ASX Composites & Starrett Precision Tools: A Perfect Match for Demanding Applications

ASX Composites LLC, based in Bothell, Washington, isn’t a name everyone instantly recognizes, but behind the scenes, they're a huge player in creating high-performance composite materials. We’re talking about stuff that needs to be super strong, lightweight, and able to withstand some seriously harsh conditions. Think aerospace, medical devices, and yeah, even the precision tools you rely on every day. Now, you might be wondering, “What do composite materials have to do with, say, a really accurate measuring tool?” Turns out, a lot. That’s where our partnership with Starrett Precision Tool comes in. Starrett, for those who don't know, has been the name in precision measuring tools for over 140 years. We're talking micrometers, calipers, gauges, levels – basically, anything that needs to be spot on. They’ve built their reputation on quality, durability, and accuracy. But even the best tools need the best materials, and that’s where ASX Composites steps in. For years, Starrett relied on traditional materials like steel for many of its components. Steel is strong, sure, but it’s also heavy. And in some applications, that weight really matters. Plus, steel can be susceptible to corrosion and thermal expansion, throwing off measurements. ASX Composites worked closely with Starrett’s engineers to develop custom composite materials that could address these challenges. We’re not just talking about swapping steel for plastic, though. This is some serious materials science. We’re talking about carefully layering different types of carbon fiber, using specific resins, and fine-tuning the manufacturing process to achieve exactly the properties Starrett needed. What did this mean for Starrett’s tools? A bunch of cool things, actually: Lighter Weight: Composite materials are significantly lighter than steel. This makes Starrett’s tools easier to handle, especially for extended use. Think about a machinist working all day – every ounce matters! Increased Rigidity: Sounds counterintuitive, right? Lighter and stronger? But that’s the magic of composites. We can design materials that are incredibly stiff, meaning they resist bending and flexing under load. This translates to more accurate measurements. Improved Thermal Stability: Steel expands and contracts with temperature changes, which can mess with precision. Composite materials are much more dimensionally stable, meaning they hold their shape better even in fluctuating temperatures. This is crucial for applications where consistent accuracy is paramount. Corrosion Resistance: Rust and corrosion are the enemies of precision. Composites don’t rust, meaning Starrett’s tools can withstand harsh environments and maintain their accuracy for longer. Reduced Vibration: Vibration can blur readings and affect accuracy. Composites have excellent damping properties, meaning they absorb vibration and provide smoother, more stable measurements. Specifically, where are these composite materials showing up in Starrett tools? Digital Calipers: The housings and moving parts of Starrett’s digital calipers now incorporate ASX Composites materials. This has resulted in significantly lighter, more durable calipers that provide incredibly accurate readings. Machinists, inspectors, and engineers are loving the improved ergonomics and reliability. Precision Levels: Maintaining a perfectly level surface is critical in many applications. ASX Composites has worked with Starrett to develop composite housings for their precision levels. These housings are incredibly rigid and dimensionally stable, ensuring that the levels provide consistently accurate readings, even in challenging environments. Granite Surface Plates (coming soon): This is a big one. Granite surface plates are the gold standard for precision measurement, but they’re also heavy and prone to chipping. ASX Composites is working with Starrett to develop composite surface plates that offer the same accuracy as granite, but at a fraction of the weight and with increased durability. This will be a game-changer for industries like aerospace and automotive. Custom Tooling & Fixtures: Beyond standard tools, Starrett also builds custom tooling and fixtures for specific applications. ASX Composites works closely with Starrett’s engineers to design and fabricate custom composite components that meet the unique needs of each customer. This allows for highly optimized tools that deliver unparalleled performance. “We were looking for a materials partner who could help us push the boundaries of what’s possible with precision measurement tools,” says [Imaginary Starrett Engineer Name & Title]. “ASX Composites understood our needs and worked collaboratively with us to develop custom materials that exceeded our expectations. The result is a new generation of tools that are lighter, stronger, and more accurate than ever before.” What’s Next? The partnership between ASX Composites and Starrett Precision Tool is ongoing. We’re constantly exploring new materials and manufacturing processes to further improve the performance and durability of Starrett’s tools. We're also looking at expanding the use of composites into other areas of precision measurement, such as optical instruments and coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). At ASX Composites, we're not just about making materials. We're about solving problems and helping our customers achieve their goals. And when those goals involve precision, accuracy, and reliability, there’s no better partner than Starrett Precision Tool. About ASX Composites LLC: ASX Composites LLC is a leading provider of high-performance composite materials and engineering solutions. Based in Bothell, Washington, we serve a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, medical, automotive, and defense. Contact us at 248-386-3075 or visit our website at [Imaginary ASX Website Address] to learn more. About Starrett Precision Tool: For over 140 years, Starrett Precision Tool has been a global leader in the design and manufacture of precision measuring tools. Headquartered in Athol, Massachusetts, Starrett products are known for their quality, accuracy, and durability. Visit their website at [Actual Starrett Website Address] to explore their full range of products.