Calibration Archivi

Posts

Bench hardness tester: Professional tool for quality control

Bench hardness testers are essential tools used in the quality control industry and used to evaluate the hardness of materials by way of indentation tests. These tools allow you to apply a fixed load for a certain period of time on an indenter, which comes into contact with the testing sample.

Features of the SAMA Tools bench hardness testers

S.A.M.A. Italia is an Italian company that specializes in the manufacturing of measuring instruments. It offers a wide range of high quality portable and bench hardness testers, including various models like Brinell, Rockwell and Vickers. This vast range of products allows customers to choose the model that best suits their hardness measuring needs.

SAMA Tools name-brand bench hardness testers are supplied with a first calibration report, which guarantees the accuracy of the measurements immediately from the moment of purchase. Furthermore, the customer can request periodic calibrations to be done on the instrument, when needed. Routine calibration is an important practice in order to maintain maximum precision of the instruments over time.

The different kinds of bench hardness testers

Bench hardness testers are classified according to the test method used. SAMA Tools offers several options to choose from:

Brinell Hardness Tester

The Brinell hardness tester is the most widely used method for measuring hardness in the industry. This method involves applying a force load to the sample surface using a steel ball indenter. This hardness tester offers a wide range of loads and indenters, allowing one to measure any type of metal.

Rockwell Hardness Tester

The Rockwell hardness tester is a more versatile method which uses a conical diamond indenter or a steel ball. This method offers an automated and fast solution, suitable for samples made of different materials and shapes.

Vickers Hardness Tester

The Vickers hardness tester is used for microhardness and can measure solid and metallic materials of various hardnesses. It uses a square-based pyramid indenter and offers a wide range of test loads. This hardness tester is ideal for laboratory testing.

A video of one of our multiscale bench hardness tester models

Factors to consider when choosing a hardness tester

Several factors must be taken into consideration when choosing the right bench hardness tester:

Test load

The test load that is applied depends on the hardness of the material to be tested. SAMA Tools offers bench hardness testers that allow test loads ranging from 500 kgf up to 3,000 kgf. A higher test load corresponds to higher measurement accuracy.

Hardness range

The type of indenter to be used depends on the hardness range of the materials to be tested. SAMA Tools offers a variety of diamond or steel indenters, suitable to be used for various hardnesses on different materials.

Accuracy

The accuracy level depends on the characteristics of the measuring surface, such as cleanliness, levelness and static or dynamic measuring systems. SAMA Tools supplies bench hardness testers with high measuring accuracy and reliability.

Versatility

The versatility of the hardness tester is important, considering the shape and size of the samples to be tested. SAMA Tools offers versatile solutions that can be adapted to different sample shapes and sizes.

Pre- and post-purchase supplier assistance for hardness testers

Support and assistance from suppliers is crucial when purchasing measuring instruments, such as bench hardness testers.

S.A.M.A. Italia offers complete assistance, both pre-and post-sale. Before purchasing, our team of technicians is available to provide personalized advice on selecting the bench hardness tester that best suits your needs. Our expertise and experience in the sector allows us to recommend the ideal bench hardness tester model based on the material to be tested, the required hardness scale and other technical specifications.

Once you make your purchase, our commitment to post-sales service continues. We make sure that your bench hardness tester is working properly and is accurately calibrated. In case there are doubts, questions or a need for technical support, our team of experts is always ready to respond and offer suitable solutions.

We make sure that you’re completely satisfied and we strive to provide continuous and professional assistance.

The trust placed in our company is attested by the large number of customers, including important multinational groups, who have chosen to work with us.

Check out our testimonials page here!

Hardness tester calibration and personalized training courses

S.A.M.A. Italia always does its best to offer a complete package to its customers. In addition to regular and onsite calibration services, S.A.M.A. offers the option of having the newly purchased hardness tester, including calibration, delivered anywhere in the world.

As already mentioned, carrying out regular calibrations allows one to maintain the maximum precision of measurements over time and ensures that the instruments are always aligned, guaranteeing reliable and consistent results.

Furthermore, our clients can depend on us to train their quality control personnel. Quality training is a fundamental element to ensure correct management and use of hardness testers. S.A.M.A. Italia provides personalalised training courses for company staff, in order to maximize the efficiency and accuracy of the measurements made with the instruments.

Through training courses, we ensure that company personnel is properly trained and is capable of correctly using the bench hardness testers and understanding different testing methods, such as Brinell, Rockwell and Vickers. During the courses, detailed information on the features and functionality of the instruments is provided, as well as best practices for obtaining accurate and repeatable measurements.

Contact us at sales@samatools.it to get more details on the courses that are available, such as duration, content and how to participate.

Portable or bench hardness testers?

The choice between portable and bench hardness testers depends on the specific application that is needed. The SAMA Tools bench hardness testers like the Brinell, Rockwell and Vickers models, ensure precise and reliable measurements. On ther other hand, portable hardness testers are more convenient thanks to their compact size and their ability to test materials without needing to depend on a sample.

We’ve written another article about these two types of hardness testers. You can read more about it here: Portable or bench hardness tester: the challenge

In conclusion, S.A.M.A. Italia is an Italian company that specializes in manufacturing measuring instruments for quality control and offers high quality bench and portable hardness testers, among a vast array of other instruments.

By purchasing a SAMA Tools name-brand hardness tester, you’re sure to receive a precise and high-quality measuring device with a first calibration certificate already included.

Furthermore, upon request, our technicians can arrange a completely personalized training course. With such a wide range of hardness testers, SAMA Tools guarantees the choice of the most suitable model for your needs based on test load, hardness range, level of precision and versatility of the device.

How to reach S.A.M.A. Italia

Fill out the form

Call us at: (+39) 0584/392342 – 392453

17 July 2023/by SamaTools

What are they?

Tri-angle Glossmeter for measuring shine and gloss

The glossmeter is a tool used to measure the shine and gloss of surfaces. Before reading about why to choose the three-angle glossmeter for painted and polished surfaces, let’s see where it’s mainly used.

Where is the glossmeter used?

The glossmeter is employed in many sectors that work with painted and polished surfaces. The main industries that use this device are:

Automotive
Furniture manufacturing
Metal polishing
Industrial painting

In general, the glossmeter is used in any area where the surfaces must be high quality and meet specific standards of shine and gloss.

How does the glossmeter work?

The glossmeter releases a beam of light on the object’s outer surface and measures the intensity of the reflected light. Based on this principle, the glossmeter can determine the degree of gloss of the surface. We’ve already written an article on the physical principles of the glossmeter, which you can read about.

There are several types of glossmeters, each of which is designed to obtain precise measurements based on the detection geometry and the degree of gloss of the surface. For example, some are equipped with three measuring angles, which allow accurate measurements regardless of the degree of gloss of the surface.

The SAMA Tools three-angle glossmeter is ideal for painted and polished surfaces

The SAGT526 high range tri-angle glossmeter by SAMA Tools is an indispensable tool for those who work in the painted and polished surfaces industries. Thanks to its three measuring angles, this glossmeter allows you to obtain precise and reliable measurements regardless of the degree of gloss of the surface.

As already mentioned, this tool is designed to measure the gloss of a surface without damaging it, which makes it ideal for use in a wide range of industries. With an extended measuring range, automatic calibration and high accuracy, this instrument is one of the most professional available on the market.

