NADCAP certification—short for National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program—is an industry-managed accreditation that validates a supplier’s ability to meet stringent quality standards in special processes such as:
- Chemical processing
- Coatings and painting
- Heat treating
- Non-destructive testing (NDT)
- Welding and brazing
- Composites and materials testing
Established by the Performance Review Institute (PRI), NADCAP plays a critical role in the aerospace, defense, and aviation sectors, helping ensure product safety, reliability, and compliance with global standards.
🔍 Purpose of NADCAP Certification
The goal of NADCAP is to:
- Standardize and improve quality assurance across aerospace and defense supply chains.
- Reduce redundant audits by replacing customer-specific assessments with a single, universally accepted accreditation.
- Elevate process integrity in highly regulated manufacturing environments.
✅ What Does NADCAP Accreditation Involve?
To become NADCAP-accredited, a company must:
- Undergo a rigorous technical audit by PRI-appointed experts.
- Demonstrate compliance with industry-approved checklists for each special process.
- Address and resolve any non-conformities found during the audit.
- Maintain ongoing compliance through surveillance audits and corrective actions.
🔧 Industries and Businesses That Need NADCAP Certification
NADCAP is essential for:
- Aerospace manufacturers and subcontractors
- Defense contractors
- OEM suppliers producing components requiring special processes
- MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) providers
If your business provides services or parts to companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, or Northrop Grumman, NADCAP certification is often a prerequisite.
💼 Benefits of NADCAP Certification
- Global Recognition: Signifies that your company meets the highest industry quality standards.
- Fewer Audits: Replaces multiple customer audits with a single NADCAP audit.
- Increased Marketability: Boosts trust and credibility with aerospace and defense clients.
- Process Improvement: Drives internal improvements through rigorous compliance processes.
- Competitive Advantage: Differentiates your business in a crowded supplier landscape.
🔄 Common Processes Requiring NADCAP Accreditation
Some of the most frequently audited NADCAP special processes include:
- Heat Treating (AC7102)
- Non-Destructive Testing (AC7114)
- Welding (AC7110)
- Surface Enhancement (AC7117)
- Chemical Processing (AC7108)
Conclusion:
NADCAP certification isn’t just a badge of compliance—it’s a strategic advantage. For suppliers in the aerospace and defense sectors, it demonstrates your commitment to quality, safety, and industry best practices, while helping streamline supplier qualification and improve overall performance.
