APQP4Wind launches Manual 1.3

Utility companies supporting APQP4Wind Community

The quality assurance methodology APQP4Wind was originally developed by Wind Turbine OEMs and Suppliers, who worked towards improving the APQP4Wind Training, Manual, Toolbox, etc., and expanding the reach of APQP4Wind in mutual collaboration.

In 2021, Ørsted became the first Utility company that owned APQP4Wind Company Membership. In the same year, BP (formerly known as British Petroleum) and Vattenfall joined the APQP4Wind Community as well. RWE and TotalEnergies followed their steps, meaning five Utility companies are currently in the community.

The company membership allows these companies to influence the APQP4Wind development and encourages an open dialogue about the requirements with the rest of the community. By becoming the first Utility companies to join APQP4Wind, they emphasize the importance of standardized and lean processes across the value chain, aiming to improve reliability and cost-effectiveness.

During the WindEnergy trade fair in Hamburg in 2022, APQP4Wind announced that Vattenfall and Ørsted joined the APQP4Wind Board of Directors. Their representation on the board provides valuable insights into customer perspectives, guides quality development, and contributes to a comprehensive approach across the wind power supply chain.

Manual 1.3 ensuring comprehensive integration

Responding to more and more Utility companies joining APQP4Wind, the scope of the Manual has been extended in version 1.3 to encompass the entire spectrum of actors within the wind industry. This includes utility owners, designers, manufacturers of foundational components such as foundations and cables, service providers, and more

´By broadening its applicability, Manual 1.3 ensures that every entity, regardless of its role in the value chain, is integrated into a cohesive framework for quality assurance and continuous improvement.´ says Sonny Gajhede, board member of APQP4Wind and Lead Project Quality Manager at Vattenfall.

A pivotal change in Version 1.3 is the adoption of a straight Customer-Supplier relationship model, mirroring the principles found in ISO 9001. This approach facilitates direct communication and collaboration between Customers and Suppliers, enabling a more efficient and effective management of quality expectations and outcomes.

The wording throughout the manual has been updated to align with the expanded scope and the shift towards a more inclusive Customer-Supplier model. Such changes ensure the Manual's guidelines are applicable and accessible to a broader audience, enhancing its utility and relevance across diverse scenarios within the industry.

The latest version clarifies key aspects of quality management within the wind industry. Notably, it emphasizes the importance of communicating Process Special Characteristics, ensuring that all critical quality risks and attributes are understood and managed effectively. Responding to the industry's call for resilience and adaptability, Version 1.3 introduces a new section dedicated to capacity and contingency planning. This addition addresses the need for organizations to prepare for unforeseen challenges, ensuring that they can maintain quality and delivery standards under varying circumstances.

Moving forward together

The launch of APQP4Wind Manual Version 1.3 represents a significant leap forward in the wind industry's journey toward excellence. By expanding its scope, refining its approach to Customer-Supplier relationships, updating its terminology, and enhancing its focus on communication and contingency planning, Manual 1.3 sets a new benchmark for quality assurance in wind energy.

APQP4Wind Vice Chairman, APQP4Wind Programme Manager at Ørsted, Gert B. Kragh-Jakobsen, is excited about the release of Manual 1.3. He expresses:

As we embrace these changes, the APQP4Wind initiative invites all stakeholders to join us in this next phase of our collective journey, where collaboration, quality, and resilience are the cornerstones of our shared success in powering a sustainable future.