Importance of AS9100-Certified Material for Aerospace Manufacturing

The aerospace industry is high-stakes. Manufacturers need materials that meet strict standards to ensure safety, performance, and other compliance regulations. AS9100 certification is one of the most important standards in this field. 

Here's why AS9100-certified materials are essential for aerospace manufacturing and why working with an AS9100-certified supplier like Mead Metals is vital for your projects.

What Are Aerospace Materials?

Aerospace materials are specialized metals and composites designed to handle extreme conditions and meet high-performance standards. These materials include aluminum, titanium, high-strength steel, and various composites.

They are chosen for their unique properties, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, resistance to corrosion and fatigue, and reliability in harsh environments.

Using high-quality aerospace materials is critical in making aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace components where failure is not an option.

What Is AS9100 Certification?

The AS9100 is an internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard for the aerospace industry. It builds on the ISO 9001 standard with additional requirements specific to aerospace.

Obtaining AS9100 certification means a supplier has undergone rigorous auditing and continuous improvement processes, ensuring they meet the high standards for safety, reliability, and compliance in aerospace manufacturing.

Notable aerospace material standards under the AS9100 umbrella include AS9110C, AS9120B, and AS6081. These standards cover various rules and procedures necessary for certification, ensuring comprehensive quality and safety in aerospace manufacturing.

Common AMS and SAE Standards

The aerospace industry follows standards set by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)'s Aerospace Material Specifications (AMS). Common standards include:

• AMS 4911: Specifications for titanium alloy sheets, strips, and plates used in high-performance aerospace applications.
• AMS 4037: Standards for aluminum alloy sheets and plates, valued for their lightweight and strength.
• SAE AS478: Guidelines for high-strength fasteners used in critical aerospace applications.

WHY IT'S IMPORTANT TO HAVE AN AS9100 SUPPLIER

Working with an AS9100-certified supplier like Mead Metals offers many benefits for aerospace manufacturers:

1. Quality Assurance: AS9100 certification ensures the supplier meets the highest quality standards, providing materials that meet or exceed industry requirements.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Using AS9100-certified materials helps manufacturers comply with strict aerospace regulations, avoiding costly penalties or delays.
3. Reliability: AS9100-certified suppliers undergo continuous improvement processes, ensuring consistent product quality and performance.
4. Risk Mitigation: High-quality materials reduce the risk of component failure, enhancing the safety and reliability of aerospace products.
5. Customer Confidence: Partnering with an AS9100-certified supplier shows a commitment to quality and excellence, building trust and confidence among customers and stakeholders.

Mead Metals ensures these standards are met by following our QMS for both ISO and AS, consistently doing what we say we will do, and providing proof of compliance. This rigorous approach minimizes the risk of counterfeit parts from our inventory, as most of our metal is 100% traceable.

Additional Support for Aerospace Manufacturers

In addition to having AS9100 certification, Mead Metals offers extensive support to aerospace manufacturers:

1. Emphasis on Domestic Sourcing: We prioritize sourcing materials domestically, ensuring high-quality and reliable supply chains.
2. DFARS Compliance: Our suppliers comply with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), guaranteeing the materials meet defense-related requirements.
3. Variety of High-Performance Metals: We offer a diverse range of high-performance metals that adhere to aerospace standards.
4. Record Retention: We maintain thorough records to support traceability and compliance.
5. Support for R&D and End-of-Life Applications: We provide smaller quantities to support research and development and end-of-life applications, catering to changing production needs.

ORDER AS9100-Certified Metal From Mead Metals

AS9100 certification is a mark of excellence that signifies a supplier's dedication to meeting the highest industry standards. By choosing Mead Metals as your AS9100-certified supplier, you can be confident in the quality and reliability of the materials used in your aerospace projects. Trust in our commitment to excellence, and let us help you succeed in your aerospace manufacturing endeavors.