FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Procurement and quality questions, answered the way a supplier questionnaire asks them.
Common Questions
If a question below is not covered, it can be answered directly — see the contact page.
How often should a CMM be calibrated?
Most stamping and tier suppliers run an annual interval, tightened for high-use machines or after a crash. IATF 16949 clause 7.1.5.3 expects a documented basis for the interval chosen.
What is the difference between calibration and verification?
Calibration establishes the relationship between readings and reference values with a stated uncertainty. Verification confirms the machine still meets a specification, typically ISO 10360-2 or ASME B89.4.1.
What does ISO 10360-2 actually test?
Length measurement error, designated E0 and E150, across five calibrated lengths measured three times each in seven positions — 105 measurements total, checked against the machine's stated MPE.
Can calibration be done on site, and how long is the machine down?
On-site verification is available for most bridge, gantry and cantilever machines. Time on site depends on axis travel and whether adjustment is needed;
covers scheduling specifics.What temperature does the room need to be?
ISO 1 sets 20°C as the reference temperature. Precision artifacts need hours of thermal soak beforehand, and the gradient per hour and per meter matters as much as the absolute reading.
What happens if the machine fails as-found?
As-found data is recorded before adjustment. That data supports a reverse-traceability impact assessment back to the last passing calibration, which is what a corrective action requires.
How do I check whether a certificate is inside accredited scope?
The laboratory's scope of accreditation is published in its accrediting body's public directory. The specific measurement, range and uncertainty need to appear there, not just the lab's name.
What is a CMC and why does it matter to my tolerances?
CMC is the smallest uncertainty a laboratory can claim within its scope. If the CMC does not comfortably support the part tolerance being inspected, the 4:1 test uncertainty ratio buyers look for may not hold.
Will this satisfy my IATF 16949 auditor?
Auditors check whether the specific measurement and range appear on the laboratory's published scope of accreditation, not the accreditation itself. That scope is confirmed before a request is accepted.
What is an error map, and can it be updated on my controller?
The volumetric error compensation map corrects known geometric deviations. Access depends on the controller; some OEM-locked systems restrict updates to authorized channels, which is checked before the visit.
Further Detail
Standards, traceability and equipment control are set out on the quality system page. Commercial terms are in the terms and conditions.
Question about a specific item?
Send the detail and it is answered against the method that would actually be used.