QUALITY ASSURANCE AND INSPECTION PRACTICES IN SHIPBUILDING: AN INDUSTRIAL CASE STUDY
Marcelo de Oliveira Predes
Abstract: This paper analyzes the application of Quality Assurance and Quality Control practices during the construction of an aluminum vessel through an industrial case study. The investigation focuses on the integration of material traceability, documentary verification, visual inspection and liquid penetrant testing as complementary mechanisms for ensuring manufacturing conformity. The research adopted a qualitative case study methodology based on the observation of quality inspection activities performed during the construction process, supported by technical documentation and inspection records. Based on these findings, an integrated quality management framework is proposed, combining inspection planning, material traceability, quality documentation, non-destructive testing, and continuous improvement within a unified production workflow. The results demonstrate that the systematic integration of documentary control, traceability and non-destructive testing provides objective evidence of conformity throughout production, strengthening structural reliability and supporting future maintenance and auditing activities. The study concludes that effective quality management in shipbuilding depends not only on inspection techniques but also on the implementation of preventive quality assurance practices that integrate engineering, production and inspection throughout the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the structured generation of quality records establishes a foundation for future Quality 4.0 initiatives, including digital traceability and data-driven quality management systems.
Keywords: Quality assurance; Quality control; Shipbuilding; Traceability; Welding inspection; Non-destructive testing
DOI: 10.24874/PES08.03B.008
Recieved: 27.05.2026 Revised: 13.08.2026 Accepted: 08.09.2026
UDC:
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