Shaw Inspection Systems' products have been used for varied and diverse applications in the fields of art and archaeology. Non Destructive Testing and Examination (NDT&E) is particularly important in these fields where the objects being investigated are irreplaceable.

Digital Radiography (DR) and Computed Radiography (CR) are particularly important techniques for the examination of artwork, particularly paintings. Both can be used to examine paintings for evidence of over painting, often revealing changes made by the artist, or earlier paintings which have been painted over. Close examination can reveal much about the artist's methods, and the materials used. Such evidence can also be used to assist in the detection of forgeries.

Three dimensional objects such as sculptures and items of pottery can be investigated using Computed Tomography (CT). 3D CT can reveal much information about composition, and construction techniques.

One extreme example of this has been the 3D CT imagery of the Antikythera Mechanism, which Shaw Inspection Systems (then X-Tek Industrial, part of the X-Tek group) undertook as a technical member of the Antikythera Mechanism Research Project. This 3D imagery has been instrumental in realing a wealth of new information concerning the purpose of this remarkable mechanism.