First Article Inspection: ensure the conformity of your products

The quality approach: yes, but how?

The quality approach involves implementation of various processes for additional secureof reliability and to make efficient and traceable projects and products.

The aim is to create a relationship of trust between customer and supplier. In the same spirit, digitizing processes is a source of productivity gains. It enables automation and reduces the risk of error associated with human intervention.

Digitizing the quality process is therefore a crucial challenge for companies. 

The ISP (First Article Inspection) is a record of proof that a product meets the required specifications. It is the meticulous inspection of the first part produced, to verify its compliance with technical specifications, regulatory standards and customer requirements.

When should you set up an ISP?

  • Introduction of a new product
  • A modifying characteristics from design impacts the geometry, interfaces or function of the part (or product)
  • A change in manufacturing sourceand processesand control methodsfrom manufacturing sitethetools or the materialwhich may affect geometry, interfaces or function.
  • A modification of the numerical control programa transfer to another substrate likely to affect geometry, interfaces or function
  • A event that could compromise the manufacturing process
  • The implementation of a corrective action necessary to finalize a previous FAI
  • A production shutdown for two yearswhich requires an update of all characteristics likely to be affected by this period of inactivity. This downtime is measured from the end of the last production operation to the actual resumption of production.

In the aerospace and defense industries, quality and safety are key priorities. major concerns. Absolute compliance with quality standards and processes is the result.

 

FAI is therefore of vital importance to the entire aeronautical supply chain. On the one hand, it ensures the customer's confidence in the feasibility of supplying the product, and on the other, it meets the industry's normative requirements.

To conclude...

The ISP is an element indispensable to ensure product conformity and qualityThis is particularly true in demanding sectors such as aeronautics, space and defense. By digitizing these processes, you can not only increase the efficiency and traceability of your inspectionsbut also strengthen your customers' trust.

Find out more about all aspects of the quality approach, download our complete FAI ebook (First Article Inspection). 

You'll find detailed information, practical advice and case studies to guide you in setting up and optimizing your quality processes.