The aerospace and defense industries are among the most complex and regulated industries in the world. They require the highest level of quality, reliability, and safety standards. Two of the most widely recognized quality management standards for aerospace and defense manufacturers are Nadcap and AS9100 certification.
Both Nadcap and AS9100 certifications ensure compliance with industry-specific requirements, improve operational efficiency and reduce the risk of product failure. However, there are some key differences between the two that make each better suited for certain situations.
In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between Nadcap and AS9100 certification, and help you determine which standard is best suited for your organization’s needs.
What Is NADCAP Certification?
NADCAP accreditation is required by many major aerospace and defense companies and is recognized worldwide as a symbol of quality and excellence in the industry [1].
NADCAP certification is a process by which aerospace and defense suppliers are evaluated and accredited based on their ability to meet industry-specific standards and specifications. The program covers a wide range of technical disciplines, including heat treating, non-destructive testing, welding, and chemical processing, among others.
NADCAP certification is widely recognized as a key factor in supplier selection by major aerospace and defense companies. In fact, many companies require their suppliers to be NADCAP certified in order to be considered for contracts.
How Does It Work?
The NADCAP accreditation process is based on a rigorous audit system that evaluates the quality and effectiveness of a supplier’s processes and systems. The audit is performed by a team of industry experts who are trained and certified by the PRI.
The audit process typically begins with a document review, in which the audit team examines the supplier’s quality manual, procedures, and records to ensure that they meet industry-specific standards and specifications. The audit team then conducts an on-site assessment, during which they observe the supplier’s processes and systems in action.
The on-site assessment includes interviews with key personnel, observations of equipment and processes, and reviews of records and documentation. The audit team evaluates the supplier’s ability to meet industry-specific standards and specifications and identifies areas where improvements may be needed.
Once the audit is complete, the supplier receives a report that outlines the audit findings and identifies any areas where improvements are needed. The supplier must then address the findings and undergo a follow-up audit to demonstrate compliance with the standards and specifications.
What Does NADCAP Audit?
NADCAP audits cover a wide range of technical disciplines, including heat treating, non-destructive testing, welding, and chemical processing, among others. The program is designed to evaluate suppliers based on their ability to meet industry-specific standards and specifications in these areas.
For example, the NADCAP heat-treating audit evaluates a supplier’s ability to control and monitor the heat-treating process, including temperature control, quenching, and aging. The audit also evaluates the supplier’s ability to maintain the integrity of the heat-treating process through equipment calibration, process control, and personnel training.
Similarly, the NADCAP non-destructive testing audit evaluates a supplier’s ability to detect and evaluate defects in materials and components using non-destructive testing methods such as radiography, ultrasonic testing, and magnetic particle inspection. The audit evaluates the supplier’s ability to perform these tests accurately and reliably, and to maintain the integrity of the testing process through equipment calibration, process control, and personnel training [2].
Who Requires NADCAP Approval?
NADCAP approval is required by many major aerospace and defense companies, including Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, among others. These companies require their suppliers to be NADCAP certified in order to be considered for contracts.
In addition, many other companies in the aerospace and defense industries recognize the value of NADCAP certification and may require it as a condition of doing business. Suppliers who are NADCAP certified have a competitive advantage in the industry, as they are recognized as having met the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Benefits Of Being NADCAP Certificated:
Validation For The Aerospace Industry
NADCAP-certified companies provide third-party assurance that the aerospace industry is meeting or exceeding its performance and quality standards. This helps maintain a high level of trust between manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers in the aerospace sector.
Improved Performance And Quality In The Aerospace Industry
The NADCAP certification process requires companies to implement stringent quality control measures such as defect prevention and early identification of design flaws. These measures lead to improved performance and quality within the aerospace industry. As a result, customers are more likely to receive better products that meet their expectations.
Cost Savings
Companies that have achieved NADCAP certification can often realize cost savings by reducing defects, minimizing rework costs, and increasing efficiency in the production process. This can lead to cost savings that can be passed on to customers in the form of lower prices or higher-quality products.
Recognition For Excellence In Quality And Performance
NADCAP-certified companies are recognized for their commitment to excellence in quality and performance. This recognition helps them stand out from competitors, boosting their reputation and credibility within the aerospace industry. In addition, NADCAP certification may help attract new customers and open up opportunities for partnerships with other aerospace companies.
