Blue Etch Anodize (BEA) Inspection
Protect your titanium components with fast, end-to-end Blue Etch Anodize (BEA) Inspection. Our hands-on technical guidance detects Hard Alpha Inclusions and surface defects as small as .015", preventing costly failures in aerospace and power generation. Get peace of mind with a specialized NDT process that meets strict industry standards while complementing methods like FPI and boosting your operational efficiency.

What is Blue Etch Anodize (BEA) Inspection at Element?
Blue Etch Anodizing (BEA) is a specialized non-destructive testing technique for detecting surface discontinuities in titanium materials. This highly sensitive method identifies defects as small as .015 inches, including laps, cracks, heat-treating imperfections, and material segregation. At Element, we apply this critical inspection to titanium components used in aerospace and power generation, particularly for detecting Hard Alpha Inclusions (HAI) and High Aluminum Defects (HADs). In some cases, BEA can serve as a complementary step to other inspection processes such as Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI), removing surface interference and enhancing defect visibility.

What Can Element Offer You For Blue Etch Anodize (BEA) Inspection?
Components we test
Components we test
We specialize in comprehensive BEA inspection for critical titanium rotating components in aerospace and power generation. Our capabilities extend to fan blades, compressor blades, compressor vanes, fan cases, 1-2 spools, discs, disks, sonic shape forgings, splines, shafts, hubs, engine cases, segments, spacers, flanges, links, and rings. Each component receives meticulous attention to identify even the smallest defects that could compromise performance and safety in your critical applications.
- Fan blades for aircraft engines
- Compressor blades and vanes
- Turbine discs and disks
- Engine cases and fan cases
- 1-2 spools and critical rotating parts
- Splines, shafts, and hubs
- Segments, spacers, and flanges
Key tests offered
Key tests offered
Our Blue Etch Anodize inspection service focuses on detecting critical surface discontinuities that could compromise component integrity. We identify laps, cracks, material segregation, heat-treating imperfections, and machining abnormalities with exceptional precision. Our specialized techniques detect Hard Alpha Inclusions (HAI) and High Aluminum Defects (HADs) – crucial for preventing catastrophic failures in titanium components used in aerospace and power generation applications.
- Surface discontinuity detection
- Material segregation identification
- Hard Alpha Inclusion (HAI) detection
- High Aluminum Defect (HAD) identification
- Heat-treating imperfection analysis
- Machining abnormality assessment
Methods and solutions offered
Methods and solutions offered
We employ advanced surface preparation techniques and specialized anodizing processes that highlight even microscopic defects in titanium components. Our methodology allows for detection of surface defects as small as .015 inches. Each inspection follows rigorous protocols designed to maximize defect visibility while maintaining the integrity of your parts.
Fixture Design for Accurate Results
Building on our anodic etching expertise, we design specialized fixtures when needed to ensure consistent coverage on complex geometries. This allows for uniform chemical application, enhancing defect detection while preserving component integrity.
Complementing FPI and Other NDT
Our Blue Etch Anodize process can also integrate into a broader testing program. By removing interfering material before Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI) or other NDT methods, we improve surface cleanliness and enhance overall detection capability.
- Specialized titanium-specific inspection methodology
- Surface preparation for maximum defect visibility
- Non-destructive testing preserving component integrity
- Highly sensitive detection techniques
- Fixture design for complex shapes
- Process synergy with FPI
Which labs offer this service
Which labs offer this service
Our team operates from Materials Testing hubs worldwide, giving you global access to our expertise. Visit our Locations Page to explore our lab network.
Industry-leading compliance expertise
Industry-leading compliance expertise
Our BEA inspection services meet the most stringent industry standards, including AMS 2642, P3TF25, EMS57930, MTV 187, CEIM-3, EIM Code 3, EIS810, DMC 0326, RRP 51001, and D01908. Our expert team stays current with all regulatory requirements, helping you navigate complex compliance landscapes with confidence. We provide comprehensive documentation to support your quality assurance and certification needs, preventing delays and compliance issues that could impact your production schedules and operational efficiency.
- Full compliance with all major titanium inspection standards
- Comprehensive documentation for quality assurance
- Up-to-date regulatory knowledge and implementation
- Support for certification requirements
- Proactive compliance management
Standards we test to and components we test
Element offers world-leading Blue Etch Anodize inspections for aircraft engine manufacturers with a full range of capabilities, approvals, and certifications for the following specifications:
- AMS 2642
- P3TF25
- EMS57930
- MTV 187
- CEIM-3
- EIM Code 3
- EIS810
- DMC 0326
- RRP 51001
- D01908
Titanium components for aerospace
- Fan blades
- Compressor blades
- Compressor vanes
- Fan cases
- 1-2 spools
- Discs and disks
- Engine cases
Titanium critical rotating parts
- Sonic shape forgings
- Splines
- Shafts
- Hubs
Titanium structural components
- Segments
- Spacers
- Flanges
- Links
- Rings
Your Challenges, Our Solutions
Standard testing missing crucial flaws
Costly compliance delays
Maximizing reliability of critical rotating parts
Reliable quality assurance
Why Choose Element

Comprehensive Titanium Component Inspections
Experienced, Highly Skilled Technicians
Prevent Costly Operational Failures
Trusted by Industry Leaders
10+Industry standards and specifications supported
.015"Minimum defect size detection capability
5+Critical component types thoroughly inspected


Explore our global network of labs and find your nearest location
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