Documentation and Traceability: Meeting AS9100 Standards
- Andrew S
- Oct 14
- 2 min read
In aerospace manufacturing, documentation and traceability aren’t optional - they’re mandatory. Every component must have a documented history, from raw material to final inspection, ensuring accountability, compliance, and customer confidence. AS9100 makes these requirements central to certification, and at AB Precision Grinding, we’ve integrated them into the way we do business.
Why Documentation Matters in Aerospace
Documentation ensures that:
Processes are consistent and repeatable
Auditors can verify compliance with AS9100 requirements
Customers have clear records that parts meet specifications
Lessons learned are captured and used for continuous improvement
Well-documented systems don’t just satisfy auditors - they create efficiency, reduce errors, and build trust with customers.
What Traceability Means Under AS9100
Traceability goes a step further by linking each part to:
Material certifications verifying authenticity and quality
Process records showing how the part was manufactured
Inspection data validating compliance with specifications
Operator accountability for every step of production
This creates a complete audit trail, ensuring that any issue can be traced back to its root cause quickly and effectively.
AB Precision Grinding’s Approach to Documentation & Traceability
As part of our AS9100 journey, we’ve:
Strengthened our document control system to ensure the right procedures are always in use
Integrated material certification tracking for every aerospace component
Implemented operator sign-offs to link personnel to specific jobs
Built systems that maintain full part history from raw material to finished product
These practices ensure that if a question ever arises about a component, we can provide a detailed and accurate record immediately.
Real-World Impact
Imagine an aerospace customer needing to verify a component’s material source after delivery. With AS9100-driven traceability, AB Precision Grinding can provide the complete documentation package - material certs, process steps, inspection results, and operator records - eliminating guesswork and building confidence.
Closing
Documentation and traceability may seem like back-office functions, but in aerospace, they are essential safeguards. By aligning with AS9100 requirements, AB Precision Grinding ensures that every part is not only produced to spec but also backed by a complete, verifiable history.
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