VYRCOWho it is for and what is included
Intermediate level | Process and quality technicians, engineers and mold maintenance leads.
Level: Intermediate. Includes instructions, recording fields, a fictional example and reference sources.
How to use it
- Define the question: State the observation to compare, the target population and the documented criterion. The technical owner defines sample size, frequency and selection; this form does not prescribe them. [NIST-SIZE]
- Check identification: Link part markings to a current cavity map and its orientation. If identity cannot be established, retain 'unknown cavity'; do not infer it from the defect. Use authorized collection points only.
- Retain shot and condition: Assign a unique ID to each part and record the shot or verifiable sequence, time and data source. Link the material lot, process revision and documented phase. Do not declare a process stable merely because it has been running for a while.
- Separate changes: Record documented startups, stops and changes between groups. Do not attribute to a cavity a difference that also coincides with a different lot or condition. Parts from the same shot are not automatically independent replications. [NIST-SCHEME]
- Keep the evidence: Record the characteristic, method, unit when applicable, instrument and criterion reference. Preserve originals and identified parts. If a sample or datum is missing, use 'not collected,' 'not measured' or 'unknown,' not zero or acceptable.
- Limit the conclusion: Summarize observations and gaps only. A visual pattern by cavity does not establish fill balance or root cause. Sample adequacy requires review of the plan; do not extrapolate to the lot without that review. [NIST-POP; AUTODESK]
Fictional example
Context and scope: Fictional mold DEMO-CAV, map M-A with cavities C1 through C4; study OBS-DEMO concerns a visible mark. All names, shots and observations are invented. Quantities illustrate recordkeeping, not a recommended sample size. Group G-A, shot S-A: C1: sample A-C1, no mark observed; C2: sample A-C2, mark observed and photo F-A2; C3: not collected; C4: sample A-C4, no mark observed. The C3 part is counted as neither acceptable nor defective. Unidentified part: A part appears in an unlabeled bag. It is recorded as U-01, unknown cavity and shot, separately from G-A. It is not assigned to C3 to complete the set. Group G-B, shot S-B: A material lot change is documented before S-B. B-C2 shows a similar mark. It remains an observation from a different group; it is not pooled with A-C2 as if conditions were identical. Supported conclusion: A mark is present on identified samples A-C2 and B-C2, produced under different material lots. One planned sample is missing and another lacks traceability. This does not establish that C2 causes the defect or that the entire lot behaves this way. Next authorized step: The owner reviews the map, traceability and plan before deciding on further collection. Any balance study, adjustment or maintenance action requires its own procedure and authorization.
Scope and limitations
Do not reach into a moving mold or bypass guards to complete this record; follow the applicable safety procedure. Do not induce short shots or change pressure, temperature, speed or geometry using this guide. No tolerances, balance limits, intervals, sample sizes or lot acceptance rules are provided. Incomplete data or uncertain identity limit comparison; retain them separately and request review. Does not establish causation, capability, stability or regulatory compliance. Product release belongs to authorized personnel.
Sources consulted
- NIST/SEMATECH e-Handbook - Choosing a Sampling Scheme
General basis: document what is collected and how, avoid confounding factors and consider independent replications. The cavity/shot form is an original adaptation, not a NIST-validated plan. - NIST/SEMATECH e-Handbook - Selecting Sample Sizes
Sample size depends on purpose, variability, precision and practicality. No formulas or quantities from its examples are transferred to this record. - NIST/SEMATECH e-Handbook - Populations and Sampling
Distinguishes sample observations from population conclusions. Does not validate representativeness or acceptance of a particular lot. - Autodesk Moldflow 2025 - Runner Balance analysis
Simulation context: runner balance considers filling, pressure and geometry. Not equivalent to visual inspection or authorization for physical changes. Versioned 2025 reference, not a claim about the latest release.
Editorial review: 2026-10-16 · Original forms and general guidance. Always apply the drawing, manual and authorized procedure for your case.