RFID Tags for Tool Tracking

Locate your tools and equipment more easily, while keeping a running inventory

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Having a tagging and tracking solution for your tools can help reduce loss and theft on site, keep a general inventory for re-orders and help you find what you need, when you need it. On top of that, making sure you’re successfully capturing data in extreme environments means needing a robust, reliable solution. Metalcraft is known for our products’ durability in the harshest of conditions—from high temperatures to abrasive/heavy impact situations, we have tool tracking solutions to stand up to whatever you (literally) throw at it. Now that’s ID Made Better®.

Explore Tool Tracking – RFID Products

EZ-Peel Removable Barcode Labels
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NEW! Universal Eco-Mini Plus RFID Tag
The Universal Eco-Mini Plus RFID Tag delivers a 25 ft. read range on metal, cost-efficiency, eco-friendliness with 40% less material, and is compatible with standard RFID printers, ideal for durable asset tracking. View Product
Universal MC RFID Tag
The Universal MC RFID Tag is a versatile, cost-effective, USA-made solution for on-metal and standard applications, available preprinted or for onsite printing to suit any asset tagging needs. View Product
RFID Labels – Polymer
Metalcraft's Standard RFID Label is ideal for tracking returnable containers, offering durable, weather-resistant construction with customizable, subsurface-printed data and logos for reliable use in rugged environments. View Product

From The Asset Tracking Blog

February 9, 2021
We Answer Customers’ Top 15 RFID Questions

Explore answers to top RFID questions, from tag selection and lifespan to reading through walls and asset tracking.

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April 8, 2021
How Small RFID Tags Can Help Track Assets

Metalcraft’s Universal Micro RFID Tag is a compact, high-performance RFID solution ideal for asset management and inventory tracking.

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April 8, 2021
Ben Franklin Knew The Value Of Tool Tracking

RFID and NFC technology optimize tool tracking and management by delivering real-time data on tool location, condition, and usage, boosting efficiency, reducing downtime, and improving ROI.

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Tool Tracking – RFID Case Studies

Unlocking RFID With Applied Engineering

Metalcraft's Universal RFID tag was the answer when Applied Engineering needed RFID tags to deliver consistent performance on tools.

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Tool Tracking – RFID Videos

Inlay Innovation – How an Inlay is Made

Metalcraft introduces its new brand, Inlay Innovation, offering a fully custom 360° approach to RFID construction. Specializing in designing, developing, and manufacturing custom RFID inlays, Metalcraft ensures each component of your RFID tag integrates perfectly, with the flexibility to use any chip type.

Through a deep understanding of RFID technology, Metalcraft creates custom inlays tailored to specific applications, optimizing performance and efficiency. The brand’s services include inlay design, shear testing, temperature exposure testing, contract converting, and prototyping—delivering unique solutions faster than traditional stock designs.

Inlay Innovation – How an Inlay is Made
Defining Metalcraft – ID Made Better
6 Reasons to Use RFID in Manufacturing

FAQs

RFID tool tracking refers to the use of RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology to monitor and manage tools within various industries. This system involves tagging tools with RFID tags containing unique identifiers and using RFID readers to capture data from these tags. Here’s a breakdown of how RFID tool tracking typically works:

  1. Tagging Tools: Each tool is equipped with an RFID tag, which can come in various forms such as adhesive labels, hard tags, or embedded tags. These RFID tags contain unique identification numbers or codes that are associated with specific tools in a database.
  2. RFID Readers: RFID readers are installed at strategic locations where tool tracking is required, such as entry/exit points, tool cribs, or workstations. These readers emit radio waves and are capable of detecting RFID tags within their read range.
  3. Data Capture: As a tool with an RFID tag passes within the read range of an RFID reader, the reader captures the unique identifier of the RFID tag associated with the tool. This information is then transmitted to a central database or software system in real-time or near real-time.
  4. Database Integration: The captured data, including the unique identifiers of RFID tags and corresponding tool information, is integrated into a central database or tool management software. This database typically contains details such as the tool type, serial number, maintenance history, location, and current status.
  5. Real-Time Tracking: RFID technology enables real-time tracking of tools as they move within the vicinity of RFID readers. This provides visibility into the location and movement of tools, allowing organizations to efficiently manage tool inventory, prevent loss or theft, and optimize tool utilization.
  6. Automated Processes: RFID tool tracking systems often include automated processes to streamline workflows and improve efficiency. For example, automated alerts can be set up to notify personnel when tools are moved outside designated areas, require maintenance, or are due for calibration based on predefined criteria.
  7. Integration with Existing Systems: RFID tool tracking systems can be integrated with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, maintenance management systems, or inventory management systems. This integration facilitates seamless data exchange and allows organizations to leverage RFID data alongside other business-critical information.
  8. Security Features: RFID tool tracking systems may incorporate security features such as access control, which restricts access to tools based on user permissions. Employees may be required to authenticate themselves using RFID-enabled badges or credentials before accessing certain tools or equipment.

Overall, RFID tool tracking provides organizations with an efficient and automated solution for managing tool inventory, enhancing asset visibility, and improving operational efficiency across various industries.

RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology offers an efficient and automated means of tracking tools in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and maintenance. Here’s a general overview of how RFID can be utilized for tool tracking:

  1. Tagging Tools: Each tool is affixed with an RFID tag. These tags can come in various forms, such as adhesive labels, hard tags, or embedded tags. The RFID tags contain a unique identifier that can be associated with specific tools in a database.
  2. Reader Infrastructure: RFID readers are strategically placed in key locations where tool tracking is required. These readers emit radio waves and detect RFID tags within their range.
  3. Data Capture: As a tool with an RFID tag comes within the read range of a reader, the reader captures the tag’s unique identifier. This information is then transmitted to a central database or software system.
  4. Database Integration: The captured data is integrated into a database or tool management software. Each RFID tag’s unique identifier is linked to relevant information about the corresponding tool, such as its type, serial number, maintenance history, and location.
  5. Real-Time Tracking: RFID enables real-time tracking of tools as they move within the read range of RFID readers. This provides visibility into the whereabouts of tools, allowing for efficient inventory management and asset utilization.
  6. Automation and Alerts: RFID technology enables automation of various processes related to tool tracking. For example, automated alerts can be set up to notify managers when tools are moved outside designated areas or require maintenance based on usage patterns.
  7. Integration with Existing Systems: RFID systems can often be integrated with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) or maintenance management systems, streamlining workflows and ensuring seamless data exchange.
  8. Mobile Applications: Some RFID systems offer mobile applications that allow users to track tools using smartphones or tablets. This enables on-the-go access to tool tracking information and facilitates field operations.
  9. Security and Authentication: RFID technology can also enhance security by restricting access to tools based on user permissions. Employees may be required to authenticate themselves using RFID-enabled badges or credentials before accessing certain tools or equipment.

Overall, RFID technology provides a robust solution for tool tracking, offering efficiency, accuracy, and real-time visibility into tool inventory and usage.