Download a free AQL Chart PDF based on ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 and ISO 2859-1 standards. The chart helps determine sample sizes and acceptance numbers for product inspections
What Is Included in the Free AQL Chart PDF?
The free AQL chart includes:
- Sample Size Code Letter Table
- AQL Sampling Table
- Acceptance Numbers (Ac)
- General Inspection Levels I, II, and III
- Special Inspection Levels S1, S2, S3, and S4
- Common AQL values used in product inspections
The chart can be used during factory inspections, pre-shipment inspections, incoming quality control, and supplier quality management activities.
What is an AQL Chart?
An AQL Chart, also called an AQL Table or AQL Sampling Chart, is a reference table used to determine:
- How many units should be inspected from a production lot
- The maximum number of defects that can be accepted before a shipment fails inspection
The chart follows internationally recognized sampling standards:
- ISO 2859-1
- ANSI/ASQ Z1.4
These standards provide a consistent and statistically valid method for making quality decisions without inspecting every product in a shipment.
How to Use an AQL Chart
Step 1: Determine the Lot Size
Identify the total quantity of units in the production batch.
Example:
5,000 units.
Step 2: Select the Inspection Level
Most product inspections use:
General Inspection Level II
This is the standard inspection level used for general quality inspections.
Step 3: Find the Sample Size Code Letter
For a lot size of 5,000 units and General Level II, the sample size code letter is:
L
Step 4: Determine the Sample Size
Code letter L corresponds to:
200 pieces
Step 5: Compare the Defect Counts
The AQL chart provides the acceptance number (Ac) for each AQL value.
- If the number of defects found is equal to or below the acceptance number, the lot passes inspection.
- If the defect count exceeds the acceptance number, the lot fails inspection.
Example of Using an AQL Chart
A shipment contains:
- Lot size: 5,000 units
- Inspection level: General II
- Major AQL: 2.5
- Minor AQL: 4.0
The AQL chart determines:
| Item | Result |
| Sample Size Code | L |
| Sample Size | 200 pieces |
| Major Acceptance Number (Ac) | 10 |
| Minor Acceptance Number (Ac) | 14 |
If inspectors find:
- Major defects: 8
- Minor defects: 11
The shipment passes inspection because the defect counts remain within the acceptance limits.
Common AQL Levels
| Defect Type | Common AQL |
| Critical | 0 |
| Major | 2.5 |
| Minor | 4.0 |
This combination is one of the most widely used inspection standards for consumer products and general merchandise.
When Should You Use an AQL Chart?
An AQL chart is commonly used for:
- Pre-Shipment Inspections
- During Production Inspections
- Incoming Quality Control
- Supplier Quality Management
- Factory Audits
- Product Inspection Programs
Industries that frequently use AQL sampling include:
- Consumer products
- Electronics
- Toys
- Apparel and textiles
- Furniture
- Home appliances
- Industrial products
- Medical devices
Why Download an AQL Chart?
Quick Reference
The chart provides a convenient reference during inspections.
Standardized Sampling
It ensures inspections follow internationally recognized sampling procedures.
Improved Inspection Efficiency
Inspectors can quickly determine sample sizes and acceptance numbers.
Better Quality Control
Using standardized sampling methods improves consistency across suppliers and factories.
Related Resources:
New to AQL? Read our Acceptable Quality Limit (AQL): Complete Guide for Quality Control to learn how AQL sampling works and how to choose the right AQL levels.
Try the Free AQL Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this AQL chart based on ISO 2859-1?
Yes. The chart follows ISO 2859-1 and ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 sampling standards.
2. Is the AQL chart free?
Yes. The PDF can be downloaded free of charge.
3. Does the AQL chart calculate sample sizes automatically?
No. The chart is a reference table. For automatic calculations, use our AQL Calculator.
4. What is the most commonly used inspection level?
General Inspection Level II is the most commonly used inspection level
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