What is a first article test?

What is a first article test?

First Article Tests (FAT) [1] FATs consist of a series of formal contractual tests conducted to ensure the effectiveness of the manufacturing process, equipment, and procedures. These tests are conducted on a random sample from the first production lot.

What is the purpose of an FAI report?

FAI reports document that the design specifications of your part are understood, verified and accounted for, but it’s more than a simple report. When the Quality team uncovers deviations from the design specifications, it allows the machine shop to resolve the root causes of the problem.

What is a first article sample?

What is a first article inspection? First articles are mass-produced units of a first production run. Prototypes or other pre-production samples are not considered first articles, as they are manufactured using processes not employed during mass production.

When should a first article inspection be done?

According to SAE, here are the times a First Article is required:

• First production run of a new product.
• Design change.
• Materials or sources change.
• It has been more than 2 years since the part was produced.
• Change in process, tools, or location.

What is included in a first article inspection report?

A first article inspection (FAI) is a design verification and design history file and a formal method of providing a reported measurement for each manufactured feature of a part or assembly. Typically the supplier performs the FAI and the purchaser reviews or approves the report.

What is the purpose of First Article Testing and Approval?

First article testing performed by the Government will be conducted using municipally supplied potable water. First article testing shall consist of the tests in the sequence of Table I. First article testing ensures that the contractor can furnish a product that conforms to all contract requirements for acceptance.

How do you write a first article report?

Here’s how you can create a First Article Inspection Report in five steps.

1. Step 1: Pre-plan your FAI. Before beginning, gather the documentation needed for your First Article Inspection:
2. Step 2: Create an inspection plan.
3. Step 3: Manufacture the part.
4. Step 4: Collect data.
5. Step 5: Create report.

How do I write a first article inspection report?

How to Create a First Article Inspection Report in 5 Steps

1. Step 1: Pre-plan your FAI. Before beginning, gather the documentation needed for your First Article Inspection:
2. Step 2: Create an inspection plan.
3. Step 3: Manufacture the part.
4. Step 4: Collect data.
5. Step 5: Create report.

How many parts are needed for first article inspection?

Typically the supplier of the part will submit 3-5 pieces with a full dimensional inspection and material certification. If the parts are rare this may be reduced to a single piece. Multiple pieces are done to help ensure consistency in the manufacturing process.

How do I make an inspection report?

Inspection Report Writing: 8 Best Practices

1. Don’t rush it.
2. Know what you’re writing about.
3. Know your report writing template.
4. Cater each report to the property.
5. Stick to the facts.
6. Be concise and understandable.
7. Take LOTS of photos.
8. Manage your risk.

How do I write my first article inspection?

First Article Inspection (FAI) is the process of planning, manufacturing, and verifying a production process….How to Create a First Article Inspection Report in 5 Steps

1. Step 1: Pre-plan your FAI.
2. Step 2: Create an inspection plan.
3. Step 3: Manufacture the part.
4. Step 4: Collect data.
5. Step 5: Create report.

Who performs first article inspections?

supplier
A first article inspection occurs when an authorized person — typically the supplier or a second-party inspector with a laboratory and specialized measuring equipment — takes one or several parts from the first production run. They then compare them to the client specifications to verify they match exactly.

What do you mean by first article inspection report?

First Article Inspection (FAI) is the process of planning, manufacturing, and verifying a production process. A First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) is the document that certifies that each sample was produced and inspected according to the customer’s specifications.

When to notify the Contracting Officer of first article testing?

At least _____ calendar days before the beginning of first article tests, the Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer, in writing, of the time and location of the testing so that the Government may witness the tests.

Is the first article inspection part of the PPAP?

A First Article inspection is a subset of a Production Part Approval Process (PPAP). There are therefore some significant differences:

What is the SAE first article inspection format?

In the aerospace and defense industries in the US, most companies conduct AS9102 First Article Inspections. AS9102 is a standard updated by the SAE to emphasize the value of the FAI process, and is a common reporting format for aerospace and defense manufacturers.