The automotive industry is one of the key sectors within the manufacturing industry. Special processes such as induction hardening, surface hardening (carburizing or nitriding), as well as welding, are widely used in the automotive sector. To manage these processes effectively, the AIAG (Automotive Industry Action Group) created a specific manual β CQI-9 βto help organizations identify gaps and take corrective actions.
Continuous improvement and automation of thermal processes, development of heat treatment machines, and cost minimization and optimization of heat treatment processes are widely applied in the production of steering system components, gears, brake discs, driveshafts, pistons, and valves.
The competitiveness of products and semi-finished goods requires automotive suppliers to meet customer requirements, including purchase terms, delivery times, and quality expectations.
Diagram 1. The application of the CQI-9 standard is required not only by OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) but also by suppliers.
The CQI-9 standard is a supplement to the requirements of IATF 16949, specifically in section 4.3.2, “Customer-Specific Requirements.” It applies to all automotive suppliers. As shown in the diagram above, it is used by companies such as Stellantis xFCA, FORD and GM.
Why is the CQI-9 standard used?
Conducting a heat treatment system assessment provides a structured and standardized approach to managing thermal processes, fostering continuous improvement, and preventing defects while reducing scrap costs throughout the supply chain. From the perspective of OEMs, a crucial objective is to minimize recall campaigns, product returns, and warranty claims.
The CQI-9 standard serves as a guide to ensure proper supervision, management, and evaluation of thermal processes by employing best practices, innovative solutions, and ongoing improvements.
Through risk analysis, it enables the identification of potential issues and ensures process security at the stages of development, industrialization, and serial production. It achieves this by utilizing FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) as part of the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) framework.
With continuous oversight, improvement, and development, thermal processes are managed using basic quality tools such as Statistical Process Control (SPC), process feasibility and capability analysis, and adherence to standards like ISO, DIN, and ASTM. This ensures the proper supervision and calibration of control and measurement equipment, including laboratory and industrial machinery.
In compliance with the IATF 16949 requirements for section 9.2.2.3, “Audits of the Manufacturing Process,” it is essential to include CQI-9 assessments in the annual schedule of process audits. The CQI-9 manual defines the timeframes for these audits.
The standard mandates that companies perform annual assessments. Additionally, it is crucial that the internal lead auditor conducting the audit holds the appropriate certifications.
Katarzyna Adamczyk
