Illustrative machined metal components; not a customer project.
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Quality

Inspection, defined
before production.

Quality is not only inspection. It starts before production.
Clear requirements. Defined inspection scope. Controlled changes. Evidence before release.

A workflow around
your requirements.

Clear requirements, controlled changes and a defined inspection scope form the quality plan. Inspection methods, sampling, acceptance criteria, reports and any external testing are agreed for the project. Additional checks are scoped and quoted rather than assumed.

01

Drawing revision control

Identify the current 2D drawing and STEP file by part reference and revision. Resolve any conflict between files before manufacture. Carry approved changes into the production and inspection documents.

02

DFM / engineering review

Review material, geometry, tolerances, surface finish and inspection access with the supplier. Raise manufacturing questions and proposed adjustments for your approval before production.

03

First Article Inspection, when appropriate

For a new part or a significant change, agree whether First Article Inspection (FAI) is needed, which characteristics it covers and who approves the result before the remaining batch proceeds.

04

Dimensional inspection

Define the dimensions, measurement method, sample quantity and acceptance limits. Confirm whether measurements are needed before or after surface finishing. Where CMM inspection is required, the method and provider capability are confirmed before the inspection scope is agreed.

05

Material documentation & inspection reports

Request material certificates when required and confirm their availability and traceability before ordering. Agree the inspection report format, part revision, measured characteristics and reporting of any deviation.

06

Pre-shipment review

Where agreed, review the inspection results, quantity, part identification, finish, packaging and required documents before shipment. Unresolved deviations are referred for an acceptance or corrective-action decision.

Match the check to the requirement.

Supplier inspection, an external measurement service and independent pre-shipment inspection have different scopes. The quotation identifies the agreed route and any separate costs.

What to include
with the drawing.

Highlight the dimensions, functions and documents that affect acceptance. This helps define a useful inspection plan.

RequirementUseful information
Fits & critical dimensionsIdentify the controlled characteristics and any mating-part context.
Finish & appearanceSpecify the finish, masking needs and any appearance reference.
Material & documentationState the exact grade and required certificate or traceability level.
Inspection & releaseState any FAI, measurement, sampling or approval requirement.

A practical first step

Send us one current CNC part for a benchmark quotation.

Start with a non-critical part. Compare price, lead time, manufacturability and the proposed quality approach.

Get a benchmark quote