The Records of Material and Performance Tests section of a PPAP submission provides documented evidence that the materials and finished part meet all specified chemical, mechanical, and functional requirements.
This section summarises the testing performed and demonstrates compliance with the Design Record, applicable standards, and customer-specific requirements.
What should be included
The PPAP submission should include a clear summary of all tests performed, which may include:
- Material composition and chemical analysis
- Mechanical property testing (e.g. tensile strength, hardness)
- Performance and functional testing
- Environmental, durability, or corrosion testing
- Regulatory or compliance testing where applicable
Each test record should clearly show:
- The test performed
- The applicable specification or standard
- The test results
- A pass or fail determination
Approval and sign-off
All material and performance test results must be:
- Reviewed and validated by the supplier
- Supported by appropriate test data or reports
- Signed off by both the supplier and the customer, where required
Sign-off confirms that all required testing has been completed and that any supporting data has been submitted and accepted.
Handling failures and exceptions
If any test results do not meet specification, the PPAP submission must include:
- Clear identification of the failure
- Root cause explanation
- Reference to any approved deviation or engineering change
Unresolved or unexplained test failures will typically result in PPAP rejection.
Key considerations
- Testing must reflect production-intent materials and processes
- Test methods must be approved and repeatable
- Results must align with the Design Record and Control Plan
- All customer-specific testing requirements must be met
Records of Material and Performance Tests provide critical assurance that the part will perform as intended throughout its service life.