3 Signs You Should Start Investing in Dimensional Inspection Services

Dimensional inspection or dimensional metrology involves assessing the geometric characteristics of machined parts, molded parts, or additively manufactured products in two or three dimensions to ensure dimensional accuracy. The higher the dimensional accuracy, the better the functionality and reliability of the finished object. Some common dimensional inspection tools include optical comparators, calipers, micrometers, and thread length and height gauges. Newer techniques such as structured blue light or computed tomography have also become reliable dimensional inspection technologies for use on internal geometries or difficult to reach areas without destruction of parts.

Benefits of Dimensional Inspection

Dimensional inspection can help prevent costly errors during production. It allows manufacturers to identify and address problems before they snowball into major issues costing them a fortune. Many manufacturing companies use dimensional inspection to see how a product will look on paper vs. when it is manufactured.

If you are planning to manufacture large numbers of a product (high-volume manufacturing), you can carry out a capability study to measure process capability and make changes to the process if required. Dimensional inspection can also help ensure your products and processes comply with FDA/FAA and other regulated guidelines.

Signs You Need Dimensional Inspection Services

If product quality complaints have increased or you are struggling to eliminate bottlenecks in your inspection process, it's time to reach out to a dimensional inspection service for help. A reputable provider can perform inspections swiftly without compromising accuracy.

Here are some signs you should seriously consider dimensional inspection services:

Your Clients Need Proof of Quality

When you enter into a contract with a client to produce high-quality parts, they may need proof of quality from an expert. If you do not have the infrastructure required to perform inspections and generate the required data, hiring an expert for the job is a good idea.

Outsourcing is more affordable than setting up new inspection machines, training employees, and maintaining equipment. Technology improvements rapidly evolve and dimensional inspection service providers are usually at the forefront if they are competitive. If dimensional inspection is not one of your core competencies, then your internal process will struggle to match the efficiency and expertise of the service provider that dedicates all of their time and resources to that function. As a result, your products may fail to meet quality standards, and you may lose the client. A dimensional inspection service is equipped to carryout comprehensive inspections and can also assist you in issuing certificates of conformity (COCs) on time.

You Are Struggling to Eliminate Bottlenecks in Your QC Process

To handle a demand spike, you may have to ramp up production. Overwhelmed by the workload, mistakes are more likely to happen. Instead of trying to execute the entire process yourself and fall behind as demand rises, consider outsourcing inspection activities.

When you outsource to a reputable provider, you can rest assured that the process will be managed by experienced operators. A reliable outsourcing partner can help you scale up your inspection process to accommodate an increase in production capacity without having to invest in expensive CMM’s or other 3d scanning equipment.

You Are Trying to Reduce the Product Return Rate

A high product return rate can affect your reputation and, consequently, your bottom line. A dimensional inspection service can help you get to the root cause of the problem and address it to help ensure your products meet quality standards. Good supplier communication can mitigate problems in the process, save precious time to market, and reduce product return rate.

Nel PreTech is a leading dimensional inspection service provider. Our expertise enables us to develop custom inspection solutions for our clients. To make an appointment, call 708-429-4887.