At Global Metal Finishing, quality testing is a cornerstone of our metal finishing processes. From our anodizing service to aluminum chromate conversion and so on, the GMF team employs rigorous testing processes to validate our equipment, chemistry, and procedures. No matter what solution you’re seeking, you can trust that our methods are meticulous, precise, and built on decades of expertise. 

Let’s take a closer look at how the Global Metal Finishing team ensures compliance and consistency through internal and external quality testing methods. 

How We Validate Coating Thickness and Consistency

Eddy Current Thickness Testing 

Every aluminum anodizing service we provide requires a precise measurement of coating thickness. Using eddy current thickness gauges, our operators and final inspection team ensure that anodized coatings meet the required specifications. 

• Automated sampling plans: Based on the mil-spec and order size, our system dictates how many parts require testing; this streamlines the process and reduces human error. 
• Calibration training: Every team member in the final inspection department is trained to calibrate and use this specialized equipment. 

Coating Weight Testing

Our internal processes also cover coating weight tests. These measurements validate that every part meets its performance standards, including corrosion resistance and adhesion properties. 

Daily and Weekly Chemical Analysis

Tank Maintenance and Chemistry Management  

Our processing tanks for metal finishing services, including the passivation of stainless steel, are rigorously monitored. 

• Daily testing: Chemical compositions are analyzed to maintain proper pH levels, temperature, and concentration. 
• Decanting: Old chemistry is removed, and fresh chemistry is added as needed to ensure consistency. 
• Reporting: Our lead chemist, Mike, keeps detailed records of all chemical changes, which are available for review at any time.

Seal Testing for Anodized Aluminum 

Proper sealing is essential for ensuring that finished parts are durable in their intended applications. Seal quality is tested regularly to confirm parts are functional and long-lasting in their end use. 

Specialized Quality Testing for Stainless Steel and Aluminum 

Copper Sulfate and Water Immersion Testing

For the passivation of stainless steel, the GMF team performs copper sulfate and water immersion tests. These testing procedures verify corrosion resistance and surface integrity. 

Packaging Verification

Ensuring safe transit is critical, especially for metal finishers, who typically represent the final step in a part’s production lifecycle. That’s why we follow strict protocols to prevent damage, double- and triple-checking that all parts are securely packaged to avoid any dings and scratches. Every employee in our shipping department is trained to handle parts with care, so each part arrives to our customers in the exact condition they left our facilities. 

Third-Party Testing Methods

While we employ robust internal processes, we also rely on a Nadcap-accredited third-party lab for added assurance. This includes salt spray testing, in which parts are exposed to 336 hours of salt spray to validate corrosion resistance. 

Continuous Improvement Through Certifications

Recently, we achieved passing results for Type IIB and Type IC anodizing, offering new opportunities for our customers. These coatings have the same salt spray performance as our other offerings but involve different chemistries and coating weights.

This milestone reflects our commitment to expanding our metal finishing services and meeting our customers’ diverse needs. 

Why GMF’s Quality Testing Matters

Choosing to partner with Global Metal Finishing means teaming up with a company that values transparency and accuracy, both in how we conduct our metal finishing services and how we communicate with our customers. We don’t just hand over a certificate of conformance and call it a day; we back up our documentation with data and detailed test results.

By peeling back the curtain on our processes, our customers feel confident that our chemistries and processes are backed by the most stringent industry standards. It’s not just about handling our procedures with care and precision; it’s about building trusting partnerships that stand the test of time.

Want to learn more? Contact our team to see how we can support your needs.