Manufacturing Glossary

A quality control method that uses coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and vision systems to inspect two-dimensional features of manufactured parts. It verifies dimensions, form, and position tolerances to ensure parts meet engineering specifications.

An additive manufacturing process that creates three-dimensional objects by depositing materials layer by layer based on a digital model. Also known as additive manufacturing.

Advanced CNC machining process that simultaneously controls tool movement across five axes, enabling the production of complex geometries with fewer setups. Provides superior surface finish and accuracy for intricate parts in aerospace and medical applications.

A workplace organization method derived from five Japanese words: Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain. It creates and maintains an organized, clean, and efficient work environment that supports quality improvement and waste reduction.

The application of artificial intelligence technologies to manufacturing processes for predictive maintenance, quality control, process optimization, and autonomous decision-making. Enables smart factories and improved operational efficiency through machine learning algorithms.

Metallic materials composed primarily of aluminum with other elements added to improve specific properties such as strength, corrosion resistance, or workability. Common alloys include 6061, 7075, and 2024 series used extensively in aerospace and automotive applications.

An electrochemical surface treatment process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant anodic oxide finish. Commonly used on aluminum to improve wear resistance and provide color options.

A welding process that uses an electric arc to melt and join metals. The arc is formed between an electrode and the workpiece, creating intense heat to fuse materials together.

An aerospace quality management standard that builds upon ISO 9001 with additional requirements specific to the aerospace industry. It ensures quality and safety in aviation, space, and defense manufacturing processes.

A formal testing process used to determine whether a system or component meets specified requirements and acceptance criteria. It validates that deliverables conform to contractual specifications before final acceptance by the customer.

The use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, including robotic systems, programmable logic controllers, and automated material handling. Increases productivity, consistency, and safety while reducing labor costs in manufacturing operations.

A metal forming process where force is applied to change the shape of a material by deforming it along a straight axis. Used to create angles, curves, and complex shapes in sheet metal and structural components.

A comprehensive list of raw materials, components, assemblies, and quantities required to manufacture a product. It serves as the foundation for procurement, production planning, and cost estimation in manufacturing operations.

A metal joining process that uses a filler metal with a melting point above 450°C but below the melting point of the base metals. The filler metal flows into the joint by capillary action, creating a strong bond.

A precision machining process that uses a toothed tool called a broach to progressively remove material with each tooth. Capable of producing complex internal and external shapes with excellent surface finish and dimensional accuracy.

A surface finishing process that uses a hard, smooth tool pressed against the workpiece surface to plastically deform peaks and valleys. Creates a smooth, mirror-like finish while improving dimensional accuracy and surface hardness.

A lightweight, high-strength composite material made from carbon atoms bonded in crystals. Offers exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and is widely used in aerospace, automotive, and sporting goods applications.

A manufacturing process where liquid metal is poured into a mold cavity and allowed to solidify into the desired shape. One of the oldest known manufacturing techniques, used to create complex geometries.

A mandatory conformity marking for products sold in the European Economic Area (EEA). It indicates that a product complies with EU safety, health, and environmental protection standards. Essential for manufacturers exporting to European markets.

Inorganic, non-metallic materials that are typically crystalline in nature and are formed by the action of heat. Known for high temperature resistance, hardness, and electrical insulation properties, used in cutting tools and electronic components.

A controlled manufacturing environment where airborne particles, temperature, humidity, and pressure are regulated to extremely tight tolerances. Essential for pharmaceutical, semiconductor, and medical device production to prevent contamination.

A precision measurement device that uses a probe to measure the geometry of physical objects by sensing discrete points on the surface. Essential for dimensional inspection and quality control in precision manufacturing.

A computer-controlled machine tool that rotates the workpiece while cutting tools shape the material. Primarily used for producing cylindrical parts with high precision and excellent surface finish.

Computer Numerical Control machining is a manufacturing process that uses pre-programmed computer software to control the movement of factory tools and machinery. It enables precise cutting, drilling, and shaping of materials.

Robots designed to work safely alongside human workers in manufacturing environments. They combine the precision and consistency of automation with human flexibility and decision-making capabilities, enhancing productivity while maintaining safety.

A forging process performed at room temperature where metal is shaped by compressive forces without heating. Produces parts with excellent surface finish and dimensional accuracy.

