BCA Suppliers

Tips for Potential BCA Advanced Composite Suppliers

I’ve recently completed a grueling three-year multi-international assignment with the Boeing Company. My role was to conduct technical audits prerequisite to supply advanced composite structure for the 787 Dreamliner and 747-8.

Much of the stress, frustration and delay that was endured by composite suppliers and auditors alike throughout the process was unwarranted and unnecessary. Many suppliers simply did not have a comprehensive understanding of what was required.

Presently, because of the delayed flight testing of the 787, most suppliers have too much inventory on hand. However, once stable production begins, Boeing Partners (KHI, MHI, FHI and Alenia) and their suppliers will be ill-equipped to maintain delivery schedules.  Also, current suppliers who cannot consistently meet Boeing requirements will be phased out.

New suppliers will be in demand. Those currently not qualified to produce BCA composite structure will have tremendous opportunities – if they prepare!

Obtaining a contract from BCA or Boeing Partner is only the first step. Assume a supplier already has AS9001 & AQMS certifications. What comes next?

• NADCAP Composites AC7118 Certification
• BAC 5317, 5578, 5657 and 5353 Processor Qualifications (dependent on the types of composites to be fabricated)
• Subsequent Processor Audit conducted by BCA Systems Rep (critical audit requiring precise preparation)
• Controlled Contamination Area (CCA) Qualifications
• Equipment Qualifications – autoclaves, presses, ply cutters, automated tape laying (ATL), automated fiber placement (AFP), drape formers, optical laser trackers (OLT), etc.
• Part Development Phase (critical)
• Preproduction Verification (PPV) for each selected part family – Boeing SQ/M&PT audit
• First Part Qualification (FPQ) for each selected part family Boeing SQ/M&PT audit

If your organization is currently building military composite structure, and is at risk of losing that revenue stream due to defense cutbacks or cancellations, now is the time to prepare for BCA qualification.

Contact C-B-D to discuss how we might assist your organization.