Thread checking system automates monitoring

SMAC's in-line thread checking system is designed for applications where conventional solutions such as cameras, vision systems, lasers or Eddy current probes are problematic or unsuccessful.

SMAC Moving Coil Actuators (MCA) has recently released an updated version of its fully automated 100% in-line thread checking system.

It is designed for applications where conventional solutions such as cameras, vision systems, lasers or Eddy current probes are problematic or unsuccessful.

It is also been successfully adopted where gauging and testing of screw threads is done manually.

The SMAC system is fully automated and performs eight independent checks on each screw thread: Height or location of part to be checked, counter bore depth, no threads, shallow or under-sized threads, double-tapped thread, cross threading, length of thread and number of turns, broken tap and pitch or over-size thread.

Unlike lasers or cameras and vision systems the SMAC system can perform in dark, smoky environments.

The torque used to rotate the thread gauge can be fully monitored, enabling 100% data capture and feedback and to be used with existing SPC/quality systems.

The system checks both the presence and quality along the entire length of the thread, which is not possible using a camera or vision system.

The linear measurement system within the SMAC solution also allows the user to check the pitch of the thread.

Until now this was not possible, requiring the component to be checked to be checked by hand, causing waste, down time and inefficiency.

The SMAC system also incorporates a "softland" function which allows the thread gauge to soft land with a controlled and measured force onto the part to be checked to find the datum/surface without breaking the gauge or damaging the component.

The SMAC thread checking system can be used for both small and large threads.

M1 to M16 threads can be checked with the same unit.

The system is a fully integrated, modular system which is totally and freely programmable and delivers highly repeatable micron and sub micron accuracy.

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