30 Apr The Advantages of NADCAP-Accredited Metal Finishing
In aerospace manufacturing, small mistakes mean big problems. A slight variation in a process can cause performance issues, mechanical failure, or expensive rework. That is exactly why standards like NADCAP are treated as a requirement for metal finishing, not a preference.
NADCAP standards set clear expectations for how critical processes are handled in real production environments. For manufacturers and procurement teams, choosing a metal finishing supplier is not just about checking a box or comparing pricing. What really matters is consistency, and that’s what you get when you work with NADCAP-accredited suppliers.
What Is NADCAP Accreditation?
The National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) was created to bring more consistency to special processes used in aerospace manufacturing. It is managed by the Performance Review Institute (PRI), but the expectations themselves come from major aerospace manufacturers.
NADCAP sets the standards for every stage of production. It looks closely at process controls, documentation, and whether procedures are followed consistently over time. Not just once. Repeatedly. Instead of going through separate audits for each subcontractor, aerospace manufacturers can rely on NADCAP accreditation to prove their work meets the accepted industry standards.
NADCAP Plating Requirements
Since plating affects corrosion resistance, performance, and durability, consistency is key. Even small variations can lead to mechanical failure or compromise safety. And in aerospace, these kinds of risks are not acceptable. To ensure consistency in metal finishing, the NADCAP plating requirements focus on process control, testing, and compliance.
Process Control
- Careful documentation of all procedures
- Ongoing monitoring of bath chemistry and solution composition
- Regular equipment calibration and maintenance
Testing and Validation
- Coating thickness verification
- Adhesion testing to confirm proper bonding
- Corrosion resistance testing based on aerospace standards
Audit and Compliance
- Audits conducted by the Performance Review Institute
- Mandatory corrective actions for any non-conformance
- Ongoing re-accreditation to maintain NADCAP approval
Why NADCAP Matters for Aerospace Suppliers
For the majority of aerospace suppliers, NADCAP is not optional. It is often required before a company is even considered for work with OEMs or prime contractors.
Working with a NADCAP-accredited provider gives manufacturers and procurement teams a more reliable starting point. It means that each step is tracked and documented. There is no room for guessing, and very little tolerance for variation. That level of control is exactly what aerospace work demands. It does not remove every risk, but it does remove a lot of uncertainty. That alone makes a big difference.
Partner with a NADCAP-Accredited Metal Finishing Expert
NADCAP sets the baseline for consistency, control, and accountability across the entire supply chain. When processes are handled correctly from the start, it reduces the chance of failures, delays, and costly rework later on.
Metal finishing has a direct effect on how aerospace components perform over time, and that’s why CRC Surface Technologies is a NADCAP-accredited metal finishing provider. We serve aerospace manufacturers in Arizona and nationwide. To learn more or to request a quote, please send a message to rfq@chemresearchco.com.
Industry Certifications | ChemResearch Co used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 04/30/2026