A part made at the start of a job that is measured against every dimension and note on the drawing before production continues. Its report proves the setup, program and process can make conforming parts; in aerospace it follows a formal format with a balloon number for each characteristic. A new first article is needed after major changes to the drawing, process, machine or source.
Nobody runs the lot until quality signs the first article, so get it to the CMM before lunch.
Also heard as
- FAI
- first article inspection
- first piece
Related terms
Prove out
To run a new CNC program cautiously the first time, watching every move to catch errors before they crash.
Tolerance
The total amount a dimension is allowed to vary from nominal and still be a good part.
Go/no-go gauge
A fixed gauge with one end that must fit and one that must not, for fast pass or fail checks.
Fixturing
The design and use of fixtures that locate and clamp parts the same way every time.