When is PPAP required?
A PPAP submission is required whenever a customer requests it. The customer may request it at any time. It is considered mandatory in modern automotive production. The following circumstances are examples where a PPAP submission is required, and they illustrate its value::
For new part development
In this instance, most or all 18 elements of the PPAP submission will apply.
When engineering changes have to be made
Engineering change documents and Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) will be especially important in minimizing risk.
Lack of compatibility with previous submission and need for correction
Full documentation of corrections (and measurement of drift) allows for tracing any corrections and errors to their design inputs and preventing the issue when the next submission occurs.
When design or process changes have to be made
The PPAP addresses how to properly approve these changes before the next level assembly/process.
When there is a new supplier
The PPAP is essential in putting parts through the same standardized approval process regardless of supplier.
Production starting at a new location
Specification for service activities which can include service plans, service programs, maintenance plans, checklists, protocols, and training/competence requirement.
A supplier must have a quality system in place that is capable of assembling all the elements of a PPAP without undue delay or missing elements.
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