A number of measurement devices come equipped with internal or user calibration functions. Allowing the user to calibrate their measurement equipment on a more frequent basis gives greater control over the quality process; however, with great control comes great responsibility.
Despite best efforts, auditors find things. It is their job. Why wait until audit day to uncover problems? In the words of Walt Disney, “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”
I offered some comments that relate to gaging problems in the last column but thought it would be worth giving measuring instruments the same treatment.
Creaform has launched the R-Series Productivity Station and the R-Series Autocalibration Kit. Both are key upgrades to its robotic metrology dimensional measurement solution, which offers an efficient alternative to traditional shop-floor CMMs.
Nothing could be simpler than fixed limit gages which explains why they remain so popular. But nothing so simple can remain so when humans are involved.
MTC is a Nadcap accredited special processor, providing a complete range of NDT testing services and related chemical processing, primarily servicing the aerospace industry, with a unique niche service focused on titanium critical rotating parts.
We are frequently asked to quote on gage blocks made to non-standard dimensions. Requests like this leads to a number of questions, the first question being why they are needed in the first place.
One would think that when you get your thread ring gages calibrated and there are no red flags raised by the reported data you’re good to go. Unfortunately, this sea of tranquility can end up drowning you if you have misinterpreted the reports—something that happens when disputes arise.