NADCAP Composites Manufacturing Audit Checklist

A comprehensive audit checklist for composite manufacturing operations in aerospace, ensuring compliance with NADCAP standards and optimizing quality control in the production of advanced composite structures for aerospace applications.

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About This Checklist

The NADCAP Composites Manufacturing Audit Checklist is a crucial tool for aerospace and defense manufacturers specializing in advanced composite materials. This comprehensive checklist addresses key aspects of composite manufacturing processes, including material handling, layup techniques, curing cycles, and quality control measures. By implementing this checklist, organizations can effectively evaluate their composite manufacturing operations, ensure compliance with stringent industry standards, and maintain the highest level of quality in producing lightweight, high-strength aerospace components. Regular use of this checklist helps companies streamline their audit preparation, optimize composite manufacturing parameters, and enhance the overall performance and reliability of composite aerospace structures.

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Industry

Aerospace and Defense

Standard

NADCAP - National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program

Workspaces

Manufacturing Facilities

Occupations

Composite Manufacturing Technician
Aerospace Materials Engineer
Quality Assurance Specialist
NADCAP Auditor
Composite Structure Designer

1
Is the composite layup process compliant with industry standards?

Select compliance status.

Ensures adherence to NADCAP standards for composite layup.
2
What is the current temperature of the prepreg storage?

Enter temperature in degrees Celsius.

Maintains the integrity of prepreg materials.
Min-20
Target5
Max10
3
Is the autoclave curing process compliant with specifications?

Select compliance status.

Verifies that the autoclave process meets NADCAP requirements.
4
What were the findings from the NDT inspection?

Provide details of inspection findings.

Documents the quality control results of composite materials.

5
Are all operators trained and certified for composite manufacturing processes?

Select the training status of operators.

Verifies that personnel are qualified to perform critical manufacturing tasks.
6
What is the actual cure time recorded for the latest batch?

Enter cure time in minutes.

Ensures that the curing process meets specified time requirements.
Min90
Target120
Max150
7
Are environmental controls in place and functioning for the composite manufacturing area?

Indicate if environmental controls are functioning.

Ensures that environmental factors are controlled to prevent defects.
8
Detail any corrective action plans implemented during the audit.

Provide details of any corrective actions taken.

Documents strategies for addressing identified issues.

9
Are all personnel wearing the required PPE during composite manufacturing operations?

Select PPE compliance status.

Ensures that safety standards are upheld to protect workers.
10
When was the last inspection of emergency equipment conducted?

Enter the date of the last inspection.

Ensures that emergency equipment is functional and ready for use.
Target2023-01-01
Max2023
11
Have all employees completed safety training within the last year?

Indicate if safety training has been completed.

Verifies that employees are knowledgeable about safety procedures.
12
Summarize any safety incidents that occurred during the audit period.

Provide a summary of any incidents.

Documents any safety concerns for future reference and improvement.

FAQs

The checklist addresses material storage conditions, shelf life monitoring, contamination prevention, and proper handling of prepregs and resins.

It includes items on ply orientation verification, debulking procedures, foreign object debris (FOD) prevention, and adherence to design specifications during layup.

The checklist covers autoclave and out-of-autoclave curing parameters, temperature and pressure monitoring, vacuum integrity checks, and post-cure inspection procedures.

It includes sections on ultrasonic inspection, thermography, and other NDT methods specific to composite structures, as well as acceptance criteria and documentation requirements.

The checklist addresses clean room requirements, temperature and humidity control in layup areas, and environmental monitoring during all stages of composite manufacturing.

Benefits

Ensures compliance with NADCAP requirements for composite manufacturing in aerospace

Improves consistency and quality of composite aerospace components

Helps prevent defects and failures in critical composite structures

Enhances process control and documentation in composite layup and curing operations

Facilitates continuous improvement in composite manufacturing techniques and material handling