Engineered materials made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties. When combined, they produce a material with characteristics different from the individual components, often providing superior strength-to-weight ratios.

A business model where a company outsources the production of goods to a third-party manufacturer. Contract manufacturers provide services ranging from design and prototyping to full-scale production and assembly.

A precision casting process where molten metal is forced under high pressure into reusable steel molds called dies. Produces parts with excellent dimensional accuracy and smooth surface finishes.

A virtual replica of a physical manufacturing system that uses real-time data to simulate, monitor, and optimize operations. Enables predictive maintenance, process optimization, and scenario testing without disrupting actual production.

A machining process that creates round holes in solid materials using a rotating cutting tool called a drill bit. Essential for creating holes for fasteners, coolant passages, and assembly features.

A non-traditional machining process that removes material by electrical discharges between an electrode and workpiece. Capable of machining complex shapes and hard materials that are difficult to machine conventionally.

An electrochemical surface treatment process that deposits a thin layer of metal onto a substrate using electrical current. Used for corrosion protection, wear resistance, and decorative purposes.

A supply chain optimization model that determines the optimal order quantity that minimizes total inventory costs including ordering costs and holding costs. Helps companies balance the trade-off between ordering frequency and inventory carrying costs.

Integrated software systems that manage and automate core business processes including manufacturing, supply chain, finance, and human resources. Provides real-time visibility across all business operations and enables data-driven decision making.

A chemical or physical process that selectively removes material from a surface to create patterns, textures, or precise features. Commonly used in electronics manufacturing for circuit board production and semiconductor fabrication.

A forming process where material is pushed or drawn through a die opening to create objects with a fixed cross-sectional profile. Commonly used for creating rods, tubes, and complex profiles in metals and plastics.

Adherence to regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration for manufacturing medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and food products. Requires strict quality controls, documentation, and validation processes to ensure product safety and efficacy.

A formal methodology for verifying that the manufacturing process can produce an item that meets the engineering design requirements. It's typically performed on the first production unit to validate processes before full production begins. Critical for aerospace and automotive industries.

A device used to hold, support, and locate workpieces during manufacturing operations. Fixtures ensure consistent positioning and orientation, enabling repeatable machining and assembly processes with high accuracy.

A systematic methodology for evaluating processes to identify where and how they might fail and assessing the relative impact of different failures. It helps prioritize actions to reduce the likelihood of failure and improve quality and safety.

A manufacturing process that shapes metal using compressive forces, typically applied through hammering, pressing, or rolling. Creates parts with excellent mechanical properties and grain structure.

A system of symbols and rules used to define and communicate engineering tolerances. It describes the allowable variation in the geometry of parts and provides a precise language for communicating design intent and inspection requirements.

A system of guidelines and regulations that ensure products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards. Critical in food, pharmaceutical, and medical device manufacturing to minimize risks and ensure product safety.

A precision machining process that uses an abrasive wheel to remove material and achieve tight tolerances and smooth surface finishes. Often used as a finishing operation after other machining processes.

Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points is a systematic preventive approach to food safety that identifies physical, chemical, and biological hazards in production processes. It establishes critical control points to prevent, eliminate, or reduce hazards to safe levels.

A controlled heating and cooling process used to alter the physical and mechanical properties of metals. Common treatments include annealing, hardening, tempering, and stress relieving.

A precision finishing process that uses abrasive stones to improve the surface finish and dimensional accuracy of holes. Creates a cross-hatch pattern that provides excellent lubrication retention and precise bore geometry.

A forging process where metal is heated above its recrystallization temperature before shaping. Allows for greater deformation and is suitable for large, complex parts with reduced force requirements.

A quality management standard for the automotive industry that enhances ISO 9001 with additional requirements. It establishes uniform quality management approaches throughout the global automotive supply chain to prevent defects and reduce variation and waste.

The fourth industrial revolution, characterized by the integration of digital technologies, IoT, artificial intelligence, and data analytics into manufacturing processes to create smart factories.

A manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting molten material into a mold cavity. Widely used for mass production of plastic parts with complex geometries and tight tolerances.

The practice of ordering, storing, using, and tracking inventory throughout the supply chain. Includes managing raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods to optimize costs while ensuring adequate stock levels to meet demand.

