CQI-9 is the AIAG special process assessment standard for heat treatment systems used in the automotive industry.
The assessment focuses on furnace operations, process control, pyrometry, equipment capability, and metallurgical verification. It helps organizations ensure that heat-treated components consistently meet customer and engineering requirements.

| Process Stage |
|---|
| Raw Material |
| Melting |
| Pouring |
| Cooling |
| Inspection |
| Key Control |
|---|
| Chemical composition |
| Temperature control |
| Process monitoring |
| Solidification control |
| Defect detection |
| Assessment Area | Key Focus |
|---|---|
| Furnace Control | Temperature accuracy and uniformity |
| Pyrometry | TUS, SAT and calibration compliance |
| Quenching Systems | Cooling media and process control |
| Metallurgical Testing | Hardness, case depth and microstructure |
| Process Documentation | Traceability and record management |
