AS9100:2016: Quality Assurance in Aerospace | Able Electropolishing

AS9100:2016 Certification: Elevating Quality Assurance in Aerospace Manufacturing

November 20, 2024

Helicopter

Precision and reliability are non-negotiable standards in the aerospace industry, where every component must meet strict requirements for performance, durability, and safety.

Able Electropolishing has long served aerospace manufacturers with cutting-edge electropolishing services that ensure metal parts meet the highest quality and safety standards. Now, with the recent achievement of AS9100:2016 certification, Able reinforces its commitment to quality management and customer satisfaction for our aerospace clients.

The Essential Role of Electropolishing in Aerospace Manufacturing

Aerospace components endure high-stress environments where they must perform reliably without compromising safety. Electropolishing is a powerful finishing process that provides the aerospace industry with consistent, high-quality results that improve the finish, fit and function of these critical metal parts.

The benefits of electropolishing for aerospace include:

Enhanced Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion is a persistent concern in aerospace due to exposure to high humidity, variable temperatures and other environmental stressors. Electropolishing creates a passivated, smooth surface that resists corrosion, prolonging component life and reducing long-term maintenance costs. For aerospace engineers and manufacturers, this added durability means that parts can withstand rigorous use without compromising performance.

Improved Surface Finish & Reduced Friction

Electropolishing results in a polished, bright finish with reduced surface roughness, which is crucial in aerospace applications where minimizing friction and wear is essential. A smoother surface enhances part fit, performance and compatibility with mating components, reducing the likelihood of operational failure. This improvement in surface quality also contributes to better aerodynamics, supporting a component’s overall efficiency in high-speed, high-pressure conditions.

Increased Fatigue & Stress Resistance

The electropolishing process removes a thin layer of metal, eliminating surface imperfections like micro-cracks and burrs that could otherwise become focal points for stress concentration. This reduction of surface irregularities strengthens parts and reduces the risk of fatigue failure, especially critical in components subjected to repeated stress cycles, like fasteners, gears, and springs. Strengthening these areas leads to greater longevity, safety, and reliability, helping aerospace engineers design parts that meet stringent durability standards.

Precise & Consistent Results

Able Electropolishing uses advanced technology and stringent quality controls to deliver precise and consistent results for each component. This repeatability is invaluable for aerospace clients who rely on the assurance that every part produced or treated meets exacting standards for quality and performance. Able’s approach ensures each part is meticulously finished, helping manufacturers reduce reject rates, improve yield, and maintain high levels of operational efficiency.

The Significance of AS9100:2016 Certification

AS9100:2016 is an internationally recognized quality management standard specifically developed for aerospace organizations. It is based on ISO 9001:2015 and introduces additional requirements for risk management, operational control, and regulatory compliance tailored to aerospace.

This certification serves as a rigorous example of Able’s commitment to upholding and exceeding the quality standards expected by the aerospace industry.

Achieving AS9100:2016 certification involves comprehensive on-site auditing, inspection, and annual surveillance audits to verify continued compliance. This certification demonstrates Able’s alignment with industry requirements, covering areas such as:

  • Customer Satisfaction: ensuring that all customer needs, including regulatory and statutory requirements, are met with a high degree of consistency and reliability
  • Risk Management: implementing systematic risk management processes that prioritize operational safety and dependability in all products and services
  • Process Control: maintaining strict operational controls to ensure quality throughout every stage of the production process, from initial consultation to final delivery

A Trusted Partner for Aerospace Manufacturers

For aerospace manufacturers, working with a certified provider like Able means peace of mind, knowing that their components will meet or exceed industry requirements for quality and durability. Able’s expertise in removing surface imperfections, enhancing corrosion resistance, and improving overall performance makes it an invaluable resource for companies dedicated to building safe, dependable aircraft.

As Able continues to meet the high expectations of AS9100:2016 and beyond, we look forward to ongoing partnerships with industry leaders who value precision, reliability, and innovation.

Learn more about electropolishing for aerospace

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