A precision casting process that uses a wax pattern covered with ceramic to create complex parts with excellent surface finish and dimensional accuracy. Also known as lost-wax casting.

A network of interconnected devices, sensors, and systems that collect and exchange data in manufacturing environments. Enables real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and automated decision-making in smart manufacturing operations.

International standards developed by IPC (Institute for Printed Circuits) that govern the design, manufacture, and quality of electronic assemblies and printed circuit boards. These standards ensure reliability, performance, and acceptability criteria for electronic manufacturing.

An international standard that specifies requirements for a comprehensive quality management system for the design and manufacture of medical devices. It ensures consistent design, development, production, and delivery of medical devices that are safe and effective.

An international standard that specifies requirements for an effective environmental management system (EMS). It helps organizations improve their environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and reduction of waste.

An international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). Organizations use the standard to demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.

A custom-built device that guides cutting tools during manufacturing operations. Unlike fixtures, jigs control the location and motion of cutting tools, ensuring precise and repeatable operations such as drilling and boring.

A production strategy that strives to improve business return on investment by reducing in-process inventory and associated carrying costs. Parts are produced or delivered only as needed, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

A Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement that focuses on eliminating waste and inefficiencies through small, incremental changes. It encourages all employees to contribute ideas for improving processes, quality, and safety in manufacturing operations.

A visual supply chain management system that uses cards or signals to control the flow of materials and production. It helps optimize inventory levels, reduce waste, and improve responsiveness to customer demand by pulling materials through the system only when needed.

A high-strength synthetic fiber known for its exceptional tensile strength and heat resistance. Commonly used in aerospace, automotive, and protective equipment applications where lightweight, high-performance materials are required.

A precision finishing process that uses fine abrasive particles suspended in a liquid medium to produce extremely smooth surfaces and precise dimensions. Commonly used for optical components, gauges, and high-precision mechanical parts.

A thermal cutting process that uses a focused laser beam to melt, burn, or vaporize material. Provides high precision cuts with minimal heat-affected zones and excellent edge quality.

The time elapsed from the initiation of a process until its completion, including order placement, manufacturing, and delivery. Critical supply chain metric that affects inventory planning, customer satisfaction, and production scheduling.

A systematic method for waste minimization within a manufacturing system without sacrificing productivity. It considers waste created through overburden and unevenness in work loads.

The detailed coordination of complex operations involving the movement and storage of materials, parts, and finished products from suppliers to customers. Includes transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and distribution planning.

Software systems that connect and monitor complex manufacturing processes and data flows on the factory floor. Provides real-time visibility into production operations, quality control, and resource utilization to optimize manufacturing performance.

Metal Inert Gas welding is a semi-automatic arc welding process that uses a continuous solid wire electrode and shielding gas. Known for its versatility, speed, and ease of automation.

A machining process that combines milling and turning operations in a single machine setup. Enables the production of complex parts with both cylindrical and prismatic features while minimizing setups and improving accuracy.

A machining process that uses rotating cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece. Can produce a variety of features including slots, pockets, contours, and complex 3D surfaces.

The smallest quantity of a product that a supplier is willing to sell or a manufacturer is willing to produce in a single order. Critical factor in supply chain planning that affects inventory costs, cash flow, and supplier relationships.

A production planning and inventory control system that calculates material requirements based on production schedules and bill of materials. Helps optimize inventory levels while ensuring materials are available when needed for production.

A methodology to assess the adequacy of measurement systems used in quality control. It evaluates the statistical properties of measurement variation, including repeatability, reproducibility, and accuracy to ensure reliable data for decision-making.

Non-Destructive Testing encompasses methods to evaluate materials, components, or assemblies without causing damage. Common techniques include ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle, and liquid penetrant testing to detect defects and ensure quality.

A company that designs and manufactures products that are eventually rebranded and sold by another company. ODMs provide complete product development services from concept to production, offering faster time-to-market for brand owners.

A manufacturing performance metric that measures the percentage of planned production time that is truly productive. Calculated by multiplying Availability, Performance, and Quality ratios to identify opportunities for equipment optimization.

A company that produces parts or equipment that may be marketed by another manufacturer under their own brand. In automotive and electronics industries, OEMs are the final assemblers of products sold to end customers.

