3D SCANNING SERVICES

3D Scanning Services to 0.02mm Accuracy, In-House and On-Site

Q: What is 3D scanning and how does it work?

Our 3D scanning capabilities use the Creaform HandySCAN BLACK Elite to capture the surface geometry of a physical object as a dense point cloud or mesh. We process that raw data into STEP, STL, or point cloud files. The result is an exact digital replica accurate to 0.02mm.

Q: What file formats do you deliver from a 3D scan?

We deliver STEP, IGES, XT, STL, OBJ, 3MF, DXF, and DWG files. We can also take scan data through our reverse engineering process to produce fully parametric SolidWorks CAD models. Format depends on your end use — please ask if you need a specific file type.

Q: How accurate is 3D scanning?

Our Creaform HandySCAN BLACK Elite captures geometry to 0.02mm point accuracy. For tight-tolerance inspection work, we can provide a dimensional report with color deviation maps against your nominal CAD file.

Q: Do you sign NDAs and who owns the scan data?

Yes — we sign NDAs before project kickoff as standard practice. All scan data, files, and project information are yours outright upon payment. We do not retain, reuse, or share your data under any circumstances.

We capture the exact geometry of any physical part using professional-grade laser scanners both in our Southern California lab or at your location. Data delivered as STEP, IGES, STL, or point cloud files, ready for CAD modeling, inspection, or reverse engineering.

WHAT WE DO

Precision 3D Laser Scanning Services In the Lab or At Your Facility

We operate professional Creaform laser scanners to capture geometry on everything from small machined components to large assemblies. Our team all have backgrounds in manufacturing and metrology. We understand what the data needs to do before we start capturing it.

3D Scanning of Engine Head

Scan Data of Engine Head

Mobile Scan Service for Mercedes GTC

Mobile Scan Service for Wind Turbines

Mobile 3D Scan for Boat Molds

3D Scanning for Chassis Alignment

In-house Scanning: Costa Mesa, CA

Ship your parts to our facility for same-day scanning. Controlled environment, no travel costs, fast turnaround. Most parts returned within 24–48 hours.

3100 Airway Ave. Suite 130
Costa Mesa CA 92626

Mobile 3D scanning, On-site Nationwide

For large parts or assemblies that cannot leave your facility, we bring the scanner to you. We travel nationwide and work around your production schedule.

See mobile scanning services→

TRUSTED BY INDUSTRY LEADERS

Serving Major Industries

HOW IT WORKS

From Physical Part to Usable Scan Data in Four Steps

01.

Project Scope

We discuss part size, required accuracy, deliverable format, and end use. Most projects scoped in a single call or email.

02.

3D Scanning

We scan using the latest in blue light laser technology. Multiple passes for complex geometry. Accuracy verified at capture.

03.

Data Processing

Raw scan data is aligned, cleaned, and processed into a usable mesh or point cloud. Noise removed, surfaces refined.
For CAD files, data is then reverse engineered.

04.

File Delivery & Review

We deliver STEP, IGES, STL, OBJ, or point cloud files. Ready for CAD modeling, inspection, or 3D printing.

WHY TANGENT SOLUTIONS

Why Engineers Choose Tangent Solutions for 3D Scanning

Metrology-grade equipment. Design engineers with actual manufacturing and metrology experience.

PRECISION

0.02mm Accuracy, Verified

We use the Creaform HandySCAN BLACK Elite, a metrology-grade portable laser scanner certified to ISO 17025 and accurate to 0.020mm.

EXPERIENCE

Manufacturing-first scanning team

We understand how scan data will be used downstream in CAD, on the shop floor, or in inspection reports. We scan with the end deliverable in mind.

RESPOSIVENESS

Same-day turnaround available

Most in-house projects can be scanned same day and mobile scans scheduled within one business day. We understand production schedules don’t wait.

TRUSTWORTHINESS

NDA Standard

We are happy to sign NDAs before project kickoff and are ITAR compliant. Scan data is yours to keep after payment and is never shared or reused.

SCANNING CAPABILITIES

3D Scanning Services for Every Geometry and Application

For our dedicated scanning lab in Costa Mesa, CA, whether you’re bringing in a single precision component or need an large project scanned, we have the space, the equipment, and the expertise to handle it. We travel on-site nationwide for parts and assemblies that can’t leave your facility.

In-house Scanning

Ship your parts to our Costa Mesa facility for fast turnaround. Most parts scanned same day or next day, processed and delivered within 24–48 hours. No travel costs, controlled environment.

