Oct 16, 2026Quality Assurance
What Is First Article Inspection (FAI)?
FAI is the documented dimensional verification of the first production samples against your drawing - here is where it sits, what it contains, and what to ask for.
First Article Inspection (FAI) is the documented dimensional verification of the first production samples against your drawing, completed before mass production is released. For buyers of custom turned parts it is the checkpoint between sampling and full production.
Where FAI Sits in the Process
After the drawing review and quotation, sampling covers tooling preparation, sample production and dimensional reporting. The approval step then covers customer review, a correction loop and the production release. FAI is the evidence package that carries your decision from sampling into mass production.
What a Useful FAI Contains
Dimensional results for the drawing's specified features, measured with equipment matched to the tolerance - CMM, 2.5D vision, roundness, surface roughness and material analysis where the specification calls for them. Special characteristics from your drawing can be integrated into the inspection plan, so the report follows your callouts rather than a generic checklist.
The Paperwork That Comes With It
Agree on the FAI package when you request the quote, alongside inspection reports, material certificates and compliance documents - so the paperwork is ready when the batch ships.
What FAI Does Not Cover
FAI verifies the first articles. Batch consistency across the remaining run is a production-control question - which is why batch tolerance commitments, in-process control and final inspection belong in the same conversation. Requirements are confirmed per drawing at the feasibility stage.
Boundaries and Next Step
Send your drawing, material, tolerance, volume and quality requirements; ask for FAI and inspection reporting in the same request. An NDA is available before you share details.
