How do you identify a potentially counterfeit part during inspection?

• A. Check part numbers, lot codes, supplier verification, and comparison with approved catalogs; verify against approved sources.
• B. Ask the supplier for a new part.
• C. Compare only to price and brand name.
• D. Test the part in operation to see if it fails.

Answer: (A)

Authenticity comes from traceability and official verification. The best way to spot a potentially counterfeit part during inspection is to verify the part’s markings and documentation against approved records: confirm the exact part number and lot/code align with the manufacturer’s data, check that the supplier is an authorized source, and compare the part and its paperwork to approved catalogs or parts lists. This cross-checking against official sources helps ensure the part’s provenance, correct configuration, and that it hasn’t been tampered with or substituted.

Other approaches fall short because they don’t establish provenance. Asking the supplier for a new part doesn’t verify the current lot’s legitimacy. Relying only on price or brand name can be deceiving, since counterfeiters mimic both. Testing the part in operation can reveal issues, but many counterfeit or substandard parts can function briefly or pass basic tests, so it isn’t a reliable standalone method for identifying counterfeits during inspection.