T1 samples
When first parts exist.
T1 samplesGlossary
What Is First Article Inspection? Injection Molding Explained
First article inspection is a documented measurement report for early production approval.
Glossary
First article inspection documents measured results against the drawing for early approval
FAI is a structured report, not just the timing of first shots.
FAI scope lists features measured, instruments used, and acceptance criteria.
Regulated and automotive style programs often require FAI elements even outside full PPAP.
T1 timing and FAI reporting can overlap but serve different quality gates.
Quality
FAI ties the first shots to the drawing
Inspection photos belong in the PPAP thread for automotive programs.
- Ballooned prints reduce back and forth on critical dimensions.
- CMM reports should match the CAD revision on the PO.
- Sample approval gates production release on qualified programs.
Timing
T1 versus FAI vocabulary
Use precise words in supplier threads.
| Term | Typical meaning |
|---|---|
| T1 | First shots off the tool for review |
| FAI | Documented inspection report against drawing |
| PPAP | Broader approval package on automotive style RFQs |
Go deeper
Where this term connects
Each link is a different angle on the same program, not a duplicate definition.
PPAP
Automotive style approval package.
PPAPProcess capability
Cpk after process stabilizes.
Process capabilityPlastic molding
Production quality context.
Plastic moldingVisual reference
Photos from molding and tooling programs
Images are selected from the NetProto Forge media library for this topic.
Coordinate measuring machine inspection
Coordinate measuring machine inspection
First article plastic parts with labels
First article plastic parts with labels
Quality technician measuring molded part
Quality technician measuring molded part
FAQ
FAI questions
Is FAI the same as T1?
T1 is timing of first shots. FAI is structured inspection documentation.
Who defines FAI scope?
Drawing and quality plan on the RFQ define features and instruments.
Does every program need FAI?
Only when the RFQ or customer quality plan requires it.
Next step
Define quality packages on RFQ
Upload CAD and inspection requirements with production quotes.