Quanex Strengthens In-House Quality Control with KEYENCE IM-X

Driving Higher Standards in Quality Control

Quanex Hardware Solutions continues to invest in processes that strengthen quality across its ERA product portfolio. Maintaining high standards across a wide range of components requires fast, accurate, and repeatable inspection.

To support this, the company implemented the KEYENCE IM-X measurement system. This enables automated inspection of complex components, ensuring consistent results while reducing reliance on manual measurement techniques.

With the ability to measure up to 5,000 features in seconds, the system significantly improves inspection speed. This allows the quality team to increase throughput while maintaining strict control over product quality.

Fast, Automated Inspection

The introduction of the IM-X has transformed inspection speed and consistency. Complex components and assemblies can now be measured automatically, reducing inspection times and eliminating variability associated with manual processes.

This level of automation allows the quality team to analyse parts quickly and with confidence. As a result, inspection becomes a seamless part of the production workflow rather than a bottleneck.

The system also enables early identification of dimensional trends and non-conformances. By detecting issues sooner, Quanex can take immediate corrective action, helping to maintain high standards across all production outputs.

Complete In-House Control

By bringing inspection fully in-house, Quanex has gained greater visibility and control over its quality processes. The team now has direct oversight of measurements, enabling faster decision-making and improved responsiveness.

Inspection programmes can be created automatically from CAD models, PDFs, and drawings. This removes the need for manual setup and helps ensure alignment with design specifications while reducing the risk of human error. This streamlined approach allows the quality team to respond quickly to production requirements, improving efficiency while maintaining consistency across all inspections.

All-in-One Measurement Solution

The IM-X combines optical, laser, and touch-probe measurement technologies into a single platform. This allows a wide range of components to be inspected without the need for multiple systems.

By consolidating measurement processes, Quanex has simplified its inspection workflow. This reduces reliance on external inspection services and removes complexity from quality operations. In addition, improved measurement efficiency supports broader operational goals. Better quality control reduces waste and enhances overall productivity, helping the business move towards a more integrated and efficient manufacturing environment.

“One of the biggest advantages for us has been the ability to standardise inspection across different product types. Previously, measuring more complex components required multiple setups or external support.

With the IM-X, we can complete those inspections much more efficiently in a single process, while also improving consistency between operators and reducing training requirements for the team.”

Jody Yates
Head of Quality, Quanex Hardware Solutions

For more information on ERA’s product range, visit:
www.erahomesecurity.com