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Nadcap accreditation: a successful harvest!

Three types of composite tests were accredited by Nadcap (National Aerospace and Defence Contractors Accreditation Program) at the beginning of 2012: differential scanning calorimetry, shear tests and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry – a series of success that confirms Cetim’s standing with aircraft manufacturers.

In terms of strategic issues, composites are assuming more and more importance in aircraft construction. They help to reduce the weight of structures, resulting in greater energy efficiency and a reduction in the emission of pollutants.

Fully aware of these possibilities, Cetim has been keen to support aircraft manufacturers in their research efforts and has made long-term investments in production and analysis technologies for material composites.

The Nadcap accreditations were obtained without any non-compliance following the audit carried out in December 2011 on Cetim’s site at Nantes-La Jonelière (France). The accreditations will now strengthen the centre’s standing with aircraft manufacturers and their sub-contractors.

The first of Cetim’s successes concerns the renewal of the accreditation already obtained for the differential scanning calorimetry tests. This physico-chemical analysis makes it possible to determine the transition temperatures (fusion point, glass transition) of polymers (thermosetting and thermoplastic resins) and the curing or crystallization state. The tests are carried out according to Standard ISO 1157.

The two new tests accredited by Nadcap concern shear tests and infrared spectrophotometry analysis.

The shear tests (mechanical tests specific to composite materials) make it possible to define the laminate shear characteristics. They are conducted according to Standard ISO 1430.

Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry is a physico-chemical means of analysis that enables the chemical nature of organic materials to be specified. It meets Airbus’ AITM specifications in particular.

These three accreditations complement the accreditation that Cetim has already obtained for tests on metallic materials. Cetim now has a complete range of Nadcap-certified tests for the aeronautical world and can improve its position and the growth of its business with its partners on behalf of companies in the EADS and Safran corporations in particular.

sqr@cetim.fr

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Chemistry, intermediate goods, consumer goods, food industry... This is a multifaceted sector where there is a high demand for many mechanical skills, materials, components or organization. The French referent in the sector of mechanics, Cetim offers its high-level skills or combines its talents to bring you a totally customized solution in the fields of design, product or process reliability, failure analysis or training.

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