How do you know if the fastener you installed is tensioned to its specifications? How can you be sure that your line operators are installing the correct number of fasteners in the correct locations? If you are using a standard tool, you have no way of knowing for sure.
Smart Tools
That’s why Bossard offers several different “Smart Tools” with process monitoring capabilities. Tooling options exist for torque guns, blind rivets, blind rivet nuts, and lock bolts. Data from these tools is stored as either a torque/angle curve for torque guns or a force/stroke curve for riveting fasteners. Each type of tool functions slightly differently, but all can be outfitted with optional upgrades, such as a barcode scanner that allows the tool to associate a specific workpiece serial number with one or several completed fastener installations.
One tool can store many different programs and can install several different parts without the need for recalibration or adjustment of settings. For example, one Smart Tool for blind rivets can install three different rivets of the same diameter in succession without needing to adjust stroke distance or pulling force each time.
All tools are programmable and come with software to customize settings for any job, allowing a programmer to set OK/NOK limits on the measured quantities. OK readings from the tool will present the operator with a positive confirmation. NOK readings will present a notification that can be cleared by someone with the proper permissions – whether that is the operator, or a quality manager depends on the factory’s individual preferences.
The process monitoring function does not slow down tool cycle time, and Smart Tools outperform many standard tools in side-by-side speed tests.
For more information on how process monitoring can improve your quality assurance methods, contact Bossard today at ProvenProductivity@bossard.com.
Quick Guide to Process Monitoring Tooling by Bossard
