Three sets of rules, one shared message

Chapter 6 of the QUALICOAT specifications requires extensive self-inspections from coating plants — together with documentation of both the performance and the results.

Bath analyses follow the recommendations of the chemical supplier, but at least once every 24 hours. The drying temperature of the workpiece is to be measured at least weekly. Plants with the SEASIDE designation check the etching removal once per shift.

And: the documents must be kept so that the inspector can access them easily. Inspections take place twice a year, unannounced.

The quality guidelines AL 631 (aluminium) and ST 663 (steel) oblige the plant to carry out continuous self-monitoring of pre-treatment and production, to record the results and to retain the test records.

With chromium-free passivation, for instance, temperature and concentration are to be checked once per shift. The oven temperature is to be documented continuously at at least three fixed measuring points.

Worth noting: the same guideline states explicitly that documentation need not be produced on continuous paper. That is express permission to replace the paper strip with something better.

During its inspection, the Quality Association for Industrial Coating examines production facilities, processes, the product quality achieved — and expressly the documentation of key production data.

Anyone carrying the quality mark is obliged to carry out continuous self-monitoring; once a year an inspector from an independent test institute visits the plant.