Having access to a metrology machine is a benefit that companies can’t discount in an increasingly digitised, post-COVID landscape. Metrology is an essential part of quality control, employing complex and thorough measurements of data points to analyse an object. In manufacturing, this essentially means ensuring that parts are to specification and within tolerances.
We’ve
already spoken about what it is, but why is it relevant for manufacturers? The benefits are simple.
Speed and accuracy
Metrology machines work to pinpoint accuracy, and they do so with stunning speed. Machines like those of OGP’s
Vantage range can incorporate touch probes, lasers, and advanced optics to thoroughly measure whatever’s presented to them. Liquid cooled, servo-driven motor drives move the machine’s sensors with grace and accuracy, allowing the machine to act with even greater precision.
The faster and more optimised the act of taking measurements, the quicker they’ll be done and the sooner businesses will get their readout. It’s all about optimising time.
Reliability
Metrology machines can be trusted to work independently and without the need for fussy operator input. Intuitive software like
ZONE3 uses CAD models to help visualise the object to be measured, automatically plotting measurement points and selecting the best and most relevant sensors for the task.
OGP machines work intelligently, meaning an operator can set them to measure and walk away, knowing that when they come back in several minutes, they’ll have a comprehensive readout of every facet of the part.
Repeatability
Ask five different people to measure an object, and you’ll get five different results. Not to place any fault with the individuals – we all have our own ways of doing things and approaching tasks. Those measurements might be accurate and correct, but which one can you trust as
the answer?
This is one of the core strengths of a good metrology machine: it gathers everything, and it does so with repeatable methodology. Forgetting the comparison of several individuals above, even the same, sole metrologist may give different answers regarding the same object between measurements. Human error is inevitable, but its pitfalls don’t have to be. A metrology machine will measure the same part in the same way, with the same accuracy, every time.
Higher throughput
The aim of a metrology machine in a manufacturing context isn’t just to measure parts and make notes of the resulting numbers. Knowing that parts are being made within tolerance and to specification gives manufacturers security in quality assurance. Consistency in results means a better reputation for the company, leading to repeated business and greater success in a competitive market.
Using OGP technology, data can be gathered up to three times faster than with a traditional co-ordinate measuring machine. With large bed sizes, like that of the
SmartScope SP 663, multiple parts can be measured simultaneously for a level of productivity that would take a team of people to match – all in one interconnected machine.
Rapid return on investment
All the benefits of a metrology machine boil down to higher productivity, more profits, and greater control of production processes. Factories can create parts uninterrupted whilst an OGP metrology machine
automatically gathers live data, allowing quick intervention if something goes awry.
Correcting problems early and ensuring tolerance means less scrap and fewer reworks, reducing or even eliminating production bottlenecks. Companies can be sure of their jobs achieving ‘right first time’ status, building their reputation and not letting mistakes get in the way of production. For businesses hoping to compete in today’s economy, automated metrology isn’t just an advantage – it’s a necessity.
Contact OGP today to
find out more and get to know our extensive range of solutions.
