Knowledge databank

Yes, both are technically equivalent. The AS-9120 is the American standard while the EN-9120 is the European standard.

• Well defined and documented procedures improve the consistency of output
• Quality is constantly measured
• Procedures ensure corrective action is taken whenever defects occur
• Defect rates decrease
• Defects are caught earlier and are corrected at a lower cost
• Defining procedures identifies current practices that are obsolete or inefficient
• Documented procedures are easier for new employees to follow
• Organizations retain or increase market share, increasing sales or revenues

A first article inspection (FAI) is a planned, complete, independent, and documented inspection and verification process to ensure that prescribed production processes have produced an item conforming to engineering drawings, Digital Production Definition*, planning, purchase order, engineering specifications, and/or other applicable design documents.

Purpose of FAI’s is to identify product realization processes that are not capable of producing conforming product, and initiate and/or validate corrective actions.

An FAI must be performed on new products that are representative of the first production cycle. The first parts for this production delivery require an FAI.

This process must be repeated if changes occur that (may) affect the original results (for example engineering changes, changes in the manufacturing process, changes in the tool).

Summarized: FAI is a validation method within the Production Process.

*e.g. 2D and 3D drawings or models

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It is for Stockist and Distributors – emphasis is on parts identification, traceability and documentation to reduce the risk of the bogus or counterfeit parts being used.

AS/EN9120 is the Quality Management Standard based on ISO 9001 but specifically designed for the Aerospace & Defence Industries.