Agree the purpose before the visit
An audit for a new cast component will differ from a review of an existing machining supplier with delivery problems. Start by defining the decision: initial qualification, a capacity check, a process concern or follow-up on corrective action.
Hongdu can scope a factory audit as an individual assignment. Mr Zhou brings supplier development, procurement and auditing capability to that work.
Review the process that will make your part
Walk through the proposed manufacturing route. Identify the equipment, operators and external processors involved. Check whether available capacity and current work can support the intended schedule. A general equipment list alone does not establish that capacity is available for your order.
Look for a working quality system
Use relevant examples to understand incoming checks, material identification, process records, inspection and nonconformance handling. Ask how the factory ensures that the correct drawing revision reaches production.
Review calibration or verification records for relevant measuring equipment against the applicable requirements. The sampling of records and any limits on access should be recorded in the findings.
Understand how problems are handled
Discuss an appropriate anonymised example of a quality issue and the corrective actions taken. What was contained, who investigated it and how was the response checked? Respect customer confidentiality and site safety requirements when reviewing records and visiting production areas.
Report findings with a next action
Separate observations, supporting evidence, unresolved questions and recommendations. A useful report helps the buyer decide whether to proceed, require corrective actions or arrange further verification.
An audit describes the scope and evidence reviewed at that time. Samples and production checks may still be needed to demonstrate that the proposed component meets its requirements.