วิเคราะห์ฝุ่น
- โชว์สินค้าทั้งหมด
- No categories
May 13, 2026
Particle & Contamination Analysis for Automotive Components
VDA 19 / ISO 16232 — Under ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation
Why Cleanliness Is Critical in Automotive Manufacturing
In automotive manufacturing, invisible contamination can cause very visible — and very costly — failures. Microscopic particles left on components can block hydraulic systems, wear down precision surfaces, and trigger electronic malfunctions. That’s why the automotive industry has developed rigorous international standards to control component cleanliness.
ALS Testing provides comprehensive particle measurement, counting, and analysis services for automotive components in full compliance with VDA 19 and ISO 16232:2018 — the two most important cleanliness standards in the global automotive supply chain — conducted within our fully ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory.
Our testing goes beyond simple quality checks. It supports new product development, drives manufacturing process improvements, and provides the scientific data needed to protect product performance and safety in the field.
The Two-Stage Testing Process: VDA 19 / ISO 16232
ALS holds accreditation specifically covering ISO 16232 testing within the scope of our ISO/IEC 17025 certification. Our testing follows a structured two-stage methodology:
Stage 1: Decline Test — Validating Extraction Parameters
Before full particle analysis can begin, it’s essential to confirm that the extraction process itself is working correctly for your specific component. This is what the Decline Test establishes.
How it works:
The component undergoes a controlled extraction process to remove particles from its surface and internal passages
The extraction fluid is filtered through a membrane filter
The filter is analyzed using a Particle Analyzer
This process is repeated six times on the same component, yielding six individual filter membranes
Results from all six filters are plotted on a graph and evaluated against VDA 19 / ISO 16232 acceptance criteria
✅ If the results meet the standard’s requirements, the extraction parameters are validated — and the process moves on to Stage 2.
Think of this as calibrating your measurement process before taking the actual measurement. It’s what separates reliable data from guesswork.
Stage 2: Particle Analysis — Size, Quantity, and Classification
With validated extraction parameters in place, the component undergoes its full particle analysis according to VDA 19 standards. The extraction fluid is filtered and the membrane is examined using a Particle Analyzer to determine:
Table
Parameter
What It Tells You
Quantity
How many particles are present
Size
The dimensional range of particles detected
Type
What the particles are made of
Particle Classification
All detected particles are categorized into three types:
Metallic — Metal particles from machining, wear, or assembly
Non-Metallic — Rubber, plastic, ceramic, or mineral particles
Fiber — Natural or synthetic fiber contamination
Going Deeper: Advanced Identification Techniques
When standard particle analysis isn’t enough — for example, when you need to know the exact elemental composition or chemical identity of a contaminant — ALS applies specialized analytical techniques.
For Metallic Particles: SEM/EDX Analysis
Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (SEM/EDX) is the gold standard for characterizing metallic particles at the microscopic level.
How It Works
SEM directs a focused electron beam across the particle surface, generating high-resolution images that reveal surface morphology and structural detail at the micrometer scale
EDX detects the characteristic X-rays emitted when the electron beam interacts with atoms in the sample — effectively producing a unique elemental fingerprint for each material
What SEM/EDX Can Tell You
Table
Capability
Application
Elemental composition at micrometer level
Identify what metal alloy a particle came from
Chemical mapping across a surface
Visualize element distribution in coatings or alloys
Surface and structural defect analysis
Detect cracks, wear patterns, and coating failures
Corrosion characterization
Trace signs of oxidation or chemical attack
Coating thickness and layer analysis
Verify coating integrity and uniformity
Why It Matters
SEM/EDX doesn’t just identify that a metallic particle exists — it tells you exactly where it came from. That’s the information you need to trace contamination back to its source in the manufacturing process and fix it permanently.
For Non-Metallic Particles & Fibers: FT-IR Analysis
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) is the technique of choice for identifying non-metallic materials such as plastics, rubbers, resins, and fibers.
How It Works
Every chemical compound absorbs infrared light in a unique pattern — essentially a molecular fingerprint. FT-IR measures how a sample absorbs infrared radiation across different wavelengths, then matches that pattern against reference libraries to identify the material with high confidence.
