How To Pass AS9132
For more information, please read our article – What is AS9132?
Pryor Dot Peen marking machines, when used with the head-mounted VeriSmart 2.0 camera for the verification check, are capable of getting pass grades at AS9132. The BenchDot range of machines provides the highest quality Dot Peen marks in the world. It can achieve better marks over a longer period of time. This is due to the high precision x-y movement of the machines. While competitor products can also achieve Pass grades, they may not do so at high speeds or for longer periods of usage.
It is important to remember that a verification check of a Data Matrix needs to happen in a controlled environment. In order to assess the quality of the mark, the imaging process needs to be repeatable – otherwise, the same mark can give different verification results; for example, different lighting conditions could make the difference between a pass and fail grade.
In order to ensure a consistent verification process, a machine-mounted camera should be used immediately after the mark has been made.
The AS9132 specification assesses 3 criteria of a Data Matrix mark. It requires all 3 to give a passing grade.
- Dot size needs to be between 65% and 105%
- Dot centre offset within 0% to 20% of the ideal grid
- The angle of distortion up to 6 degrees variation of the L-shaped finder pattern.
Dot Size
If the verification check on the Data Matrix fails because the dot size is too big, then the marking force is too high and needs to be reduced. This can be done in the Pryor embedded controller, Pryor Windows-based software or by adjusting the gap between the component and the marking pin (a larger gap gives higher force).
Dot Centre Offset
If it fails for dot centre offset then the fixture is not good enough to clamp the part in place or the marking head has play and needs a service.