One of the main advantages is its ability to provide reliable and reproducible results. This is particularly important in fields like the automotive industry, where vehicle surfaces must be high quality and meet the high shine and gloss standards set by car manufacturers.

Why buy a SAMA Tools glossmeter?

There are several reasons why buying a SAMA Tools glossmeter is a good idea for quality control in any company. Here are a few:

Precision: The glossmeter provides precise and reliable measurements of surface gloss.
Repeatability: The glossmeter provides repeatable results, so consistent results can be achieved for every measurement. This is very important to ensure the quality of the products.
Non-destructive: It’s a non-destructive instrument, so it doesn’t damage the surface during the measurement. This makes it ideal for surfaces that cannot be damaged during quality control.
Easy to use: It’s an easy tool to use and has a digital display that makes reading the results clear and simple.
SAMA Tools Guarantee: Thanks to the numerous positive reviews we’ve recieved, you can be sure you’re making a quality purchase.

Why should you calibrate your glossmeter?

The calibration of the glossmeter can be seen as a “snapshot” of the state in which the device is at that particular moment in time. It provides information about the accuracy and reliability of the instrument, as well as revealing any problems or defects that could affect its ability to provide accurate results. Furthermore, it can be used as a reference to evaluate the evolution of the instrument over time and verify whether it is still able to provide reliable results.

Therefore, it’s important to calibrate the glossmeter because this important process allows one to check the operating status of the instrument and ensure its accuracy and reliability.

What are the risks associated with using an uncalibrated instrument?

Not performing periodic calibrations, may result in inaccurate readings that could affect business decisions or the quality of the finished product. Furthermore, calibration is important to ensure that the instrument always delivers accurate results, regardless of whether it hasn’t been used for a long period of time or if it’s been subjected to harsh environmental conditions.

Secondly, calibrating the glossmeter can help to identify any problems or defects that the instrument may have, which, once resolved by means of fine-tuning, allow to obtain reliable results again.

In conclusion, purchasing a glossmeter for quality control can be a good idea for the many industries that work with painted and polished surfaces. The glossmeter offers accuracy, repeatability, non-destructiveness and is easy to use, making it an ideal tool for ensuring the quality of surfaces.

If you’ve enjoyed reading about the glossmeter, we think might be interested in reading about measuring color and brightness.

Don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts for more information and fill out the form. S.A.M.A. Italia can help your company ensure the high quality of your product surfaces, and the calibration of your equipment.

23 June 2023/by SamaTools

Achievements in Quality Control: 4 success stories

In the world of quality control, precision and accuracy are paramount. As a leading supplier of measuring tools and calibration services, S.A.M.A. Italia proudly presents four success stories that highlight the importance of quality across various industrial sectors.

Quality control in Oil & Gas

Inox Tech Spa, that specializes in the production of welded tubes for the oil and gas industry, took on the challenge of ensuring maximum quality and corrosion resistance in its products.

Inox Tech elevated its quality control standards, achieving excellent results.

How did they do it?

They accomplished it by using state-or-the-art measuring instruments provided by S.A.M.A. Italia, such as the digital carbon fiber caliper, portable roughness tester, ultrasonic thickness gauge, ultrasonic thickness gauge through paint with included software, and industrial LED negatoscope.

Read: Quality Control in Oil & Gas with Inox Tech Spa.

Quality control in the resale of paints

Benjamin Paints, a paint retailer in Romania, has selected our color assessment cabinet to ensure the precision of paint color consistency. This tool has proven crucial for verifying that products align with customer specifications, particularly in collaboration with the American manufacturer Benjamin Moore.

Color assessment cabinets are not exclusive to paint manufacturers; even retailers can employ this tool to validate product conformity for their customers. For example, a paint retailer could use a color assessment cabinet to verify that paint samples received from manufacturers precisely match the color specified by the customer. This approach allows the retailer to ensure that the products they offer are accurate and meet customer expectations.

Click here to read How to achieve the right paint color? Case study: Benjamin Paints.

Quality control in sheet metal production

Our third example is Dukometal SA. It’s a Swiss company that is specialized in the production of stainless steel sheets and also offers high quality powder coating services.

By using SAMA Tools measuring instruments for coating thickness and adhesion control, Dukometal guarantees a final product of superior quality.

When addressing these kinds of quality control of coatings, it is essential to consider various factors. Comprehensive testing of the acquired coating is necessary to evaluate its resistance to cracking and peeling, achievable through the use of a cylindrical mandrel tester in compliance with ISO1519/ASTM D522/DIN53152 reference standards.

Furthermore, it is essential to verify the coating’s adhesion to ensure that the metal is not exposed due to detachment. therefore a cross hatch adhesion tester is recommended. It is also important to check the coating thickness with a coating thickness tester to ensure uniformity.

If you want to explore the topic further, read Sheet metal manufactoring and quality control.

Quality control of the environment, health and safety and of the product

Our final success story brings us back to Italy with our client Ecol Studio Spa, who depends on S.A.M.A. Italia for the calibration of it’s measuring instruments. Guido Fornari, founder of the company and author of the 2019 book “Azienda, no problem”, knows the importance of choosing strategic partners that allow one to carry out their business in the best way possible.

Based on these premises, Ecol Studio has chosen S.A.M.A. Italia as a strategic partner for the purchase and calibration of measuring instruments since 2014. The calibration and maintenance of Ecol instruments are performed in accordance with the reference technical standards and the recommendations of the control body (Accredia accredited tests). This way, Ecol Studio can guarantee the maximum accuracy and reliability of its instruments.

Ecol Studio works with companies with ACCREDIA accredited analysis laboratories and is dedicated to various areas, such as accident and occupational disease prevention in the workplace and compliance with law and risk assessment for the production activity. It also helps companies comply with environmental regulations and improve their green and energy performance, offering reliable solutions and tests to create products and implement processes that comply with the required standards.

The article Ecol Studio Spa: A storybook tale!, goes more into detail.

In the photo: Guido Fornari’s book with SAMA Tools pamphlet

In conclusion, we presented four success stories, covering a wide range of industries, from Oil & Gas to paint retail, sheet metal production, environmental, health and safety and product quality control.

All of these clients have found value in using our instruments and have achieved positive results in their respective fields.

We hope these stories inspire other companies to use our measuring and control tools to achieve equally positive results.

Read what many customers have to say about us, by clicking on the image below!

5 January 2023/by SamaTools

Case study

Quality Control in Oil & Gas with Inox Tech Spa

The Oil & Gas sector requires technologically advanced products, capable of operating in difficult environmental and climatic conditions. At the same time, when storing hazardous substances, preventive actions must be taken to reduce the risk of leaks. This certainly includes quality control procedures for Oil & Gas.

For example, tank corrosion can cause environmental contamination due to leaks. Based on this premise, each manufacturer must take care to inspect, service and calibrate their quality control equipment.

We are proud to be able to talk about one of our customers, who is a leading producer of welded pipes in the Oil & Gas market.

Quality control of welded tubes: Inox Tech Spa

Inox Tech S.p.A produces welded pipes (SAWL) in corrosion-resistant metal alloys (CRA). This Italian company, based in Lendinara was founded in 1989 and has evolved and specialized as a manufacturer and focuses on LNG, refineries and submarine applications with the highest quality standards, guaranteeing flexibility, reliability and effectiveness to all it’s customers.

