Surface roughness can be quite complex, and there are not many people who fully understand it. However, analyzing surface roughness is very important for making good products without defects. You don’t need to understand everything – focus on understanding the parts you will use. Formally called surface texture, surface roughness is divided into “roughness” and “waviness.” It is important to grasp which wavelength of the surface texture affects the performance of parts and to distinguish between roughness and waviness. Parameters like Ra and Rz ......

One of the defects that can occur when manufacturing injection molded products is weld lines, which pose a risk of reducing the product’s strength. While preventing weld lines completely is not easy, it is possible to anticipate and mitigate their occurrence to some extent. In this guide, we will provide you with essential knowledge about weld lines, including the causes and methods for prevention. What is Weld Line? Common molding methods for plastics include “vacuum forming,” “compression molding,” and “laminate molding” for t......

ASTM International sets standards for materials, products, systems and services. ASTM F2413 covers performance requirements for protective footwear, specifying the minimum requirements for impact resistance, compression resistance, metatarsal protection, and other safety features. What is ASTM F2413-11? ASTM F2413-11 refers to the 2011 version of the ASTM standard specification for performance requirements of protective safety toe cap footwear. It outlines the minimum design, performance, testing and classification requirements for footwear intended to provide protection again......

Injection molding is a common manufacturing process used to produce parts and products from plastic and other materials. It involves injecting molten material into a mold cavity where it cools and hardens into the final part shape. First article inspection (FAI) is an important quality control process conducted on the first piece produced during an injection molding production run. It verifies that the part meets all engineering, design and specification requirements before full production begins. Performing a thorough FAI helps ensure the injection molding process is capable of p......

ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, plays a vital role in the development and implementation of standards across numerous industries worldwide. These standards ensure consistency, safety, and quality in materials, products, and processes. Within ASTM, there are various types of standards that serve different purposes and address specific areas of focus. In this article, we will explore the five primary types of standards recognized by ASTM, shedding light on their significance and how they contribute to global standardization efforts. Un......

When it comes to quality management systems, two widely recognized standards, IATF 16949 and ISO 9001, play a crucial role in promoting excellence and ensuring customer satisfaction. While both standards focus on quality management, they cater to different industries and offer distinct sets of requirements. In this post, we will explore the key differences between IATF 16949 and ISO 9001, shedding light on their scopes, industry applicability, and specific requirements. Understanding these differences is vital for organizations seeking to implement an effective quality management system......

In the dynamic and competitive landscape of manufacturing and quality management, organizations strive for excellence by constantly identifying and mitigating potential risks. One powerful tool that has emerged to address risks and ensure robust processes is the Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA). PFMEA is a systematic approach used by manufacturing and quality professionals to proactively identify and assess potential failure modes, their effects, and the corresponding preventive and corrective actions within a manufacturing process. With this post, we break down the fun......

In today’s competitive business landscape, efficient management of product returns is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and optimizing operational efficiency. One essential process in the realm of returns is Return Material Authorization (RMA). This article provides a comprehensive overview of Return Material Authorization, delving into its definition, significance, and the steps involved in implementing an effective RMA procedure. What is Return Material Authorization (RMA)? Return Material Authorization (RMA) is a formal process used by businesses to manage ......