Copper analysis laboratory

The 6NAPSE Group performs the analysis of copper and copper-based alloys (brass, bronze, etc.). The laboratory also conducts tests and validation studies (including corrosion) to guarantee the durability of the materials.

Characteristics of copper in industry

Copper is the third most used metal in the world after iron and aluminum. The properties of copper (high electrical and thermal conductivity, corrosion resistance, recyclability) make this metal a widely used natural resource. It is the best electrical conductor among all non-precious metals.

It is thus used in the electricity sector, electronics, telecommunications (cable networks, microprocessors, batteries), in construction (water piping, roof covering), in architecture, transport (electrical components -mechanical, oil coolers, tanks, propellers), machine tools, equipment (oil platforms) and consumer products (kitchen utensils) but also coins such as the euro.

Relatively resistant to atmospheric and marine corrosion, the reddish metal is very useful for industrialists. It is also very malleable, tough and ductile, relatively soft.

The main copper alloys are brass (with zinc), bronze (with tin) and nickel silver (with nickel and zinc).

Analysis and expertise of copper, brass and bronze​

• Physico-chemical characterization of copper
• Chemical composition analysis and grade checks of copper alloys
• Chemical analysis of brass
• Chemical analysis of bronze
• Elemental analysis and determination of the elements constituting copper
• Analysis and characterization of surfaces (roughness, defects, …) on copper
• Surface treatment analysis
• Heat treatment analysis
• Surface characterization and fracture facies study
• Material control and product conformity

Validation and corrosion testing

In our test centers, we also carry out premature aging tests on materials in order to analyze their change of state, their durability or their conformity. Also, we conduct environmental and mechanical validation tests:

• Environmental tests (temperature, susceptibility to fluids, light, etc.)
• Mechanical tests (fatigue, endurance, maneuver)
• Vibration tests (shock resistance in an assembly)

We are also able to carry out the expertise of a failure (breakage, rupture, appearance defect) as well as the identification of the origin of corrosion (rust) and corrosion resistance tests in condition salt fog.

6NAPSE Group assets

• All the controls, tests and analyzes of our laboratories are carried out in compliance with the quality criteria of our industrial customers.
• Short standard deadlines and possibilities of emergencies