Increased Opportunities For Business Growth
By obtaining NADCAP certification, a company demonstrates its ability to consistently meet or exceed quality standards within the aerospace industry. This increased trustworthiness can open up more opportunities for business growth and expansion. Companies with NADCAP certification may also be able to gain access to new customer bases and markets, furthering their business opportunities [3].
What Is AS9100 Certification?
The standard was developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) and is based on the ISO 9001 quality management system standard. AS9100 certification is required by many major aerospace companies and is increasingly being adopted by other industries as a way to improve quality and reliability.
The standard includes additional requirements specific to the aerospace industry, such as risk management, configuration management, and product traceability [4].
AS9100 certification is recognized worldwide as a symbol of quality and reliability in the aerospace industry. It is required by many major aerospace companies, including Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, among others.
What Is An AS9100 Audit?
An AS9100 audit is a rigorous assessment of a company’s quality management system to determine its compliance with the AS9100 standard. The audit is typically performed by a third-party certification body that is accredited by the IAQG.
The audit process includes a document review, during which the certification body reviews the company’s quality manual, procedures, and records to ensure that they meet the requirements of the AS9100 standard. The certification body then conducts an on-site assessment, during which they observe the company’s processes and systems in action.
The on-site assessment includes interviews with key personnel, observations of equipment and processes, and reviews of records and documentation. The certification body evaluates the company’s compliance with the AS9100 standard and identifies areas where improvements may be needed [5].
Once the audit is complete, the company receives a report that outlines the audit findings and identifies any areas where improvements are needed. The company must then address the findings and undergo a follow-up audit to demonstrate compliance with the AS9100 standard.
Benefits Of Being AS9100 Certificated:
Better Customer Satisfaction
AS9100 certification demonstrates a company’s commitment to quality and reliability, which can lead to improved customer satisfaction. Customers in the aerospace industry require suppliers to meet the highest standards of quality and reliability, and AS9100 certification is a way to demonstrate compliance with those standards.
Improved Company Image
AS9100 certification can enhance a company’s image by demonstrating a commitment to quality and reliability. This can lead to increased customer confidence, as well as improved relationships with suppliers and other stakeholders.
Better Decision-Making
AS9100 certification requires companies to implement a risk management process, which can help them make better decisions by identifying and managing risks. This can lead to improved decision-making and a more efficient organization.
Enhanced Efficiency
AS9100 certification requires companies to implement processes and procedures that are designed to improve efficiency and reduce waste. This can lead to cost savings and improved profitability.
Engaging Your Employees
AS9100 certification requires companies to engage their employees in the quality management process. This can lead to increased employee engagement and motivation, as well as improved quality and productivity.
Better Supplier Relationships
AS9100 certification can lead to improved relationships with suppliers by demonstrating a commitment to quality and reliability. This can lead to better communication, increased collaboration, and improved supply chain performance [6].
Consistent Improvement
AS9100 certification requires companies to implement a process of continuous improvement. This can lead to ongoing improvements in quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
NADCAP vs. AS9100: Key Differences
Scope of Certification
One of the key differences between NADCAP and AS9100 is the scope of certification. NADCAP certification is focused on specific processes, such as heat treating, welding, or non-destructive testing, while AS9100 certification is focused on the overall quality management system.
While both certifications are required by many major aerospace companies, the scope of certification can vary depending on the supplier and the customer’s requirements.
Audit Process
Another key difference between NADCAP and AS9100 is the audit process. NADCAP audits are typically conducted by third-party auditors who specialize in the specific process being audited. AS9100 audits are typically conducted by third-party auditors who are trained and certified to conduct audits of the entire quality management system.
The audit process for NADCAP and AS9100 can also vary in terms of the depth and rigor of the audit. NADCAP audits can be very focused and detailed, while AS9100 audits are more comprehensive and cover a broader range of processes and systems.
Documentation Requirements
Another key difference between NADCAP and AS9100 is the documentation requirements. NADCAP certification requires suppliers to maintain detailed records of the processes being audited, while AS9100 certification requires suppliers to maintain detailed records of the entire quality management system.
The documentation requirements for NADCAP and AS9100 can also vary depending on the specific process or system being audited.
NADCAP focuses on process and product conformity assessments, while AS9100 focuses primarily on quality management system requirements. The primary focus of NADCAP is to ensure safety and reliability in aerospace products through auditing and validation of processes used by suppliers. It requires continuous improvement from companies that wish to maintain their certification and be approved as qualified suppliers for aerospace organizations.