Their main production line consists of thick welded tubes, with external diameters that can reach up to 110”, and with wall thicknesses of up to 70 mm. In addition to this particular line, they create solutions of smaller dimensions and thinner thicknesses, starting from an external diameter of 6”and wall thickness of 4 mm.

These pipes are mass-produced thanks to their recently renovated factory and first-rate technologies, which allows Inox Tech to reach a production capacity of 30,000 tons a year. The products obtained are only of the highest level, thanks to their API certification with the 3 monograms (API 5L, 5LC and 5LD), an ISO 9001 certified quality system, and various awards received from the most important companies in Oil & Gas such as: ExxonMobil, Shell, Total, and Saudi Aramco.

The internal laboratory guarantees high quality standards

In addition to the certifications mentioned above, the Inox Tech plant is equipped with a quality system and related equipment that allows them to check the characteristics of the materials, the quality of the welds, to ensure compliance with the regulations and above all, to guarantee the highest quality products.

It also collaborates with an independant accredited laboratory, which is located inside its own factory. This allows them to perform the destructive tests on the materials required “in house” to verify the chemical and mechanical properties.

Destructive Control

The destructive tests that are usually required for their products include:

Product / Chemical analysis
Pull tests at hot and room temperature
Crease tests
Impact tests to -196 ° C
Hardness tests
Standard corrosion tests (G48, G28, etc.)
Drop Weight Tear tests (DWTT)
Hydrogen Induced Cracking tests (HIC)
Sulphide Stress Cracking tests (SSC)

Non-destructive Control NDT

While the non-destructive tests carried out entirely by their internal personnel include:

Penetrating liquids
Manual ultrasound tests
Radiography (traditional and digital X-rays)
Magnetic detectors
Positive Material Identification tests (PMI)

The stages of quality control at Inox Tech

We have already mentioned that Inox Tech is equipped with a certified quality system for all equipment and tools which therefore allows all quality control tests to be carried out internally.

Based on the test performed and what needs to be determined, quality control can be performed at every stage of the manufacturing process.

For example, if the goal is to determine the quality of raw materials, the test can be performed upon receiving the goods from suppliers. The welds can be verified as soon as they are completed, while the quality of the tube can be tested, as soon as it leaves the production line.

Having your own equipment and tools is a significant advantage, as it makes the company’s quality control system very efficient. Inox Tech also needs high-level quality control tools to make sure that all controls and inspections are accurate and reliable.

5 measuring and control instruments for the Oil & Gas sector

Inox Tech relies on SAMA Tools as a trusted partner and supplier of quality control tools to guarantee highly accurate and reliable results.

We offer them and all our customers, high quality control and measurement instruments, such as:

1. High quality carbon fiber digital caliper – SAM039

A great measuring tool to check geometric dimensions. The fact that it is made of carbon fiber makes it very light and comfortable for the operator, while still being considerably sturdy.

SAM039

2. Portable surface roughness tester – SA6220

Surface roughness is essential to check the quality of the pipes. Portable roughness meters allow you to do this both on the production line and in the laboratory.

SA6220

3. Precision ultrasonic thickness gauge – SAUT160

A professional tool to determine the wall thickness of pipes made by Inox Tech. The materials in question are Stainless Steel, Duplex, Super Duplex, Nickel Alloys, SS 6Mo, Carbon Steel and Low Alloy Steel.

SAUT 160

4. Through coating ultrasonic thickness gauge with software included – SAUT310D-SW

Because they are exposed to highly abrasive and corrosive environments, oil and gas pipes are generally protected by coatings and paints. This ultrasonic thickness gauge is able to work in “through paints” mode to detect the thickness of the underlying material.

SAUT 310D-SW

5. LED industrial viewer – SANEG-300/16

The industrial LED X-ray film viewer is essential for radiographic analysis, as it provides a reduction in energy in the form of heat, uniform light and superior durability while minimizing maintenance costs.

SANEG-300/16

Why choose SAMA Tools for your quality control?

Thanks to the ISO-9001 certified quality system, all SAMA Tools instruments are rigorously checked and inspected from the initial phases up to when it’s shipped to the customer. Furthermore, upon request, the instruments can be accompanied with a calibration report with reference to primary samples or by an ACCREDIA certificate.

In addition to the constant work of checking and inspecting our equipment, we are keen to assist our customers with the installation and during the first measurements, to accompany them throughout the most delicate phases of their tests. All-round technical assistance is our mission. This way, Inox Tech and all our customers, can learn concepts that go far beyond the simple reading of a manual.

The win-win strategy

A more personal collaboration, guided by mutual trust, makes work more enjoyable and helps to build a win-win relationship.

The strategy of winning together is a way of thinking and acting that leads us and our customers to build a sincere bond.

This is exactly what happened with Inox Tech. Thanks to the kindness of their staff, we consider them as our special clients. Even though the ultimate commercial goal of any company continues to be the sale, this cannot be seen as a mere exchange of money.

The approach of S.A.M.A. Italia to the client is consultative. Therefore, we want to convey the value of the solutions we offer. We do this by placing the customer at the center of every conversation.

Closing thoughts

As you may have understood, our mission is to make customers reach high quality standards and we are really proud of our collaborative relationship that we’ve created over the years together with Inox Tech S.p.A.

Here you can find feedback from the many customers who have chosen us and we hope that you can soon become one of them, too.

Therefore, if you need help in choosing the best measuring instruments for your specific needs, and / or you need calibration reports (even on instruments of other brands), do not hesitate to contact our technical department.

You can call us at +39 0584/392342 – 0584/392453 or if you prefer, you can contact us in writing at sales@samatools.it.

4 November 2022/by SamaTools

Curiosity

How to check the color of molds and plastic components?

Although many people may think that achieving, the right color of a product is simple, in reality there is a sequence of very important of steps to follow in order to achieve the required color. We’ve already mentioned this in our recent article dedicated to our Romanian client, Benjamin Paints. Today we will see how to examine and check the color of molds and plastic components.

For an injection mold manufacturer, for example, finding defects in the color of an object represents a failure in quality control. This results in the product being sold at a discounted price or even discarded, even before it is placed on the market.

That is why it is so important for the manufacturer to get the correct color.

Failure to achieve the correct color of a product before placing it on the market implies a wide range of issues that involve not only the economic aspect, but also puts the reputation and reliability of the brand at risk. Not to mention functionality issues: for example when highly reflective colors that are required for certain applications, get unsatisfactory results.

Getting the colors right is essential, but how?

Photo by Canva PRO

How can manufacturers check the color of molds and plastic components?

You may have already heard that colors are identified subjectively and emotionally. There is a lot of truth to this and precision work is at the base of it, by making sure that the color obtained is exactly the one specified.

Fortunately, technology has taken color measurement and control to the next level. While visual assessment is still the first step, there are tools like professional colour difference meters and color matching cabinets, that make color quality control much easier and more accurate.

But having state-of-the-art instruments isn’t the only step manufacturers need to take to get the right colors. Getting the best results involves a gradual process where every single detail has to be considered.

Here are some of the most important aspects that a manufacturer needs to achieve the best results:

Having a trained eye: visual inspection

As mentioned above, the first filter for color control is through visual inspection. When color differences are noticeable, having an expert eye that carries out this first inspection will save time and resources. However, when the differences become difficult for the eye to see, it is then necessary to use specific measuring instruments.

