| Tool control trays (shadowboards) |
FOD - Foreign Object Damage/Debris was originally an aviation term for damage attributed to a foreign object i.e. an item that doesn't belong or is not a part of the aircraft. It can be expressed in physical or economic terms that may or may not degrade the product's required safety and/or performance characteristics. FOD describes debris on or around an aircraft or damage done to an aircraft.
One of the 'culprits' of damage and hazards caused came from mechanics and engineers who had been working on the aircraft and inadvertently left hand tools behind after servicing or repair.
Tool Control Security Cabinets were developed to prevent this occurring. In its simplest form, a tool control cabinet will have drawers that are lined with a dual coloured closed-cell foam, with the top layer usually being approximately 6mm thick. The tray will be machined to house the individual hand tools.
When a tool has been utilised, a mechanic can instantly see whether it has been returned to the drawer or not, thus avoiding accidentally leaving it behind in an area that could cause serious damage.
As well as the aerospace sector, tool control is used across a range of industries including automotive, defence, medical - any manufacturing or service sector where hand tools and consumables are used. Plastazote foam inserts are tough and durable. They are resistant to oils and chemicals and can be laser marked at each individual pocket to identify the tool or part by number and size as added security. Field service personnel can also benefit in the same way using carry cases with dual colour foams ensuring expensive tools aren't left behind on site.
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