AS9100, on the other hand, has an emphasis on quality assurance throughout the entire supply chain. This standard requires compliance with ISO 9001 but also expands on those requirements by requiring an additional set of quality objectives for the entire production process. It has been adopted by aerospace organizations worldwide and is recognized as an international standard.
Both NADCAP and AS9100 are stringent standards that companies must meet in order to become approved suppliers for aerospace organizations. The two standards have similar goals, however, they have different focuses: NADCAP focuses on product conformity assessments while AS9100 requires additional quality objectives throughout the entire supply chain. Ultimately, which one is better depends on the specific needs of a company or organization.
NADCAP vs. AS9100: Which One Do You Need?
The aviation industry is one of the most regulated industries in the world. As such, it requires stringent standards and certifications for its products and services for safety reasons. Two of the main regulatory standards within the aerospace industry are NADCAP and AS9100.
NADCAP stands for National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program. It is a program developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) that provides strict criteria to monitor quality assurance procedures in suppliers to prime contractors in the aerospace industry. The program offers accreditation based on specified requirements that must be met before supplier approval can be given. Accredited suppliers are required to meet regular audits, including annual reviews, which ensure they continue to meet industry standards.
It was developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) to ensure that companies meet certain requirements that help maintain safety and consistency in aircraft parts, materials, and products. AS9100 also requires periodic audits and reviews of suppliers, as well as regular checks on every product manufactured to ensure conformity with accepted standards [7].
If a company is involved in the aerospace industry, it may require both NADCAP and AS9100 certifications to meet the industry’s stringent quality and safety standards. NADCAP certification is necessary for companies that provide special processes such as welding, heat treatment, and chemical processing, while AS9100 certification is essential for companies that manufacture aerospace products.
On the other hand, if a company operates in a different industry such as automotive, medical devices, or defense, it may not require NADCAP certification. In such cases, the company can focus solely on obtaining AS9100 certification, which ensures quality management systems specific to the aerospace industry.
How to Find Out If a Company Is AS9100 Certified?
To find out if a company is AS9100 certified, there are several methods you can use.
The first method is to contact the company directly and ask about their certifications. Companies with AS9100 certification must display it on their website or marketing materials, so it should not be too difficult to find out.
The second method is to look for the AS9100 logo on the company’s products or labels. If they have achieved AS9100 certification, then they will likely include the logo somewhere near their product identification information. It may also be listed in the product catalogs, instruction manuals, and any other documents related to the product.
The final method is to search online for third-party certification databases. Many of these databases will have records of AS9100-certified companies, so you can easily see if the company in question has achieved this standard or not.
Regardless of how you choose to find out if a company is AS9100 certified, it’s important to remember that not all certifications are equal. Companies must be evaluated on an ongoing basis in order to maintain their certification status, so it’s essential to confirm that the company has updated its certifications before making any decisions about working with them. This ensures that any products and services provided by the company meet the highest quality standards and safety requirements.
FAQ
1. How does the Nadcap process work?
The Nadcap process involves a rigorous audit of a supplier’s manufacturing processes, materials, and personnel. The audit is conducted by independent, third-party auditors who are experts in the aerospace and defense industries. The audit is based on specific industry standards and specifications and is designed to ensure that suppliers meet the requirements of the aerospace and defense industries.
The audit includes a review of the supplier’s quality management system, as well as on-site inspections and product testing. Suppliers must demonstrate compliance with all relevant standards and specifications in order to achieve Nadcap accreditation.
2. Is AS9100 required for Nadcap?
No, AS9100 is not required for Nadcap accreditation. However, AS9100 is recognized as a complementary standard to Nadcap, and many aerospace and defense suppliers choose to pursue both certifications.
3. Who needs Nadcap certification?
Nadcap certification is typically required for suppliers of the aerospace and defense industries. This includes suppliers of raw materials, components, and finished products used in the manufacturing of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems. Nadcap certification is also required by many major aerospace and defense companies as a condition of doing business with suppliers.
4. Why is Nadcap important?
Nadcap accreditation is important for suppliers of the aerospace and defense industries because it demonstrates compliance with industry-specific standards and specifications. It also helps to improve operational efficiency, reduce the risk of product failure, and increase customer confidence in the quality of the supplier’s products and services. Nadcap accreditation is widely recognized and respected within the aerospace and defense industries and is often a requirement for doing business with major aerospace and defense companies.
