What is an AQL, and why is it such an important consideration?
An AQL, or Acceptable Quality Limit, is a probability limit chosen for a given product or process characteristic. There are normally three limits chosen, one for critical, major and minor. Usually, each of these three limits is different for each category. A typical sampling plan would be as follows: The lower the number, the fewer defects can be accepted in the sample of product. When choosing AQLs, it is important that one understands the balance between setting them too low, and rejecting many shipments, and setting them too high and releasing unacceptable product.