Using the right tools: colour difference meters and color matching cabinets

To check the color quality, the go-to instrument is the colour difference meter (see the article “Colour difference meter: what it is and why it is important”).

In some cases, a colorimeter is all you need. However, there are some cases where tolerances require the highest level of accuracy possible or the nature of the product and the material used to manufacture it, require other types of instrumentation to be used. For example, a color matching cabinet can come in handy when a neutral environment with uniform light is required.

Color matching cabinet

How to use a colour difference meter and a color matching cabinet?

Having the best measuring instruments on the market is not enough, if you do not know how to use them correctly.

Having an expert eye for visual inspection coupled with training for correct instrument operation and correct interpretation of the results, makes a big difference in ensuring that the quality control process is 100% reliable.

Those who buy SAMA Tools name-brand measuring instruments will be guided step by step, via remote or in person, when they choose to combine our training courses with the purchase of an instrument.

On-site training courses for colour difference meters and color matching cabinets

Nowadays, many companies require training courses combined with the installation of the instruments/equipment, directly on-site, in order to fully understand how to use the tools effectively and straight away.

Our trained technicians explain how to use the colour difference meters in order to be able to compare the various components produced, with all the reference standards imposed by their customers, and thus identifying any delta deviations from the color values. This evaluation allows them to make all the necessary changes in order to ensure excellent quality while avoiding any kind of dispute.

However, many sectors work a lot with translucent objects, which is why it is imperative to have a color matching cabinet as well.

The cabinet allows you to recreate a neutral environment with uniform light, where the tested components are not affected by anything around them.

Thanks to our courses, the instrument features are explained in every detail, allowing for a better assessment of the differences between the various colors, mainly in transparent molds, which are hardly visible to the naked eye.

Our customers can thus ascertain whether the production is in line with the required standards, or not.

SAMA Tools colour difference meter and Color matching cabinet training course

After the training course, instrument adjustment and periodic calibration.

As human beings, we are not perfect. Even when well prepared, human error is present, so establishing clear procedures for how to take measurements is essential to minimize human error.

Furthermore, each certified company can guarantee higher quality thanks to specific procedures.

Not only people, but measuring instruments can also sometimes be wrong, which means that periodic calibration and adjustments should be included in these procedures.

Quality control in molding

Many S.A.M.A. Italia clients work in the field of molds and plastic components. These are often activities within the automotive and household appliances sectors.

To fulfil their mission, they work hard to find accurate and reliable tools that can improve and optimize the work surrounding quality control.

Our customers carry out quality control inspections in order to understand how much the colors of their productions differ from the reference standards dictated by the orders they receive.

SAMA Tools and color control of plastic molds

Companies that rely on us as their main supplier of instruments for their quality control activities, always receive professional advice from our qualified technicians who analyse their production to better understand what their specific needs are.

After this preliminary consultation, which is included in our service, customers who are interested in color measurement and control generally, purchase the SA230 colorimeter and / or the SACAS276 color matching cabinet.

SAMA Tools Consulting and technical explanation

How to reach us

In addition to color quality control instruments, we offer a wide range of non-destructive testing tools for a variety of applications.

Buying a SAMA Tools name-brand instrument gives you the security of being able to choose, at any time, the right training for your Quality Control, without wasting time.

Customer satisfaction is our main goal and we would be more than happy to see you become one.

So, if you need help choosing your color quality control instruments, you can always count on our technical advice.

Contact our technical department and call us at 0584/392342 – 0584/392453 or, alternatively, fill out the online form to contact us in writing.

5 October 2022/by SamaTools

Events

MECSPE 2023: Explore the latest technologies in quality control with S.A.M.A. Italia

MECSPE is the acronym for Specialized Mechanics. In Italy, it’s the most important fair for the manufacturing industry. This fair began in Parma about twenty years ago, and in 2019 was replicated in southern Italy, with the MECSPE Bari edition. It’s a great opportunity to meet the main exhibitors in the specialized mechanics sector and learn the latest news and market trends.

Don’t miss this opportunity to participate at this important event.

MECSPE at BolognaFiere

MECSPE is the leading Italian B2B trade fair for manufacturing technologies and innovation.

In 2022, it attracted 39,348 highly profiled visitors with decision-making powers from key manufacturing industry sectors.

In fact, BolognaFiere boasts one of the most advanced exhibition spaces, not only in Italy, but in the entire world and is home for over 80 national and international trade fairs.

Bologna is a city that combines culture and knowledge, excellent cuisine and traditions and exudes a very friendly and open mentality.

S.A.M.A. Italia is based in Viareggio, in Tuscany, Italy, but has a heavy Bolognese influence, given that one of the proprietors comes from this Emilian capital.

Furthermore, the colors of our logo are red and blue, just like the colors of the Bologna football team.

The thematic shows at MECSPE

Thanks to the synergies of 13 thematic exhibitions, MECSPE offers visitors a complete overview of materials, machines, the latest innovative technologies and of course our own name brand measuring instruments and calibration services for your quality control needs.

You will also find unique conferences and events that will surely capture your interest.

We have been actively exhibiting at MECSPE for over 10 years, and one of the most interesting aspects is certainly the very accurate organization of the fair by the Tecniche Nuove Group and in particular by Senaf.

Year after year, we’ve seen a growing improvement, which is reflected in the increase of highly specialized visitors, who come to visit our stand or the fair, in general.

Just to be more accurate and give a better idea of the potential of MECSPE, we can report a turnout of 48,562 visitors at the 2021 edition in Bologna.

Earlier, we referred to Senaf’s excellent organization, given that for several years it has been offering 13 shows that allows one to visit the best suppliers of technologies, machines and processes in the following sectors:

Machines and Tools
Treatments and surface finishings
Machines, materials and processing of sheet metal
Quality and Control (Our sector!)
Digital factory
Power transmissions
Automation and robotics
Logistics
Electronic subcontracting
Mechanical subcontracting
Moulds – Machines for Plastics, Rubber and Composite Subcontracting
Non-ferrous materials and alloys
Additive manufacturing

Who is MECSPE for?

This fair is visited by people in the sector. They are generally owners of small and medium-sized companies, or technicians and buyers with decision-making powers from large Italian and foreign companies, looking for new suppliers or to consolidate previously formed relationships.

The change of the location of the fair, from Parma to BolognaFiere in 2022 was also done with internationalization in mind, which is to say that many exhibitors like us at S.A.M.A. Italia are ready and organized to welcome foreign customers as well.

Our highly competent and friendly staff are able to welcome customers from all over the world, without any communication difficulties.

So, whether you are the owner of a small company, a technician or a buyer of a large Italian or foreign company, come and visit us at our stand for any needs related to quality control measuring instruments . Read on to find out how to get a free ticket.

Photo by Canva Pro

Quality and Control at MECSPE: SAMA Tools

Here is our exhibition at MECSPE, this is our world, and we will be located in Pav. 29, Stand B50.

We have already talked about how the S.A.M.A. Italia team is ready to welcome you. Now, let’s see what you will find once you come see at our stand.

Measuring instruments for checking incoming goods, goods that are in production and before they are placed for sale.

