Quality Control Technologies Geared for Injection Molds
These latest technology solutions, from noncontact gages to test probes and automated inspection systems, aim to minimize production risks and ensure optimal quality control practices for moldmaking.
Photo Credit, clockwise: Blum-Novotest Inc., NextMeasure, Vision Engineering Inc. and Capture 3D.
Quality control and quality assurance practices are critical for developing injection molds that meet all fit and function requirements, as well as ensuring the production of precise plastic parts. Measurement technologies are capable of thoroughly inspecting and testing these molds to identify and rectify any deviations or defects in a timely manner. They span from noncontact gages to test probes and automated inspection systems, some of which are detailed in this latest technology roundup. A more comprehensive list of solutions can be viewed here.
Linear Height Gage for Mold Measurements is Highly Digital
Photo Credit: Mitutoyo America Corp.
The Mitutoyo America Corp. LH600F/FG linear height measurement system, suitable for moldmaking, is the latest model in the Mitutoyo Linear Height Gage line with several added features and benefits. It features a high-accuracy scale unit and high-accuracy guiding mechanism manufactured in-house.
Optical Cutting Tool Setter Measures in Constrained Spaces
Marposs, a manufacturer of measurement, test and inspection technologies, has expanded its visual tool setter (VTS) family with the new VTS SF-45 Compact.
The VTS SF-45 is designed for noncontact, optical measurement of small, complex-shaped cutting tools in constrained working spaces such as micromachining, semiconductor or moldmaking applications.
Photo Credit: Marposs
Touch Probe Delivers Fast, Precise and Reliable Mold Inspection
Photo Credit: Blum-Novotest Inc.
Blum-Novotest, a manufacturer of innovative, high-quality measuring and testing technologies, features its Digilog test probe systems that enable high scanning and probing speeds in the hard-use, high-output molding environments. Complex contours can be monitored in series at up to 2 m/min to increase productivity while maintaining strict specifications.
Handheld Laser Scanning Technology Designed for Ease of Use, Efficiency
Photo Credit: Capture 3D
The Zeiss T-Scan Hawk 2 from Capture 3D is a handheld 3D laser scanner engineered to maximize ease of use and efficiency. The lightweight, handheld 3D scanner includes a satellite mode, red laser marker for distance control, GOM Inspect 3D inspection software and hyperscale calibration to deliver metrology-grade precision across many applications, including product design, quality control, reverse engineering and moldmaking. Designed for companies producing products within industries like automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, power generation and mold manufacturing, the Zeiss T-Scan Hawk 2 also comes with acceptance testing certified to the highest industry standards.
Universal Metrology Software Connects All Measurement Devices to One System
Photo Credit: NextMeasure
NextMeasure, a startup measurement software company that puts the user experience first, highlights how its universal metrology software enables highly efficient measurement systems so that moldmakers are able to inspect and measure any and all molds in any location, at an affordable price point.
The offered software is different from other traditional metrology options, NextMeasure notes, which are often tied to specific brands.
Fully Automated Inspection Sensor for Mold Surface Quality Assurance
Zeiss Industrial Quality Solutions present a new generation of the fully automated Abis surface inspection system. The new sensor, Zeiss Abis III, enables reliable and early inspection of the entire component surface, objectively evaluating and classifying all kinds of defects on a variety of metal surfaces including tool steels.
Abis III, a combination of projector, cameras, patented lighting and the new Zeiss Abis V20 software, is capable of detecting dents, bulges, sink marks, ripples, neckings, cracks and now also scratches, pressure marks as well as welding and gluing residue.
Photo Credit: Zeiss Industrial Quality Solutions
Automated Three-Axis Achieves Accurate, Repeatable Quality Control Results
Photo Credit: Vision Engineering
Vision Engineering Inc. boasts decades of experience in supplying accurate, measurement and inspection systems, whether to measure critical plastic part features, or check mold tools and extrusion dies for signs of wear and damage. In particular, the company’s LVC Series of automated three-axis measurement systems is ideal for injection molding and manufacturing companies looking to improve the speed and efficiency of part inspection routines.
Wireless Electronic Depth Gages Accurately Measure Holes, Slots and Recesses
W643JZ wireless electronic depth gage. Photo Credit: The L.S. Starrett Co.
The L.S. Starrett Co. introduces three easy-to-use and precise wireless electronic depth gages including the W640JZ, W643JZ and W644JZ models, which are part of a line of more than 40 new electronic precision gages that Starrett recently introduced to the market. The gages, offering a quick and accurate method of measuring depth of holes, slots and recesses, feature a digital readout that can be viewed on a large LCD display.
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