A manufacturer was struggling with production part traceability, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact date of build when quality issues arose. This lack of precision led to inefficiencies and complications in quality control. Although they considered laser marking, they found it too expensive and complex for their needs. They required a cost-effective, straightforward solution to enhance their traceability process.

The Solution: Date Coding with Columbia Marking Tools

Columbia Marking Tools provided the perfect solution with a 6-digit Julian date code, plus shift and two-digit year code. This simple yet effective code could be indented into each part in just a fraction of a second, ensuring precise traceability without disrupting the production flow.

Automation and Manual Options

To accommodate different production setups, Columbia Marking Tools offered two versatile models:

• Model 298: Ideal for automated production lines, this system seamlessly integrates into existing automation, enabling rapid and consistent date coding.
• Model 98: Perfect for manual workstations, this compact and user-friendly device allows operators to easily apply the date code without requiring extensive training.