3 Solutions for Improving Manufacturing Traceability
In today’s competitive market, staying ahead means prioritizing traceability to ensure better quality, faster recalls, and smoother operations. From raw materials to final inspection, traceability ensures you know exactly where each component and material has come from and every step it took to reach the final product.
But why does traceability matter so much? It’s simple.
Imagine having the ability to track every component, process, and product in your manufacturing chain with precision.
TA traceability software enables manufacturers to navigate the complexities and regulatory requirements of modern production.
Whether you’re a manufacturing manager, an operations director, or a quality control specialist, software traceability for manufacturing transforms how you manage your processes and assure quality.
Let’s dive into the key benefits of traceability software and how it streamlines modern manufacturing across industries. Plus, discover why investing in traceability is essential for staying competitive and future-proofing your business.
What is Traceability Software in Manufacturing?
Traceability software is a specialized tool that helps manufacturers monitor and document every stage of the production process. From raw materials to finished goods, this software provides complete visibility into where a product comes from, how it is made, and where it goes.
Supply chain traceability software provides end-to-end visibility and control over the manufacturing process. It tracks and records the movement of materials, components, and finished products throughout the supply chain, creating a comprehensive digital record of every step.
By assigning unique identifiers to items, the software ensures material traceability in manufacturing, allowing each component to be traced back to its origin and monitored throughout production, assembly, and distribution.
This system helps manufacturers monitor production in real time, gathering data at every stage to ensure processes run smoothly and efficiently. It streamlines the tracking of individual parts or batches, making it easier to identify where an issue occurred if a defect arises.
Check out what fits best for laser marking systems in your industrial facilities here
With its centralized data management capabilities, traceability software consolidates all production and supply chain information into a single, secure platform, ensuring quick access to necessary information whenever needed.
In addition to providing visibility, traceability software streamlines seamless coordination across teams by integrating production data, supplier information, and quality control measures. It helps manufacturers ensure that all components meet compliance standards and that deviations are flagged and promptly addressed.
In the event of a recall, the software enables manufacturers to pinpoint affected batches, isolating them quickly to minimize disruptions and protect customer safety.
How is Traceability Used in Manufacturing?
Traceability software can be integrated into various aspects of manufacturing to optimize processes and ensure accountability.
There are several key features of traceability systems, including:
Real-time data tracking: allows manufacturers to monitor production processes as they happen and gain detailed insights into each stage.
Direct part marking (DPM): where unique, permanent markings are assigned to components using laser marking or dot peening, ensuring traceability at the item level.
Centralized data storage: helps collect and store all production data in one secure and easily accessible location.
Reporting and audit capabilities: makes it easy to generate detailed reports for certifications and maintain accurate audit records.
Recall management: allows manufacturers to identify and isolate affected batches quickly, executing recalls efficiently.
With these features, traceability software acts as both a quality enhancement tool and a safeguard against risks in the supply chain. By deploying traceability software, manufacturers can achieve remarkable levels of control and efficiency across production and supply chain operations.
Industries Benefiting from Traceability Software
Traceability software has become an efficient tool for industries that depend on safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. By providing visibility into the lifecycle of products and components, it helps businesses prevent costly mistakes, streamline operations, and maintain the trust of their customers.
Traceability software helps manufacturers in several industries to maintain compliance and consistency, including:
Automotive
Aerospace
Medical device
Automotive Industry
The automotive industry relies heavily on precision, safety, and traceability, and software plays a key role in achieving these.
It tracks major components such as powertrains and braking systems, throughout their lifecycle, making sure they meet stringent safety and quality standards. It also ensures compliance with industry regulations like AIAG B-17, assuring products meet global standards.
Supplier management becomes more efficient, with seamless quality control processes and swift recall mechanisms in place when needed.
Aerospace Industry
In the aerospace world, where reliability and precision must be met for safety, traceability software provides full lifecycle tracking for critical components like turbines and airframes.
This ensures every part meets strict safety guidelines and improves overall reliability.
Additionally, traceability systems protect the supply chain from counterfeit parts, a major concern in high-stakes industries. Compliance with standards like Spec 2000 marking is easier, ensuring clear tracking from production to final use.
