How to Choose a Corrosion Testing Lab: Common Questions Answered

A well-established laboratory should offer expertise in corrosion testing, weathering durability, and verification of surface protection systems. The best laboratories do more than test; they provide guidance on materials, surface treatments, and improvement opportunities that help customers meet both their own requirements and those of their customers. ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, OEM approval, high capacity, and short lead times are essential when development schedules are tight, particularly within the automotive industry.

Cotec Labs holds ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and OEM approvals from Scania, Volvo Cars, Volvo AB, Ford, Daimler, IKEA, and Husqvarna, combining verified credentials with technical guidance and short lead times.

When choosing a materials testing lab, look for a partner that not only performs tests but also helps you make the right decisions regarding materials, surface treatments, and product durability. The best laboratories combine accredited testing, technical expertise, fast turnaround times, and the ability to explain why results occur and how products can be improved. Choose a lab that acts as an extension of your team, providing verification, guidance, and improvement recommendations that strengthen both your product and your reputation with your customers.

An OEM-approved test laboratory is more than a provider of test results. It is a trusted partner that helps manufacturers and suppliers verify materials, coatings, and surface treatments against industry requirements while providing the expertise needed to make better decisions. Through accredited testing, technical guidance, and a deep understanding of customer and OEM expectations, the laboratory helps reduce risk, improve product durability, and strengthen confidence throughout the supply chain.

Cotec Labs is approved as an OEM supplier by Scania, Volvo Cars, Volvo AB, Ford, Daimler, IKEA, and Husqvarna, providing manufacturers and suppliers with verified test results and the technical guidance needed to meet industry requirements.

Not every automaker requires the use of an OEM-approved laboratory, but many specifications and approval programs recommend or mandate testing by recognized laboratories. Choosing a laboratory with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, proven industry experience, and an understanding of OEM requirements helps ensure that results are accepted and trusted throughout the supply chain. More importantly, the right laboratory acts as a partner, helping you select suitable materials and surface treatments, verify performance, and identify opportunities for improvement before issues reach the field.

An OEM does not necessarily require testing to be performed in the same country as the manufacturer or supplier. The key requirement is that the laboratory has the competence, accreditation, and approvals necessary to demonstrate compliance with the relevant specifications. By partnering with an experienced laboratory that understands both OEM requirements and real-world product performance, companies can verify materials and surface treatments while gaining valuable guidance for improved quality, durability, and long-term reliability.

In many cases, automakers accept test results from ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories. However, some OEMs require testing to be performed by laboratories that are specifically approved for certain standards or qualification programs. Choosing a laboratory with both accreditation and a strong track record in automotive testing helps ensure confidence in the results and supports a smoother path to product approval.

Cotec Labs holds ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and maintains direct OEM approvals, providing results that are accepted across the automotive supply chain.

The process begins with a discussion about your product, requirements, and performance challenges. Based on your needs, the laboratory recommends suitable test methods and verifies that materials and surface treatments meet the required standards. Beyond delivering results, the right laboratory helps you make better decisions through expert guidance and improvement recommendations.<

Start by discussing your application, requirements, and testing objectives with the laboratory. Then submit your samples together with the relevant specifications so the laboratory can perform the appropriate verification testing. An experienced laboratory will not only provide results but also guide you toward better material, coating, and durability decisions.

Keep the samples dry and protected against bumping and scratching and send them to Cotec Labs, Sjöåkravägen 28, SE-564 31 Bankeryd, Sweden. Cotec Labs will confirm receipt when the samples arrive.

The time required to receive test results depends on the test method and applicable specification. A well-equipped laboratory with high capacity can minimize waiting times and keep development projects moving forward. For time-critical projects, Cotec Labs can provide the test report as early as one day after testing is completed, enabling faster decision-making and helping keep development programs on schedule.