For all the industries we at Multisource Manufacturing LLC serve, precision is a necessary factor in our machining, tooling, and other fabrication processes. We operate a network of facilities with access to over 140 computer numerical control (CNC) machines, including machines with 3-axis and 5-axis indexed milling capabilities. Our team of more than 300 employees operates with seamless lean manufacturing practices for all projects, including the production of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, components, and full assemblies. For all our precision contract manufacturing work, quality is critical. Our quality control practices take place in every stage of fabrication, from prototyping to packaging. In compliance with international standards and our own personal goals for excellence, we perform rigorous quality control processes, including simulation diagnostics, testing of working components in high-stress environments, precise geometric measurements with Zeiss coordinate-measuring machines (CMMs), and vision system analysis for first-class inspection.
Quality Control
Quality control diagnostics with CMMs and vision systems provide us with unique solutions for guaranteeing the geometric accuracy of precisely machined parts. For contract manufacturing, CMMs are key in automating important parts of the quality control process.
Function
Our CMMs are free-standing machines that use bridge-type coordinate measuring controlled through state-of-the-art software for fast and accurate geometric readings. Using a probe along the three XYZ dimensional axes, each with a sensor monitor, the CMM can measure exact coordinates on an object surface. A coordinate measurement is recorded and the process is repeated until the CMM can detect and relay the precise geometry of a part. The readings are translated through an intelligent software program that compares information against design specifications. We utilize CMM diagnostics for most parts, but it is especially useful in testing parts before and after they are assembled.
Accuracy
The main benefit of using a CMM for quality control is the extreme accuracy of its readings and the precision we can achieve thanks to those systems. Repeatability of a sensor probe, multiple axes, and the angling capabilities of the coordinate measurements allow our CMMs to read tolerances within 0.001mm (0.00005 in). We calibrate our CMMs before each new part is tested to ensure baseline conditions are standardized.
Coordinate Measuring Machine
The first CMMs were developed in the 1950s and worked only along two axes. Three axis CMMs entered the industrial world in the 1960s, and early computer control systems for CMMs were introduced in the 1970s. Since then, the use of CMMs for high precision parts spread throughout many different manufacturing industries. Modern CMMs, while highly accurate, powerful pieces of technology, are commonplace in many facilities.
To learn more about the role CMMs play in our quality control processes, or for more information about our contract manufacturing services, contact MultiSource Manufacturing LLC at (952) 456-5500. You can also request more information or request a quote to get started with us today.