Medical Device Industry
Patient safety is at the heart of the medical device industry, and traceability software ensures it by permanently marking implants and surgical instruments.
These markings help manufacturers meet UDI (Unique Device Identifier) requirements and provide lifecycle tracking for rapid issue resolution.
By maintaining regulatory compliance across the board, traceability systems increases safety and builds trust in a highly regulated, sensitive market.
Future-Proof Your Manufacturing Operations
The demand for transparency, quality, and regulatory compliance will only increase. Manufacturers who integrate traceability software minimize risks and position themselves for sustainable growth.
Your business can stay ahead of the curve by implementing a traceability solution like Technomark’s systems. From quality control to supply chain optimization, traceability software ensures your parts are seen from production to installation.
Build a resilient future in manufacturing. Embrace traceability and create a production process that captures your products’ originality.
Get Expert Advice on Traceability
Looking for guidance? Contact Technomark’s experts today to explore how traceability can elevate manufacturing operations and download our guide below for more information.
In industries where traceability, compliance, and durability are non-negotiable, direct part marking ensures critical information stays where it belongs — on the part itself. Whether you’re tracking components through a supply chain, meeting regulatory standards, or branding products for longevity, the rightmarking method can make all the difference.
Two technologies dominate the world of part marking: laser marking machines and dot peen marking machines. While both offer reliable solutions, their strengths shine in different applications. From the precision demands of the medical and electronics industries to the rugged requirements of the automotive and energy sectors, choosing the right solution depends on your materials, environment, and production needs.
Let’s explore how laser part marking and dot peen marking perform across key industries, highlighting the best use cases for each technology.
What is Direct Part Marking?
Direct part marking refers to the process of permanently engraving or imprinting information — such as serial numbers, barcodes, or logos — onto a part. This process is essential for industries requiring traceability and identification throughout a product’s lifecycle.
Laser Part Marking: An Overview
A laser marking machine uses a focused laser beam to mark materials precisely. This non-contact method doesn’t physically alter the surface, making it ideal for fragile or thin materials.
Advantages of Laser Marking:
Precision: High detail, capable of marking tiny, complex designs.
Material Versatility: Works on metals, plastics, ceramics, and more.
Durability: Marks are resistant to wear, corrosion, and environmental damage.
Non-Contact: Ensures no stress or damage to the part.
Dot Peen Marking Machines: An Overview
A dot peen marking machine creates permanent marks by using a stylus that rapidly strikes the material, forming a series of dots. This mechanical process is efficient for deep and rugged markings.
Durability: Deep marks withstand extreme conditions, ideal for rough handling.
Cost-Effective: Lower operating costs compared to lasers.
Material Compatibility: Works well on metals and other hard surfaces.
Speed: Fast marking process, especially for serial numbers or codes.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Direct Part Marking Methods
The choice between laser marking systems and dot peen marking machines often comes down to the specific application and the amount of material impacted during the marking process. Industries like medical, automotive, and defense rely on both technologies, selecting the best method based on their unique marking needs and the materials being marked.
When deciding between laser marking and dot peen marking for your production processes, consider these five key factors:
1. Specific Industrial Application Needs
Detail Requirements: Consider the level of detail required in the mark, including font size, complexity of logos or barcodes, and the need for high-resolution images.
Mark Durability: Determine the level of resistance required to factors like abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
2. Material Types and Properties
Material Compatibility: Evaluate the marking method’s suitability for different materials, considering factors like hardness, heat sensitivity, and surface characteristics.
Mark Aesthetics: Assess the desired appearance of the mark, such as the smoothness, depth, and contrast.
3. Operating Environment
Environmental Conditions: Consider factors such as temperature fluctuations, exposure to dust or debris, and the presence of corrosive substances.
Production Line Integration: Determine the need for integration with existing production lines and automation systems.
4. Production Volume
Throughput Requirements: Evaluate the required marking speed and the need for high-volume, automated marking solutions.
5. Regulatory and Compliance Requirements
Industry Standards: Ensure the chosen method complies with relevant industry standards and regulations, such as those in the aerospace, automotive, or medical device sectors.
Making the Right Decision: Steps to Choose the Suitable Direct Part Marking System
Selecting the right marking system for industrial applications involves evaluating key factors to ensure it meets both current demands and future requirements. The right choice will align with industry standards, optimize efficiency, and deliver a strong return on investment.
