What is primarily assessed during the First-Article Inspection?

First-Article Inspection (FAI) is a crucial quality control process conducted to ensure that a produced part, product, or assembly meets design specifications and requirements before full-scale production begins. The primary focus during this inspection is on evaluating process capability and tooling effectiveness. This involves verifying that the production processes are capable of consistently producing parts that match the required specifications and that the tools and equipment used in manufacturing are functioning correctly.

By thoroughly assessing these elements during FAI, organizations can identify potential issues early in the manufacturing process, allowing for adjustments to be made before proceeding with larger quantities. This proactive approach helps prevent defective products from reaching customers and ensures quality is maintained from the outset of production.

While market readiness, design appeal, and customer satisfaction are important aspects of a product's overall success, they are not the primary focus of First-Article Inspection. FAI is specifically geared towards the technical and operational aspects of production quality, ensuring that the manufacturing processes will yield products that meet established standards.