Direct Part Marking is a process used to permanently mark the parts with a barcode and it is used by automotive, aerospace and electronic manufacturers to facilitate a reliable identification of their parts. U.S. Department Of Defense requires a physical mark on tangible assets in addition to the Item Unique Identification.
There are many ways used to produce a permanent mark on a part, they are:
- Abrasive blasting – this method involves forcibly propelling a stream of abrasive material against a surface under high pressure to shape a surface or remove the contaminants.
- Forge – A Forge is a hearth used for forging.
- Electro Chemical Etching – Chemical etching is the process of using acids, bases, to dissolve materials such as metals, semi conductors or glass.
- Mold and Cast Inserts – Mold inserts are used to generate Bumpy Bar Codes directly in molded rubber and plastic parts.
- Indent Markers – Indent markers can embed Bumpy Bar Codes and human-readable codes directly into a metal part. They are also known as dot peen makers.
- Lasers – Laser engravers can embed Bumpy Bar Codes, human readable characters and graphics directly into rubber, plastic, glass and metal parts.
- Machine Engravers – These are used to engrave trophies and plaques. The mark is obtained by moving a cutting bit, spinning at a very high rate.
- Investment Casting – Investment casting is a very popular method of creating cast aircraft parts with intricate detail, hence eliminating expensive machining and complicated welding.
Benefits of Direct Part Marking
- The label will not be falling off.
- The Bumpy Bar Code can be painted, blasted and subjected to chemical baths.
- Unless the part surface is physically damaged, the Bumpy Bar Code will remain intact.
- It increases worker productivity and improves data accuracy and product quality
- It is cost effective and is in accordance with traceability regulations