Sample Types FT-IR Can Analyze
Table
State
Examples
Solid
Plastics, rubber, synthetic and natural fibers
Liquid
Cleaning agents, paints, oils, adhesives
Gas/Vapor
Volatile organic compounds
FT-IR Capabilities at ALS
High-Sensitivity MGT-A Detector — ensures precise, reliable measurements even at trace levels
Interchangeable Accessories (VATR, Liq-Cell, ZnSe Compression Cell) — enables analysis of samples in any physical state
Nicolet Nic-Plan Microscope — specialized for analyzing microscopic particles and trace contaminants
Applications
✅ Qualitative Analysis — Identify polymers, resins, adhesives, oils, and unknown contaminants ✅ Quantitative Analysis — Measure the concentration of specific chemical components in a sample
Key Advantages
Requires only a tiny sample — ideal for microscopic contaminants
Non-destructive — the sample can be preserved for further testing if needed
Fast and accurate — results are typically available quickly without complex preparation
Industries Served at ALS Pathumthani
FT-IR testing at ALS supports a broad range of sectors:
Automotive
Electronics & IT
Telecommunications
Plastics & Polymers manufacturing
Why Particle Analysis Matters to Your Business
Particle and contamination analysis isn’t just a laboratory exercise — it delivers measurable business value across the entire manufacturing operation.
✅ Tighter Quality Control
Understanding particle size and distribution enables manufacturers in automotive, food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries to consistently meet product specifications — and catch deviations before they reach the customer.
⚙️ Optimized Production Processes
By monitoring particle characteristics in real time, manufacturers can fine-tune process conditions continuously — ensuring consistent output and reducing variability that leads to defects.
⏱️ Faster Problem Detection
Online particle analysis techniques enable real-time process monitoring, dramatically reducing the delays and blind spots associated with offline sampling. When something goes wrong, you find out immediately — not at the end of the production run.
Stronger R&D Capability
For research and development teams, particle analysis provides the material behavior data needed to design better products, develop new formulations, and understand how materials perform under real-world conditions.
Cross-Industry Applicability
The value of particle analysis extends well beyond automotive:
Table
Industry
Application
Food
Controlling powder particle size for texture and consistency
Pharmaceutical
Verifying drug particle size for efficacy and bioavailability
Chemical
Managing reagent and product particle size in manufacturing
Electronics
Detecting contamination in precision components
Reduced Production Costs
Better quality control means fewer defective products, less rework, and fewer costly recalls. Investing in particle analysis pays for itself through the waste and failure costs it prevents.
Why Choose ALS for VDA 19 / ISO 16232 Testing?
Table
What We Offer
What It Means for You
✅ ISO/IEC 17025 accredited
Results recognized internationally
Full VDA 19 / ISO 16232 scope
End-to-end testing under a single accredited roof
⚙️ Advanced SEM/EDX & FT-IR capability
Deep-dive identification when standard analysis isn’t enough
Experienced specialist team
Accurate analysis and actionable interpretation
Comprehensive reporting
Clear results ready for customer submission or internal QC
Ready to take control of component cleanliness? Contact ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Lt. today to discuss your VDA 19 / ISO 16232 testing requirements — and let our experts help you meet the standards your customers and partners demand.
Tel: +(66) 2700 9665
Email: pathumthani@alsglobal.com
Read moreMay 7, 2026
In the manufacturing world, surface quality can make or break a product. Salt Spray Testing — also known as Salt Fog Testing — is one of the most widely used methods for evaluating a product’s resistance to corrosion. From metal components and steel parts to automotive hardware, electronics, and medical devices, this test simulates harsh real-world conditions inside a controlled chamber by continuously spraying a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution as a fine mist onto test samples.
The result? A clear, reliable picture of how long your product can withstand corrosive environments — before it ever leaves the factory.
Which Industries Need Salt Spray Testing?
Salt Spray Testing is versatile enough to serve a wide range of manufacturing sectors:
1. Automotive Industry
Car frames, bumpers, bolts, and screws must be evaluated for long-term durability in high-pollution, high-salt environments. Salt Spray Testing helps confirm that these components can handle real-world conditions throughout their intended service life.
️ 2. Construction Industry
Structural metal components used in buildings and bridges need to demonstrate both strength and corrosion resistance. Salt Spray Testing validates the safety and longevity of these critical materials.
