Producing specimens, analysis and test reports for RGPBALLS precision balls

Why are test specimens crucial for quality control?

Specimens are representative samples of the balls to be tested and must be made according to strict criteria to ensure reliable testing.

Their preparation is a crucial step, which includes:

• Material selection: the specimen must have the same composition as the balls in production to offer consistent results.
• Mechanical processing: specimens are cut, polished and finished with high-precision tools to avoid defects that could distort the analysis.
• Dimensional control: measurements must be checked to ensure that they are within the required tolerances, ensuring compliance with technical specifications.
• Controlled conditions: the entire process takes place in sterile environments to prevent contamination or alteration of materials.

A properly manufactured specimen is therefore the prerequisite for reliable analysis: errors at this stage can compromise the entire quality control.

Specimen analysis: testing to ensure quality and strength

After preparation, the specimens are subjected to advanced testing to:

• Identify defects and non-conformities: in the event of breakage or imperfections, the specimens make it possible to identify the reasons.
• Monitor production quality: through spot checks that ensure the uniformity of incoming batches.
• Assessing heat processing: processes such as hardening or annealing are tested to ensure strength and durability.

Accurate measurements and assessments of roundness, surface roughness, hardness and dimensions are then carried out using precision tools.

Traceability of results with reports and documentation

At the end of the analysis, the results are collected, catalogued and archived in a structured manner to ensure traceability and transparency.

The documentation process includes:

• Digital recording: images, dimensional data and technical parameters are saved in a secure database for quick reference and effective quality management.
• Detailed technical report: upon request, we provide an in-depth report with specific analyses, graphs and interpretations of results, useful for certification and audits.
• Summary report: for quicker requirements, we offer a clear assessment of material conformity, with essential indications to facilitate production decisions.

This documentation does not only certify the quality of precision balls, but is essential for internal monitoring, batch traceability and maximum transparency towards customers.

Why choose RGPBALLS? Superior quality and technology for precision ball control

Relying on a structured precision ball analysis process offers important competitive advantages:

• Guaranteed quality: Strict control of mechanical and structural properties reduces the risk of defects, ensuring more reliable, high-performance products.
• Increased competitiveness: Detailed reports and compliance certifications enhance the company’s credibility, increasing the trust of customers and business partners.
• Production optimisation: Data analysis reveals critical issues in production processes, facilitating targeted interventions to improve yield and efficiency.
• Fast problem resolution: Immediate identification of non-conformities enables timely intervention, reducing waste and production costs.
• Constant quality control: Continuous monitoring of deliveries ensures high standards and uniformity between different production batches.

In the RGPBALLS metallography laboratory, we use advanced tools and technology to analyse every single detail of precision balls.

Our process includes:

• Sample cutting. The METACUT 251 (Metkon) cutter reduces the specimen to the required size without altering its structure, ensuring accurate analysis.
• Encapsulation. The ECOPRESS 50 (Metkon) embedding machine incorporates the specimen in a solid resin that protects it and facilitates its handling during subsequent phases.
• Flattening. The FORCIMAT/FORCIPOL (Metkon) levelling machine smoothes the surface with micrometric precision, eliminating imperfections that could compromise observation.
• Acid attack. For materials that require it, we use an electrolytic attack to highlight their internal structure, making defects or metallurgical alterations visible.
• Microscopic analysis. The LEICA DM2700M metallographic microscope, combined with the LEICA Application Suite software, provides highly accurate evaluation.
• Data processing. An advanced computer system records the results, generating customised technical reports with graphs and analytical interpretations.

Every step of our production process is designed to ensure accuracy and repeatability of tests and compliance with the highest standards, knowing that quality control is essential to a company’s reputation and competitiveness.

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