CQI-12-3 Special Process: Coating System Assessment 3rd Edition

Introducing the CQI-12-3 Special Process: Coating System Assessment 3rd Edition, the latest release in July 2020. This comprehensive guide is a must-have for professionals in the coating industry, offering a detailed and systematic approach to assessing coating systems. The standard number CQI-12-3 is a testament to its credibility and reliability in the industry.

Unmatched Quality and Standards

As a part of the renowned CQI series, the CQI-12-3 Special Process: Coating System Assessment 3rd Edition upholds the highest standards of quality and precision. It is designed to help you understand and implement effective coating system assessments, ensuring that your processes meet the stringent requirements of the industry.

Comprehensive and Detailed

This guide is comprehensive and detailed, covering all aspects of coating system assessment. It provides clear instructions and guidelines, making it easy for you to conduct assessments with confidence. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a beginner in the field, this guide will prove to be an invaluable resource.

Hardcopy with Downloadable Assessment

Excel file contains these tables:

Cover sheet
Section 1 - Management Responsibility & Quality Planning
Section 2 - Floor and Material Handling Responsibility
Section 3 - Pyrometry
Section 4 - Coating System Assessment Job Audit - Finished Product Review
PROCESS TABLE A - Pretreatment Form bulider
PROCESS TABLE A - Pretreatment (Aqueous)
PROCESS TABLE B - Pretreatment (Mechanical)
PROCESS TABLE C - Conversion Form builder
PROCESS TABLE C - Conversion Coatings (Phosphate, Non-phosphate, Chromate, Non-chrome, Black Oxide)
PROCESS TABLE D - Powder Coating
PROCESS TABLE E - Spray Coating
PROCESS TABLE F - Electrocoat
PROCESS TABLE G - Dip-Spin & All Zinc-Flake Application Methods
PROCESS TABLE H - Autodeposition
PROCESS TABLE I - Cure
PROCESS TABLE J - Anodizing and Hard Coat Anodizing
PROCESS TABLE K - Process Control and Testing Equipment Verification and Calibration  

CQI-12-3 refers to the AIAG Special Process: Coating System Assessment (CSA), 3rd Edition.
It is part of the AIAG CQI series used by automotive manufacturers and suppliers to evaluate, control, and continually improve coating processes.

✅ What CQI-12-3 Is

CQI-12-3 is a self-assessment and audit standard specifically focused on coating processes used in the automotive supply chain, covering both organic and inorganic coatings. It ensures that coating operations are stable, capable, and compliant with customer expectations.

Typical coated products include:

• e-coat / electrocoat

• liquid paint

• powder coating

• dip coating

• spray coating

• plating with sealers

• specialty automotive coatings

The assessment is intended to be performed annually and verified by trained, competent personnel.

🎯 Purpose of CQI-12-3

The main goals are to:

• Improve coating process control

• Reduce variation and coating-related defects

• Ensure consistent appearance and performance

• Strengthen preventive maintenance and process monitoring

• Support IATF 16949 and OEM-specific requirements

📘 Main Elements of the Standard

Below is a general overview of the structure and topics included in the standard (not copyrighted content):

1. Management Responsibility

Covers:

• Roles and responsibilities

• Training and competence of operators

• Documentation control

• Coating-specific quality planning

2. Process Planning & Documentation

Includes high-level expectations for:

• PFMEA and Control Plan alignment

• Work instructions

• Process flow diagrams

• Material specifications

3. Coating Process Control

Topics include:

• Surface preparation and cleanliness

• Coating application parameters (temperature, viscosity, thickness, etc.)

• Curing control (oven temps, times)

• Equipment setup and process verification

• Monitoring of critical parameters

4. Material Handling

Ensures:

• Correct storage of coatings

• Shelf-life control

• Proper mixing and agitation

• Prevention of contamination

5. Equipment Maintenance & Calibration

Covers:

• Preventive maintenance of spray lines, tanks, ovens

• Calibration of gauges (thickness, viscosity, temperature)

• Condition of filters, pumps, guns, conveyors

6. Quality Assurance

Includes:

• First-piece approval

• Appearance inspection (gloss, color, defects)

• Coating performance tests (adhesion, corrosion resistance, curing tests)

• Traceability and change management

7. Layered Process Audits & Self-Assessments

The assessment includes:

• A detailed checklist (Process Table)

• Scoring method (Satisfactory / Needs Improvement / Not Satisfactory)

• Required action plans

🔄 What’s New in the 3rd Edition (CQI-12-3)

At a very high level (permissible summary), the 3rd edition typically includes:

• Updated criteria for modern coating technologies

• Closer alignment with IATF 16949 requirements

• Expanded requirements for cleanliness and surface prep

• Improved validation and testing expectations

• More detailed maintenance and calibration expectations

• Revised scoring guidance

Published AIAG standards and CQI standrads