Same-day availableSmall to large partsShip to us

Shop Scanning

Our Costa Mesa office includes a dedicated 800 sq ft warehouse equipped for full shop captures in a controlled environment. Reserved for large scans like vehicles, fixtures, and heavy machinery.

Costa Mesa, CaliforniaMedium to large projects800 sq ft.

Mobile, Large-scale Scanning

For structures, vehicles, and assemblies that cannot come to us. We travel on-site, nationwide and work around your production schedule and can set up in the field.

NationwideAny project sizeOn-site, your schedule

DELIVERABLES

Scan Data File Formats For Your Workflow Needs

STEP, IGES, XT

Universal CAD formats. Files work in SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Creo, Fusion 360.

STL , OBJ

Mesh formats for 3D printing, visualization, and FEA preparation.

Reverse Engineered CAD

Fully parametric SolidWorks models from scan data. Manufacturing-ready.

Inspection Reports

Color deviation maps, GD&T analysis, CMM-style dimensional reports.

2D Engineering Drawings

Manufacture-ready prints with GD&T, tolerancing, and material callouts.

INDUSTRIES SERVED

3D Scanning Services Across Demanding Industries

Our engineers have delivered scan data for flight-critical systems, medical devices, heavy equipment, and motorsports. “Close enough” is not an option.

Aerospace

Airframe components, structural brackets, ground support tooling, and flight-critical parts where dimensional accuracy is non-negotiable.

3D Scanning for Aerospace →

Automotive

Body panels, engine components, suspension geometry, and custom fabrication. We work with both OEM production parts and aftermarket components

Automotive scanning →

Defense

Legacy part recreation, vehicle systems, and structural components. ITAR compliance, we handle all projects with strict confidentiality and NDA protection.

Defense services →

Energy

Pump impellers, valve bodies, turbine components, and rotating equipment where dimensional variance directly impacts performance and safety.

Energy services →

Heavy Equipment

Castings, housings, and wear parts, often with no original drawings on file. We scan the physical part and deliver production-ready CAD, no documentation required.

Mobile scanning services →

Marine

Hull components, drive systems, and custom marine fittings. We’ve scanned parts pulled straight off working vessels, surface condition and corrosion are not a problem for our equipment.

Marine →

Medical Devices

Implant geometry, custom orthotics, and device housings where micron-level accuracy directly affects patient outcomes. Every scan delivered with full dimensional verification.

Medical device scanning →

Motorsports

Race car components, custom suspension geometry, and aero parts on tight build schedules. We understand race prep timelines, same-day scanning available when it counts.

Motorsports →

RELATED RESOURCES

Related Services and Resources

3D Scan to STEP File: When You Need It, and How to Get One

What is the Difference Between a CAD and STL File?

3D Mobile Laser Scanning

FAQ

Common Questions about 3D Scanning Services

What is 3D scanning and how does it work?

Our 3D scanning capabilities uses blue light laser scanning to capture the surface geometry of a physical object as a dense point cloud or mesh. We process that raw data into STEP, STL, or point cloud files. The result is an exact digital replica accurate to 0.02mm.

What file formats do you deliver from a 3D Scan?

We deliver STEP, IGES, XT, STL, OBJ, 3MF, DXF, DWG files, but please ask if there is a specific file type you’re looking for. We can also take scan data through our reverse engineering process to produce fully parametric SolidWorks CAD models. Format depends on your end use.

How accurate is 3D scanning?

Our structured light scanners capture geometry to 0.02mm point accuracy. For tight-tolerance inspection work, we can provide a dimensional report with color deviation maps against your nominal CAD file.

Can you scan parts at our facility?

Yes. Our mobile scanning team travels nationwide for parts or assemblies that cannot be shipped. We work around your production schedule. Most on-site projects are scoped and quoted within one business day.

How long does 3D scanning take?

Most small-to-medium parts are scanned same day or next day in our Costa Mesa facility. Data processing typically adds one to two business days. Rush service is available, call to discuss your timeline.

What industries do you serve?

We serve aerospace, automotive, defense, medical devices, heavy equipment, energy, marine, and motorsports. Clients include Alliance Aerospace Group, Archer Aviation, ADC Aerospace, PPG, and Bayliss Machine & Welding.

Do you sign NDAs and who owns the scan data?

Yes, we sign NDAs before project kickoff as standard practice. All scan data, files, and project information are yours outright upon payment. We do not retain, reuse, or share your data under any circumstances.

Ready to Get Your Parts Scanned?

Most projects quoted within one business day. In-house or we come to you, nationwide.