Here are three essential steps to guide your decision:
Consult with marking system experts
Consider future scalability and adaptability
Test and sample potential systems
1. Consult with Marking System Experts
Partnering with marking system specialists can provide critical insights to streamline your decision-making process. These experts can:
Offer in-depth knowledge of the latest technologies and their capabilities.
Evaluate your specific needs to match them with the strengths and limitations of different marking systems.
Share real-world examples and case studies from similar industrial applications, showcasing solutions to common challenges.
Advise on total cost of ownership, including ongoing maintenance, consumables, and potential system upgrades.
2. Considering Future Scalability and Adaptability
Choosing a marking system that aligns with your business’s long-term goals is essential for ensuring sustained efficiency and performance. A well-chosen system should not only meet your current needs but also support future growth with the following qualities:
Scalability: Opt for a system capable of handling increased production volumes or extended operational hours without compromising quality or causing significant downtime.
Adaptability: Ensure the system is versatile enough to mark new materials, accommodate different part geometries, or meet evolving marking requirements as your product lines expand.
Software and Integration: Look for systems with upgradable software that offer new features and ensures compatibility with emerging technologies. Seamless integration with your existing production management or quality control systems is also key.
3. Test and Sample Potential Systems
Before committing to a marking system, conducting thorough testing is essential to ensure it meets your production and quality requirements. This process should include:
Sample Marking: Share samples of your materials with manufacturers or distributors and request marking demonstrations. Evaluate the results for quality, speed, precision, and material compatibility.
On-Site Demonstrations: Whenever possible, arrange on-site demos to observe the system’s performance in your actual production environment, including workflow integration and operator ease of use.
Durability Testing: Assess the longevity of the marks by exposing them to conditions that replicate your operational environment, such as chemicals, abrasives, and wear over time.
Laser Marking vs. Dot Peen Marking Machines: Industry-Specific Applications
From automotive to agriculture and beyond, industries that rely on permanent product identification share a common need: marks that are reliable, readable, and durable. Whether it’s for lifespan management, traceability, or recall processes, the marking method must align with each industry’s unique demands.
In some sectors, the ability to withstand extreme wear, corrosion, or heat is paramount. In others, the priority is minimizing surface disruption while maintaining clarity and precision.
Choosing the right marking system depends on these priorities. The chart below highlights the key benefits of laser marking systems and dot peen marking machines across various industrial applications, helping you determine the most effective solution for your products.
Industry Specifications: Determining the Right Marking System
Direct part marking is no longer just a requirement; it’s a strategic advantage. Whether you need the precision of a laser marking system for delicate medical instruments and electronics or the rugged reliability of a dot peen marking machine for aerospace and automotive components, the right technology ensures that your marks remain permanent, readable, and resilient.
Ready to Take Direct Part Marking to the Next Level?
Learn how laser marking’s precision, versatility, and durability can elevate your manufacturing processes. Visit our Laser Marking Page to explore how Technomark’s cutting-edge solutions can meet your industry’s marking needs.
In manufacturing, that story is written with precision and permanence. From serial numbers to intricate barcodes, part markings ensure every component can be identified, traced, and trusted throughout its lifecycle. But how do you choose the right system to deliver these critical marks?
Have you ever wondered about the small, square barcodes often found on electronic devices, tools, and appliances? While they might resemble QR codes, they’re actually Data Matrix codes, essential components of modern manufacturing processes.
Unlike QR codes, primarily used for consumer-facing applications like websites and social media, Data Matrix codes are designed for efficient data storage and traceability. They’re the only 2D barcodes officially approved by GS1 for regulated healthcare items, emphasizing their reliability and accuracy.
QR codes on the other hand are larger and contain more data, such as website URLs, and can encode information in numeric and alphanumeric form as well as Kanji and other multi-byte character sets.
No matter what industry, when it comes to industrial traceability for manufacturers, choosing the right type of code can leave a production run riddled with misinformation and the chance of getting lost.
