Marking is the process of transferring a pattern or design from blueprints to a part. It is used in metalworking and woodworking and involves using measuring tools and marking equipment. Mass production uses machinery, but handcrafted parts using marking are highly desirable.
Also known as arranging or laying out a layout, “marking” is a term that refers to the process of transferring a pattern or design specified in the blueprints for a part to the part itself. Typically, transfer involves making sure that the scale of the drawing matches the part, so you get the desired result. Marking usually takes place early in the manufacturing process, with the step being repeated for each subsequent piece in development. This approach is usually unnecessary when your business uses machinery that can be set up to produce parts without having to transfer the design to each individual unit.
Marking can be found in a number of different applications, including various forms of metalworking and woodworking. While the exact process will vary somewhat based on the materials used to create the base product, most incisions will require a flat surface that can serve as a marking table. Angle plates are also used to help hold the piece in place on the table, a measure that reduces slippage and movement during transfer. Measuring tools such as protractors and set squares help ensure that the dimensions of the pattern are transferred to scale on the part. Finally, blue etching and marking equipment is used to trace out the pattern or design, making it easier to etch into the material in exactly the right places.
Other tools can also be used in plotting, depending on the type of materials used. For example, carpenters can use simple pencil marks to create a pattern or design on pieces like cabinet doors. Similarly, a carpenter may use soapstone instead of blue marking. Scribing tools can also be joined by various types of scribners, which are devices that help add extra depth and width to engravings. In some cases, rulers and tape measures may also be used as part of the transfer, allowing the worker to achieve a greater level of accuracy with measurements.
While tracing is very common when creating one-of-a-kind pieces or even limited runs of pieces by hand, this process is not typically used in mass production. Instead, the company will typically adjust programming and settings on manufacturing machinery to achieve the ideal design for the part, without needing to make changes as each new part is produced. While saving a lot of time, parts that are handcrafted and use a marking process are often viewed as highly desirable by consumers, who are willing to pay more for finished parts than their mass-produced counterparts.
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