5. How much does Nadcap accreditation cost?
The cost of Nadcap accreditation varies depending on the size and complexity of the supplier’s operations, as well as the number of processes being accredited. The accreditation process involves both initial and ongoing costs, including audit fees, travel expenses, and certification fees. Suppliers should expect to invest a significant amount of time and resources in the accreditation process.
6. Is AS9100 an international standard?
Yes, AS9100 is an international standard that is recognized and used by aerospace and defense companies around the world. It was developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG), which includes representatives from aerospace and defense companies from Europe, Asia, and North America.
7. How long is Nadcap accreditation?
Nadcap accreditation is valid for two years, after which suppliers must undergo a recertification audit in order to maintain accreditation. Suppliers must also undergo annual surveillance audits to ensure ongoing compliance with industry-specific standards and specifications.
8. What is AS9100 equivalent to?
AS9100 is equivalent to ISO 9001, which is a general quality management standard used by a wide range of industries. However, AS9100 includes additional requirements that are specific to the aerospace and defense industries.
9. What ISO is AS9100 equivalent to?
AS9100 is equivalent to ISO 9001:2015, which is the current version of the ISO 9001 standard.
10. Who needs AS9100 certification?
AS9100 certification is typically required for suppliers of the aerospace and defense industries. This includes suppliers of raw materials, components, and finished products used in the manufacturing of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems. AS9100 certification is also required by many major aerospace and defense companies as a condition of doing business with suppliers.
11. Does Boeing use AS9100?
Yes, Boeing uses AS9100 certification as a part of its quality management system. In fact, Boeing played a key role in the development of the AS9100 standard and was one of the first companies to achieve certification to the standard.
12. Is SpaceX AS9100 certified?
Yes, SpaceX is AS9100 certified. The company has implemented a robust quality management system that includes AS9100 certification, as well as other industry-specific certifications.
13. What is the difference between ISO 9100 and AS9100?
ISO 9100 does not exist as a standard, but AS9100 is based on ISO 9001 and includes additional requirements that are specific to the aerospace and defense industries. AS9100 includes additional requirements related to configuration management, product safety, and risk management, among others.
14. Is Tesla ISO 9001 certified?
Yes, Tesla is ISO 9001 certified. The company has implemented a quality management system that is based on the ISO 9001 standard, which helps to ensure the quality and reliability of its products.
15. Is Lockheed Martin AS9100 certified?
Yes, Lockheed Martin is AS9100 certified. The company has implemented a comprehensive quality management system that includes AS9100 certification, as well as other industry-specific certifications.
16. What is the largest certification body for aerospace?
The largest certification body for aerospace is the Performance Review Institute (PRI), which oversees the Nadcap accreditation program. PRI is a global organization that is responsible for accrediting suppliers of the aerospace and defense industries.
17. How long does it take to get AS9100 certified?
The time it takes to get AS9100 certified can vary depending on the size and complexity of the organization. However, the certification process typically takes several months to a year or more to complete.
18. What is the difference between AS9100C and AS9100D?
AS9100C and AS9100D are different versions of the AS9100 standard. AS9100D is the most recent version of the standard and includes several updates and revisions that reflect changes in the aerospace and defense industries.
19. What are the four different ISO standards?
There are many ISO standards, but the four most common are:
- ISO 9001 (quality management);
- ISO 14001 (environmental management);
- ISO 27001 (information security management);
- ISO 45001 (occupational health and safety management);
20. What happens if you fail a Nadcap audit?
If a supplier fails a Nadcap audit, they will be given a corrective action request (CAR) that outlines the areas where improvements are needed. Suppliers must address the CAR within a specified timeframe and undergo a follow-up audit to demonstrate compliance with industry-specific standards and specifications.
21. What is AC7108?
The checklist includes requirements related to personnel training, process control, and equipment calibration, among others.
Useful Video: Aerospace & Defence Quality Management Systems & Certifications
References
- https://blog.matric.com/nadcap-vs.-as9100-standard-for-electronics-whats-the-difference
- https://advisera.com/9100academy/blog/2019/05/23/as9100d-and-nadcap-which-one-do-you-need/
- https://www.valencesurfacetech.com/the-news/nadcap-vs-as9100/
- https://www.azz.com/featured_stories/the-importance-of-as9100-and-nadcap-certification/
- http://www.sccomposites.co.uk/2018/12/07/nadcap-vs-as9100-accreditation/
- https://www.pressuretechnology.com/certifications.php
- https://www.thermalvac.com/news/2019/the-advantages-of-nadcap-and-as9100-accreditation-beyond-aerospace