Marking for identification is the very necessary process of marking parts, products, and components for different purposes, such as tool traceability, safety, and organisation.
On this occasion, COUTH’S team is pleased to introduce you to everything related to tool traceability and how it important this is in different industrial sectors.
You should know that we are specialists in industrial marking and we have vast experience in the sector, even internationally. In fact, throughout time, we have developed different technologies for efficient tool marking that meets the needs of each client and sector.
What is tool marking?
Tool marking is the process of applying a permanent mark to a tool for identification and tracking purposes. This can be done with different methods, such as:
- Laser marking: Laser marking uses a high-intensity beam of light to make a mark on the surface of the tool. This is a very precise and long-lasting method that can create complex marks like bar codes or logotypes.
- Dot-peen marking: Dot-peen marking uses a needle to strike the surface of the tool, creating a long-lasting mark. This method is fast and affordable and is suitable for marking soft metal tools.
- Scribe marking: This is a marking system that drags the needle over the surface of the part you wish to identify. It uses a needle made of tungsten carbide or diamond, depending on the surface and hardness of the part. This marking system provides long-lasting, clear, and high-quality engravings on very hard materials.
Importance of marking tools
Marking tools is a fundamental process for companies that require the use of tools in their operations, since it provides different benefits with a positive impact on the efficiency, safety, and profitability of the business.
As follows, we provide details on some of the main reasons why tool marking is so important:
- Clear and precise identification: Marked tools provide fast and easy identification, which is crucial for telling them apart, especially in settings where a large volume of equipment is being handled. This makes it easier to find, organise, and assign them to the right operators, optimising time and reducing errors or loss.
- Trackability and inventory control: By including information like unique codes or specific identifiers, you can establish an effective tool traceability system. This way, you can record each tool’s history, including location, use, maintenance, and possible incidents.
- This information is indispensable to optimise inventory management, identify possible quality or safety issues, and make informed decisions regarding renewal or replacement of equipment.
- Loss and theft prevention: Marked tools act to dissuade theft or loss since they provide easy identification of their origin and to whom they belong. This helps to reduce the financial loss associated with missing equipment, protecting the company’s investment.
- Improved workplace safety: Marking tools makes it easier to assign responsibility in the event of accidents or incidents related to the use of equipment. By identifying the worker who used a specific tool, you can take the corrective or preventive actions necessary to guarantee a safer work environment.
- Regulatory compliance: There are regulations and standards in different industries that require tools to be marked as a safety and control measure. Complying with these regulations not only avoids fines and penalties, but also proves the company’s commitment to safety and quality in its processes.
- Optimisation of maintenance management: You can establish a more efficient preventive maintenance programme since you can easily identify the date of the last revision or maintenance for each piece of equipment. This helps to prevent unexpected breakdowns, extend the lifecycle of the tools, and reduce repair costs.
- Professional and responsible image: It projects a professional and responsible company image, since it shows that you care about the organisation, safety, and keeping track of your assets.
How do you mark work tools?
There are different methods to mark work tools, and they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. The right method depends on the kind of tool, the material it is made of, your budget, and personal preference.
The most common methods include:
1. Scribe:
- Advantages: Scribe marking is a permanent, long-lasting method that creates a deep mark on the surface of the tool. It is perfect for tools made of hard materials like metal or hard plastic.
- Disadvantages: Engraving can be a slow and costly process, especially if you make complex marks. On curved or irregular surfaces, the marks can be difficult to read. It requires specialised tools and skills.
2. Dot-peen:
- Advantages: Dot-peen is a fast and affordable method that creates a permanent mark on the tool’s surface. It is suitable for marking tools made with soft metal or hard plastic.
- Disadvantages: Dot-peen marks are not as long-lasting as engraved marks and can be less visible on certain surfaces.
3. Laser:
- Advantages: Laser marking is a precise, long-lasting method that creates a clean and permanent mark on the surface of the tool. It is perfect for marking tools made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, wood, and ceramic.
- Disadvantages: Laser marking can be a costly method, especially for high-power equipment. It requires specialised devices.
Marking tools with COUTH’S devices
A leading company in industrial marking solutions, COUTH provides a wide variety of devices and solutions for permanent tool marking. Our cutting-edge devices use avant-garde technologies to create precise, long-lasting, and wear-resistant marks on a variety of materials.
You can choose from a wide variety of options with different technologies to fit your needs:
If you have any questions or would like one of our products, please do not hesitate to contact us.