What is a First Article Inspection?
First Article Inspection (FAI) is the critical analysis of the first item made to verify correct setup, correct process alignment, and to verify that the product is in the correct, specified configuration. Frequently used in the aerospace, medical device and automotive industries, FAI reports are becoming a standard process to ensure quality and consistency of the final product. Although conducting FAI can be complex, technological advancements and user friendly software’s have allowed users to implement and execute this process quickly and accurately.
When to Use First Article Inspection?
Use this service if the first unit manufactured will be representative of all future units produced. Before the manufacturing process begins, industry requirements suggest a detailed verification and comparison of product design vs. production result.
Why do You Need a First Article Inspection?
- The FAI report provides a guideline to provide objective confirmation that all engineering design and specification requirements are correctly understood, accounted for, verified and documented.
- Ensure the production process is reliable, repeatable and consistent
- Develops a clear understanding and communication outlet between buyer and supplier.
- Verify the accuracy of drawings, ensuring that all changes made to part designs are accounted for.
- Validate all tooling used to produce a part, ensuring the tools ability to produce parts at certain specifications.
- Ensure manufacturing process is capable and can meet the needs of production.
