Dimensional Inspection

Dimensional Inspection

GKS Services is changing the way industry does business by pioneering new ways of using new and existing technology.

GKS’ experienced metrologists use the latest digitizing and software technologies available for both contact and non-contact measurement to perform dimensional inspection, which is broadly defined as any process that measures the dimensions of parts to compare them to an inspection norm.

GKS' Michigan facility is accredited by the A2LA for Mechanical Testing and Calibration, which means we are covered by ISO/IEC 17025. This standard is more stringent than the ISO-9000 standard, or the QS-9000 standard, and is the correct standard for a testing laboratory.

Through the scanning of a physical part, 3D scan data is compared directly with the nominal CAD model to verify that the finished part or tooling conforms to the original design intent. Alternately, two sets of point cloud scan data can be compared with each other during the manufacturing process to assure parts stay in spec.

Since it is a much slower process, traditional touch-probe contact measurement is usually used when only certain (prismatic) features or locations of a part need to be dimensionally inspected to a tight tolerance. It can be performed with a manual CMM/PCMM, or automatically with a programmable CMM.

High-speed non-contact measurement is performed with Laser Design’s ultra-accurate Surveyor 3D laser scanning systems, either manually or automatically. A broad range of system sizes accommodate parts of all sizes, from small, intricate objects or textures to large aerospace or automotive vehicles.

Dimensional inspection services include:

  • Physical part to CAD model comparison (product verification / tooling verification)
  • PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) Chrysler, Ford, and GM always require production part approval prior to the first production shipment of product in the following situations:
  1. A new part or product (i.e., a specific part, material, or color not previously supplied to the specific customer.)
  2. Correction of a discrepancy on a previously submitted part.
  3. Product modified by an engineering change to design records, specifications, or materials.
  4. Use of another optional construction or material than was used in the previously approved part.
  5. Production from new or modified tools (except perishable tools), dies, molds, patterns ,etc., including additional or replacement tooling
  6. Production following refurbishment or rearrangement of existing tooling or equipment.
  7. Production following any change in process or method of manufacture.
  8. Production from tooling and equipment transferred to a different plant location or from an additional plant location.
  9. Change of source for subcontracted parts, materials, or services (e.g. heat-treated, plating)
  10. Product re-released after the tooling has been inactive for volume production for twelve months or more.
  11. Following a customer request to suspend shipment due' to a supplier quality concern.

The purpose of these requirements is to identify changes that might affect the direct customer or ultimate purchaser of the vehicle or component.

  • Process Capability Studies -- Collect, compile, and analyze data utilizing best practices.
  • Gage R&R (Repeatability & Reproducibility) -- The GKS electronic data processing center and our high speed computerized coordinate measuring machines can help you meet your R&R and Statistical Process Control requirements in a useful, timely way.
  • Impartial Evaluation -- Third party non-biased assessment of product conformance and specifications. GKS also provides expert witness testimony in product liability suits.
  • Calibration & Certification of tooling, and all types of fixtures and gages --Traceable to NIST in accordance with ISO-10012-1.
    • Fixture and Gages - Measurement per industry standards.
    • Masters - Complete description of size geometry.
    • Hand Gages - Clean, adjust, and document - micrometers, calipers, height gages, and others.
    • In Plant - Does sending your gages and equipment to a calibration service require you to shut down, or to cut back on production? Let us come to you! GKS will send members of our qualified staff to your company to do your calibration work. Please contact us for more information.
  • Surface Finish Evaluation
  • Vision-Based Inspection

Contact GKS Inspection Services to discuss your part type, size and accuracy requirements!