Our Keyence Visual Inspection System Performs Fast and Accurate Inspections
Here at Area Tool & Manufacturing, Inc., we’ve taken quality assurance to the next level. In addition to using tried and true manual inspection methods, we can now provide 360° measurement verification thanks to our new Keyence IM-8030T visual inspection system!
With exceptional speed and accuracy, this device performs both standard and complex measurements, including:
OD/ID, length, angle
Symmetry
Plane measurements
Flatness
Cylindricity
Coaxiality
Run-out
We’re already performing these enhanced inspections on the parts we machine in our shop—and we’re not charging customers a single penny!
Why, then, did we invest in this upgrade? We’d love to tell you.
When You Need Precision, You Want This Visual Inspection System
Before purchasing the Keyence, our team’s default approach to inspection was to perform manual measurements to verify dimensions and tolerances, then assign “Pass” or “Fail” inspection designations.
While this approach is great for many parts, some of our customers told us they wanted more information—and for a good reason. Our medical customers are great examples of those that need the high-level inspection capabilities only a visual inspection machine can provide. When parts are destined for machines that assemble critical medical devices, there’s absolutely no room for errors or discrepancies.
Following an initial inspection setup for your part, the Keyence IM-8030T allows us to iteratively obtain all the data you need with unmatched accuracy and incredible speed. Unlike manual inspections, the visual inspection system identifies every feature measurement in a single sweep.
Within the coming year, you’ll also be able to streamline your production process by ordering First Article Inspections from our shop!
Why Did We Choose a Visual Inspection Machine?
When deciding between a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) and a vision measuring machine (VMM), we preferred the visual method for one key reason.
The VMM uses light probes, not physical probes
A CMM’s probes physically touch parts to perform measurements, whereas a VMM utilizes laser optics to “probe” a part’s feature dimensions. We prefer the touch-free system because it eliminates the risk of contact damage while offering faster, more accurate data collection.
Why Did We Select a Keyence VMM?
We knew Keyence was the right choice for our precision machine shop when we experienced the IM-8030T for ourselves at the 2023 IMTS. One of Keyence’s differentiators is its ability to immediately identify the presence of a part and initiate measuring—no need for us to meticulously align each part to specific coordinates.
The no-fuss setup, impressive accuracy, and competitive price point made the Keyence a clear winner.
Here’s how your parts will benefit from the Keyence visual inspection system:
Accuracy. The VMM’s no-touch optics enable accuracy that simply isn’t possible from a CMM’s probe approach, making the vision measuring method our top choice for inspecting parts with tight tolerances. Our VMM’s measurements are also less likely to be compromised by dust particles, a known concern when inspecting with a CMM.
Speed. While the IM-8030T does require some initial setup, generating the setup program is only about as time-consuming as manually inspecting a single part. Once the setup is complete, the visual inspection machine measures each part in approximately 30 seconds!
Ease of use. The Keyence company publicly states that the IM-8000 series VMMs require no experience to operate, meaning anyone can place a part into the machine, press a button, and obtain fast and accurate results. While the operators at Area Tool & Manufacturing, Inc. are well-equipped for more complex programming, we see no reason to spend unnecessary time on setup—especially considering our shop specializes in low-volume and one-off parts. The Keyence VMM’s simple usability makes sense for our team and our customers.
Get Fast, Accurate Part Data at Area Tool & Manufacturing, Inc.
Since 1976, we’ve provided top-quality CNC precision machining, wire EDM, and sinker EDM services for many customers across industries. As part of our team’s common goal to deliver exceptional American-made parts, we carefully perform the optimal inspection processes to ensure that parts function perfectly in their final applications.
To get your parts made at Area Tool & Manufacturing, Inc., request a quote!
