Quality · Process control
Shot peening process control and verification
Almen intensity, the saturation curve, coverage, Peenscan, media and machine parameters answer different questions. No single method replaces the complete control plan.
SP Center controls the process against the drawing, specification and approved project documentation. Intensity describes stream energy under reference conditions, coverage concerns the treated surface, and media and machine controls support process stability.
How does SP Center control shot peening?
The control plan separates component, process-setting, media, equipment and record requirements. Scope and frequency come from the governing documentation, not from one universal checklist.
What does Almen intensity mean?
Almen intensity is an indirect indication of stream intensity derived from the arc height of a standardized Almen strip. It is not a direct residual-stress measurement in the part and it is not the same as coverage.
How is the saturation curve determined?
A saturation curve uses multiple exposure-time points with the applicable strip and holder. The saturation point and acceptance criterion follow the governing document. Project strip types, frequency and software are controlled process details, not universal claims.
How is coverage verified?
Coverage describes the proportion of the required surface showing peening impressions. The required level and assessment method come from the drawing or specification; 100%, 150% or 200% is not automatically required for every project.
When is Peenscan used?
Peenscan can support assessment of coverage amount and uniformity by checking removal of a fluorescent tracer, including hard-to-reach areas. It is not FPI, residual-stress measurement or automatic proof of conformity for the whole part.
How is media controlled and what does RO-TAP show?
Media control must match the media type and project requirements. Sieve analysis on RO-TAP-type equipment separates a sample into size fractions; it is not a complete media-quality assessment. SP Center does not publicly state a model, sieve set, frequency or acceptance limits without controlled evidence.
How are machine parameters and inspection equipment overseen?
Process parameters are defined in the job-specific technology. Identification, calibration or verification status of inspection equipment must follow the applicable procedure. Confidential calibration details are not published.
What happens after an out-of-range result?
A SCADA alarm involving a critical process parameter is recorded and stops the process. Other out-of-range results are recorded and assessed under the applicable process documentation. Reprocessing depends on the specification and customer requirements.
How are results and decisions documented?
Execution confirmations and records are linked to the part, batch or order flow. Process release requires results and an authorized decision in accordance with approved documentation. A customer report or data extract can be agreed.
Controlled response to a deviation
- Detect and record
- Stop or hold where documentation requires it
- Define the potentially affected scope
- Authorized assessment
- Decision and correction
- Reverification
- Documented, authorized release
Repeating or supplementing the process is permitted only when allowed by the applicable specification, approved documentation and customer requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Does Almen intensity measure stress in the part?
No. It is an indirect indication of stream energy under reference conditions, not a direct residual-stress measurement in the component.
Does Peenscan replace coverage assessment?
It can support coverage amount and uniformity assessment but does not replace every criterion required by the governing specification.
Is RO-TAP enough to accept media?
No. Sieve analysis shows the size distribution. The complete media-control scope depends on media type, specification and the approved control plan.
Can a part always be peened again?
No. Reprocessing depends on the specification, approved documentation and customer requirements.
Send process requirements
Send the drawing, specification, required intensity, coverage, media and expected records. SP Center will review input completeness.
Describe the part and process requirements
A process engineer will review the input and confirm the next step.