Printed Circuit Board assembly is the process of soldering electronic components onto a PCB to create functional electronic circuits. It involves precise placement of components and soldering techniques to ensure reliable electrical connections.

A surface treatment process that bombards the material surface with small spherical media to induce compressive residual stresses. Shot peening improves fatigue resistance and prevents stress corrosion cracking in critical components.

A thermal cutting process that uses an electrically conductive gas to transfer energy from a power supply to the material being cut. Effective for cutting thick metal plates and complex shapes.

Large molecules composed of repeated subunits called monomers, forming the basis of plastics, rubber, and many synthetic materials. They can be thermoplastic or thermosetting, offering diverse properties for various manufacturing applications.

A dry finishing process where electrostatically charged powder particles are applied to a surface and then cured with heat. Provides durable, high-quality finishes with excellent coverage and environmental benefits.

A standardized process in the automotive industry used to establish confidence in component suppliers and their production processes. It ensures that suppliers understand customer engineering design requirements and can consistently produce parts meeting specifications.

A proactive maintenance strategy that uses data analytics, IoT sensors, and machine learning to predict when equipment will fail or require maintenance. Reduces downtime, extends equipment life, and optimizes maintenance costs compared to reactive or scheduled maintenance.

A business arrangement where a manufacturer produces goods that are sold under another company's brand name. Allows brand owners to offer products without investing in manufacturing capabilities or facilities.

A metalworking method that combines multiple stamping operations in sequence within a single die. The workpiece progresses through stations, with each station performing a specific operation.

Quality Assurance (QA) focuses on preventing defects through process improvement and systematic approaches, while Quality Control (QC) involves detecting defects through inspection and testing. QA is proactive and process-oriented, whereas QC is reactive and product-oriented.

Unprocessed natural or synthetic substances used as inputs in manufacturing processes to create finished products. Examples include metal ores, petroleum products, natural fibers, and chemical compounds that undergo transformation during production.

A measure of how closely repeated measurements or processes agree with each other under identical conditions. Critical quality metric in manufacturing that indicates the consistency and reliability of production processes.

The practice of moving manufacturing operations back to the company's home country from overseas locations. Driven by factors including supply chain resilience, quality control, reduced lead times, and total cost considerations.

The use of programmable robots to perform manufacturing tasks such as assembly, welding, painting, and material handling. Industrial robots improve precision, speed, and consistency while reducing costs and enhancing worker safety in production environments.

Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive compliance ensures that electronic and electrical equipment does not contain restricted levels of lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and certain flame retardants. Essential for products sold in the European Union and many other markets.

A continuous metal forming process where sheet metal is progressively shaped by passing it through a series of roll stations. Each station performs incremental bending until the desired cross-section is achieved.

A casting process that uses sand as the mold material to shape molten metal. One of the most versatile casting methods, suitable for both small and large parts with relatively low tooling costs.

A powder metallurgy process where metal or ceramic powders are heated to a temperature below their melting point, causing particles to bond together. Creates dense, strong parts with complex geometries that would be difficult to machine.

A data-driven quality improvement methodology that aims to eliminate defects and reduce process variation. It uses statistical analysis and structured problem-solving approaches (DMAIC) to achieve near-perfect quality with 99.99966% defect-free production.

A fully connected manufacturing facility that uses IoT devices, artificial intelligence, and data analytics to optimize production processes. Smart factories enable autonomous decision-making, predictive maintenance, and real-time monitoring for improved efficiency and quality.

A method for producing electronic circuits where components are mounted directly onto the surface of printed circuit boards. SMT allows for smaller, lighter, and more efficient electronic assemblies compared to through-hole mounting.

A metalworking process where a disc or tube of metal is rotated at high speed and formed into an axially symmetric part using tools. Commonly used for creating hollow, circular parts like bowls and cylinders.

A resistance welding process where two or more metal sheets are joined by applying pressure and electric current through copper electrodes. Widely used in automotive assembly for joining sheet metal components.

A forming process that uses dies and punches to shape sheet metal into desired forms through cutting, bending, or drawing operations. Essential for high-volume production of metal parts.

A quality control method that uses statistical techniques to monitor and control manufacturing processes. It helps identify when a process is operating outside normal parameters, enabling early intervention to prevent defective products.

