Measurement & Quality

What are a material certificate, EN 10204 3.1 and a CoC, and when should each be requested?

These documents are not identical; the right level of traceability and conformity depends on the application.

Why does this matter?

Requesting paperwork is not the same as assuring quality. The right document should prove the characteristic or traceability that actually matters; otherwise it is just extra administration.

What are a material certificate, EN 10204 3.1 and a CoC, and when should each be requested?

What should you check?

  • function-critical features
  • measurement method, datums and reporting need
  • required tolerance or acceptance criteria
  • process and cost impact of inspection

A practical evaluation sequence

First clarify what evidence the customer actually needs. An inspection report, first article inspection and material certificate prove different things; requesting everything by default is no better than requesting nothing.

Common mistakes

  • Adding a document name to the specification without defining its content
  • Failing to link report scope to critical characteristics
  • Raising traceability requirements only after the order is placed
Decision rule

Choose documentation for the technical risk it must close, not out of habit.

What should you send for evaluation?

  • available CAD, drawing or physical sample details
  • critical dimensions, tolerances or fit expectations
  • material and any finishing/heat-treatment requirement
  • target quantity, lead-time expectation and use case

Where can Gizmak help?

We assess repeat production around the quantity, part structure, quality and coordination it requires.

Serial production

08 / Enquiry

Do you have a real part, drawing or CAD file?

Use the guide as a starting point, then share the actual technical data or physical sample so the manufacturing route can be reviewed against the real project.

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