Letter 10024

Class I Chromate on Aluminum verification 

I work for a medical manufacturer in Denver, CO. We continually question if an aluminum part that calls out for a Mil-C-5541 [link is to info about spec at TechStreet] Class 1A finish is chromated or not. We will get parts in that have been yellow dyed, then all of sudden we will get parts that look bare.

Is there any quick test that we could do to verify chromate exists on the part? When we take the part and rub it on a sheet of paper it leaves a line like lead would, leading us to believe that there is no chromate. Is this a valid test? Is there some other quick and easy test that we could do?

A quick response to this question would be appreciated as we are holding product until I can verify.

Jay B [last name deleted for privacy due to age of posting]
- Lakewood, CO

The best thing to do for the future is to specify an iridescent yellow chrome with a color standard, so that light finishes can be rejected.

Tom Pullizzi Platronica.com Falls Township, PA

 

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