Precision, quality, and risk management are non-negotiables in defense and aerospace machining.
That’s why the RPI team proactively mitigates risk throughout every stage of production, from initial communication to machining to inspection. Our approach is built around a robust digital infrastructure, meticulous preparation, and stringent compliance standards.
Keep reading to learn more about how Ricaurte Precision Inc. tackles common risks in defense and aerospace machining.
Effective Communication, a Necessity in Risk Mitigation
One of the most significant risks in manufacturing is the lack of clear and thorough communication from the onset. As a trusted precision machining company, it’s our responsibility to ensure that we have all the information we need to produce successful results. This includes:
- Complete drawings
- Up-to-date specifications
- Material and processing requirements
- Consistent solid models
- A full understanding of the customer’s quality expectations
- All details regarding customer contacts, lead times and best methods of communication
These critical details often get overlooked in the rush to satisfy customer needs, leading to costly delays and errors once production has started.
At RPI, our customer interactions begin at the RFQ stage and set the tone for thorough and effective communication from that point onward. By implementing strong internal processes, our team ensures our internal contract review process is digital and real time, robust, mitigating misunderstandings and preventing incomplete information from slipping through the cracks.
The RPI Way: Leveraging Digital Tools to Enhance Communication and Documentation
We use several digital platforms to streamline our communication and documentation processes.
- Paperless Parts allows us to efficiently communicate internally and capture historical data from the RFQ process in a practical way to include all data and communication used from the quoting stage.
- ProShop ERP, a fully digital system, provides real-time access to information, enabling digital sign-offs, date stamps, and full traceability of tool lists and work instructions.
- HighQA, a digital APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) platform allowing automated ballooning and seamless inspection planning, FAI, SPC and PPAP reporting.
- Datanomix, real time automated machine monitoring.
This digital approach eliminates the outdated practice of passing physical folders between departments, a process still common in many manufacturing environments.
In addition, thanks to our sophisticated technologies, we conduct contract reviews in real-time, with multiple departments collaborating simultaneously. This ensures that all relevant parties are aligned and decisions are accurately and efficiently documented, reducing the risk of miscommunication errors.
Thorough Preparation, the Key to Success in First-Time and Repeat Production
Preparation is crucial, especially when dealing with first-time parts. For new parts, it’s essential to document machining strategies, including tool lists, work instructions and machine assignments, to identify potential issues before the job reaches the production stage. This careful planning helps prevent any glitches or unexpected issues, ensuring a smoother process and a better experience for our customers.
The RPI Way: Mitigating Risks with Digital Platforms
Our team captures as much information as possible from the quoting stage, which can then be referenced throughout production. During the contract review stage, we delve deeper, documenting everything digitally. If it’s our first time producing a part, we might need to discuss specific strategies, such as which machine to use or how to go about the machining process. ProShop’s digital platform allows us to add real-time information from multiple departments, while HighQA facilitates digital preparation inspection documentation. Our comprehensive digital environment guarantees that all steps, interactions, and outcomes are well-documented and easily accessible for future reference.
Tight Security Measures to Protect Critical Assets
When manufacturing aerospace and defense components, it is critical to facilitate thorough documentation and bulletproof security measures.
The RPI Way: Ensuring Security and Integrity with CUI Compliance
At RPI, we are CMMC Level 2 compliant, meaning we adhere to the NIST 800-171 controls for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Our infrastructure includes encrypted servers and a rigorous training program for all team members to ensure we meet the highest security standards.
Partnering with the Right Precision Machine Shop
In the challenging defense and aerospace environment, it’s essential to ensure you’re working with a trusted partner with robust processes. That’s why we encourage customers to vet their contract manufacturers. Ask your precision machining providers and contract manufacturers to walk you through their processes.
At RPI, we’re happy to guide customers through every step, from programming to machining, ensuring clarity and alignment. With our focus on risk mitigation, advanced digital infrastructure, and an unwavering commitment to quality, RPI is the ideal partner for these high-stakes industries. Our expertise in working with exotic materials, combined with cutting-edge equipment—such as 5-axis pallet systems, mill-turn machines, and live tool lathes—sets us apart as a leader in defense and aerospace machining.
Partner with Ricaurte Precision, Inc., a minority-owned, HUBZone-designated precision machining company. We are ITAR-registered and CMMC Level 2 compliant, making us equipped to handle industry-specific challenges without a hitch. Request a quote today!