Non-destructive testing at MECSPE

The tools for non-destructive testing (NDT) that we produce are ideal for performing different types of checks or measurements, aimed at identifying a mechanical characteristic without damaging the state of the object.

At our stand you can find information on:

Surface roughness measurement

Control of material defects

Visual examinations

Ultrasonic thickness gauges

Thickness gauges for checking coatings

Verification of color and shine

Hardness testers for checking the hardness of materials

Video inspections

What is the latest news that we will unveil at this edition of the fair? You’ll just have to come and visit us at stand C45, Pav. 29, to find out!

Destructive testing at MECSPE

In addition to tools for non-destructive testing, you can also find tools for destructive testing here.

As the name suggests, they perform a series of checks or measurements aimed at identifying a mechanical characteristic by altering the sample.

Here are what types of tests we can talk to you about at MECSPE:

Resistance to:

Traction

Compression

Twisting

Flexion

Cutting

Wearing of materials

Resistance of materials and coatings to atmospheric agents

Instruments for the verification of the applied force

If you want to learn more about the NDT and destructive control measuring instruments, click on the red link.

Photo by Canva Pro

Mechanical measuring instruments at MECSPE

SAMA Tools is a brand that also helps you in your precision mechanical workshop. Want some examples?

Here are the mechanical tools that we produce for many of you of which we can talk about at the fair to consolidate or create new collaboration opportunities.

Dial bore gauges
Zero setters
Eccentricity bench testers
Control benches
Magnetic bases for dial gauges
Gauge block sets

Calipers:

Comparative digital calipers
Carbon fiber micrometers
Vernier calipers
Dial calipers
Depth calipers
Digital calipers
Welding calipers

Gauges:

Centesimal dial gauges
Digital gauges
Micron dial gauges
Scribing calipers
Circumference tape
Flexometers
Protractors
Levels

Micrometers:

3-point micrometers
Depth micrometers
Indoor, outdoor and screw thread micrometers

Parallel vee blocks and granite surface plates
Depth Threads
Straight edge rulers
Thickness gauges
Pin gauges
Steel squares
Dial gauge stands
Plug and ring gauges
Dial test indicators
Height gauges

Calibration services of measuring instruments at MECSPE

The S.A.M.A Italia team will be present at the MECPE Fair to also provide information and assistance on the calibration of measuring instruments.

We offer a complete service to ensure that measuring instruments are always calibrated and working at their best to ensure maximum precision and reliability in quality control.

We will discuss your specific needs together and provide advice on the calibration of your measuring instruments.

If you are unsure why it is so important to keep your instruments calibrated, please read this article on why it’s important to calibrate your instruments.

In short, you can consider us the ideal partner for the periodic calibration of SAMA Tools name-brand measuring instruments, as well as instruments of other brands. We provide both calibration services referable to the primary standards and Accredia calibration certificates, as well.

If you want to find out the difference between instrument calibration and adjustment, you can read another article we wrote. You can find it here.

Photo by Canva Pro

Your free ticket to visit MECSPE

If you have read this far, you will surely have understood how deserving this fair is to visit in order to forge new collaborations …. with us at SAMA Tools of course!

You can come alone or with other colleagues, there is no limit to how many can visit. All professionals in the sector are welcome since it is you, who travel from all over Italy and beyond, to decree the fair’s great success, year after year.

It is precisely thanks to the presence of professionals like you, which inspire our team and who will be ready to welcome you at the SAMA Tools stand.

There is no effort that it is not rewarded by visits from our long-standing customers and all the new companies that will become so, thanks to this year’s MECSPE.

To download the free ticket, you’ll only need to register online by providing your email.

Download your free ticket now.

Plan your meeting with our staff now

The MECSPE Fair is a unique opportunity to meet the laeding exhibitors in the quality control and measurement sector. Therefore, if you are a quality control professional, or a buyer of measuring and control instruments, it is essential to plan your visit to our stand to avoid wasting time and concentrate on what really interests you.

To organize your visit to our stand, follow these simple steps:

Choose the day you want to visit the fair and send us an email at sales@samatools.it, stating the time in which you would like to meet us. Our technicians will be happy to welcome you.
Write down the day and time of our appointment in your agenda or digital calendar.

See you at MECSPE Bologna!

12 May 2022/by SamaTools

Case study

Sheet metal manufacturing and quality control

The manufacturing of sheet metal plays a crucial role in creating a wide range of everyday items, including car bodies and appliance parts. In the context of a highly competitive market, precision, uniformity, and quality are paramount.

The ultimate goal is to deliver products of the utmost quality.

Considering this, it’s evident that quality control (QC) is a fundamental element in reaching ever-higher standards and satisfying customer requirements. Keep reading to learn more.

What is sheet metal?

When we talk about sheet metal, we refer to a sheet derived from a roll of metal. The advantages certainly include a great adaptability to numerous surface finishes at all levels with very low processing costs. In fact, it does not require additional machining operations, which is why it is used in various sectors.

Photo by Canva Pro

Sheet metal manufacturing: production

Sheet metal manufacturing usually involves a series of processes that include laser cutting, stamping, bending, among others.

A process like stamping is usually divided into subprocesses that are necessary to achieve the final product.

Bending
Hemming
Blanking
Ironing
Curling
Piercing
Cutting
Stretching
Drawing
Reducing/necking
Embossing

Of course, with the most recent developments in manufacturing technology, sheet metal manufacturers have taken their skills to the next level.

By using CNC machines, they can now achieve the very complex geometries required by many applications while complying with the tightest tolerance specifications.

Sheet metal manufacturing: Every metal has a different use

The uses of sheet metal vary based on the type of metal being used.

It is certainly interesting to list some types and match them to the most suitable form of application.

What kind of metal is used to produce shop signs? What about the components of aerospace engines?

Let’s find out!

Carbon steel sheet is often used when corrosion is not a concern. It can be used for anything from car bodies to store signs. The reason for its versatility is because it is relatively affordable and has superior tensile strength when compared with copper and aluminum.
Galvanized steel sheet is a form of carbon steel sheet metal that is frequently used in automotive parts and greenhouse equipment, buckets, irrigation pipe and marine vessels.
Stainless steel sheet is typically more expensive because it can withstand corrosion and is widely used in aerospace engine components, marine structures and vessels, pharmaceutical processing equipment and food handling equipment. Stainless steel sheet also has good aesthetic appeal that makes it popular for signage and appliances.
Aluminum sheet is lightweight and quite resistant to corrosion. Aluminum sheet is used for boat components, marine structures, cookware, automotive parts, and aerospace parts.
Finally, copper sheet is known for its electrical conductivity and is used in resistance welding equipment or certain types of battery systems. Because of its malleability and superior aesthetic qualities, it is also commonly used in home decor and other forms of artwork.

If you are interested in sheet metal production techniques, you can check out the free Masterclasses offered by the Italian company Dallan Spa. They specialize in the production of profiling lines, punching machines and laser cutting of thin materials.

Photo by Canva Pro

Sheet metal manufacturing: Quality Control

However, to be competitive, sheet metal manufacturers can’t stop at basic processing. Especially when many of the parts they make will end up in important structural applications, including beams, cross sections, rail tracks, the body of different vehicles, and even the fuselage and airplane wings.

