First Article Inspection (FAI)
First Article Inspection
The First Article Inspection (FAI) is carried out on components and finished products that are to be mass-produced in the future. The FAI allows the quality of the goods to be checked again before series production.
Definition: Before the start of serial production, the quality of a product or component is assessed and tested during a First Article Inspection, FAI for short, using a catalogue of criteria defined in the sampling process. The aim of First Article Inspection is to rule out errors in series production from the outset in order to prevent the unnecessary costs of faulty production. The First Article Inspection is the equivalent of the standard inspection in Germany. Initial sample inspection.
Procedure: Before the actual start of series production, series production is checked once again as part of the FAI. From the first batch usually one to five articles randomly selected in order to analyse them at random. check. If these articles from the random sample meet the requirements, it is assumed that all other articles in this batch have also been produced correctly and serial production can begin.
Designations and allocation
- German designation: Initial sample inspection
- English designation: First Article Inspection (FAI)
- Standard set of norms and rules: VDA Volume 2 - Assuring the quality of deliveries
When is the FAI carried out?
The First Article Inspection takes place, for example, if
- a product is manufactured for the first time.
- the design or dimensions of a product have changed.
- the production site changes.
- serial production is resumed after a lengthy interruption.
Where are the results of the First Article Inspection documented?
All inspection results of the First Article Inspection (FAI) are documented in the First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) or Initial Sample Inspection Report (EMPB).
During the inspection, factors such as dimensions, measurements, design and material are thoroughly checked and compared with the client's requirements. For the client, the First Article Inspection is the last opportunity for quality control before the serial production of the articles begins.
Related articles:
What is an initial sample?
What is APQP?
What is PPAP?
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FAQ: First Article Inspection (FAI)
○ What happens if a product or component does not pass the FAI?
○ Who prepares the First Article Inspection Report?
As a rule, the First Article Inspection Report (FAIR) is prepared by suppliers or manufacturers. The FAIR serves the supplier as proof to the customer that the delivered products fulfil the previously defined quality requirements.
○ In which industries is a First Article Inspection common?
First Article Inspection is a mandatory standard procedure in many military and non-military sectors, particularly in the aerospace, automotive and medical technology industries.