Opens in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions 

Everything you need to know about closed-loop manufacturing, how Clooma works on your CNC machines, and what to expect when you implement it. Can't find the answer you're looking for? Talk to our Chicago team.
TALK WITH US

What is closed-loop manufacturing?

In machining, closed-loop manufacturing means that part measurements are automatically converted into machine corrections. The part is measured, the correct tool offsets are calculated, and they are sent back to the CNC without manual entry. The loop between measurement and the machine is closed, ensuring that every part remains within tolerance. The term is also used in other contexts, such as the circular economy or product lifecycle management, but Clooma focuses on process control in precision machining.
 
 
What is the difference between SPC and closed-loop control?
SPC detects drift; closed-loop control corrects it. Traditional statistical process control alerts you when a process goes out of control, but someone still has to determine the correction and enter it into the machine. Clooma includes real-time SPC and goes one step further: it calculates the correction and sends it to the CNC automatically.
 
 
What is automatic tool offset compensation?
Automatic tool offset compensation adjusts the CNC’s tool offsets based on measured part dimensions, without the need for manual calculation or entry. It compensates for tool wear, thermal drift, and other process variations, ensuring that the machine continues to produce parts at the nominal dimension.
 
 
Why not just let operators adjust the offsets manually?
Manual adjustments depend on each operator’s experience, and operators tend to overcorrect—reacting to normal variation as if it were a real drift. This increases variability rather than reducing it. Clooma applies the same statistical logic to every shift, correcting only when a real drift occurs.

How does Clooma work on the shop floor?
The operator measures the part using your existing measuring equipment. Clooma analyzes the results against the tolerances and process history, calculates the correct tool offsets, and sends them to the CNC. This entire process takes place after each measurement, with no manual calculations required. See how it works

Do operators need statistical training to use Clooma?
No. The statistics run in the background. Operators measure the part and follow clear on-screen instructions at the machine. Quality engineers and managers can delve deeper into control charts and capability analysis if they wish.

Does Clooma work for short runs and high-mix production?
Yes. Clooma’s configuration can be generated automatically from your CAD and CAM files, making setup fast enough for both short runs and high-volume production. Automatic configuration is currently available with AlphaCAM, TopSolid, GibbsCam with more CAM systems currently in development.

What types of machining does Clooma support?
Clooma manufactures both simple and highly complex parts using turning, milling, and multi-process machining.

How does Clooma avoid overcorrecting?
Clooma’s machine-learning algorithms distinguish between actual process drift and normal variation. A correction is applied only when the data indicates that the process has actually shifted, which prevents the overcorrection typically associated with manual adjustments.

Which CNC controls is Clooma compatible with?
Clooma connects to major CNC brands, including Fanuc, Tornos, Haas, Siemens, Mitsubishi, Mazak, Heidenhain, Okuma, and Beckhoff. If your controller isn’t on this list, Contact Us: We'll check compatibility for your specific machines.

Do I need new measuring equipment?
Not necessarily. Clooma works with the measuring equipment you already use. During the on-site assessment, our team reviews your measurement setup and confirms what is needed.

Can Clooma connect to our MES or ERP?
Yes. Clooma provides an API for integration with MES, ERP, and other production systems, and supports data import and export via CSV and other formats.

Is Clooma cloud-based or on-premises?
Both options are available. Clooma is a fully web-based solution and can be deployed in the cloud (SaaS) or on-premises, depending on your IT and security requirements. Users can access it from any browser, whether on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.

How is Clooma deployed?
Deployment consists of three steps: an on-site assessment of your machines and processes, a preparation phase to configure Clooma for your parts, and on-site training for your teams, typically lasting three to four days depending on the complexity of the parts. Many customers begin with a pilot project on a few machines before expanding further.

Can we start with a pilot on a few machines?
Yes, and it's often the best way to start. A pilot program lets you measure results using your own parts and machines before deciding to expand the rollout.

Who supports us in the U.S.?
Clooma is supported by a Chicago-based team, backed by Ellistat’s engineering team in Europe.

How much does Clooma cost?
Pricing depends on the number of machines, the modules you need, and the deployment option (cloud or on-premises). Contact our team for a quote based on your store.

What results can we expect?
Results depend on your processes and starting point. For example, LISI achieved a 95% reduction in scrap rate and a 75% reduction in machine tool setup time. Read the LISI case study

How quickly does Clooma pay for itself?
Payback depends on your scrap rate, setup frequency, and hourly machine cost. Gains are measured using your own production data, machine by machine, so you can track exactly when the investment pays off. Our team can estimate the potential ROI for your shop during the initial assessment.

Does Clooma replace our setters and machinists?
No. Clooma handles repetitive offset calculations and adjustments, so your experienced machinists can focus on higher-value work: process optimization, tooling, and training new operators. It also helps newer operators get up to speed faster.

Does Clooma help with AS9100, ISO 9001, or ISO 13485 audits?
Yes. Clooma automatically records every measurement and correction, creating a structured, audit-ready record. It supports the quality requirements of ISO 9001, AS9100, and ISO 13485.

Does Clooma comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
Yes, Clooma supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance for medical device manufacturers.

What quality metrics does Clooma track?
Clooma calculates Cp, Cpk, Pp, and Ppk, tracks capability trends over time, and generates real-time control charts (X-bar & R, p, np, and more), with drift alerts and automated inspection reports.

Who is behind Clooma?
Clooma is the U.S. subsidiary of the Ellistat Group. Ellistat is a French software company founded in 2017 that specializes in quality and process control for precision machining and is built on more than 15 years of research in statistical process control. About us

Which industries use Clooma?
Clooma is used by precision manufacturers in the aerospace, automotive, medical device, defense, and general machining industries.

Still have questions?
Our team can walk you through Clooma using your own parts and machines.
Book a demo!

Let's talk about your factory

Our Chicago-based team is ready to help you choose the loop.