Understanding the distinctions between QR codes and Data Matrix codes is crucial for manufacturers looking to optimize their processes. Both codes are two-dimensional (2D) barcodes and consist of a pattern of squares that can be read by a barcode scanner. However, there are notable differences in their shape, size, and data capacity.
What is a QR Code?
QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes scanned by smartphones or other devices with cameras. They store information in a matrix of black-and-white squares, which can be interpreted to reveal data such as URLs, text, or contact information. Think of them as digital links that can be quickly accessed by simply scanning them with your phone.
What is a Data Matrix Code?
Data Matrix codes are another type of two-dimensional barcode, but they are smaller and more compact than QR codes. They are often used in industrial settings, such as manufacturing and logistics, because they are highly durable and can be scanned even when damaged or dirty. Data Matrix codes are useful for tracking individual items or components throughout production, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Direct Part Marking
While both QR and Data Matrix codes are in the public domain and can be used royalty free, Data Matrix codes have become the standard for anti-counterfeit measures, part identification, and internal tracking because they feature advanced error-correcting techniques that are more robust than QR codes.
This presents a unique benefit for manufacturers that need to ensure their products can be identified if part of the mark gets damaged or impeded.
Particularly necessary for complex and high stakes industries such as medical, aerospace, and defense, where hundreds to thousands of components are needed in order to assemble a finished product, Data Matrix codes can be read even if up to 50% of the mark gets damaged.
QR codes on the other hand have steadily been adopted in consumer-facing applications. These codes can be found everywhere from business cards to product packaging, containing links to websites, resumes, premium offers, and even restaurant menus.
QR codes have a lower level error-correcting built in, and can be rendered useless with even slight ware and tare. Just 30% of a QR code needs to be damaged before it becomes unreadable.
While these codes are perfect for consumer-forward use, marking a component or part with a QR code presents a real danger for misidentification pending the mark gets damaged.
Data Matrix vs QR Codes | Uses Cases and Applications
Data Matrix
Supply chain traceability
Anti-counterfeiting through serialization
Part identification
QR code
Additional product information
Usage instructions
Social sharing
Auto-linking for spare ordering and registration
Promotions, contests, and gamification
Specifications of Data Matrix vs QR Codes
While Data Matrix codes are typically reserved for industrial use cases, both types of marks can play a role in the manufacturing industry.
Since both DataMatrix and QR codes are GS1 approved, they can carry any GS1 ID keys including:
Medical, manufacturing, transport and IT equipment
Loyalty scheme members, doctors at a hospital, library members
Automobile parts
Medical device
Beyond GS1, specifications and requirements for each code are presented by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). For more about how these codes work themselves, and how to create them, you can check out the relevant ISO standard for more detail.
Best Practices for Implementing Data Matrix Codes in a Manufacturing Process
Implementing Data Matrix codes in a manufacturing process can significantly enhance traceability, efficiency, and accuracy. However, to fully leverage the advantages of this technology, it’s crucial to follow best practices tailored to the specific needs of your operations.
Best practices for implementing Data Matrix codes include:
Ensuring that the code is applied in a location on the part that is less likely to be damaged or exposed to harsh conditions.
Using direct part marking methods like laser marking or dot peen to create a durable, permanent code that can withstand wear.
Regularly testing and verifying the readability of the code throughout the production process.
Incorporating advanced scanning equipment that can easily read Data Matrix codes, even when partially obscured or damaged.
Consulting with an industrial marking expert to ensure the correct code placement, size, and method of application for long-term durability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Data Matrix and QR Codes:
How Do the Error-Correcting Capabilities of Data Matrix Codes Compare to QR Codes in Practical Applications?
Data Matrix codes have more robust error-correcting features compared to QR codes. They can still be accurately read even when up to 50% of the code is damaged, making them more reliable in harsh environments like manufacturing or logistics. QR codes, on the other hand, lose readability once about 30% of the code is damaged, making them more prone to failure in industrial settings where wear and tear are common.
Are There Significant Cost Differences Between Implementing QR Code & Data Matrix Code Systems?
The cost of implementing QR or Data Matrix codes can vary depending on factors such as the specific hardware and software used, the complexity of the system, and the volume of codes needed. In general, Data Matrix codes may be slightly more expensive to implement due to the specialized equipment required for their reading and writing. However, the long-term benefits of using Data Matrix codes, such as improved traceability and efficiency, can often outweigh the initial costs.
