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Automotive Surface
Testing

From plastic to lacquer

Comprehensive tests for every type of surface

The variety of surfaces in the automotive sector is impressive, as is the range of challenges they have to withstand. Whether plastic, metal, paint or textiles - every surface must meet the highest requirements. To ensure that your products meet these requirements, we offer a comprehensive range of test methods. Our services cover all relevant test methods, from scratch and abrasion tests to chemical resistance tests and corrosion tests.

We carry out tests (initial sampling / PPAP) in accordance with the demanding OEM specifications of leading automotive manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, BMW, Tesla, Vinfast & Co. We ensure that your components comply with the specific test specifications and meet the highest quality standards.

Our expertise and standard-compliant test procedures are recognized by all national and international car manufacturers. You can rely on our more than 30 years of experience and our accredited test laboratory to ensure the durability, safety and longevity of your products.

 

Paint and corrosion testing

Paint testing

  • Cross cut
  • Salt spray
  • Corrosion change
  • Condensation water constant climate test
  • Multi-stone impact / stone impact resistance
  • Steam jet tests
  • Coating thickness measurement
  • more

Coating thickness measurement & microscopy

  • Coating thickness measurement (eddy current and magnetic induction method)
  • Metal and oxide coatings - coating thickness measurement - microscopic method
  • Coulometric method by anodic stripping
  • X-ray fluorescence method
  • SEM images
  • Infrared microscopy (IR)
Microscopy

Color and gloss measurements

Color measurement

 

  • Metrological and visual assessment of color and gloss level
  • Color measurement for exterior paints, textiles and colored claddings
  • Color measurement of plastic surfaces
  • Measurement of structure and gloss on painted surfaces
  • Method 5 (20°), Method 3 (60°) and Method 1 (85°)
  • more

Scratch and abrasion tests

  • Martindale - soiling and cleaning behavior
  • Dry scratch resistance using a crockmeter
  • Scratch testing (surface testing of automotive interior materials)
  • Cutting test, abrasion test with steel wool,
  • Mar resistance, scratch resistance of plastics in the vehicle
  • Rockwood five-finger scratch tester
  • Scratch resistance (with fingernail or knife blade)
  • Scratch exposure with a chisel
  • Scratch test with a linear stroke device (Crockmeter)
  • Erichsen scratch hardness tester
  • Abrasion resistance Taber friction wheel method, Abrex, Crockmeter, Veslic

Textile Testing

 

Resistance to exposure testing

Hot Light Ageing Light Exposure Color Fastness

 

  • Color fastness tests
  • Exposure test (hot light ageing) / UV radiation
  • Xenon test
  • Kalahari or Arizona test
  • Florida test
  • Further information can be found here

Chemical surface tests

  • Surface resistance to media
  • Chemical exposure under temperature
  • Determination of the behavior towards liquids
  • Cream resistance
  • more

Chemical Surface Testing

 

Accreditations/ Certificates