3D Scanners: Next-Gen Tools Ensure Next-Level Vehicle Quality 

When an engine block leaves the foundry, how do you know that it was cast and machined correctly? 

Quality is something we crave and take for granted at the same time. We demand that every component inside our vehicles is built to exacting specifications and built to last a lifetime. 

General Motors has continually developed new ways to ensure that anything leaving their assembly facilities is built right and for the long run. For instance, at GM’s Defiance, Ohio metal foundry facility, employees are leveraging a 3D scanner to inspect engine blocks and cylinder heads with incredible detail, all in an attempt to further improve efficiency, precision, and product quality. 

The 3D Metra Scan tool enables workers to quickly pinpoint manufacturing conditions that fall outside of required specifications. In the past, workers used coordinate measuring machines to capture parts data, but did so only at a handful of specific places on the casting. The 3D Metra Scan tool, however, can look for imperfections at a rate of 1.8 million data points per second. The tool looks for fine grooves, internal channels, and surface conditions that previous methods weren’t able to detect.  

The upshot of using the 3D Metra Scan tool is that sparks an evolution in the manufacturing process as it is now increasingly likely to spot issues more accurately and earlier in the production process, reducing the likelihood of an error making its way down the assembly line. 

This is part of a commitment towards producing every new product without defects while meeting rigorous quality standards.  

How does it work?  

It takes collaborative precision with speed. The 3D Metra Scan is a mobile device which gives it a shared resource status. It is also a quick set-up – just five minutes to get it programmed for the next task. It also enables the team to not work in isolation, rather together sharing results and solutions together.   

GM employs the 3D Metra Scan tool at other facilities aside from the Defiance plant. These facilities include the Romulus Engine plant, Saginaw facility, Factory Zero in Hamtramck and the Browntown Battery facility, all locations in Michigan. 

As this tool is being employed at key GM facilities, you can be assured that your next vehicle will be assembled with a goal of zero errors on any component produced by the company.  

This commitment to quality is the reason why we offer a line of Chevrolet and GMC vehicles at Sharp Automotive. Contact us to see for yourself how GM is working on making your next vehicle last a very long time free from troubles.