Are There Differences in Scanning Speed & Accuracy Between QR & Data Matrix Codes, Especially When Used in High-Speed Industrial Settings?
While both QR and Data Matrix codes can be scanned at high speeds, Data Matrix codes often have a slight advantage in terms of scanning accuracy. Their smaller size and denser data encoding make them less prone to misreading, especially in challenging conditions.
Direct Part Marking | Best Practices and Proven Methods
Understanding the differences between QR codes and Data Matrix codes, and choosing which is best for your application can get overwhelming. That’s why its important to consult a trusted advisor and partner.
Technomark has been operating and supplying expertise with industrial marking equipment since 2000. Since 2018, Technomark North America has been the only established OEM of dot peen and laser marking systems — the primary methods for direct part marking — with a headquarters in the USA.
Technomark has been at the forefront of industrial marking innovation, developing machines for seamless integration in manufacturing processes.
Our goal is to help our customers:
Increase machine uptime
Decrease total cost of ownership
Make part marking and identification simple and cost-effective
Bring new ideas to the table to increase efficiency
Your relationship with Technomark North America shouldn’t be limited to a strict supplier-to-customer interaction. We value communication above all else, which is why our team is dedicated to finding ways to solve your traceability challenges through a consultative process.
What commonalities do DVD players, checkout lines at the grocery store, and industrial marking machines all share? Lasers.
But alas, not all lasers are the same.
Do you know what L.A.S.E.R. stands for? Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In other words, it’s a highly concentrated beam of light. Lasers consist of a:
Gain medium: A material that interacts with electrical currents to stimulate photons of light as they pass through.
Energy supply: Lasers typically receive their energy from electrical currents. These currents are “pumped” through the gain medium, stimulating atoms as light passes through. As the currents are pumped, the light accelerates within the gain medium.
A material to provide optical feedback: The materials selected for optical feedback serve one main purpose: steering the direction of the light beam.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of industrial manufacturing, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies is not just a trend but a necessity for staying competitive. Among these, dot peen marking technology has emerged as a cornerstone for a myriad of industries, underscoring its critical role in product identification, traceability, and quality control.
Dot peen machines, which use a carbide or diamond tip to permanently engrave surfaces with data, have become indispensable in sectors ranging from aerospace to automotive, and from metalworking to electronics. The precision, durability, and versatility of dot peen marking meet the stringent standards required for tracking components throughout their lifecycle, ensuring compliance with global quality and safety mandates.
As we delve deeper into the digital age, the transition from manual to automated systems represents a significant leap forward. Automated dot peen machines, in particular, stand at the forefront of this shift, offering a pathway to remarkable gains in productivity and operational efficiency. This blog aims to explore the transformative power of these machines.
Through automation, businesses can not only accelerate their marking processes but also achieve
Unparalleled accuracy
Consistency
Reliability.
Dot peen marking technology, also known as pin stamping, has become an integral tool for industries requiring precise, durable, and traceable marks on their products. At its core, dot peen marking involves a pneumatically or electromechanically driven pin that rapidly indents the surface of an item with dots to create numbers, letters, logos, or 2D DataMatrix codes.
The technology can be implemented through either automated or manual machines, each serving different needs and applications. Understanding the distinctions between these two types of dot peen machines is essential for businesses aiming to optimize their marking processes. For more on machines that use electromechanics, consider this resource: https://www.technomark-inc.com/dot-peen-marking/.
Automated Dot Peen Machines
Automated dot peen marking machines offer a suite of benefits designed to enhance productivity and efficiency across various industries. By automating the marking process, these machines minimize the need for manual intervention, leading to significant improvements in speed, accuracy, and consistency of marks. Automated machines offer superior precision and consistency in marking, as the computer-controlled movement ensures each dot is placed exactly as intended, every time.
The integration capabilities of automated systems also allow for seamless communication with existing manufacturing databases, facilitating better traceability and quality control. Users can program the machine to carry out complex marking tasks with minimal human intervention, making them ideal for high-volume production lines.
