Førsteartikkelinspeksjon

Førsteartikkelinspeksjon, often translated as first article inspection (FAI) in English, is a critical quality control process used in manufacturing. It involves a thorough verification of the first production run of a part or component against its design specifications, drawings, and quality requirements. The primary goal of FAI is to ensure that the manufacturing process is capable of consistently producing parts that meet all specified criteria before moving to full-scale production.

During a first article inspection, a sample from the initial production run is meticulously examined. This examination includes dimensional checks, material verification, process validation, and confirmation of compliance with any relevant standards or certifications. All measurements and observations are documented in a detailed report. This report serves as evidence that the production process has been established correctly and is capable of repeatable results.

The benefits of conducting a first article inspection are numerous. It helps to identify and rectify potential issues early in the production cycle, thereby preventing costly scrap, rework, and delays. It also provides assurance to customers that the supplier understands and can meet their requirements, fostering trust and potentially leading to stronger business relationships. FAI is particularly important in industries with stringent quality demands, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.