Among the things just mentioned, sheet metal manufacturers need to guarantee their products are strong and durable enough to cope with the operational demands of such applications. They also have to make sure surfaces can resist exposure to extreme temperatures and harsh environments. Think of the components in the body of an airplane and you will get the idea.

How to make this possible?

Many people think quality control refers to identifying defective products and discarding them before sending a batch into the market.

However, according to ISO 9000:2015 section 3.6.2, quality is “the degree to which a set of inherent characteristics of an object fulfils requirements.” And this means that manufacturers must ensure that the parts are made to design specifications and will function properly.

Dimensional verification

Quality Control in the sheet metal industry usually involves the verification of dimensional properties such as straightness, flatness, circularity, concentricity, cylindricity, perpendicularity, parallelism, profile, and runout.

These dimensional properties are usually verified with measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and the resulting measurements must fall within the expected tolerances.

But quality control in the sheet metal industry is not just about dimensional verification.

Destructive and non-destructive testing (NDT)

Manufacturers also need to guarantee hardness, strength, and durability. To do so, they need to verify those properties on the final product. This is generally done with destructive and non-destructive testing (NDT) control instruments, which include:

Instruments for checking the applied force
Tensile strength tests
Compression strength tests
Flexion strength tests
Cutting strength tests
Hardness testers

As mentioned above, surfaces must resist exposure to extreme temperatures and harsh environments, but metals are usually prone to change or lose their mechanical properties in these situations. We all have seen how corrosion attacks metal parts near the ocean.

Photo by Canva Pro

Sheet metal manufacturing: corrosion resistance

Apart from using metals that may have a higher corrosion resistance, manufacturers can use some surface finish techniques like coating to improve these properties. Naturally, this also requires quality control to guarantee that it actually works.

Let’s look at the case of our customer Dukometal SA as an example.

Quality control for sheet metal coating: Dukometal SA

While Dukometal SA specializes in sheet metal manufacturing with stainless steels, they offer a powder coating service they call “Thermopowdering” which they use to provide an even higher level of quality.

Dukometal SA’s powder coating is a type of thermosetting powder coating typically applied by electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) and then cured under heat.

They offer specific advantages, such as:

Emitting little or no volatile organic compounds (VOC), unlike liquid coatings.
Creating a more durable finish than conventional paint.
Producing much thicker coatings than conventional liquid coatings without running or sagging.
They can be recycled, so it is possible to achieve nearly 100% use of the coating.
Capital equipment and operating costs for a powder line are generally less than for conventional liquid lines.
Horizontally and vertically powder-coated surfaces have a more uniform appearance than liquid coated items.
A wide range of specialty effects can be achieved that would otherwise be impossible with other coating processes.

Dukometal SA quality control

When it comes to the quality control of these types of coatings, several aspects must be considered.

The coating obtained needs to be tested for crack resistance and the stripping performance. This can be done with a Cylindrical Mandrel Tester which should be in compliance with standards ISO1519 / ASTM D522 / DIN53152.

Adhesion of the coating is also critical. This will ensure the metal is not exposed caused by coating peeling. Therefore, a cross hatch adhesion tester is recommended.

Coating thickness is verified with a coating thickness tester to guarantee the uniformity of the coating.

The properties of powder coatings need to be determined before, during and after the temperature induced curing step to understand how a certain formulation will work with a specific processing step, as well as the actual application of the finished part. Therefore, Dukometal SA relies on our portable pH and conductivity meter to verify anywhere and anytime they need it.

Instrument calibration

It is also important to keep all these instruments calibrated, otherwise false results could mislead the quality control inspections. This is why we not only provide our calibration services to Dukometal SA but also to all our customers.

We’ve come to the end of this article on sheet metal manufacturing and quality control. If you’ve found it interesting, you can share it with your colleagues and on social media. Content is even more useful when it is shared with others.

For all your measuring needs or our calibration services, you can call to speak with our technicians, or email us, if you prefer.

We are here to assist you. Contact us now.

1 May 2022/by SamaTools

What are they?

Compliance and Non-Compliance: What are the costs?

Maintaining quality certainly involves costs, but the lack of quality or more specifically, implementing procedures to eliminate complications and non-conformities, has a much higher cost.

Furthermore, non-conformities harm manufacturers because they cause a loss of customers, in the long run.

Therefore, we can say that compliance costs depend on how much has been spent to “do things well”, while those associated with non-conformities are the costs related to how much more has been spent for “not having done things well”.

So how much does quality really cost?

To clearly evaluate quality costs and to have a clear idea of one’s situation, it is essential to define and apply a quality measurement system.

The cost of quality can be placed into four categories:

Prevention Costs
Appraisal Costs
Internal Failure Costs
External Failure Costs

1. Prevention Costs in Industrial Quality Control:

Prevention costs are the expenses associated with all planned activities aimed at preventing the occurrence of poor quality/non-conformity in products or services.

Here are only some examples of prevention costs:

Training for workers involved in the service or delivery of the product
Definition of measurement methods with related procedures and checklists
Equipment inspection and the purchasing of the necessary measuring and control instruments
Tests on samples
Periodic reviews of projects
Selection of suppliers based on service standards and specifications for materials and services purchased externally
Quality system audits

2. Appraisal Costs for the Evaluation of Conformity to Quality Standards:

Appraisal costs are costs that are incurred to ensure the conformity to quality standards and performance requirements.

The examples of appraisal costs include:

Test and inspection (receiving, in-process and final)
Supplier acceptance sampling
Product Audits
Calibration

3. Internal Costs for Production Failures and Deficiencies:

Internal Failure Costs are the costs that are associated with defects found before the customer receives the product or service.

The examples of internal failure costs include:

In-process scrap and rework
Troubleshooting and repairing
Design changes
Inventory required to support poor process yields and rejected lots
Re-inspection / retest of reworked items
Failure to carry out on-site (online) calibration which can lead to system malfunctions

4. External costs associated with post-sale Failures and Deficiencies:

External Failure Costs are the costs that are associated with defects found after the customer receives the product or service.

The examples of external failure costs include:

Sales returns due to defective products and their subsequent replacement
Service level agreement penalties
Complaint handling
Field service labour and parts costs incurred due to warranty obligations
Product recalls / Legal claims
Time lost due to resolution issues
Company reputation issues
Lost customers

Since 1994, S.A.M.A. Italia has been active in supporting companies and freelancers throughout the various stages associated with quality control.

Our know-how, which is built on our vast experience gained through precision mechanical workshops and by working with companies in various production sectors has allowed us to produce our SAMA Tools name-brand measuring instruments and to provide calibration service on all brands of instruments.

What sets us apart is the combination of our highly technical skills and the manner in which we attentively listen to our customers’ needs within the company.

By doing so, we can provide them with the right equipment to help better their production, while avoiding the problems described in point 4, regarding external failure costs.

After providing the most suitable measuring instruments, we take care of our customers by supporting them in the periodic calibration of their instruments.

But what if you own other non-SAMA instrument brands and need to calibrate them?

Those in possession of instruments of other brands can contact us without hesitation and ask for a calibration quote. We offer both calibration reports referable to primary samples (RDT), and also ACCREDIA certificates.

This is an extremely important service that all companies that work with measuring instruments need!

It often happens that the same company needs to request an RDT for some instruments and an ACCREDIA certificate for others.

By contacting us, you can count on a single supplier, a very important aspect in terms of saving time, shipping and calibration costs, etc.

