Traceability requirements are typically associated only with fracture critical parts, except in the case of NFC composite or bonded parts. Because of the nature of these types of materials, additional activities are necessary for NFC parts in accordance with [FCR 9] section 6.3.d in this NASA Technical Standard.
[FCR 21] Traceability for each fracture critical and NFC composite or bonded part shall be established and maintained by providing a unique serial number (or other method when serialization is not practical) and a complete life history, including load history, impact damage, repair, materials, manufacturing, processing, and environmental exposure.
[Rationale: Traceability is necessary to assure the information used to assess flaw or damage sensitivity, screening, and protection is understood and accurate throughout the service life of the hardware.]
Traceability for NFC composite or bonded parts is somewhat unique relative to metallic parts. While metallic parts usually have a specification for providing minimum properties throughout the part, composite and bonded parts are composed of elements that may have specifications, but the properties after combination of these elements are often unique to the part being produced. These considerations lead to the need for traceability of fracture critical parts and NFC composite or bonded parts as also required in section 6.3 in this NASA Technical Standard.