X-ray Computed Tomography for Modal and NDT Analysis of Cantilever Beams

Conventional X-ray Computed Tomography is a robust modality for the volumetric characterization of static or quasi-statically loaded specimens. However, standard acquisition protocols are inherently limited when resolving high-frequency dynamic phenomena or structural instabilities in oscillating systems due to motion blur and temporal undersampling. To overcome these constraints, this study introduces a novel phase-locked XCT methodology designed for the four-dimensional analysis of periodically vibrating structures. The proposed approach utilizes a hardware-level phase-synchronization protocol to correlate X-ray projections with specific temporal states of the oscillation cycle. This enables the reconstruction of high-resolution volumetric datasets that characterize both the internal geometry and complex deformation modes of the specimen. The methodology was implemented using a custom-engineered XCT platform featuring real-time hardware synchronization and dedicated control architecture. The system’s efficacy is demonstrated through the modal analysis of an oscillating cantilever beam. By comparing reconstructed dynamic volumes against static reference states, we validate the system’s performance as a high-fidelity modality for dynamic structural characterization. The results confirm that this technique provides a reliable ground truth for identifying internal deformation patterns and evaluating structural integrity during continuous oscillatory motion.