George Schuetz

The gaging setting standard is essential for accurate measurements in high-performance manufacturing, despite often being overlooked. While digital calipers are versatile, they lack the precision of comparative gages that rely on a master-setting standard for sub-micron accuracy. Proper use of this standard can enhance performance and lower calibration costs.

Quality 4.0 transforms manufacturing by integrating digital technologies with quality management, enhancing visibility and traceability throughout the production process. By leveraging data from interconnected machines, it helps manufacturers proactively manage risks and reduce waste, leading to a safer and more efficient future.

To simplify the interface, touchscreen monitors were integrated with metrology software. This eliminated dedicated controllers and made the system much easier to use, leading to the revolution of touch metrology. Today, touch technology and controllers are widespread on the manufacturing floor.

While the caliper is a versatile tool, it is not one of the most precise. Skill is required for positioning and interpreting measurement results.

When air gaging was introduced, it provided the first high-performance 50u”/1um or better gaging on the shop floor. In fact, air gaging provided two breakthroughs for dimensional measurement.

Imagine your task for this week is to develop a hand tool gaging solution for a large rotor with an ID of nearly 400mm. Given the size and the large diameter, it is unlikely the part can be brought to a gage or even a CMM for an in-process check.

There is a blur between the advances in metrology and the use of advances from other industries. But sometimes, combining the best of both worlds creates products that are simple for the operator to use while also being able to provide very complex measuring results.

Today, there are myriad ways to breathe new life into existing gages without the need to invest in new gaging. Users are familiar with the gages they have. They may be under quality control cycles, are easy to use, provide good results, and have proven themselves over time.

All types of gaging, whether it be hand tools, comparative gages, complex measuring stations or portable surface finish gages, have long gone digital.

Digitalization has changed our world as the internet and modern technology continue to shape the manufacturing industry. For example, the vision of Industry 4.0 shows that production systems and machines are required to be flexible and adapt with continuously changing manufactured products. That means production will be more individualized, flexible, and faster.