3D Scanning Services

Moose 3D® now offers 3D scanning services for customers who need a physical object converted into a digital 3D file. This service is useful when you have an existing part, object, or component that needs to be scanned for 3D printing, digital reference, or file preparation.

What is 3D scanning?

3D scanning is the process of capturing the shape and surface details of a physical object and converting them into a digital 3D model. The scanned data can then be used to create files such as STL or mesh files, depending on the agreed requirements.

What can 3D scanning be used for?

3D scanning may be suitable for:

• Creating a digital copy of a physical part.
• Producing an STL mesh file for 3D printing.
• Capturing the shape of an existing object for reference.
• Helping with part replacement where the original item is no longer available.
• Preparing scan data for further file clean-up or 3D printing.

Please note that 3D scanning is not the same as custom CAD design. A scan captures the existing object, whereas CAD work involves manually designing or rebuilding a part from scratch.

Does 3D scanning include CAD work?

No. Moose 3D® no longer offers custom CAD design services.

Unless agreed otherwise in writing, 3D scanning does not include:

• Full CAD redesign.
• Parametric modelling.
• Engineering drawings.
• Technical manufacturing drawings.
• Guaranteed dimensional reproduction.
• Redesigning or improving the original part.

Some scan files may need clean-up or preparation before they are suitable for 3D printing. Where this is required, Moose 3D® will explain this before proceeding.

What objects can be scanned?

Many solid objects can be scanned, but suitability depends on the object’s size, shape, surface, material, and level of detail.

Objects that usually scan better include:

• Solid parts.
• Matte or non-reflective items.
• Objects with visible surface detail.
• Rigid items that do not bend or flex.
• Parts that can be safely handled and positioned.

What objects may not scan well?

Some objects are more difficult to scan accurately. This includes items that are:

• Transparent.
• Highly reflective.
• Very dark or glossy.
• Flexible or soft.
• Extremely thin.
• Very small or highly detailed.
• Too large for the scanning setup.
• Fragile or unsafe to handle.

In some cases, surface preparation may be required, or the item may not be suitable for scanning.

Will the scan be perfectly accurate?

3D scanning accuracy can vary depending on the object. Factors such as material, colour, surface finish, shape, and access to all sides of the object can affect the final result.

Moose 3D® will always aim to produce the best possible scan, but a perfect digital copy cannot be guaranteed in every case.

Can scanned files be used for 3D printing?

Yes, in many cases scanned files can be prepared for 3D printing. However, some scans may need additional clean-up, repair, scaling, or file preparation before they are printable.

If you want the scanned file to be used for 3D printing, please let Moose 3D® know before the work begins.

Who owns the scanned file?

Customers must confirm that they have the legal right to provide the object for scanning and to use any resulting digital files.

Files supplied by Moose 3D® are for the agreed customer use only. They must not be resold, redistributed, uploaded online, or used for commercial reproduction unless Moose 3D® has given written permission.

Can you scan copyrighted or branded items?

Moose 3D® may refuse to scan items where there are concerns about copyright, trademarks, intellectual property rights, counterfeit goods, or restricted use.

Customers are responsible for making sure they have permission to scan and use the item.

How do I request a 3D scan?

To request a 3D scan, please contact Moose 3D® with:

• Clear photos of the object.
• Approximate measurements.
• A description of what the scan will be used for.
• Whether you need the file for 3D printing, reference, or another purpose.
• Any specific areas or details that are important.

Moose 3D® will review the request and confirm whether the item appears suitable for scanning.

Important note

All 3D scanning requests are subject to review before acceptance. Moose 3D® reserves the right to decline any item that is unsuitable, unsafe, legally restricted, or unlikely to produce a usable result.