Key AS9100 Requirements Manufacturers Need to Know
- Andrew S
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
For aerospace and defense suppliers, AS9100 certification is the benchmark for quality management. Built on ISO 9001, it goes further by introducing industry-specific requirements designed to safeguard safety, reliability, and traceability in complex supply chains. At AB Precision Grinding, we’re actively implementing these requirements as part of our certification journey, ensuring our customers receive parts that meet the strictest standards.
Core AS9100 Requirements
AS9100 adds several critical elements beyond ISO 9001. Here are some of the most important requirements and why they matter:
Risk Management: AS9100 requires organizations to embed risk-based thinking into every stage of production. For grinding, this means identifying potential issues - from machine downtime to material nonconformance - before they impact customers.
Product Safety: Aerospace components must perform under extreme conditions, leaving no room for error. AS9100 emphasizes product safety, ensuring that every process step protects the integrity of the final component.
Configuration Management: Managing revisions and changes to parts is crucial in aerospace. Configuration management ensures that the right version of every component is produced, documented, and delivered.
Counterfeit Parts Prevention: Aerospace supply chains face increasing risk from counterfeit materials. AS9100 requires strict supplier vetting, documentation, and verification processes to prevent unauthorized or fake parts from entering the system.
Foreign Object Debris (FOD): Control even the smallest debris can cause catastrophic failures in aerospace. AS9100 requires documented procedures to prevent and detect FOD, ensuring clean, controlled environments for production.
Enhanced Traceability: Traceability links every part to its materials, operators, and processes. This ensures accountability and provides a complete record in case of issues or investigations.
How AB Precision Grinding Implements These Requirements
As we prepare for our Stage 2 audit, our team has been integrating these requirements into daily operations:
Establishing documented FOD prevention measures in the shop environment
Building supplier controls to prevent counterfeit materials
Training employees on risk-based thinking and product safety awareness
Strengthening our documentation systems for traceability and configuration management
These changes are more than compliance exercises - they’re improvements that make us a stronger, more reliable partner.
Why This Matters to Our Customers
For aerospace manufacturers, every supplier decision carries risk. By aligning with AS9100, we provide:
Confidence that components meet international aerospace standards
Reduced supply chain risk through stronger controls
Reliable performance backed by proven processes and audited systems
Closing
AS9100 is not just another layer of paperwork - it’s a system designed to ensure that aerospace components are safe, reliable, and consistent. By embracing these requirements, AB Precision Grinding is building a stronger foundation for quality and trust with every customer we serve.
