Stecker Machine Blog

You may have a great working knowledge of how custom CNC machining works:

Its smart use of technology and cutting-edge equipment and robotics.

Its engineers who help with design for manufacturing and design/fixture building.

Its programmed G-code and M-code, allowing for correct, repeatable part manufacturing.

Its incredible precision to meet strict spec tolerances.

But, do you know how to test a complex CNC part? After all, you need to know that all that hard work and advanced processes are doing their job and exceeding customer expectations. This article explores one important aspect of quality assurance: pressure testing.

There are 3 main ways to pressure test complex CNC parts:

1. Air Decay
2. Mass Flow
3. Air Under Water

The highly automated equipment and robots in a  CNC precision machining center are impressive, and often their “flash” initially attracts customers. It’s certainly understandable, but that initial attraction rarely converts one-time customers to long-term partners.

Instead, it’s the skilled people behind those machines that make the difference. By dedicating their time and talents to meeting customers’ needs and consistently exceeding their expectations, the team is responsible for taking your shop — and your customer relationships — from good to great.

Product quality can make or break a company. Stecker Machine's growth is largely attributed to our customer focus and commitment to quality. We explore four key takeaways from our recent ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 Quality Surveillance Audit. 

Quality stems from design, processes and culture. It can't be "tested in" to a product or process. The quality assurance (QA) team leads the charge to ensure design, manufacturing process, and culture is capable and the product is reproducible. The new part production approval process (PPAP) requires several steps and lots of effort from the QA team. Running several concurrent new projects compounds this effort and shows the teams true capability.