Before partnering with a supplier, it’s critical to have a full understanding of their quality assurance program. A comprehensive quality program signifies a commitment to continual improvement and a dedication to the safety of their end users and staff members alike.
At Hudson Technologies, we have a thorough quality assurance program in place and take pride in our comprehensive inspection and employee training programs, which ensure all parts leaving our facility are of the highest possible quality. Below are some critical components of our multifaceted quality program.
OGP SmartScope Systems
We employ OGP SmartScope dimensional measurement systems for many inspections to ensure optimal part performance and safety. With tactile, optical, and laser functions, our multisensor OGP SmartScope equipment sets us apart from most other providers, who can only provide tactical analysis. The use of a single high-efficiency system rather than multiple specialized systems allows us to offer complete measurements with higher accuracy and quicker turnaround times.
Virtually all parts are subject to their own unique inspection program, and we provide all acquired data to clients before shipping.
Statistical Process Control (SPC)
Hudson Technologies also employs statistical process control throughout all manufacturing stages — from setup and in-process work to final inspections. The SPC method allows us to closely monitor and control manufacturing processes to ensure operations are running as smoothly as possible, thereby reducing the need for reworks while minimizing waste and downtime.
We’re committed to making high-quality parts the first time around, and through the use of continual improvements and statistical analysis of processes and part production, SPC ensures that defects don’t get passed down the production line.
Continual Improvement Training
To further ensure optimal efficiency in all operations, our team makes use of Kaizen methodology as well. With roots in Japanese philosophy, the Kaizen method focuses on continuous process improvement. We apply this to every aspect of our facility to improve and streamline processes, create a safer workplace, reduce waste and downtime, and establish comprehensive plans and goals for the future.
Our team is also Six Sigma green- and black-belt certified. Under Six Sigma, we continually seek out ways to identify and eliminate causes of defects, delays, and waste; using various quality management methods, we’ve created an organized workplace in which every worker has defined responsibilities and undergoes extensive training to ensure deep expertise.
In fact, we employ a dedicated training professional for all operators, allowing workers to continually gain new skills and knowledge.
Process/Product Validation
In addition to the Kaizen method and Six Sigma, Hudson employs the Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) framework for validating and developing parts before manufacture. APQP focuses on upfront quality planning and thorough output evaluation to determine client satisfaction, thereby allowing for continual improvement across all processes.
Our efforts go beyond just understanding part drawings and specifications; we also work to develop a deep understanding of the specific goals of the part at hand. We don’t just aim to meet the customer’s requirements — we aim to exceed them, and APQP plays a major role in allowing us to do so.
Calibration Maintenance and Tracking Software
As part of our commitment to quality, our team handles about 75% of all calibrations, with the rest being sent out to trusted partners for completion. These are handled on a case-by-case basis to determine which parts would benefit from in-house services and which would be better-suited to other calibration facilities.
Visual Inspection Capabilities
Hudson Technologies is proud to maintain close to 20 different visual inspection systems, including a wide range of top-of-the-line microscopes. Our expert team is trained in best methods for visual inspections and regularly undergoes further training to stay ahead of the curve.
First Article Inspections
We’re proud to be certified to AS9102, the first article inspection requirement for aerospace applications. This SAE International standard establishes strict documentation requirements for all first article inspections and requires stringent documentation and verification to ensure engineering design and specification guidelines are adhered to.
This provides our customers the confidence and peace of mind that our aerospace parts will be manufactured to the strictest possible standards, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Learn More
As a leading U.S. manufacturer of deep drawn metal enclosures and stampings, including diaphragms, we are proud to back up all our products with this comprehensive quality assurance program.
To learn more about our services and quality program, view our virtual facility tour at our Ormond Beach, Fla., location, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at our manufacturing and assembly processes. Or, to discuss an upcoming project with us directly, contact the team today.
