Marking of Mechanical Parts

The purpose of this thesis was to research part marking methods that can be used to efficiently mark sheet metal and bar parts manufactured with turret punch presses, bar punching machines and stamping presses. The purpose of the markings is to increase part traceability and help part identification. Material removing, material deforming, ink based and indirect marking methods were explored to chart the possible marking options. Human and machine readable data presentation methods were explored to chart the possible data presentation methods. General information about traceability systems in certain key industries and uses for traceability data were also researched. Research was done on the market offering of marking solutions considering integrated and standalone marking solutions. When comparing different marking options stamping integrated to the machine tools was found to offer the best overall cost-efficiency in this case. Information content of the marking was defined based on the technological limitations set by the marking method and requirements set to the marking based on its usage. Commentary is also given on selecting the location of the marking and possible benefits offered by the marking