Glossary

Industry Terms

IAQG International Aerospace Quality Group

UID Unique Identification (now known as IUID)

AIAG Automotive Industry Action Group

DPM Direct Part number

DoD Department of Defense

MFR Manufacturer Code

PNR Current part number

Marking Technology Terms

Electrochemical marking process
A low voltage current is passed between a marking head and the component, using a conductive liquid (electrolyte)as the contact medium and a stencil carries the image to be marked. The metal is etched away from the defined area without stressing or deforming the surrounding metal, so that marks can be applied to critical components.

Oxide mark
This is normally a black mark achieved using the electrochemical process which is just a few microns thick on the surface of the component.

Etch mark
The electrolytic action removes a small amount of metal to give an etched appearance. Suitable for most metals including brass and aluminium.

Electrolyte
These are water based solutions with some chemical addition that together with a low voltage electrical supply cause the marking process.

Neutraliser
This is a solution that is applied after marking to restore the pH level to neutral. Solution or handy “Neutrawipes” available. Not all metals require neutralising.

Post marking treatment
This can be neutralising or cleaning the component after marking.

Stencil
This is the material that holds the impression of the image that is to be marked onto the component. There are several stencil technologies: Instant disposable stencils, Long life photographic and die impression.

Felt pad
This is a pad that is between the stencil and the marking face of the marking head. It is used to hold the electrolyte solution and to cushion the stencil.

Marking Head
These are carbon or stainless electrodes which receive the low voltage current from the marking unit and are depressed on the stencil to create the mark.

Artwork
This is the image that is used to make a photographic long life stencil.

Data Matrix
This is a 2 dimensional barcode that can hold a great deal more information than a traditional barcode. It can allow lifetime traceability of a component. A camera reader is required to read the mark.

Plate
This is a photographic positive of the stencil. It has the final artwork image and any guidelines for making the stencil. Each plate has a unique reference number that is given to the customer for re-order purposes.

Print on Demand
These are instant disposable stencils ideal for variable information and used in conjunction with PC software and output via a thermal printer.

IDI
Intelligent Driving Impact is a unique pantented technology by Technomark. It automatically detects any difference in height in the surface of the material making it ideal for marking undulating or uneven surfaces whilst maintaining the same high quality mark. This pantented function automatically compensates for the differences, therefore no operator intervention is required.

IIC
Intelligent Impact Control is a unique technology from Technomark. This innovative function saves the operator from having to set the stylus distance from the marking face relative to the marking power chosen. This unique function automatically calculates the correct force to be applied to achieve the desired depth of mark.

Autosense
Motorised Z axis providing automatic part detection with optimised stylus to part distance for consistent repeatable marking.