When it comes to precision manufacturing, quality is of the utmost importance. Superior manufacturing solutions need to be backed up with quality assurance. The AS9100D certification provides this assurance by setting a high standard for aerospace design and development. But what exactly is AS9100D certification and how is it applied within the wider industry?
Here’s all you need to know about AS9100D certification.
What Is AS9100D Certification?
AS9100D is the most recent standard marker for organizations that either develop, design or provide various aeronautical components. This includes aviation, space, and defense products and services. The AS9100D standard was designed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) and standardizes quality management systems.
As a revision of the AS9100C, this updated company level certification includes industry-specific guidelines when it comes to developing, producing, and distributing aeronautical components. The standard helps to ensure that organizations produce the highest quality components possible
New Requirements Of The AS9100D Standard
The Revised AS9100D certificate includes extensive changes to the point where approximately 98% of the standard has been updated.
The most noticeable change to the standard is within the area of accountability. The AS9100D places a high priority on the prevention of counterfeit or high-risk parts. With counterfeit aeronautical parts becoming more of a threat in today’s society, this standard provides the correct guidelines for manufacturers to follow to prevent counterfeit products from entering the market. It provides a structure that assists businesses to adapt more easily to change while also address product safety concerns.
The standard also takes on a more holistic approach when it comes to collaboration. It focuses on how the whole organization should function and how it can offer added value to consumers. The requirements in the standard fall alongside applicable regulatory requirements and don’t take priority over these in the case of a conflict.
Who Does This Standard Apply To?
This AS9100D standard applies to all organizations that fall within the aerospace industry. This includes the following categories:
- Manufacturers of aircraft components
- Designers are aerospace parts
- Quality management organizations who work with aerospace manufacturers
- Partnering companies working within the aerospace industry
AS9100D certification isn’t required by law but is becoming an increasingly required standard to uphold within the aerospace industry. Abiding by this standard allows organizations to gain access to a wide range of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Not conforming to this standard would put an aerospace manufacturer or distributor in a compromised position with regards to quality.
How Are AS9100 Certifications Issued?
Certifications are issued by authorized third party bodies.
The certification process requires two different audits. The first audit is a documentation audit and requires the certification body to ensure that all documents comply with the AS9100D standard. Once this audit has been passed, the organization will be given an adequate amount of time to implement the standard comprehensively.
The second audit will commence in which all quality management processes (QMS) and requirements will be audited. The assessment is done via the use of observation, interviews, and reviews. Once an acceptable level of conformity is found, the certification will be issued. The organization will need to follow various regulations to maintain its AS9100D certification. This will include annual scheduled audits where a full compliance evaluation will be conducted.
A Trusted AS9100D Manufacturing Solution
SoFlo Machining is a respected manufacturer of high-quality precision components. With a wide base of experience and knowledge, our dedicated team of professionals adheres to the AS9100D standards in order to provide the highest quality manufacturing solutions for various markets. For high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing solutions contact us today by phone at (954) 255-3108 or by email at info@soflomachining.com.
