AIAG Guideline on Heat Treat Process Aims to Lower Automotive Recalls and Warranty Costs

DETROIT, June 15 -- The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) has developed a guideline to help companies lower recalls and warranty costs by ensuring the quality and reliability of automotive parts undergoing heat treatment. The automotive industry spent $13.5 to $14 billion in warranty claims in 2005, according to AMR Research.

Heat treatment is a special process that imparts strength, fatigue life, ductility and wear or corrosion resistance on parts like seat belts and steering gears. The guideline defines the fundamental requirements for this process because improper heat treat results in one or more recalls a year and higher warranty costs.

Developed by AIAG's Heat Treat Work Group composed of OEMs and suppliers, the guideline provides for continual improvement, emphasizing defect prevention and the reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain.

The 71-page guideline outlines the key elements of a heat treat assessment, including:

* Heat treat assessment procedure.

* Requirements for each of the four heat treat processes [ferrous, ferrous (gas), aluminum and induction (ferrous)].

* Heat treat part job audit.

AIAG's Special Process: Heat Treat System Assessment is available exclusively from AIAG at a regular price of $53 and a discounted price of $31 for members. To purchase, visit the AIAG Web site at http://www.aiag.org/ or call AIAG customer service at (248) 358-3003.

About AIAG

Founded in 1982, AIAG is a globally recognized organization where OEMs and suppliers unite to address and resolve issues affecting the worldwide automotive supply chain. AIAG's goals are to reduce cost and complexity through collaboration; improve product quality, health, safety and the environment; and optimize speed to market throughout the supply chain. Headquartered in the metro Detroit area, its more than 1,500 member companies include North American, European and Asia-Pacific OEMs and suppliers to the automotive industry. Additional information is available on the Internet at http://www.aiag.org/ .