Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Prevention: Protecting Aerospace Components
- Andrew S
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
In aerospace, even the smallest piece of debris can have catastrophic consequences. A stray piece of metal, dust, or tooling left behind can damage sensitive components or cause failures in flight. Recognizing this risk, AS9100 requires strict Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention procedures. At AB Precision Grinding, FOD control is a priority across every stage of our process.
What is FOD?
Foreign Object Debris (FOD)Â refers to any substance, debris, or object that should not be present in a product or process area. This can include:
Metal shavings or dust
Scraps of abrasive material
Tools or parts left behind after setup
Packaging debris such as tape or plastic
In aerospace, even a microscopic piece of FOD can compromise performance or safety.
AS9100 and FOD Prevention
AS9100 requires manufacturers to:
Develop documented procedures for preventing FOD
Train employees to recognize and eliminate FOD risks
Maintain clean and controlled work areas
Record and analyze FOD-related incidents to prevent recurrence
By making FOD prevention a formal part of the quality management system, AS9100 ensures that every supplier takes this risk seriously.
How AB Precision Grinding Prevents FOD
As part of our AS9100 journey, we’ve integrated FOD control into our operations:
Clean work environments:Â Grinding areas are regularly maintained to minimize debris buildup.
Inspection procedures:Â Operators check for and remove potential FOD before, during, and after production.
Tool accountability:Â Tools are tracked to ensure nothing is left behind during or after a job.
Employee awareness:Â Training emphasizes how even small particles can impact aerospace safety.
Documentation:Â FOD controls are incorporated into process records to demonstrate compliance.
Why FOD Prevention Matters to Customers
For aerospace customers, partnering with a supplier that takes FOD seriously means:
Reduced risk of part contamination
Improved reliability and safety in final assemblies
Confidence that grinding processes are carried out under controlled, audited conditions
Closing
Foreign Object Debris may be small, but the consequences can be enormous. At AB Precision Grinding, our FOD prevention measures align with AS9100 requirements and reflect our commitment to delivering aerospace components that are clean, safe, and reliable.