⚡ 3. Electrical & Electronics Industry
Electrical and electronic components installed outdoors or in fluctuating weather conditions are constantly exposed to corrosion risk. Testing ensures they can withstand the elements without performance degradation.
⚓ 4. Marine Industry
Ship components and marine engines operate in one of the most corrosive environments on Earth. Salt Spray Testing closely simulates actual sea conditions, making it the ideal quality check for marine-grade materials.
️ 5. Metal Coating Industry
For coatings such as zinc, chromium, and paint finishes, the test verifies how effectively the coating prevents corrosion — revealing any weaknesses in the protective layer.
6. Outdoor Furniture & Equipment
Products like iron fences, ornamental gates, garden tables, and outdoor chairs face constant exposure to moisture and salt in the air. Salt Spray Testing helps prevent premature rusting and structural failure that can quickly damage a brand’s reputation.
3 Key Benefits of Salt Spray Testing
1. Catch Problems Before Delivery
Salt Spray Testing acts as a final quality checkpoint — revealing corrosion weaknesses before products reach the customer. If a product corrodes faster than expected, the engineering team can use that data to improve coating formulas, material selection, or packaging — preventing field failures in automotive parts, electrical equipment, and industrial tools.
2. Drive Continuous Product Improvement
The data generated by Salt Spray Testing provides actionable insights for ongoing product development — refining coating formulas, switching to more durable materials, or redesigning manufacturing processes — resulting in products with a longer service life that perform reliably in real customer environments.
3. Strengthen Brand Credibility
In today’s competitive market, customers and partners make decisions based on trust and verified quality. Test results from an internationally accredited laboratory demonstrate your commitment to excellence and give your brand a measurable, credible quality advantage.
How ALS Testing Delivers Salt Spray Results You Can Rely On
While some factories have basic in-house testing equipment, only a professional, accredited laboratory can provide results that are internationally recognized, referenceable for export, and accepted by global partners.
Here’s what makes ALS Testing’s approach stand out:
✅ ISO/IEC 17025 Accredited Laboratory
All Salt Spray Testing at ALS is conducted under full ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, covering two key pillars:
Technical Competence — Tests are performed using calibrated instruments, by trained specialists, following standardized processes — ensuring every result is accurate, consistent, and traceable.
Quality Management System — Unlike general ISO 9001 certification, ISO/IEC 17025 is specifically designed for testing and calibration laboratories, ensuring every step of the workflow is systematic, transparent, and quality-controlled.
️ Strict Parameter Control with Calibrated Equipment
Every parameter in the Salt Spray process — concentration, temperature, spray rate, and duration — is rigorously controlled using calibrated instruments operated by experienced technicians. This ensures results that are scientifically defensible and reproducible.
Clear Reports with Expert Scientific Interpretation
Test reports include detailed records of observations, photographs, and environmental conditions at each testing interval. Results are analyzed and interpreted by qualified scientists, providing a direct pass/fail assessment against industry standards or customer-specific requirements.
Technical Consultation & Root Cause Solutions
When a product fails to meet the standard, our expert scientists don’t just report the result — they investigate the root cause. Whether it’s inadequate surface preparation, inconsistent coating application, or material-related vulnerabilities, we provide clear, actionable recommendations to resolve the issue.
Elevate Your Product Standards with ALS Testing
In an increasingly competitive manufacturing landscape, having internationally accredited, reliable test results is no longer optional — it’s essential for market access and customer confidence.
ALS Testing offers a complete, high-precision Salt Spray Testing service that helps you:
Detect problems before products are delivered
Reduce the risk of market failures and warranty claims
Use test findings to drive product improvement
Build stronger trust with customers and OEM partners
Choose ALS Testing for your Salt Spray needs — and take a confident step toward world-class product quality.
Read moreMay 6, 2026
The Real Cost of Wrong Materials
In industrial and construction projects, quality failures rarely announce themselves immediately. By the time a problem surfaces — a coating that peels, a sealant that cracks, a polymer that fails under load — the damage is already done, and the cost to fix it is exponentially higher than it would have been to prevent it.
The most effective quality strategy is not inspection after the fact. It is verification at the source.
That is precisely where FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) plays a decisive role — as a powerful, science-backed first line of quality control.