Cost savings emerge not only from the reduction in labor costs but also from the decrease in rework and scrap rates, making automated dot peen machines a valuable investment for businesses looking to optimize their operations and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
These machines are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing manufacturing systems, enabling a more streamlined workflow. They can be connected to databases for automatic part identification and traceability.
For more information on a product that can be easily integrated into the production process: Read about the M4 Inline.
Manual Dot Peen Machines
Manual dot peen marking machines present a cost-effective and flexible solution for businesses with lower-volume marking needs or those requiring customization for unique, irregularly shaped items. These machines allow for direct control by the operator, enabling precise placement and a personal touch that can be essential for bespoke or specialized applications.
The simplicity and ease of use of manual dot peen systems reduce the barrier to entry for smaller operations or those new to dot peen marking technology. Additionally, the lower initial investment compared to automated systems makes them an attractive option for businesses mindful of budget constraints while still benefiting from the durability, permanence, and versatility of dot peen marks.
This adaptability, combined with the capacity to mark a wide range of materials, makes manual dot peen machines a valuable tool for companies seeking an efficient, cost-effective method to enhance their product identification and traceability processes.
Manual dot peen machines provide versatility in application, as they are available in both a handheld and stationary model. These machines can be utilized to mark products of various sizes that are produced in differing production processes. Suitable Materials and Surfaces Dot peen marking technology is highly versatile and can be used on a wide range of materials and surfaces, including but not limited to:
Metals: Steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and gold. It’s especially popular in the metalworking industry for its ability to create deep, permanent marks that withstand harsh conditions. Plastics: Certain types of hard plastics can be marked with dot peen machines, though the material’s hardness and composition might affect the quality of the mark. Hardened Materials: Tools and components that have undergone heat treatment processes can also be marked effectively. Painted or Coated Surfaces: Dot peen marking can penetrate thin coatings to mark the underlying material, making it useful for parts that are painted or have protective coatings.
Key Benefits of Automated Dot Peen Machines
Integrating automated dot peen machines into existing production lines is a matter of knowing what you need and ensuring it is in place for your production process.
Some of the considerations for making an automated dot peen marking machine part of your production line include:
Security of WIFI connection
Reliability
Machine Size
Material Compatibility
Software features
Staff will need to be trained on interfacing with the new software and creating the part marking specifications on that platform, as well as the data transfer capabilities.
However, there are four benefits to discuss for integrating an automated dot peen marking machine:
Increased efficiency
Enhanced accuracy and consistency
Improved traceability
Cost savings
1. Increased Efficiency
Automation improves production time by streamlining the marking process. It is a much simpler matter to set and adjust the marking design with the software involved. Likewise, those steps can be taken by someone off-site if the occasion demands. Meanwhile, manual methods require in-person adjustment, which takes greater time and effort to match the precision that comes naturally with automation.
2. Enhanced Accuracy and Consistency
Automation means working with software to create logos and fonts in real-time. The immediate feedback and capability to adjust the mark means less human error. It also ensures uniformity in marking for the entirety of the order that is being marked.
3. Improved Traceability
Automated marking offers reliability for supply chain management and quality control. In the event a part needs to be identified due to issues or recalled, the marks created during the automated process are done quickly and efficiently to last over the long term.
4. Cost Savings
Investing in automated technology means reducing the number of staff needed on-site to handle things like marking design and adjustment. This also cuts down on the number of products that need to be remarked due to a user error.
Dot Peen Machines Increase Efficiency
The choice between automated and manual dot peen machines hinges on the specific needs of the production environment, including volume, precision requirements, and integration capabilities.
Regardless of the type chosen, the ability of dot peen marking to adapt to various materials and surfaces makes it an invaluable asset for industries prioritizing product identification, traceability, and quality control.
Interested in learning more about dot peen marking technology? Consider these resources from our blog library:
Effective part-marking is indispensable for ensuring seamless component traceability in the industrial manufacturing sector, particularly when dealing with large quantities. Among the various part-marking options available, Dot Peen marking technology has stood out as a preferred solution over the years.
Dot Peen marking machines use electromagnetic or pneumatic force to rapidly oscillate a stylus, creating indents on the part’s surface. Notably versatile, Dot Peen technology adapts well to both manual and fully automated production lines. While commonly employed in manual applications, the flexibility of modular Dot Peen systems allows for an initial portable setup, which can later be seamlessly transformed into an in-line system for integration with fully automated production lines.
