As a leading supplier of precision-machined automotive parts and components to Tier 1, 2, and 3 customers, Kenona Industries, a division of Arrow Automotive, must hold specialized certifications in world-class quality programs. These certifications showcase our ongoing commitment to creating high-quality products of uncompromising durability, reliability, and performance.
This month’s blog discusses two critical certifications we have, International Automotive Task Force (IATF) 16949:2024 and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and explains why each matters to our customers.
What Is IATF 16949:2024?
This internationally recognised quality management system (QMS) is the respected standard for the automotive industry. In fact, many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) require this certification for companies to become suppliers, making certification fundamental for market entry.
Certification can only be performed by IATF-recognized certification bodies. Remaining certified requires annual confirmation audits after the initial certification, with a full re-certification every three years.
Companies compliant with IATF 16949:2024 have demonstrated a focus on elevating customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality products and services, emphasizing defect prevention, continuous improvement, and waste reduction in the supply chain. Its core principles are built upon the foundation of ISO 9001; however, it also includes specific additional requirements for automotive manufacturing.
For example, IATF 16949:2024 extends the general requirements of ISO 9001 to include elements such as risk analysis, control plans, and contingency plans. The standard also imposes strict requirements for supplier selection, development, and performance monitoring, along with a commitment to continuous improvement, defect prevention, and reducing variation and waste within the automotive supply chain.
Companies under this quality program must implement and use standard automotive core tools, such as Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Measurement System Analysis (MSA), and Statistical Process Control (SPC).
Why IATF 16949:2024 Certification Matters To Our Customers
Kenona’s IATF 16949:2024 certification demonstrates our ability to consistently meet our customers’ quality requirements through an elevated focus on quality and defect prevention.
Under this program, we’ve also streamlined our precision machine process, improving time to market and reducing waste, which often results in cost reductions.
Furthermore, this certification’s globally recognized framework has elevated our presence in the industry, allowing us to build confidence and a solid reputation among our customers, suppliers, and other key industry players.
Read More: How Kenona Solves EV Manufacturing Challenges
What Does Holding The ITAR Certification Mean?
Kenona not only produces high-quality precision-machine parts for personal and commercial vehicle OEMs, but we also supply components for defense applications and military contracts.
To meet the standards required for this type of work, our team is compliant with ITAR guidelines, a U.S. government rule that controls the export and import of defense-related articles, services, and technical data. Its purpose is to safeguard national security and further U.S. foreign policy objectives by restricting access to military-grade technology.
The program’s regulations are administered by the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of defense Trade Controls (DDTC) and are based on the United States Munitions List (USML). The USML is composed of a wide range of defense-related articles and components, from weapons to specific electronic components used in military applications.
Companies involved in the manufacturing, storing, exporting, or brokering defense articles, services, or related technical data must demonstrate the willingness and ability to prevent unauthorized access to them and protect sensitive military technologies. Furthermore, they must provide complete material and process traceability for every step of the supply chain, all of which must adhere to ITAR’s stringent standards.
Why ITAR Certification Is Critical To Defense Manufacturers
Defense contractors should always partner with companies that hold ITAR certification, as non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including substantial fines, suspension of government contracts, and loss of export privileges.
ITAR companies also often hold other certifications, such as ISO 9001:2015, to demonstrate their commitment to precision quality and process control, giving defense contractors peace of mind that their projects are in good hands.
Partner With Kenona Industries For High-Quality Precision Machine Parts And Components
Since our launch in 1988, Kenona Industries has been a world-class supplier of high-quality precision-machined components to some of the world’s biggest and most respected OEM brands.
Our team of engineers has the skills, experience, and quality certifications to deliver parts and components that will exceed your expectations, along with a customer service experience unparalleled in our industry.
When you’re ready to start building, call our team first!
Read More: Our Capabilities
Contact Kenona Industries For A Quote On Your Next Design And Fabrication Project
Kenona Industries is a world-class supplier of automotive components to leading OEMs and Tier 1, 2, and 3 manufacturers. Discover what sets us apart by requesting a quote for your next project today!