In fact, we at S.A.M.A. Italia personally carry out and issue the RDT laboratory test reports while carefully appointing the best accredited laboratories for the ACCREDIA certificates.

Each laboratory is accredited for specific instruments so as a result, we are constantly evaluating the various accredited laboratories in order to always be sure who to send a particular instrument to.

Furthermore, based on the experience we have gained over the years, we believe that some laboratories are more thorough than others and are able to professionally and promptly respond to any post-calibration clarifications. This aspect should not be underestimated; on the contrary, it is extremely important!

This is why our customers’ instruments will only be sent to accredited laboratories that have passed our strict evaluations.

Just recently, a customer wrote to us, specifying that he absolutely did not want his instruments to be calibrated by certain laboratories, which coincidentally are not among those with which we work.

Conclusion: Compliance and Non-Compliance

Today, we have seen that being a quality-conscious company has its costs. However, these costs will never be as high as those that arise due to poor quality.

The importance of quality vs. the costs of non-compliance

Quality control of the goods during the receiving, in-process/production and post-production phases, before placing the product on the market, is absolutely necessary.

To ensure that you purchase the right tools, our S.A.M.A. Italia technicians are available, even on-site, to evaluate your every need and offer you the best solutions for your measuring instruments.

The proper management of calibration intervals aims at safe and efficient production processes, which lead to quality products.

Although many companies consider calibration only as a means of obtaining a certification of legal value, calibration actually affects the overall effectiveness of the measuring instrument. This is, therefore, a very subtle point that can lead to non-compliant products and consequently serious problems and subsequent costs.

Making sure that the measuring instruments are functioning correctly, helps to prevent system failures.

It is important that companies understand what they need to do to reduce overall quality costs. This will help them improve business processes, which will ultimately lead to higher profits.

The worst type of costs to incur among these four categories are the ones related to external failures, whereby companies should do their best to try to reduce these types of costs.

For years, our company has been working hard to drastically reduce external failure costs. We do so by checking each and every instrument, before it is packed and shipped out to our customers.

Quality assurance and strict monitoring by S.A.M.A. Italia

A careful inspection of everything we deliver obviously requires significant economic resources, but this is also what our customers have come to expect when turning to S.A.M.A. Italia for their instrument needs.

An almost 0% non-compliance average, translates into time saved and customers who in turn will receive no complaints from third parties.

It is therefore evident that spending more on prevention and appraisal costs usually leads to a reduction of internal and external failure costs.

S.A.M.A. Italia is a company that specializes in:

✔️ the production of SAMA Tools name-brand measuring instruments for your quality control needs

✔️ the calibration of instruments pertaining to all brands

▶ Why choose us?

Because our technical staff will not only supply you with the right measuring instruments but will help you with your specific needs thanks to our many years of experience. Being a “S.A.M.A. Tools” customer means always having a consultant who will be able to provide you with that added value that will make the difference for your business.

Get in touch.

Tel. 0584/392342 – 0584/392453

sales@samatools.it

14 April 2022/by SamaTools

Case study

Measuring and calibration instruments: The case of DKC Group

Measuring and calibration instruments are used by the Control & Quality departments of companies which operate in very different sectors.

DKC is a solid and well-established company that has been creating solutions and designs in the electrical engineering and industrial automation sector since 1998 and has chosen our instruments to guarantee even greater efficiency regarding a particular area of its production: cable holder systems, a debut in its field and still the flagship of the company.

The range of ducts and accessories for cable protection is characterized primarily by its versatility which, with high performance, allows the systems to be applicable in various sectors, from civil to industrial.

Therefore, versatility goes hand in hand with maximum accuracy and high precision standards.

The value of these characteristics emerges above all when it comes to small spaces or infrastructures where the cable-carrying systems determine proper operational activities. An example is the data processing centre, which requires optimal use of space to contain as much operating equipment within the permitted temperature range.

Therefore, it is through the control of precision levels, in regards to the production and installation of components for the protection of cables, that translates into high quality results.

But how can this process be guaranteed?

Measuring and calibration instruments. Production department

In photo: DKC production department

How to control accuracy during production and installation?

The answer to this question is simpler than many may think, since controlling accuracy only takes using highly accurate measuring instruments.

Of course, there are many measuring instruments for different purposes. For example, thermometers, speedometers, and even a simple clock are measuring instruments. But in order to control accuracy during the production and installation of infrastructure components, such as electrical installations, IT infrastructures and industrial automation elements, other measuring devices are required.

Some common measuring instruments used for the applications mentioned above include:

Measuring and calibration instruments. Mechanical field sama tools

In photo: SAMA Tools instruments list – mechanical field

How do measuring instruments guarantee accuracy?

In order get the highest accuracy from your measuring devices two important aspects need to be considered

Firstly, the chosen supplier must produce high quality tools based on international standards. With this in mind, we can proudly claim that SAMA Italia is UNI EN ISO 9001 certified and supplies measuring instruments ensuring both high quality and competitive prices.

Another fundamental element is instrument calibration. Calibration allows accuracy verification with reference to known samples, by reporting the difference between the value detected by the instrument and the known value of the reference sample to determine the accuracy of the instrument. Comparison should always be done on the basis of standards to guarantee compliance.

Once again, we are proud to say that we offer our customers a calibration service with laboratory test reports and/or ACCREDIA calibration certificates on our own product range or on equipment already possessed by your company.

High accuracy and high quality at DKC Group

With over 20 years of history and a DNA characterized by technological innovation, green transition, know-how and training, DKC Group is a point of reference for creating solutions and designs in the electrical engineering and industrial automation sector and has been active since 1998 with cable holder systems.

Thanks to a vision based on the evolution and innovation of the main international markets and a courageous acquisition policy, the Group has constantly grown and expanded its product line, such as cable protection and the distribution and accumulation of energy solutions.

Measuring and calibration instruments. DKC production

In photo: a particular of DKC production

The company currently offers its customers a wide range of solutions, which include:

Cable protection systems with metallic ducts.
Solutions for outdoor installations and LV systems.
Metal and plastic protection systems.
Air-conditioned rack cabinet systems for data management.
Energy transport and distribution solutions.
Solutions for electrical distribution boards.
Energy conversion systems.
Automation and energy distribution solutions.
Air conditioning solutions for electrical panels.

All these products are intended for the electrical plant engineering, distribution, IT infrastructure and industrial automation industries.

Therefore, DKC Group’s goal is to ensure high levels of precision, which translates into high quality in the areas mentioned above.

To ensure the achievement of the highest standards of accuracy, DKC Europe turned to us for the following supply of important measuring instruments:

Furthermore, DKC Europe has also chosen us for the calibration of instruments, in order to achieve the best performance with certified values, recognized by authoritative organizations, such as Accredia.

Measuring and calibration instruments. DKC particular production

In photo: DKC particular production – High accuracy

Final thoughts

Apart from measuring instruments such as calipers, dial indicators, micrometers and steel gauge blocks, we offer a wide variety of non-destructive testing tools for different purposes.

Because our mission is to support our customers in their quality control activities, we strive to provide them with the best solutions to satisfy their needs, as we have for DKC Europe.

DKC Europe is a good example that shows how customer satisfaction is our main goal and that we would be more than happy to see you become one of them.

