Traceability in Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace manufacturing is a complex process with projects requiring the combined efforts of many different companies that create a large, integrated supply chain. Since aerospace systems rely on the precise interaction of so many parts, a single manufacturing error can lead to costly project delays or accidents. This makes traceability in aerospace manufacturing an important part of aerospace manufacturing, from the sourcing of raw materials through final production. Being able to quickly identify problems in the supply chain and take corrective action is crucial to ensuring the long term success of aerospace manufacturing programs.
Various aspects are commonly tracked to ensure fast identification of aerospace manufacturing issues, including:
- Materials – Aerospace Manufacturers must be able to accurately identify and record information such as heat lot numbers and mill certificates to minimize the risk of accidently producing a part from a lower grade of material than is called for.
- Lots – As vertical integration is becoming more and more common among aerospace manufacturers, multiple parts may go through processes together at a single facility or facilities within a single company. Identifying these groups in lots based on the simultaneous processing can ensure that all units can be quickly replaced in all of the aerospace vehicles or munitions they are being used for if a problem is found in one.
To ensure that these aspects are tracked consistently, aerospace manufacturing companies use the AS9100 standard. This lays out the processes an aerospace manufacturer should use to ensure that their products can be properly traced throughout their lifecycle.
Here at Intrex Aerospace, we are experienced at maintaining lot and material traceability as part of our extensive quality control programs. Our company can provide a wide range of precision aerospace manufacturing services, as well as turnkey component solutions as a vertically integrated affiliate of the Demmer Corporation. To learn more about our services and request a quote on your next project, contact us today.
