Industry(s): Energy
Application(s): Structural Components
Processes: Supply Chain Management, Inspection Services
Aerostar Manufacturing, located in Romulus, MI, is steadfast in its dedication to both quality and efficiency. In recent times, we embarked on a project focused on the manufacturing of “Front Retainers,” identified by the part number 8731. These components are pivotal in various applications, requiring a high degree of precision and reliability. The manufacturing lifecycle for this part has been meticulously crafted to ensure unparalleled quality from the moment the raw material arrives to the final shipment of the finished product.
Inspection Services
Annual Usage: 12,000
Aerostar Manufacturing, located in Romulus, MI, is steadfast in its dedication to both quality and efficiency. In recent times, we embarked on a project focused on the manufacturing of “Front Retainers,” identified by the part number 8731. These components are pivotal in various applications, requiring a high degree of precision and reliability. The manufacturing lifecycle for this part has been meticulously crafted to ensure unparalleled quality from the moment the raw material arrives to the final shipment of the finished product.
Our commitment to quality is evident right from the “Receive Material / Receive Inspection” stage. At this juncture, materials are visually inspected to confirm the correct product has been received, and to ensure there is no damage, contamination, or rust. After storing the material, it undergoes machining processes involving Lathe and Mill machines, each with its specific set of tooling configurations and quality control measures.
Quality assurance is not just a step in the process; it’s integrated into every phase. Various inspection methods, such as attribute gages, variable gages, and Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), are employed to scrutinize dimensions, surface finish, and other critical attributes of the part. Our “Zero Defects Allowed” policy underscores the rigor of our quality control measures. Any non-conformities trigger immediate supervisor notification and isolation of the product for further evaluation.
Our state-of-the-art Product Structure by Item Report system, updated as of June 2023, provides a comprehensive overview of the streamlined manufacturing process for each Front Retainer unit. This data-centric approach enables us to maintain stringent controls over our production lines, optimizing resource allocation while ensuring punctual deliveries.
When it comes to packaging, we adhere to industry standards. The “GP12 Inspection / Pack” stage involves a final visual inspection to ensure correct identification and absence of visual defects. Each part is then carefully packed and prepared for shipping, overseen by our Quality and Engineering Managers to guarantee the highest level of quality.
This project serves as a testament to Aerostar Manufacturing’s unwavering commitment to delivering products of the highest quality and reliability. Our exhaustive evaluation protocols and multi-layered inspection processes make us an ideal manufacturing partner for industries that demand nothing less than excellence.
Project Overview
Quality, Inspection, and Measurement Tools
- Material Receipt and Initial Inspection: Check for correct product, damage, contamination, or rust.
- Visual Inspection: Examine all components for machining and casting defects.
- Intermediate Inspection: Verify correct identification of components during the manufacturing process.
- Final Audit: Confirm the presence and correctness of identification on parts and shipping containers, and inspect for product defects, packing, and packaging errors.
- Pre-shipment Inspection: Review for correct product, quantity, identification, and any signs of damage or contamination.
Equipment and Tools Used for Quality and Inspection Steps
- Calipers
- Micrometers
- Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)
- Surface Profilometer
- Visual Inspection Tools
These steps often intertwine with manufacturing steps to ensure a feedback loop exists between the production process and quality controls. Discrepancies detected during quality checks can lead to modifications in the manufacturing steps.
Manufacturing Steps
- Material Sourcing: Procure necessary raw materials.
- Initial Machining: First run to create the part.
- Detailed Machining: Similar to the initial, but more detailed.
- Surface Treatment: Apply surface treatment.
- Assembly: Assemble the components per the specifications
- Final Machining: Final run to complete component
- Packaging: Secure the products with correct packing materials and identification.
Equipment and Tools Used for Manufacturing Steps
- Lathe Machine
- Milling Machine
- Surface Treatment Tanks
- Assembly Jigs
- Packaging Machines
The steps in manufacturing are often revisited based on the results of the quality checks. For example, if an intermediate inspection detects an issue, the material may go back to the assembly stage.
Manufactured Components and Parts
- Base Material
- Machined Components
- Fasteners
- Surface Coatings
- Assembled Units