Capability

Quality control

Thorough risk management and advanced quality controls are an absolute necessity because the casting process is complex and small deviations can have major implications for safety, performance and cost.

Chemical analysis

At the very beginning of the casting process, during melting, we can analyze the chemical composition of our metals in no time, extremely accurately. This allows us to intervene immediately and avoid possible deviations.

We bring the composition of the metal within specifications before proceeding with casting. The measurements of the OES SPECTROLAB (Spectro) are the basis in the control of our melting process. The Eltra devices ONH-2000 and CS-800 provide additional info on the concentrations of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon and sulfur for more complex casting materials with high quality requirements.

Optical Emission Spectrometer (OES) Spectrolab

The Spectrolab is one of the most accurate and fastest material identification measurement instruments available today. Thanks to its high accuracy and improved detection limits, we maintain excellent control of alloy elements, even at very low concentrations. This results in stable, reproducible quality and castings that consistently meet customer specifications.

The spectrometer works on the basis of an electrical “spark,” which is used to determine the concentration (Mass-%) of the following elements; C, Si, Mn, P, S, Cr, Ni, Mo, Al, Cu, V, B, Nb, Ca, Zr, Ti, N, Mg, Pb, Sn, Co, Ta, Ce, W, Zn, La, Fe (Fe and Ni base).

IR Eltra CS-800

The IR Eltra CS-800 works on the basis of combustion of the sample. This is done through an induction furnace where the released gases are analyzed by infrared rays. The Eltra CS-800 can measure both carbon (C) and sulfur (S) levels with the ability to analyze non-conductive materials as well.

IR/TC Eltra ONH-2000

The IR/TC Eltra ONH-2000 also works on the basis of combustion of the sample. Here, however, combustion takes place through an electrode impulse furnace. As with the CS-800, the gases released in this process are analyzed infrared so that a determination of nitrogen, hydrogen and oxygen is possible. In addition, the Eltra ONH-2000 also has the ability to analyze non-conductive materials.

Destructive testing

Allard-Europe has various test methods to check the (classic) mechanical properties of a casting, such as:

Tensile test (stress strain diagram)
Impact test (Charpy ISO-V).
Hardness Test

The pull bench highlighted

Allard-Europe has an advanced HM-D test apparatus from the Hoytom LAB series with Epsilon extensometer. This enables us to determine the corresponding stress strain diagram for each material and, if necessary, for each casting (up to 200 kN tensile force or 2500 MPa for a 10mm diameter test rod).

The high-quality force cells and instrumentation ensure maximum accuracy and reliability. This enables us to test and certify complex materials, such as high-grade cast steel.

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)

Our quality inspectors have the right expertise, experience and specialized measuring equipment to thoroughly examine the casting for possible imperfections inherent to the character of the casting process.

These persons hold certificates in accordance with EN ISO 9712 for the following examinations:

Visual examination focusing on surface finish using SCRATA-Comparators in accordance with ASTM A802
Magnetic survey aimed at detecting surface faults using Yoke for local survey, multipulse-1003-E3 (HPT) global survey
Penetrant examination for surface defects on non-magnetic materials, such as stainless steel, using fluorescent or red-and-white contrast
Ultrasonic examination for checking wall thicknesses and detecting internal casting defects using an A-scan device Olympus EPOCH 650

3D measurement

Allard-Europe has decades of experience in dimensional inspection using conventional measuring methods. With complex castings, however, these methods are not always sufficient. Then 3D measurement is indispensable to meet the strictest quality requirements. We have also built up and refined this expertise internally.

We can measure a model or rough casting, as well as perform final checks – and all the steps in between. The complete piece is digitally reproduced in 3D and compared with the nominal 3D design. In this way, we accurately test all relevant dimensions and geometries within the allowed tolerances, and according to the customer’s expectations.

Zeiss ATOS LRX

Laser scanner
Measurement with line pattern
Detailed scanned image
Used for double-curved surfaces
Scan area of 6m², further expandable in combination with Zeiss Tritop

Zeiss Tritop

Photogrammetry
Coded and uncoded points
Based on a classic high-resolution camera
Used for double-curved surface and large-size castings

Certifications and inspections

We are proud of the craftsmanship displayed by each and every one of our employees. For Allard-Europe, quality is tradition. We use our expertise and craftsmanship to design and create products, services and solutions that make a positive difference for our customers.

Allard-Europe wants to continue to distinguish itself as a producer of high-quality casting solutions. Implementing and maintaining a quality management system is essential for this and provides a good basis for sustainable development initiatives. We consciously choose to comply with the requirements of ISO 9001. This international standard aims to increase customer satisfaction. Understanding and managing interrelated processes as a system, contributes to the effectiveness and efficiency of our organization.

We seek independent third-party certification to strengthen customer confidence. Allard-Europe holds several certificates and “workshop approvals” that underline our high level of quality.

As a lock on the door, a factory acceptance test (FAT) is provided as standard, performed by the customer himself or a mandated inspection organization, to verify the quality of the casting before it is painted or shipped. When requested, we can issue an EN 10204 Type 3.2 material certificate on which both we and an independent third party officially confirm that the material meets the agreed specifications with maximum assurance.