At Maple Tree we separate inspection processes between in-process and QC (Quality Control)

In Process

Every production team is required to perform their own in-process inspections with recorded results. In addition, the QC team will perform in-process inspections, as well as final inspection (which is never performed by the production personnel). All inspection reports are regularly analyzed for continuous improvement.

Quality Control

Every component that enters into our warehouse is subjected to a documented inspection procedure; the inspection procedures are adjusted based upon customer requirements, supplier experience, product design sensitivity and recent quality statistics.

Typical mechanical components will be measured and inspected with a set of standard and custom inspection equipment including gauges, projectors, CMM and surface finish test equipment in addition to lab tests for material composition. Typical electronic sub-systems are ICT tested during PCBA and then further exercised using custom test adapters that fully verify all circuit functionality.

Traceability

As products are composed of multiple materials and processes as described by the BOM, Maple Tree uses an ERP/ MRP system to track the routing of all materials and processes. For example, a piece of sheet metal may arrive and the MRP tracks its arrival and inbound inspection, then its departure to laser cutting and its further inspection upon return, then its departure to machining, etc… through all the processes until it becomes a final product.

Lab Testing

Furthermore, Maple Tree also uses the services of several internationally recognized testing laboratories to ensure that products meet specifications. A wide range of tests are regularly performed including

• chemical composition
• metallurgical tests including CVN, MPI, RT, S5
• safety and regulatory including CSA, UL
• health care tests including skin irritation
• product performance such as lifetime testing

As the saying goes - you get what you inspect, not what you expect.