Therefore, if you need help with measuring instruments to guarantee high accuracy and high quality or would like advice on the best instrument for your specific needs; do not hesitate to contact our technical department.

You can reach us at 0584/392342 – 0584/392453 or, alternatively, contact us in writing at sales@samatools.it.

9 November 2021/by SamaItalia

Guest post

Measuring instruments: 5 tips for a quality choice

Measuring and control instruments are very important resources in any production process. During any process, there are many parameters and properties that need to be carried out with precision to guarantee that high quality standards are met.

So, how to choose the best supplier for measuring and control instruments?

5 aspects to consider when choosing your measuring and control instruments supplier

There are different aspects you should consider when selecting your measuring and control instruments provider. The most important ones are the following:

1. Quality of the instruments

This may sound obvious, but the quality of the measuring and control instruments is of uttermost importance, since this will have a great impact on the results of all your Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) activities.

For example, S.A.M.A. Italia is a UNI EN ISO 9001 certified company. A certified supplier confirms that you are choosing a company with clear procedures, aimed at providing accurate services.

S.A.M.A. Italia is a supplier that operates worldwide and supplies companies with its own name-brand SAMA Tools instruments. Therefore, a reliable and experienced supplier from whom you can receive high quality tools.

Moreover, all SAMA Tools instruments are manufactured to comply with the reference standards.

2. Calibration

As defined by the experts at S.A.M.A. Italia, “calibration means to identify metrological characteristics of a measuring instrument. It can be defined as a “photograph” of the instrument in its current state. This is the result of a comparison with a reference sample and does not contemplate the adjustment of the instrument.”

This is an important aspect because one can purchase a “quality” instrument which is not calibrated, and therefore, may need adjusting. As a result, the instrument won’t work properly and it will most likely cause problems.

To prevent this from happening, S.A.M.A. Italia offers calibration services and supplies Laboratory Test Reports in compliance with UNI CEI EN ISO/IEC 17025 and ACCREDIA certificates on all their instruments, but also on equipment you may already own and of other brands.

How often should the measuring instruments be calibrated? We talked about it here.

3. Destructive or non-destructive testing instruments?

When we talk about measuring and control instruments, we generally mention two categories: destructive and non-destructive testing instruments.

As the name implies, destructive testing requires altering or destroying the sample in order to identify its mechanical characteristics.

If you want to carry out measurements and tests in your production process without damaging your sample, the best alternative is non-destructive testing, such as:

Visual tests
Flaw inspection
Roughness measurement and control
Ultrasonic thickness control
Coating thickness control
Hardness testing
Environmental control

This will allow you to directly identify properties and mechanical features on the final product without damaging it. And SAMA Tools offers you the best instruments for each of these tests.

4. Technical support

When we see the words “technical support”, most of us immediately think about fixing or repairing something. However, the technical support you should look for when selecting your measuring and control instruments provider must be a more complete kind of service.

As the S.A.M.A. Italia Export Manager Martina Guatteri says,: “It is well known that every successful company has excellent after-sales assistance.” This should be part of what you should look for”, but as she also says, “pre-sales assistance is also very important.” Yes, S.A.M.A. Italia ships its tools worldwide!

It’s important to find a supplier that can really understand your needs and provide you with the best solutions for you, keeping your best interests at heart.

Moreover, having solid technical support means making sure you won’t have any problems while using the instruments, and assistance on how to use them properly.

S.A.M.A. Italia offers all their customers a complete metrological consultancy service and care for every need from the very beginning. They help you become an independent user of their instruments, with specialized technicians that will assist you during installation, if required, and during the first stages of testing and measuring. And you will gain an understanding that goes far beyond simply reading a manual.

5. Do you need portable instruments?

It is not always possible to install a device in a laboratory or withing processes to test and measure important parameters. Most of the time, when dealing with QC and QA, you need to measure “on the fly” and this means having a light and portable tool, suitable for measuring in the field.

S.A.M.A. Italia can provide you with a wide range of portable instruments while maintaining the highest quality on the market.

Some examples of portable tools are:

Portable surface roughness testers

Photo: SAMA Tools portable surface roughness testers

Ultrasonic thickness gauges

In photo: SAMA Tools precision ultrasonic thickness gauge

Ultrasonic flaw detectors

Portable external load cell torque testers

Micrometers and calipers

Sound level meters

Luxmeters

Portable pH meters

And many more…

Photo: SAMA Tools measuring instruments

If you work in the industrial painting sector, you will surely find this article interesting, as well.

What if I am an international customer?

Being a worldwide leader in measuring control and instruments and as was mentioned above, S.A.M.A. Italia exports its products all over the world.

You can count on Export Manager Martina Guatteri, who is specialized in customs procedures, to be able to provide you with the necessary help in customs procedures, and on Amina Fera, who is equally available to help you during the purchase phase to choose the best instruments for your needs.

You can contact the Export Representatives at: export@samaitalia.it

Feedback from around the world

Read about what some of S.A.M.A. Italia’s international customers have to say about their experiences with SAMA Tools measuring and control instruments.

Zafer

KAYALAR KİMYA – Turkey
“The whole process was completeed without any problems. We got answers to all the questions we asked. Thank you for your attention.”

With over 45 years of experience, Kayalar Kimya is one of the world’s leading paint manufacturers.

Vitaliy Shinkus

LLC Tehsnabimport – Ukraine
“Thank you for your prompt response and help in choosing the right tool. Was very pleased. I recommend working with this company to everyone.”

LLC Tehsnabimport is a distributor of measuring instruments in the Ukraine.

Malik Jamil Asghar

AL ESSA & HADDAD Trading & Decorating Co – Kuwait
“We are satisfied with your services and with the swift feedback from your Team.”

Founded in Kuwait in early 1978, Al-Essa & Haddad Trading and Decorating Co. is well-established Aluminium Company that manufactures aluminium door windows and sales reinforcement steel bars, aluminium profiles, accessories, etc.

Miihailo Radojičić

TIM CO DOO – Serbia
“Everything is always correct and precise with the S.A.M.A. company. Friendly employees, always ready to help! Greetings from Serbia!”

TIM CO is a Serbian company created as Medical Equipment Service, founded in 1993. They began by producing printers for nuclear medicine and presently also cooperate with companies that create equipment geared towards women’s health and dental radiology.

Kateryna Andersson

NYLI METROLOGY AB – Sweden
“Very happy with quick support and help to find the best instument for our needs! Nyli Metrology is a Swedish company that provides its customers with various services related to metrology and is also a distributor of SAMA Tools name-brand instruments.

Why I recommend S.A.M.A. Italia as a supplier for measuring and control instruments?

So far, you’ve read how S.A.M.A. Italia ticks all the boxes and how it’s considered to be a first-class measuring and control instruments supplier.

My direct experience with them has enabled me to appreciate their professionalism and clear communication, which makes every customer feel confident in having chosen the best option.

Furthermore, you can subscribe to their English newsletter for free and receive an ebook filled with valuable information.

On the other hand, if you’re located in Italy, subscribe to the Italian newsletter.

Therefore, this winning combination of high quality products and services is a great solution for anyone who’s looking for a supplier of measuring and control instruments. Don’t hesitate to contact S.A.M.A. Italia now. You’ll be glad that you did!

Carlos Collantes

Mechanical engineer

7 September 2021/by SamaItalia