3D scanning & laser scanning

Scanning sprays

Reflective, shiny or transparent surfaces are often a challenge for optical measuring systems: reflections and a lack of contrast impair the scan quality.

Scanning sprays (also known as matting sprays / anti-glare sprays / anti-reflection sprays) create an even, homogeneous surface – for more precise 3D scans, better contrasts and more stable results in optical 3D Metrology, 3D laser scanning and, depending on the application, also in photogrammetry.

Scanning sprays
Highlights

Subliminating scannin sprays

Volatilizing (sublimating) scanning sprays form a non-slip coating that evaporates automatically after scanning – there is no need to clean the components. In addition, environments/users are not contaminated by pigments (according to the manufacturer’s description on the overview page).

AESUB Blue (spray can)

AESUB blue is ideal for quick and clean 3D scans without the need for additional cleaning. The white, pigment-free coating ensures an even matt finish and evaporates automatically after the scan. This makes the spray particularly suitable for daily standard measuring tasks.

  • Scan time: approx. 1-2 hours
  • Sublimation time: approx. 4 hours
  • Layer thickness: approx. 8-15 µm

AESUB Orange (spray can)

AESUB orange combines a very fine coating thickness with a long service life and is particularly suitable for precise 3D measurements over a longer period of time. The white, pigment-free coating creates a very good contrast and disappears after the scan without leaving any residue. An optimal solution for demanding applications.

  • Scan time: approx. 4-8 hours
  • Sublimation time: approx. 12-24 hours
  • Layer thickness: approx. 2-6 µm

AESUB Green (container)

AESUB green is a self-volatilizing 3D scanning spray as a container solution and is particularly suitable for large-area and automated scanning processes. The pigment-free coating ensures an even matt finish and disappears without residue after scanning. Ideal for spray gun applications where efficiency and reproducibility are paramount.

  • Scan time: approx. 1-2 hours
  • Sublimation time: approx. 4 hours
  • Layer thickness: approx. 8-15 µm

AESUB Yellow (container)

AESUB yellow is a self-volatilizing airbrush solution for applications with the highest accuracy requirements. The extremely thin, pigment-free coating enables precise 3D scans with minimal layer influence and disappears completely after the scan. Particularly suitable for fine structures and detail-critical measurement tasks.

  • Scan time: approx. 1-2 hours
  • Sublimation time: approx. 4 hours
  • Layer thickness: < 1 µm

Permanent scanning sprays

Permanent scanning sprays are always used when a permanent matt finish is required or when subsequent cleaning is deliberately accepted. They create a uniform, high-contrast surface for precise 3D scans and are particularly suitable for applications outside of sensitive measuring environments. In contrast to sublimating sprays, the coating remains on the component and can be removed as required.

AESUB White (spray can)

AESUB white is a permanent 3D scanning spray that produces a very even, matt surface for reliable scanning results.

It is suitable for many materials and applications where a permanent coating is acceptable. The spray is free from titanium dioxide (TiO₂), but contains pigments and should therefore not be used in the immediate vicinity of sensitive Metrology equipment.

HELLING 3D laser scanning spray

The HELLING anti-reflection spray was specially developed to reduce disturbing reflections when measuring with 3D laser scanners.

It provides a matt, high-contrast surface and is often used in industrial testing and measuring applications. The coating is durable and can be removed with a suitable cleaner if necessary.

Comparison

CategoryScan timeSubliminationLayer thickness
AESUB Bluesublimating (spray can)1-2 h 4 h8-15 µm
AESUB Orangesublimating (spray can)4-8 h12-24 h2-6 µm
AESUB Greensublimating (container)1-2 h4 h8-15 µm
AESUB Yellowsublimating (container)1-2 h4 h< 1 µm
AESUB Whitepermanent (spray can)not limitedthin, homogeneous
HELLING 3D laser scanning spraypermanent (spray can)not limited

Frequently asked questions!

What is a sublimating scanning spray and when is it used?

A sublimating scanning spray is used in optical 3D scanning if components are to remain residue-free after the scan. The matt finish evaporates automatically and is particularly suitable for sensitive surfaces, precise Metrology and high-quality components.

When is a permanent scanning spray useful?

A permanent scanning spray is suitable for 3D scanning applications where permanent matting is permitted or required. It is often used in industrial testing and measuring processes and can be removed with a suitable cleaner if necessary.

What is the difference between 3D scanning and 3D laser scanning in scanning sprays?

In optical 3D scanning, scanning sprays improve the contrast by matting the surface. In 3D laser scanning, on the other hand, special anti-reflection sprays are used to reduce distracting reflections. The requirements for the scanning spray therefore differ significantly depending on the measurement method.

Which scanning spray is suitable for long scanning times?

For long 3D scanning times sublimating scanning sprays with extended service life are suitable. They provide stable matting for several hours and are ideal for complex geometries or extensive measuring tasks without the need for cleaning.

Which scanning spray is suitable for high-precision 3D scanning?

For high-precision 3D scans, we recommend using a scanning spray with very low coating thicknessto minimize the influence on the measurement result. Such sprays are particularly suitable for detail-critical components and applications with the highest precision requirements.

Can I use the same scanning spray for 3D scanning and 3D laser scanning?

As a rule, different scanning sprays are used for optical 3D scanning and 3D laser scanning. While 3D scanning focuses on matting, laser scanning focuses on reducing reflections.

Gladly there for you

Thomas
Thomas Wechner
Head of 3D Metrology & Engineering