Control, spot checks, measurements, sampling, ...

To ensure the profiles meet quality requirements, tests and inspections are carried out before, during and after the extrusion process.

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The first inspections take place when the scrap is received. It is checked to ensure that only clean profile scrap is used for recycling.

Samples are taken during casting of the logs. Tests to verify the chemical composition are also made during certification testing. Spectrometer measurements are used to verify that the composition of the aluminium and the alloy comply with the specified values.

If an external supplier is used, the billets are analysed on receipt and before use. Material produced in-house is, of course, carefully checked. Samples are regularly tested in the Sapa Technology Centre.

A die test is carried out before extrusion begins.

The shape and dimensions of the extruded profiles are checked regularly during the extrusion process. All relevant parameters are recorded to ensure product uniformity.

Several other tests conducted after ageing, including testing of the mechanical properties. Tensile strength tests and hardness tests are used to check whether the values correspond to the values stipulated& in EN standards (EN 573-3/1994 and EN 755-2/1997). Depending on the product, we also check longitudinal welds, grain structure etc.

In the case of mechanical fabrication, the dimensions of the profiles are checked against the drawings.

If a surface treatment is also applied to the profiles, a number of quality controls are carried out.  

The diagram shows an overview of the various production steps and the associated quality control.