Iron-based metallic materials with carbon and other alloying elements added to achieve specific properties such as strength, hardness, corrosion resistance, or heat resistance. Common types include stainless steel, carbon steel, and tool steel.

High-performance metallic materials designed to operate at high temperatures while maintaining excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. Primarily used in aerospace, power generation, and chemical processing applications where extreme conditions exist.

The coordination and management of all activities involved in sourcing, procurement, production, and delivery of products from suppliers to customers. Includes planning, implementing, and controlling the flow of materials, information, and finances across the entire supply network.

The texture and roughness of a manufactured surface, typically measured in micro-inches or micrometers Ra (roughness average). Critical parameter affecting part function, appearance, wear resistance, and sealing capabilities.

The maximum amount of time allowed to produce one unit of product to meet customer demand. Calculated by dividing available production time by customer demand, it establishes the rhythm of production in lean manufacturing systems.

Polymeric materials that become pliable or moldable when heated and solidify upon cooling. They can be repeatedly heated and reformed without significant chemical change, making them recyclable and ideal for injection molding processes.

Polymer materials that undergo a chemical change when heated, forming irreversible cross-linked networks. Once cured, they cannot be remelted or reshaped, offering superior dimensional stability and heat resistance compared to thermoplastics.

An electronic component mounting method where component leads are inserted through holes drilled in printed circuit boards and soldered on the opposite side. Provides strong mechanical connections and is preferred for high-power or high-stress applications.

First-tier suppliers that provide components, systems, or services directly to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). They typically have direct contracts with OEMs and are responsible for major assemblies or critical components in manufacturing supply chains.

Second-tier suppliers that provide components or services to Tier 1 suppliers rather than directly to OEMs. They often specialize in specific materials, processes, or sub-components that feed into larger assemblies or systems.

Tungsten Inert Gas welding is an arc welding process that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and inert gas shielding. Provides precise, high-quality welds with excellent control over the weld pool.

Lightweight, high-strength metallic materials based on titanium with alloying elements added to enhance specific properties. Known for excellent corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and high strength-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for aerospace and medical applications.

The allowable variation in a dimension or parameter of a manufactured part. Tolerances define the acceptable range of deviation from nominal dimensions and are critical for ensuring proper fit, function, and interchangeability of components.

A comprehensive management approach that focuses on long-term success through customer satisfaction. It involves all members of an organization participating in improving processes, products, services, and workplace culture to achieve excellence in all aspects of business.

A machining process where the workpiece rotates while a cutting tool moves in a linear motion to remove material. Primarily used to create cylindrical parts such as shafts, rods, and tubes.

Underwriters Laboratories certification verifies that products meet specific safety standards for various industries including electronics, appliances, and building materials. UL certification is widely recognized in North America and helps ensure product safety and market acceptance.

A solid-state welding process that uses high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations to create friction and heat, joining materials without melting. Commonly used for plastics and thin metal applications.

A thermoforming process where heated plastic sheet is formed over a mold using vacuum pressure. Cost-effective method for producing large, shallow parts with good detail reproduction.

A systematic method to improve the value of goods or products by examining function and identifying opportunities to reduce costs while maintaining or improving performance. Essential for optimizing manufacturing processes and material selection.

A lean manufacturing technique that visualizes the flow of materials and information required to bring a product from order to delivery. Helps identify waste, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunities in the production process.

A supply chain practice where the supplier takes responsibility for maintaining the customer's inventory levels. The vendor monitors stock levels and automatically replenishes inventory based on agreed-upon parameters, reducing stockouts and inventory carrying costs.

A cutting process that uses a high-pressure stream of water, often mixed with abrasive particles, to cut through materials. Provides precise cuts without heat-affected zones and can cut virtually any material.

A variation of electrical discharge machining that uses a thin wire electrode to cut through material. Capable of creating intricate shapes and achieving extremely tight tolerances in hard materials.

The methods and devices used to secure workpieces during manufacturing operations. Proper work holding ensures accuracy, repeatability, and safety by preventing movement during machining, welding, or assembly processes.

The stress level at which a material begins to deform permanently. Critical material property used in design calculations to ensure components can withstand applied loads without permanent deformation during service.