Inspection of prototype parts
Prototyping is a vital step in the product development process, providing information to inform the next steps in the development cycle. It is important, therefore, to know that the prototype parts are what you think they are, otherwise the lessons learned can be misleading. This is why, as one of the UK’s leading prototyping companies, we have extensive in-house facilities for inspecting parts.
What is the inspection process?
All prototype parts that we produce are inspected visually and key dimensions are checked with handheld callipers or a micrometer. For example, a cup-shaped 3D printed part might have its diameter, height and wall thickness checked, while a CNC machined part might have its overall dimensions checked (X, Y and Z).
If a functional prototype part has critical dimensions, the customer can highlight these on a 2D drawing and we will check them as necessary. Depending what the dimensions are, they might be checked using handheld instruments or our co-ordinate measuring machine.
When is inspection used?
Every part we produce is inspected visually and with handheld instruments. 3D printed parts are inspected after support structures have been removed and cleaning completed. We check key dimensions on CNC parts while the workpiece is still clamped to the machine bed, then further checks are made after the part has been removed, deburred, cleaned and degreased.
If finishing options have been specified for prototype parts, an additional inspection may be necessary afterwards.
Inspection capabilities
Visual
This sounds simple but it is critical. Our experienced operatives can tell very quickly by looking at a part if there has been a problem with the 3D printing or CNC machining process. Although such problems occur only rarely, the importance of visual inspection should not be underestimated.
Handheld instruments
We use a variety of handheld instruments to inspect prototype parts, including callipers, micrometers, protractors, height gauges, hole gauges, feeler gauges, bore gauges, thread gauges and radius gauges.
Co-ordinate measuring machine (CMM)
We have an in-house co-ordinate measuring machine, which sets us apart from most prototyping companies, 3D printing bureaus and CNC machine shops. Since investing in a three-axis, gantry-type Etalon Derby CMM, we have used it extensively on CNC machined prototype parts and, to a lesser extent, 3D printed prototype parts.
The semi-automatic CMM has a measuring envelope of 450 x 500 x 300 mm (X,Y,Z) and is equipped with a Renishaw TP8 probe. It can be programmed to run inspection routines automatically or it can be used directly without programming. As well as measuring linear dimensions, it also inspects 2D and 3D profiles. Resolution is 0.001 mm, though we only report to within 0.01 mm.
What inspection reports are provided?
When CNC machined and 3D printed parts are ordered without any specific inspection requested, we simply supply the parts as per the order. If a customer asks us to check particular dimensions, these measurements are reported.
Where a more comprehensive inspection is requested, a separate inspection report is provided.
If we are asked to produce small batches of parts, the inspection routine will be agreed with the customer in advance. For example, we might inspect the first-off part, or we might produce the batch and inspect one part in ten. Whatever the customer’s requirements, we provide the necessary inspection reports.
Inspection and service levels
Our Express service for 3D printed and CNC machined parts includes visual inspection and checking of key dimensions. If further inspection is requested, this can often be fulfilled under our Standard service or, if not, our Economy service provides sufficient time for detailed inspections.
Talk to us
If you need prototype parts accompanied by inspection reports, talk to us 01763 249760 or complete the enquiry form below to request a quote.
Office team
Our office team manages everything from the commercial, consulting and planning of the business through to the management of customer quotations and invoicing. If you’d like to meet the team, and take a tour of our prototyping facilities, please contact us.
Justin Pringle
Managing Director
Hannah Game
Head of Business Relations
Wendy Webb
Business Relations
Co-ordinator
Emily West
Business Relations
Co-ordinator
Nicola Sparrow
Administration Assistant
Vikki Pringle
Accounts and Company Secretary
Shane Lee
Finance Team Leader