Quality control is a top priority at SMV Valve. During the production process, we employ several stages of quality control:
1. Quality control of incoming materials and components
Incoming materials undergo several types of analysis – for example material analysis, hardness analysis or porosity analysis. Further analysis is carried out in cooperation with external laboratories and certification authorities.
2. In-production quality control
During the production stage, all machined components are being checked for accuracy. For this measurement, CNC controlled 3D machines are used (Contura G2 RDS 1000) with error of measurement at 1000 mm = 3,5 µm. Designated specialists are able to measure very effectively complex machined parts in a quick and reliable way via self-generating measure programs. Before serial production is started, the first piece of each series is checked on the CNC controlled 3D machines. In case of positive result, serial production gets started. Random checks are performed on the running production. Results from all relevant measurements get recorded by quality inspection workers. After evaluation of all results recorded, long term actions are suggested by our professionals. This approach enables us to achieve continuous improvement in our production process.
3. Assembly inspection
SMV Valve quality standards require that every single piece of valve passes a tightness test performed by assembly line operators and randomly checked by independent quality workers. Tightness tests at SMV Valve are performed under standard conditions acc. PED 97/23/ES. SMV Valve testing procedures also comply with API 598, EN 12266 and GOST R. Tightness tests according to other standards can be provided upon customer request.
4. Final inspection
At SMV Valve, final quality inspection is performed after complete valves are handed over from the assembly line but before they are made available for expedition by the packaging and storage department. During the final inspection process, finished valves are inspected for conformity with customer requirements. This check is performed by auditors who are independent the production department, and only after conformity is confirmed, valves are released for expedition.
Adhering to these strict quality assurance and control standards has helped us to keep non-conformities to an absolute minimum.
