4 Reasons Why You Should Consider ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2 3D Scanner for Quality Control and Inspection

Published on March 20, 2025. Written by: Paul Motley

ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2 scanning casting

ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2 is the next generation of handheld 3D laser scanner from #HandsOnMetrology, part of the ZEISS 3D scanning portfolio dedicated to quality and precision. This portable metrology tool is designed to capture 3D measurement data in any environment—whether for maintenance, quality control, inspection, reverse engineering, or design. Use the right tool to control quality where it matters.

T-SCAN hawk 2 developed and produced in Germany
Developed and produced in Germany, T-SCAN hawk 2 is certified to meet the highest industry standards (ISO 10360 certification).
Scanning engine
Scanning symmetrical
Ideal for small and large projects, T-SCAN hawk 2 is perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Photo Source: #HandsOnMetrology LinkedIn post

Curious to know if T-SCAN hawk 2 is the right choice for you? Let’s explore four reasons you should consider this 3D laser scanner for your metrology needs.


Zeiss
Reason #1

Simplifying the Challenging Task of Measuring Objects

Scanning motorcyle cover
Motorcyle cover scan deviation map
T-SCAN hawk 2 features fast and smooth scanning, intuitive operation, and guided workflows for repeatable and reliable inspections. It quickly captures 3D measurements to create a digital twin of a part. This means you can retrieve any measurement at any time.

When performing equipment maintenance or parts inspection, it’s essential to check key dimensions. Measuring complex parts can be challenging, especially organic parts, as certain dimensions can’t be captured with hand tools like calipers with a high degree of certainty. 3D scanning technology, particularly with a non-contact metrology tool, offers a trusted and efficient solution for inspection.

T-SCAN hawk 2 stands out because it can quickly and easily capture all part dimensions accurately with a volumetric accuracy of up to 0.02 mm + 0.015 mm/m. You can trust it to give you reliable data you can count on for making important decisions.

Modern 3D scanning technology, such as the T-SCAN hawk 2, brings everything you need for metrology into one simple solution.

3D Inspection on railway
Source: #HandsOnMetrology LinkedIn post

T-SCAN hawk 2 streamlines the process of capturing complex surface measurements with its user-friendly, guided workflow. You can easily capture 3D scans of a part and complete a thorough inspection all in one go. With significant time savings and precise results, this 3D scanner enables you to accomplish more in less time.

Learn how HSB uses T-SCAN hawk 2 to capture accurate 3D models of parts and components to support the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of historic steam locomotives.

Challenging surfaces
Reason #2

Great at 3D Scanning Challenging Surfaces

Scanning difficult metal surfaces
Scanning shiny surfaces
T-SCAN hawk 2 excels at scanning challenging surfaces.

T-SCAN hawk 2 effortlessly scans dark and reflective materials—as well as objects with deep pockets or holes—to provide 3D measurement data with exceptional precision. By activating the Deep Pockets function, you can switch to a single laser line mode using just one camera (instead of two), enabling you to scan deeper into holes, as demonstrated in this comparison scan data captured by the scanner.

Mechanical part with deep pockets scanned with T-SCAN hawk 2
3D scanning using normal settings.

3D scanning using normal settings. Deep Pocket setting is not activated.

3D scanning without Deep Pocket settings enabled—notice

3D scanning with Deep Pocket settings enabled allows you to capture pockets at greater depths.

3D scanning deep pockets video demonstration
AI technology
Reason #3

Satellite Mode Makes It Easy to Scan Large Parts

Scanning large object with T-SCAN hawk 2

3D scanning large parts across a long distance while maintaining accuracy is not easy. However, with the T-SCAN hawk 2, now there’s an easy and intuitive way to scan large objects up to several meters in size. It’s the first portable 3D laser scanner to feature the innovative Satellite Mode, allowing you to scan large objects without the need for traditional photogrammetry or coded markers. It simplifies the process without sacrificing accuracy.

