Tool Marks

Tool marks are intentional or unintentional impressions left on a surface from a tool or machine during manufacture or assembly. They are used to identify materials, determine the origin of a product or piece of evidence, and provide a quality assurance check for manufacturers and assemblers. Tool marks can be used to diagnose machine failure, analyze wear patterns, and troubleshoot assembly or machining problems. They are also a key forensic tool used to compare evidence to a suspect object or other items found at a crime scene. Tool marks may contain unique patterns and characteristics, useful in identifying the tool used, the direction of use and the pressure applied.