Initial Sample
Initial sampling / Initial Sample Inspection
Initial Sample
Definition: Initial samples are products that are manufactured for the first time under realistic series conditions. From the first production batch manufactured under series conditions, a number of initial samples agreed with the customer in advance are released for sampling.
What is sampling?
Sampling includes the intensive testing of components or already finished products according to a defined catalogue of criteria. A sampling consisting of initial samples is called initial sampling or initial sample inspection. In English, one speaks of the First Article Inspection, FAI for short.
Initial sampling and follow-up sampling
In sampling, a distinction is made between initial sampling and follow-up sampling. Follow-up sampling takes place, for example, if production has been interrupted for a longer period of time or there have been changes to the production process.
Characteristics of an Initial Sample
The characteristics of a representative production run for initial sampling are:
- final production site
- Time interval of one hour or shift
- Predefined quantity of the principal
- Initial sample is produced completely under series conditions
This means that the following aspects must correspond to the final series status:
- Materials
- Tools
- Manufacturing and testing equipment
- Process properties (e.g. cycle times, temperature, speed)
- Staff
- Surroundings
Changes in production
If the production process or the product changes, a new sampling or acceptance by the customer must take place. Subsequent production and product release is based on the initial sample under constant conditions.
Related articles:
What is a First Sample Test Report? (DE)
What is APQP?
What is PPAP?
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