What FT-IR Actually Does
FT-IR is an analytical technique that identifies the chemical structure of a material by measuring how it absorbs infrared light. Each material produces a unique spectral “fingerprint,” revealing:
What the material truly is — not just what it appears to be
What chemical groups it contains
Whether any chemical changes have occurred
It does not measure structural strength or load-bearing capacity. What it does — with speed and precision — is confirm that the material in your hands is exactly what it is supposed to be.
10 Ways FT-IR Strengthens First-Line QC
1. Confirm Material Identity Before Use
Is this epoxy, polyurethane, silicone, or something else entirely? FT-IR answers that question with certainty — preventing the wrong material from ever entering your process.
2. Filter Materials Before Expensive Testing
Mechanical and safety testing is time-consuming and costly. FT-IR acts as the first gate, ensuring only chemically verified materials move forward — saving both time and resources.
3. Track Quality Consistency Across Production Lots
The same product from different production batches is not always the same. FT-IR detects batch-to-batch variation, keeping quality consistent from project start to finish.
4. ⚠️ Detect Formula Changes or Unauthorized Substitutions
If a supplier changes raw materials, reduces key components, or delivers an off-spec formulation, FT-IR will reveal the chemical difference — clearly and objectively.
5. ️ Assess Material Condition, Not Just Type
FT-IR goes beyond identification. It can detect signs of thermal degradation, UV damage, or oxidation — providing early warning signals before a material fails in the field.
6. ️ Replace Guesswork with Science
Many materials look identical to the naked eye. FT-IR eliminates reliance on visual inspection or experience alone, replacing assumptions with hard analytical evidence.
7. Reduce the Long-Term Cost of Failure
Catching the wrong or degraded material at incoming inspection costs a fraction of what field failures, rework, or post-installation damage will demand. Prevention always pays.
8. Build a Traceable Quality Record
FT-IR results are documented, verifiable, and traceable — serving as reliable technical evidence in quality disputes and informed decision-making for engineers and management alike.
9. ⚡ Fast, Non-Destructive, and Non-Disruptive
Testing is rapid, requires minimal sample material, and does not interrupt production lines — making it perfectly suited for incoming inspection and routine spot checks.
10. A Smart First Step, Not the Final Word
FT-IR is a precision screening tool, not a replacement for structural or safety testing. By confirming chemical suitability first, it makes every subsequent test more targeted, more meaningful, and more cost-effective.
Where FT-IR Is Commonly Applied
FT-IR delivers strong results for any material with a defined chemical composition — particularly where materials look similar but perform very differently:
Table
Material Category
Why FT-IR Matters
Coatings & Anti-Corrosion Products
Verify formulation integrity before application
Construction Adhesives & Sealants
Confirm chemical type and detect substitution
Polymers, Rubber & Damping Components
Identify grade and detect degradation
Insulation, Foam & Plastics
Distinguish between visually similar materials
Know the Limits
FT-IR is a tool of precision — not a universal solution. It cannot replace structural load testing, crack detection, or engineering safety assessments. Those require dedicated mechanical and non-destructive testing methods. Used within its proper scope, however, FT-IR is one of the most efficient QC investments available.
Why ALS Testing
ALS Testing is an internationally accredited laboratory based in Thailand, delivering FT-IR analysis as part of a comprehensive, science-driven QC approach.
When materials enter the process already verified for chemical identity, condition, and conformance, the entire quality system performs better:
✅ Fewer surprises downstream
✅ More targeted advanced testing
✅ Stronger documentation for technical and commercial decisions
✅ Lower risk of costly late-stage failures
FT-IR with ALS Testing does not just check a box.
It changes the way organizations think about quality — from reactive to proactive, from assumption to evidence, from risk to confidence.
When first-line QC is right, everything that follows works better.
Read moreMay 6, 2026
ICE vs. EV: A New Kind of Risk
The shift from combustion engines (ICE) to electric vehicles (EV) changes more than the power source — it changes the entire risk profile.
ICE systems fail through mechanical wear — predictable, repairable.
EV systems fail through electrical faults and thermal instability — sudden, dangerous, and potentially irreversible.
Even a few microns of contamination can trigger a battery short circuit, leading to thermal runaway — and potentially fire or explosion.
