Traceability in the industry
November 07, 2023
Quality
Industrial traceability is a fundamental element to guarantee the quality and safety of products. It allows you to follow the entire life cycle of a product, from raw materials to the finished product, providing a clear view of each stage of the production process. This includes monitoring process variables and measurement quotas, which are vital to ensuring that each component is within the required technical specifications.
Process variables
The traceability of process variables involves the collection and analysis of data in real time, which allows immediate adjustments if any irregularity is detected. For example, in the manufacture of automotive components, the temperature, pressure and cycle time of each part are monitored to ensure the structural integrity of the product.
The measurement dimensions, in turn, are tracked to ensure that all component dimensions are in accordance with the technical drawing. Current technology allows this traceability to be done automatically, with coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) that provide accurate data to a central database.
Traceability of production orders
In addition, traceability of production orders is crucial. The ability to track a specific order throughout the entire manufacturing process enables the identification of operational bottlenecks, improving efficiency and reducing costs. This also facilitates product recalls if a defect is identified after distribution.
Poka-yoke
Traceability also works as a poka-yoke, an error-proof mechanism that prevents defects during the manufacturing process. By tracking the correct use of tools and components, traceability prevents human error from compromising the quality of the final product.
Users and operators
As for user traceability, this aspect is essential for security and regulatory compliance. It allows companies to identify who operated certain equipment or performed a specific task, ensuring that only authorized and qualified personnel participate in the production process.
Traceability
Traceability of finished products is the last line of defense in quality control. Each product can be traced back to its origin, ensuring that any quality issues can be quickly identified and corrected. This not only protects the consumer but also reinforces the brand's reputation.
Industrial traceability, therefore, is an indispensable tool in the era of advanced manufacturing. It provides a solid foundation for continuous improvement and operational excellence, ensuring that products not only meet but exceed customer expectations.
To better illustrate this concept, we will insert two images that represent industrial traceability in action. The first will show a software interface tracking process variables in real time, and the second will show an employee using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) to check the dimensions of a part.
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