Navigating the threat of Fraudulent Electronic Components
The substantial risks posed by counterfeit and fraudulent components cannot be overstated, especially for aerospace & defence, hi-rel and other advanced industry applications. Princeps takes this threat very seriously, quality and an ethos of continual improvement are at the centre of its entire operation, with solid systems and processes in place to support its Quality Management System.
- The threat of counterfeit parts is increasing
- There has been a marked increase in industry awareness regarding counterfeit issues in recent years, but the threat continues to evolve
- Counterfeit interception techniques must develop to tackle the rising threat
- Princeps In-House laboratory is equipped with advanced technology such as High-Power 3D Microscopy, Micro-focus X-Ray, XRF Spectroscopy and an Acid Decapsulation System
- Experienced, Certified Inspection and Laboratory Team
Recent developments in Counterfeit and Fraudulent Parts
The recent surge in cloned parts has made a well-equipped lab and an experienced, certified, inspection team the minimum requirement. Enhanced material analysis tools are the key to intercepting this new wave of counterfeit part and a continual improvement ethos ensures that Princeps’ response remains at the leading edge.
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Streamlined Supply Chain Solutions
Our range of Supply Chain and Component Sourcing services include:
Traceability
Safe, traceable sourcing of currently available EEE components. Order traceable current parts via a variety of ordering and delivery models including blanket, call off and KANBAN.
Sourcing
Rely on our knowledge & expertise to securely source the parts you need. Secure sourcing for hard-to-find parts including those that are obsolete.
Obsolescence
Continuity planning for obsolescence & open market sourcing of obsolete parts. Obsolescence management and mitigation, BOM monitoring and AS6081 releases, helping avoid long term supply concerns.
Tail Management
Rationalise a range of suppliers to a single point of contact. Vendor tail reduction for supply chain simplification and giving you a single point of contact for EEE sourcing and procurement.
Kitting
Managed solution including sourcing and traceability. Simplify production with kitting solutions & reduce hidden costs, streamlining manufacturing and addresses counterfeit mitigation.
Princeps’ Counterfeit Avoidance Program
As an early adopter of AS6081, Princeps Counterfeit Avoidance Plan has continued to evolve since first being accredited to this elite certification by NQA back in 2016.
Our process for the safe procurement of untraceable components for use in hi-rel industries makes use of the risk assessment model detailed in AS6171 and the SAE Counterfeit Defect Coverage Tool. By doing so associated risks are identified and a comprehensive, optimised test sequence generated. Use of the AS6171 Risk Model produces reliable, repeatable test plans with coverage to meet risks associated with use of the components in the end product.
- Princeps’ Counterfeit Avoidance Program is AS6081 Certified by NQA-USA
- AS6081 outlines methods for distributors to mitigate risks in the open market
- Princeps was among the first UK distributors to achieve AS6081 certification in 2016
- The program utilises the AS6171 risk assessment model and the SAE Counterfeit Defect Coverage Tool for safe procurement of untraceable components
- The AS6171 Risk Model creates reliable and repeatable test plans to address risks related to component use in final products
- Princeps in-house laboratory team are certified in the application of the latest industry best practice
What is Counterfeit Component Mitigation?
Counterfeit component mitigation involves implementing strategies to minimise the risks posed by counterfeit or fraudulent parts in industries like aerospace, defence and other hi-reliability industries. These sectors demand high levels of safety and reliability, making it essential to ensure that all components used in manufacturing are authentic and meet strict quality standards.
One of the core elements of effective mitigation is the establishment of strong quality assurance systems. This includes thorough supplier verification processes that assess and audit suppliers to confirm their credibility. Adhering to industry standards, such as AS6081 and AS6171, provides guidelines for detecting counterfeit components and ensures that practices align with best industry approaches.
Testing and inspection play a critical role in this process, using advanced testing methods and technologies, companies can verify the authenticity of components before they are used in production. Additionally, fostering awareness and training among employees and stakeholders is essential to emphasise the importance of vigilance in procurement activities. Maintaining accurate traceability and documentation throughout the supply chain further ensures that the origin of components can be tracked, which adds an extra layer of accountability. Ultimately, these efforts are aimed at safeguarding the integrity and reliability of end products, protecting both the manufacturer and the consumer.
What are Cloned Components?
Cloned components are a particularly invidious category of counterfeit parts that present a deeper challenge when compared to “traditional” counterfeit parts.
“Traditional” counterfeit parts have historically been relatively easy to identify using simple visual inspection or solvent tests to remove the secondary coating that these parts generally have in place.
Cloned parts can be visually indistinguishable from the genuine item and require additional material characterisation to determine their quality, spectroscopic techniques such as X-Ray Fluorescence and Fourier Transform Infra-Red are particularly useful. A full range of inspection techniques must be applied to maximise the mitigation in place.
What are the Risks of using Counterfeit Components?
Using counterfeit components comes with a range of critical risks that can have detrimental effects on industries such as aerospace, defence and electronics. One of the main risks is the potential compromise of safety. Counterfeit parts may not meet the necessary quality and performance standards, leading to equipment failure or malfunction, which can endanger lives.
Another major concern is the negative impact on brand reputation. Companies that unknowingly utilise counterfeit components can face severe legal and financial repercussions, including loss of customer trust. This can result in decreased sales and long-term damage to the brand's credibility.
Counterfeit components can lead to increased costs in the long run. The need for rework, repairs, or replacements due to failures involving counterfeit parts can quickly escalate expenses. In industries where reliability is non-negotiable, such as aerospace and medical equipment, the consequences of using counterfeit components can be particularly costly, both financially and in terms of regulatory compliance. The risks associated with counterfeit components highlight the need for mitigation strategies to ensure safety, quality and brand integrity.