Optimas Solutions’ quality lab conducts general parts inspections and PPAP evaluations. Its goal is to provide faster quality lab services by localizing capabilities. (Photo courtesy Optimas Solutions)
The lab offers new inspection capabilities, PPAP evaluations, and localized service
August 25, 2022
WOOD DALE, Ill.—Fastener manufacturer Optimas Solutions reported it reopened its Quality Lab in Columbus, Indiana, to meet growing demand for regional performance testing services. The move is a result of Optimas’s Forward Faster strategy to be closer to and more intimate with customers, the company said in a release.
“Based on customer requirements, it made sense to reopen the lab and provide fast, cost-effective quality lab services closer to our customers’ locations,” said Optimas President of the Americas Daniel Harms, in the release. “Our foundational aspect of Forward Faster is to be ‘one’ with our customers and to do everything we can to make them more successful. This move is another effort to do that in this region and beyond.”
Optimas Vice President of Quality Gabriela Gallegos said the quality lab conducts general parts inspections and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) evaluations. The goal is to offer faster quality lab services by localizing capabilities.
“With the Columbus quality lab, we can apply world-class equipment and expertise to validate quality and offer solutions to performance issues,” Gallegos said in the release. “This keeps parts local, deepens relationships at production facilities, saves times and costs, and is convenient for customers.”
The quality lab offers additional inspection tools and capabilities with localized service. Optimas installed the latest VisionLab general inspection equipment, a 3D inspection device for first piece inspection and PPAP. In addition, the company upgraded an existing VisionLab system used for angles and O-rings. Both machines provide hands-off inspection of fasteners that are more accurate. The lab also offers the ability to check torque specs with torque guns, conduct harness testing, and check the porosity of section parts, the company said.
Optimas Senior Manager of Quality Control Kevin Coryell pointed out that the lab averages more than 200 PPAPs per month, including new products, kitting, and engineering changes. The production part approval process is a framework of requirements used in the automotive supply chain to establish confidence in suppliers and their manufacturing processes.
Developed by AIAG (the Automotive Industry Action Group), PPAP is integral to the comprehensive advanced product quality planning (APQP) approach.
With these resources and more, Optimas said it can get source release parts (prototype parts) turned around much faster in Optimas’ regional location. For this process, it can inspect and ship within 48 hours of receipt. All of this helps customers speed their development and production cycles, the company said.
“Feedback from our customers about the quality lab capabilities has been very positive,” Harms continued. “Our Forward Faster strategy manifests itself in our innovation, best practices, and elevated results for customers.”
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