 Inspection
One of R E Thompson's strongest features is its inspection service. Equipped
with a fully temperature stabilised inspection room with networked CMM
machines and off line cmm programming based on solid models R E Thompson
can guarantee zero defect deliveries.
Dedicated
Inspection Room
With a dedicated inspection room, temperature controlled with dust extraction,
R E Thompson are able to inspect every component prior to delivery to
tight tolerances. Because the room temperature is a constant 18oC we
can ensure consistency in dimension measurement across a large batch
over time. More importantly, the dust extraction helps to reduce dust
that might settle on the optical apparatus critical to the sound functioning
of the CMM equipment.
 Off
Machine Inspection
Because we carry out inspection in a dedicated facility off of the CNC
mill or lathe, as opposed to carrying out CMM on the working machine,
we can ensure that variations in the cutting machines calibration are
not missed, variations that would not be noted with on machine CMM. Whilst
many companies save time by carrying out CMM on the cutting machine we
believe that the extra time associated with moving each part to a controlled
environment and carrying out quality control is essential in maintaining
exact quality standards. Our largest CMM platform has a working surface
of 800mm by 1500mm.
 Off
Line CMM Programming
We carry out offline CMM programming based directly on solid model data
which is then sent to the inspection room and used to carry out a predefined
set of tests on a part. This process is central in eliminating human
error in the interpretation of printed drawings and line detail. This
also allows us to carry out automated reporting on inspection work and
to carry out Statistical Process Control.
Materials
All material used is procured from accredited suppliers and stored
in controlled areas with lot traceability. Where required materials
can be tested metallurgicaley to ensure they conform to specifications.
more on materials...
CNC
Verification
CNC programs are verified using Vericut which can virtually eliminate the process
of manually proving-out NC programs by simulating the machining process on a
computer allowing NC programmers can correct errors and remove inefficient motion
before sending part programs to the shop.
Surface
Finish
The surface of a machined finish can be measured
where required for roughness. We have a range of
optical
and digital surface profile inspection equipment
capable of measuring roughness down to 0.3µm.
 General
Inspection Tools
We have a range of general inspection equipment both within the inspection
room as well as on the shop floor. Each CNC machine has a calibrated
surface table, a range of digital verniers and height gauges. There is
also a shadowgraph available within the inspection department for optical
comparison.
Man
Power
Because we have a stable work force, many of whom have been with the
company for over 10 years, we have a wealth of time served experience
at hand which enables problems to be identified early such as machine
wear, tool wear and material problems. It is our highly skilled staff
that are often the first to pick up on certain issues and as such one
of our greatest quality control assets.
ISO
9001
All quality control procedures are written down as part of our ISO9001
quality control accreditation.
|