Why ISO 16232 Now Matters for Safety
The updated VDA 19.1 (3rd Edition, 2025), developed by 40+ leading automotive companies, elevates ISO 16232 from a quality standard to a functional safety requirement, introducing:
Particle analysis below 50 microns
SEM/EDX inspection techniques
Standardized dry extraction methods
Failure assessment for battery and electronic components
How Contamination Causes EV Failures
In high-voltage EV systems (400–800V), small conductive particles can cause:
Short circuits
Electrical arcing
Insulation breakdown
Leakage currents
These failures occur without warning — making cleanliness a safety-critical design requirement, not just a quality checkpoint.
ICE vs. EV: Quick Comparison
Table
Factor
ICE
EV (High Voltage)
Main Risk
Mechanical wear
Short circuit / Thermal instability
Critical Particle Size
> 100 µm
< 50 µm
Primary Impact
Performance loss
Arcing, insulation failure
ISO 16232 Role
Quality standard
Functional safety standard
ISO 16232 in the EV Supply Chain
ISO 16232 is evolving from a measurement tool into a full process control framework:
Cleanliness limits tied to failure mechanisms
Integrated with PFMEA / DFMEA
Supported by real-time monitoring and traceability
The Road to Zero Contamination
To stay competitive, organizations should:
✅ Embed cleanliness into product design from day one ✅ Invest in SEM/EDX and real-time inspection tools ✅ Build data-driven process controls ✅ Train personnel and foster a quality-first culture
FAQ
Why are small particles more dangerous in EVs? High-voltage systems have lower insulation tolerance. Particles under 50 µm can instantly cause short circuits and trigger thermal runaway.
How does cleanliness relate to Functional Safety? Contamination can initiate electrical bridging and insulation failure — making it a direct concern under ISO 26262.
Where should organizations start? Define cleanliness requirements based on failure mechanisms, then integrate them into design, manufacturing, and inspection — supported by SEM/EDX and traceability systems.
What are the long-term benefits of compliance? Fewer recalls, reduced thermal and electrical failures, longer system lifespan, and stronger trust from OEM customers.
Read moreMay 6, 2026
Introduction
In the modern automotive industry, component precision and reliability are paramount — particularly with the growing adoption of intelligent braking systems, high-pressure fuel systems, and electric vehicles. One critical aspect often overlooked is technical cleanliness: the control of micron-level particles that can cause blockages, wear, and damage to critical systems, ultimately leading to costly product recalls.
Establishing a Cleanliness Lab aligned with Tier 1 Automotive standards is therefore not merely a compliance requirement — it is a strategic risk management initiative.
What is a Cleanliness Lab?
A Cleanliness Lab is a controlled laboratory facility designed to assess the cleanliness of automotive components through particle extraction and analysis, ensuring contamination levels remain within defined specifications.
For Tier 1 Suppliers, the lab functions as a quality gateway prior to OEM delivery — verifying product conformance, reducing rejection risk, and strengthening customer confidence. Applicable standards include ISO 16232 and VDA 19, both of which define systematic and reproducible testing methodologies. Organizations that meet these standards gain a competitive advantage within the global automotive supply chain.
Laboratory Infrastructure Requirements
Reliable test results depend on a well-designed facility. Key infrastructure elements include:
Cleanroom controlled to ISO Class 5–8
HEPA filtration system to minimize airborne particle levels
Positive pressure system to prevent external air ingress
Segregated zones for sample preparation, extraction, and analysis
One-way flow layout to minimize cross-contamination
Essential Equipment
Equipment
Function
Significance
Particle Extraction System
Extracts particles from test components
Core step of the testing process
Microscope
Analyzes particle size and morphology
Enables detailed characterization
Particle Counter
Quantifies particle count
Comparison against standard limits
Vacuum Filtration Unit
Filters test samples
Prepares samples for analysis
Laminar Flow Cabinet
Controls local environment
Reduces contamination risk
Standard Testing Workflow
The cleanliness testing process comprises five core steps:
Sample Collection
Particle Extraction
Filtration
Analysis
Reporting
To ensure process reliability and integrity, the following must also be in place:
Clearly defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Blank testing for quality control verification
Process validation
Traceability systems and data integrity controls
Personnel Competency
Despite advances in technology, personnel remain the most critical factor in Cleanliness Lab quality assurance. Required competencies include laboratory instrument operation, particle analysis techniques, and a working knowledge of ISO and VDA standards. Organizations must maintain continuous training, competency assessments, and periodic skill reviews.
