What AQL means
Acceptance Quality Limit (AQL) is a parameter used with an authorised sampling plan. The lot size, inspection level and severity lead to a sample rule; Ac is the largest accepted defect count and Re is the rejection count. The buyer's current manual and contract always control the inspection.
Authorised-plan workflow
- Confirm the buyer, product scope, lot definition and current policy version.
- Look up the required sample size and Ac/Re values in the licensed standard or buyer plan.
- Enter those values, inspect randomly selected units and classify defects consistently.
- Review gate outcomes and the explanation before signing or sharing the report.
Illustrative examples
Example A — within Ac
If an authorised major rule is Ac 5 / Re 6 and five major defects are observed after completing the sample, the major class passes.
Example B — early rejection
If the same rule reaches six major defects before the sample is complete, the rejection number has been reached and the class rejects.
Common mistakes and limitations
- Do not guess a sample size or treat an AQL label as a percentage of defective pieces.
- Do not mix rules from different standards, buyer editions, severities or inspection stages.
- Do not share buyer names, order references or confidential evidence without permission.
- This educational tool does not supply official tables, certify compliance or replace qualified judgement.