The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) has developed a heat treat process guideline (CQI-9) defining the fundamental requirements for this process. The 71-page guideline outlines the key elements of a heat treat assessment, including:
  • Heat treat assessment procedure.
  • Requirements for each of the four heat-treat processes [ferrous, ferrous (gas), aluminum, and induction (ferrous)].
  • Heat-treat part job audit.

Developed by AIAG's Heat Treat Work Group composed of OEMs, part suppliers and heat-treat service suppliers, the guideline provides for continual improvement, emphasizing defect prevention and the reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain. Improper heat treat results in one or more recalls a year and higher warranty costs. The automotive industry spent $13.5 to $14 billion in warranty claims in 2005, according to AMR Research.http://www.aiag.org/

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