Approval Testings
Our laboratories frequently carry out testings of the coated material to establish the effectiveness of the treatment. These tests can also include the testing of pretreatment processes.
Pretreatment testing is usually followed by an extensive evaluation of the performance of the corrosion protection and the capability of the adhesion promotion. Test panels are treated according the practice parameters and painted with the customers paint system. The panels are then placed in test chambers within a monitored aggressive atmosphere. The conditions may, for example, mirror the conditions on a overseas transport allowing for changes in temperature and humidity, or mimic the atmospheric conditions found on land, close to the sea taking into account the salt-laden, humid air found near the shore.
After a prescribed period the panels are removed and checked for corrosion. In some cases we purposely damage the surface, for example by scratching it, to simulate mechanical defects which may accelerate the effects of corrosion.
In some cases we have the treated surfaces checked by official organisations such as GSB or Qualicoat. These independent organisations check our products to assess how they comply with their published Standards. After being assessed as complying with these Standards, the test panels coated by using our products and processes carry an approval label which is often mandatory: e.g. in the aluminum working industry.