8.14 APQP & PPAP

Quality must be planned, not inspected. Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) is the standard framework for New Product Introduction (NPI).

8.14.1 The 5 Phases of APQP

1. Plan & Define: Contract review, feasibility study, and reliability goals.
2. Product Design & Development: DFM (Design for Manufacturing) feedback and DFMEA.
3. Process Design & Development: Creating the line layout, PFMEA, Control Plan, and Work Instructions.
4. Product & Process Validation: Running the Pilot Build (PVT), executing Gauge R&R, calculating Cpk, and submitting PPAP.
5. Feedback & Assessment: Ramp to volume, monitor RTY, and manage Corrective Actions.

8.14.2 PPAP (Production Part Approval Process)

The PPAP is the "Golden Book" submitted to the customer. It contains the evidence (Control Plan, FMEA, Dimensional Reports, Material Certs) that the process is ready for volume production.

Final Checklist