You would to perform an elemental analysis of gases in metals (C, H, N, O, S)
Nadcap expertise: guaranteed flawless compliance
The difference between a high-quality alloy and a structural failure often comes down to just a few parts per million (ppm).
In the aerospace industry, gas analysis is not just a routine measurement; it’s a critical safety requirement. Our laboratory operates according to Nadcap MTL (Materials Testing Laboratories) standards, guaranteeing you complete control over the testing processes for interstitial elements.
Influence of C, H, N, O, S on the integrity of materials
Interstitial impurities are not mere chemical details; they alter the very structure of matter:
- Carbon (C) & Sulfur (S): directly influence hardness, ductility, and corrosion resistance.
- Oxygen (O) & Nitrogen (N): high levels can lead to grain boundary embrittlement and reduce fatigue strength.
- Hydrogen (H): the primary cause of hydrogen embrittlement, leading to sudden and unpredictable fractures.
Nadcap's guarantee for your critical components
Carbon, sulfur, and gas (O, N, H) testing under Nadcap accreditation ensures that every result stems from an unbroken chain of trust:
- Drift control: rigorous use of certified reference standards (CRMs) adapted to your matrices (Titanium, Inconel, Special Steels).
- Process rigor: strict validation of surface preparation (elimination of atmospheric contaminants without altering the sample).
- Absolute traceability: archiving and auditability of each step, from specimen receipt to the issuance of the analysis report.
- Technical expertise: qualified personnel and equipment maintained to the strictest tolerances of the aerospace industry.
The FILAB laboratory performs elemental analysis of gases in metals (C, H, N, O, S)
Our technical resources for Nadcap analysis
We use Inert Gas Fusion (IGA) and Induction Combustion analysis methods, guaranteeing unparalleled repeatability.
Through inert gas fusion, the sample is heated to a very high temperature in a graphite crucible. The released gases are measured with extreme precision:
- Oxygen: detection by non-dispersive infrared (NDIR).
- Nitrogen & Hydrogen: measurement by thermal conductivity.
The sample is burned in a stream of pure oxygen within an induction furnace.
- Carbon is converted to CO2.
- Sulfur is converted to SO2.
- Both are instantly quantified by infrared detectors.
Why entrust your elemental gas analyses to the FILAB laboratory?
- Independence and impartiality: as a third-party laboratory, FILAB offers you complete neutrality. This is a major advantage in disputes with a supplier or for validating First Article Inspection (FAI) qualifications.
- Recognized technical robustness: NADCAP accreditation demonstrates our complete mastery of our processes. It sends a strong signal to your clients: an unwavering commitment to quality and safety.
- Responsiveness and proximity: located in France, FILAB offers an agility that large international groups lack. We understand the challenges of time-to-market and production downtime. We handle your urgent situations with the rigor required by the NADCAP framework.
Our analytical services are NADCAP accredited.
Customer Qualification
SAFFRAN APPROVAL
Several years ago, FILAB was awarded Laboratory Qualification by the SAFRAN group under procedures GRP-0087, GRM-0123 and TTS-MOP-004. This qualification is regularly renewed following audits carried out by Safran on our premises.
DASSAULT AVIATION APPROVAL
In March 2025, the FILAB laboratory obtained DASSAULT AVIATION approval. This approval makes FILAB a reliable partner for aerospace manufacturers.
Our FAQ
This technique quantifies the light elements (carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur) present in a metallic matrix.
Even in trace amounts, these elements can significantly alter the material's properties: mechanical strength, ductility, corrosion resistance, and weldability.
Nadcap (National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program) accreditation is not simply an ISO certification. It is a thorough technical validation of our processes by industry experts. It guarantees that our analyses (C, H, N, O, S) meet the critical safety requirements of aerospace contractors (Safran, Airbus, Boeing), where an error of just a few ppm could be catastrophic.
These elements have a direct impact on the metal's performance:
- Carbon (C): influences hardness and strength
- Hydrogen (H): responsible for embrittlement phenomena (e.g., delayed cracking)
- Nitrogen (N): modifies the crystalline structure and mechanical properties
- Oxygen (O): can generate inclusions and weaken the material
- Sulfur (S): impacts machinability and resistance to cracking
The analysis is applicable to a wide range of materials:
- Steels and cast irons
- Metal alloys (aluminum, titanium, nickel, cobalt, etc.)
- Refractory metals
It can be performed on finished products, semi-finished products, or production samples.
Uncontrolled concentration can lead to:
- Weakening of the material
- Loss of mechanical performance
- Defects in service (fracture, corrosion, porosity)
- Non-compliance with standards or specifications
To obtain a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply tell us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, applicable standards, urgency, quantity of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours.
Turnaround times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times tailored to your industrial constraints and urgent needs.