The Need for Automation
While dot peen marking is a well-established method of ensuring traceability, it comes with challenges. These include the need for an in-depth understanding of the process, the right direction for the machine, and using the wrong methods for the material the product is made of.
Today’s industries prioritize timelines and the reliable delivery of products. With that in mind, there is an increase in the need for efficiency to ensure deadlines are met. Incorporating automation into production lines, particularly for part marking, has led to significant progress in addressing and resolving efficiency issues.
Technical Aspects of Automated Dot Peen Marking
As marking systems continue to evolve, the benefits of utilizing these systems can’t be ignored. These systems offer avoidance of downtime via their capability to:
Improve speed and throughput
Increase consistency and accuracy
Reduce human error
Enhance traceability
These systems incorporate innovations applied elsewhere to pair reliability and established problem-solving methods to streamline the part marking process.
Integration with Other Systems
Dot Peen marking systems can be integrated with any system. Portable, in-line, and bench models provide the options needed to maximize the efficiency of your traceability system. Automated options mean better versatility for your dot peen marking and reduced need for human oversight of that aspect of production.
Software Capabilities for Automation
Software has advanced to allow for control of the automation process from outside the facility if you so choose. Meanwhile, the control and adjustment via software means better control and improved marking accuracy.
Customization Options for Specific Industrial Needs
Permanent part marking means reliable part marking for product identification purposes throughout the product’s life span. Both dot peen marking machines and laser marking options offer the versatility to mark a product with a serial number, Datamatrix, logo, or other pattern as required. This then can be used to track the product through its production and installation – and beyond.
For more precise orientation and focus, the laser technology may be helpful. Meanwhile, dot peen marking is a long-trusted method of part marking that provides a mark that impacts the surface via a succession of dots. This method is hard to wear away or otherwise deteriorate, leaving it easy to read for long periods.
From automotive parts and aerospace applications to the oil and gas industry, many industries utilize these marking systems to increase traceability and reliability in part identification into the future.
Trends and Innovations
With current trends in dot peen marking automation, the flexibility and ease of operation only continue to streamline the marking process. Products have reached the market that are portable and not tied to any specific area of the production line. Rather, the use of a secured WiFi connection means the control can be trusted to an operator’s cellphone. In turn, this portable marking machinery can be used in both indoor and outdoor work environments.
The product that requires marking can be of any size and still be within the marking capabilities of the marking system – provided it is made of one of the many materials these systems handle with no issue. These products also come with improved battery life, ensuring an entire day’s work can be completed without requiring a recharge of the unit needed for the marking process.
Considerations for Implementation
For those considering automation for part marking, there are numerous factors to evaluate before incorporating automation. These range from your WiFi connection security level and reliability to the level of training necessary to bring your staff up to speed with this pivot in control in the marking process.
Consider these resources to evaluate your readiness for automation in your marking system:
Dot Peen Marking Machines & Efficiency | Final Thoughts
Dot peen marking is widely accepted as reliable and efficient in providing traceability solutions that are prioritized in today’s fast-moving but transparent society. With this in mind, it only helps to improve that reliability with the incorporation of automation to facilitate the programming and fulfillment of the part marking process.
Before you go…
It’s normal to still have questions at this point. If you are still considering your best next steps, our resource on part marking considerations could also be helpful:
Ask anyone inside the industrial manufacturing industry – part-marking is crucial to component traceability when working with large quantities. And while several different types of part-marking exist, Dot Peen marking technology has been a preferred solution for many years.
At a high level,Dot Peen marking machines use either electromagnetic or pneumatic force to rapidly oscillate a stylus, in turn indenting the marks onto the surface of the part.
One of the advantages of Dot Peen is that it’s very flexible and can be used in either manual or fully automated production lines. A lot of the applications Dot Peen serves are manual applications, however, with modular Dot Peen systems, you can start with a portable system and later convert it to an in-line system for integration with fully automated production lines.
The Basics | What is Dot Peen Marking?
If you took apart a Dot Peen machine, one of the most important components you would find is a carbide or diamond-tip stylus.
