Sofant Technologies
We needed help with the creation of a hose connector for our new innovative multi-mineral injector for hot tubs. Surface Scan performed a 3D scan of our part and created a detailed 3D CAD model which we then used to create the tooling required for the injection moulding of our hose connector.
Dean Pimlott
Clarion Spa
I have worked with Surface Scan on a number of occasions to produce 3D scans of items from British military history which date back over 100 years.
The service they provided was first class and the finished product was exactly what we required to record items of historical value for future generations.
Bruce McKay MBE
The Royal Gurkha Rifles
Frequently asked questions...
Can you 3D scan my part?
Yes, we can 3D scan your part. It could be as small as a coin, an antique piece of furniture, or as large as an entire vehicle. Almost any item can be 3D scanned. Every day we get asked to scan different items. Some are complex parts, others are simple designs. Every item is unique, but we can scan almost anything.
How much does a 3D scan cost?
The cost of 3D scanning an item can vary. It depends on how complicated the item is, the level of detail required and the item's size. The best way to obtain a quotation is to send us some pictures and include approximate dimensions. Something simple is fine.
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Generally, a quick chat about what you're trying to achieve is also helpful. We can tailor our service to your project, ensuring you get what you need to take your project to the next step.
How long does 3D scanning take?
A 3D scan can take anywhere from an hour to a few days. Every item is so unique that there isn't a set time. The size and complexity of the object determine how long it will take.
Once we have seen your item pictures, we can let you know what the timescale would be. The data clean-up is also a large part of the process. This must be taken into consideration when working out the time required.
At Surface Scan, we try to turn around most items in 1 - 2 weeks. However, if you need something a little faster than that, please let us know. We will always try to accommodate you.
Can I send my object to you?
Yes, you can send your object to us as long as it is not too heavy or delicate. Our in-house scanning service is a straightforward and efficient way to get your model 3D scanned. We will happily return your items once the 3D scan data is complete.
Can you 3D scan onsite?
If you have a heavy or fragile item, don't worry about sending it to us. We are more than happy to travel to your location. Our mobile scanning service is very popular.
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There is no need to worry about dismantling machines or transporting vehicles. Our engineers have mobile scanners; they are happy to scan most items in situ. They can work in almost any environment; they only need to access the model or machinery.
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Talk to us about what you need, and we can let you know if our mobile scanning service is the best option for you.
Lets Talk
We’re ready to talk about your 3D scanning enquiry. Please fill out the form, and someone will get back to you as soon as possible or give us a call, whichever suits you best.