Satellite Mode video demonstration
Scale up without losing accuracy
Inspect
Reason #4

Powered by ZEISS INSPECT Software

ZEISS INSPECT

ZEISS INSPECT software (previously GOM INSPECT) is well-known for its high standards in 3D metrology. When paired with the T-SCAN hawk 2 3D scanner, ZEISS INSPECT can analyze point clouds and mesh data to inspect part geometry, compare it to CAD models, and verify tolerances.

ZEISS INSPECT software enables high-precision inspection of complex shapes, which is particularly useful when detailed surface analysis and freeform geometry are critical.

This 3D measurement and inspection software offers powerful functions like GD&T calculations, trend analysis, and digital assembly. You can also get apps with even more specialized functions for different industries. Save time with the parametric concept, which allows you to create project templates for future projects.

ZEISS INSPECT Optical 3D version of the software is the standard for 3D surface inspection.

Perfect for Assemblies

Scanning motorcyle

You can quickly and efficiently perform inspections throughout the assembly process by pairing the T-SCAN hawk 2 with ZEISS INSPECT software.

Check out how simple it is to inspect individual motorcycle components and digital assemblies in this video.

Analyze GD&T to Quickly and Easily Identify Deviations

Analyze GD&T

It’s critical to know with 100% certainty that your parts will fit and function at the assembly level. Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) provides a solid framework for part inspection. GD&T in Zeiss INSPECT is unmatched.

With ZEISS INSPECT, you can easily analyze a part’s size, shape, and position based on datum systems. This makes it simple to check things like flatness, parallelism, or cylindricity. The software also allows for standardized analysis of 2-point distances, maximum material requirements, and position tolerance checks in both local datum and coordinate systems.

ISO and ASME standards

Ensuring you’re always working with the most current guidelines, ZEISS INSPECT keeps up-to-date with the latest ISO and ASME standards. The software takes care of the technical details in the background and incorporates the international standards.

With a few mouse clicks, you can perform GD&T inspections, as shown in this video. See how it’s better to conduct GD&T in ZEISS INSPECT:

Visual Reports Presented in an Understandable Way

Zeiss Inspect reporting

With all this valuable data at your disposal, how can you transform it into meaningful insights that drive action? With ZEISS INSPECT, creating custom reports is very intuitive. You can include images, tables, diagrams, text, and graphics, and easily use presentation mode or export to PDF—with videos included. Customized reports to the way you want. Share the results with your team to provide better clarity to the situation to make the best decision.

This video shows the process from 3D scanning with T-SCAN hawk 2 to creating an inspection report in ZEISS INSPECT.

Python Enabled

Python Enabled

ZEISS INSPECT utilizes the Python scripting language, allowing you to convert all actions within the software into editable Python scripts through the script recorder. Automation helps minimize the effort needed for repetitive tasks.

If you are looking to perform complex scientific computations, simply integrate free Python libraries such as NumPy, SciPy, or Matplotlib and use the available templates or develop it in-house.

Apps Available for Dedicated Applications

Use ZEISS INSPECT apps to get even more out of the software. Choose from more than 100 apps or create your apps using the Python interface.

Notable apps include:
Airfoil Inspection

Analyze blades and airfoil geometries.

Weld Check

Ensure that welds are strong and can withstand the stresses of everyday use.

Tube Check
Tube Check

Quick and easy way to assess tube bending inspection.

Dent Check
Dent Check

Automated dent and erosion inspection.

De-Warp
De-Warp

Virtual compensation of warpage on plastic parts.

AutoSurfacing
AutoSurfacing

Easily convert your scan data into a highly precise CAD model.

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How Will ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2 Transform the Way You Work?

We’ve shown how the ZEISS T-SCAN Hawk 2 can elevate your quality control and inspection productivity to the next level. If you have any questions about ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2, please feel free to get a web demo from us. We can give you a personalized experience without ever leaving your desk.

Book a Free Personalized Web Demo

We’ll show you how ZEISS T-SCAN hawk 2 will transform the way you work to meet your metrology needs. Demo time will be confirmed immediately after you submit your request.


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