The Dot peen process is considered a “low-stress” marking method because the mark is generated via material displacement rather than material removal. The carbide stylus strikes the material surface to produce the mark via a series of cold-formed stamped dots. Compared to Laser Marking Systems, Dot Peen does not induce thermal shock to the part surface since the material is cold-stamped rather than super-heated to produce the mark.
Dot Peen systems are commonly used by manufacturers in the aerospace and oil & gas industries where low-stress marking is required, such as tubular and flow control products that are exposed to extreme pressure differential in the oilfield.
Dot Peen marking is viable for material hardness up to 63 HRC. Typically, when a part hardness is greater than 63 HRC, laser marking systems are recommended.
All of Technomark’s Dot Peen machines rely on an electromagnetic solenoid to actuate the marking stylus. Dots are plotted in an X/Y plane via electronic control for precise placement of the Dot pattern. Using electromagnetic force versus pneumatic also provides a greater level of control of both the depth of the mark as well as the ability to mark contoured or complex surface.
Dot Peen Marking: Component Traceability In Action
Dot Peen marking machines are utilized in almost every industrial-goods manufacturing operation, including:
Automotive
Oil and Gas (pipes, fittings valves, other)
Aerospace
Defense
Metalworking (general purpose)
While these machines can run in-line and handle large quantities in an automated production environment, most are operated manually using a battery pack to go mobile.
The best Dot Peen marking machines utilize a fully electric design and that doesn’t require compressed air to operate. All Technomark Dot Peen marking machines feature an Intelligent Driving Impact (IDI) function that allows for marking on many different materials and finishes. The IDI function automatically adjusts and levels the stylus to the workpiece. Whether the part has a curved, wavy, or complex geometry, the stylus will follow the contour of the marking surface while maintaining a constant depth of high-quality marking throughout.
When structural integrity is crucial, Dot Peen marking provides a low-stress marking solution that removes no material during the part marking process.
Why Choose Dot Peen Marking
One of the biggest benefits of a Dot Peen Marking Machine is its ability to efficiently produce marks compared to other marking systems. Other benefits of Dot Peen machines include:
Portability: battery-operated systems are ergonomic and perfect for smaller-scale operations or marking of large, heavy parts that cannot be transported to a fixed location for marking
Versatility: state-of-the-art Dot Peen marking systems are modular and can start with a portable or manual marking system that can later be adapted to a fully automated production line
Ease of use: Dot Peen machines are easy to program and do not require any advanced computing knowledge or technical training.
Permanency: Dot Peen marking process yields a permanent, indelible mark that can withstand harsh operating environments
Economical: Compared to other marking systems, Dot Peen systems are typically less than $10,000.
Integrating a dot peen marking machine into your production line will improve the productivity and quality of the part-marking process.
Wireless connectivity between marking head and control (Network-able devices that are able to communicate to other devices through wireless communications)
On-board diagnostic tools to help the operator know when it’s time for scheduled maintenance — protecting your investment.
If you have questions regarding Dot Peen machines or any part marking machines, contact us today. At Technomark North America, we have the experience to help you get the best solutions for your industrial marking needs.
(Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in September 2021 and was updated in December 2023.)
Commerce has come a long way from the bartering system. When currency became the acceptable medium of exchange, it only made sense that a better system of marking products was needed.
The first barcode was created in 1952, but they weren’t put into use in commerce and the transaction process until 1974, when a pack of Wrigley’s gum was scanned in a supermarket in the state of Ohio.
Barcodes have become widely used and have been upgraded and improved in an ongoing process. From the days when a barcode took up a significant amount of the packaging and contained limited information to today’s Data Matrix codes that are significantly smaller and can hold more data, the barcode development process has been fast and focused on efficiency.
Here we will focus on Data Matrix codes, their importance, their history, and an in-depth look at:
How they’re generated
How they differ from other marking processes
What industry these are most common in and on which type of materials and parts are they commonly found
3 Solutions for Improving Manufacturing Traceability
Data Matrix codes are another type of two-dimensional barcode, but they are smaller and more compact than QR codes. They are often used in industrial settings, such as manufacturing and logistics, because they are highly durable and can be scanned even when damaged or dirty. Data Matrix codes are useful for tracking individual items or components throughout production, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
