Measurement System Analysis (MSA) - 2500 Instruments - Calibrate every one?

[Murali Manoharan]

We are an automotive ancillary unit using around 150 instruments like vernier calipers, micrometers etc. and around 2500 odd attribute gauges like thread ring gauges, plug gauges etc.. Measurement System analysis for all these instruments and gauges will be a cumbersome exercise. Can we group these instruments and gauges into types of instruments and conduct MSA for each type of instruments and gauges because repeatability and reproducibility depends more on the appraiser (or the inspector) and the relationship between the part (to be checked) and instrument rather than the instrument in isolation. Is my logic correct? If not , can anyone suggest a better method of conducting the study without affecting the performance of the gauge and also not affect the compliance to QS9000.

 

[Marc]

You can but you still have to offer evidence that the association is true. That is to say, if you have 10 B&S dial calipers model XXXX, how do you know that each will have the same R&R? Did you compare 3 sets or something to verify your hypothesis?

 

[Sankaran Mahadevan]

You can do so. All you have to take care is that you cover all types of measuring systems you use. For example Micrometer can be used to check the diameter and also thickness. In that case you have to do MSA for both diameter and thickness. More importantly you should cover all the measuring systems identified in you Control Plan.