First article inspection is an important component of successful manufacturing. The first article in production must be inspected, or measured, to determine whether it meets the engineering specifications. If it does not, corrective steps must be taken. These steps take time and money, which is why first article inspection must be quick and accurate.

Color mapping is commonly used as a profile analysis tool in first article inspection primarily because it allows you to quickly visualize the differences between the scanned part and its nominal CAD model specifications. After an object is scanned, point cloud software highlights the differences using a color map. Each color represents a different degree of variation between the scanned part and the original design so that manufacturers are better able to understand what the part’s actual condition is and refine and improve the corresponding manufacturing processes.

Bluing and scribing of castings (also known as casting layout) is a tried-and-true method for dimensional inspection of a metal part made typically by sand casting or permanent mold. By placing the dimensions from a drawing on to the actual part, you can determine whether it meets the specifications. Although this method has been used for decades, new technologies have effectively superseded the need for it in most cases.

3D scanning can be used for multiple reasons, including first article inspection, reverse engineering, and other types of measurement applications. The purpose of 3D scanning is to collect data points to create a digital representation of the object. These data points can be gathered using lasers, white light, contact sensors, and other methods depending on the characteristics of the object being measured.

When you work with subcontractors to fabricate parts or components, you must be sure that their quality standards are consistent both with your standards and with any regulatory requirements for the finished product. Ensuring supplier quality assurance is an essential step in your own QA process, but how can you confirm that all your subcontractors meet your specifications?