Direct part marking

An example of a Data Matrix marked on the surface

Direct part marking (DPM) is a process to permanently mark parts with product information including serial numbers, part numbers, date codes, and barcodes. This is done to allow the tracking of parts through the full life cycle.

The interpretation of 'permanent' often depends on the context the part is used. In the aerospace industry an aircraft part may be in service for over 30 years. Within telecom and computer industries the life cycle may only last a few years.

DPM is often used by automotive, aerospace, and electronic manufacturers to facilitate a reliable identification of their parts. This can assist in data logging for safety, warranty issues and satisfy regulatory requirements. Also the United States Department of Defense demands a physical mark on tangible assets in conjunction with the Item Unique Identification.

Barcode types

There are many ways to encode an information to a machine-readable code. The preferred codes are the Data Matrix [1] and the QR Code. Data Matrix is used by Motorola.[2] It is also preferred by NASA to mark parts. In the automotive industries also the QR Code is used. This is founded in the fact that this code was initially developed by Denso Wave (a global automotive components manufacturer) for tracking parts in vehicle manufacturing.

Marking methods

Methods to produce a permanent mark on parts are:

Other methods like manual metal stamp, vibro-etch and embossing were not suitable to successfully apply micro size (1/32- to 15/64-inch square), high density machine-readable symbols.[3]

Indenting, Embossing, and Coining are common methods for high speed marking of parts. Such as security seals, keys, small parts, and data tags. Specifically for man readable data. Laser, Scribe, and Dot Peen marking are incapable of keeping up with high volume production methods.

Marking method selection factors

The marking method depends on a number of different factors:

Standards and regulations

Notes and references

  1. Andreeta, M. R. B.; Cunha, L. S.; Vales, L. F.; Caraschi, L. C.; Jasinevicius, R. G. (2011). "Bidimensional codes recorded on an oxide glass surface using a continuous wave CO2 laser". Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering. 21 (2): 025004. Bibcode:2011JMiMi..21b5004A. doi:10.1088/0960-1317/21/2/025004.
  2. http://www.mmh.com/article/CA6437021.html Direct part marking: The next hot trend in automatic identification
  3. https://standards.nasa.gov/documents/viewdoc/3314928/3314928 NASA-STD-6002D
  4. [Scribe 2D code on cast surfaces]http://columbiamt.com/CMT-Square-Dot-Marking/Cast_Surface.html
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