"Is quality just inspection?" The answer is no — quality is built in at every stage. Inspection only catches what's already gone wrong.
Five key checkpoints
- Incoming material inspection (IQC): mill test certs, dimensional check, batch traceability.
- Pre-machining setup: drawing review, tool selection, fixture verification, first-article inspection.
- In-process monitoring: periodic sampling (every 10-50 pieces), machine condition awareness, process logs.
- Final quality inspection (FQC): calipers and gauges for general tolerances; CMM and optical comparators for ±0.005 mm precision; roughness testers; geometric tolerance measurement.
- Pre-shipment: count, cleanliness, packaging per spec, labeling, inspection reports as required.
Industry tools
Statistical Process Control (SPC) catches drift before defects occur. FMEA prevents failures by mapping risks upfront. 8D reports drive systematic root-cause analysis after customer complaints.
Bottom line
Customers value robust quality processes, detailed inspection reports, and standardized complaint handling more than the latest machinery. These "soft" capabilities win long-term trust.
