What is a NADCAP certification?

May 24, 2025 | Uncategorized

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.

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