Human factors also represent a significant contamination risk — including improper gowning, deviation from SOPs, and inappropriate behavior within the cleanroom — all of which can directly compromise test accuracy and overall system reliability.
Development Challenges
Building a Cleanliness Lab presents several challenges:
Capital investment for cleanroom construction and specialized equipment procurement
Standard complexity requiring expert knowledge for accurate interpretation and implementation
Upstream process control — an unstable manufacturing process limits the effectiveness of laboratory testing alone
Organizations are advised to develop both manufacturing controls and laboratory capabilities concurrently to achieve sustainable Tier 1 compliance.
Future Outlook: Smart Cleanliness Lab
The next generation of cleanliness laboratories is evolving toward intelligent, automated systems, incorporating:
AI-powered particle analysis
Automated microscopy
Real-time data connectivity
Integration with manufacturing execution and quality management systems enables end-to-end quality control, reducing cycle time, improving result consistency, and supporting compliance with increasingly stringent industry standards.
From Compliance to Competitive Advantage
A Cleanliness Lab is not merely a testing facility — it is an integral component of a holistic quality management system, spanning product design, manufacturing, and delivery. Organizations that establish a fully compliant Cleanliness Lab will be well-positioned to meet OEM requirements, reduce long-term operational risk, and sustain competitiveness in the global automotive market.
Investment in a Cleanliness Lab is an investment in long-term business sustainability.
FAQ
Is a Cleanliness Lab required for all manufacturing facilities? Not universally — however, it is essential for high-precision or safety-critical components, particularly in electric vehicle, electronics, and stringent-cleanliness applications.
How should an organization begin? Conduct a Gap Analysis against ISO 16232 and VDA 19, then develop a structured implementation plan covering facility design, equipment, and process requirements.
What is the estimated budget? Costs range from hundreds of thousands to several million baht, depending on lab scale, technology scope, and target compliance level.
How long does implementation take? Typically 3–12 months, subject to organizational readiness and system complexity.
What are common implementation mistakes? Inadequate facility design, unclear SOPs, insufficient personnel training, and failure to address upstream process control — resulting in test outcomes that do not reflect real-world conditions.
Read moreApril 17, 2026
Dust analysis in factories: testing methods and ISO standards that factories need to know.
The growth of the EV and semiconductor industries has made particle control in manufacturing lines a key global issue, with the particle analysis services market valued at over $1 billion and expected to grow at an average rate of over 8% per year.
Particle analysis is the process of examining the size, quantity, and composition of particulate matter contaminating air, surfaces, or product components. This is done to assess risk and ensure quality control meets industry standards. Many manufacturing industries require strict air cleanliness control according to ISO 14644 standards.
This article will help you understand how dust analysis works, the types of instruments used, and why particle control has become a core part of quality control in modern factories.
Why is the Particle Analysis Market Growing So Rapidly?
Controlling particle contamination is a critical issue in advanced industries, particularly semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, which require cleanrooms with strict particle control.
According to global industry organizations, the particle analysis services market is worth over a billion dollars and is growing at an average rate of 8–9% per year.
This growth is primarily driven by three factors:
Quality and hygiene regulations in industry.
The growth of the EV and semiconductor industries.
Continuously evolving analytical technologies such as AI and real-time monitoring systems.
As production lines become more complex, dust analysis has become an integral part of quality control systems, not just general environmental monitoring.
The Dust Situation in Thailand: From PM2.5 to Production Processes
Thailand faces a recurring PM2.5 dust problem. Data from the Pollution Control Department (PCD) indicates that many areas of the country have annual PM2.5 averages higher than the World Health Organization’s guideline of 5 micrograms per cubic meter, as per WHO Air Quality Guidelines.
The PCD report also states that PM2.5 sources in Thailand come from various sectors, such as:
Transportation
Open burning
Industrial sector
Energy production
While PM2.5 information is often discussed in a health context, in the manufacturing sector, process particles are also a significant risk.
These particles can originate from metal scraps from machining, plastic powder from molding, or dust from machine wear, and can directly affect product quality.
How many types of dust are there in a production line, and how do they differ?
In industry, dust analysis is divided into two main groups based on particle origin: Airborne Particles and Component Cleanliness, which require different testing methods and reference standards.
Airborne Particles
Component Cleanliness
Type
Floating in the air in the production area.
Stuck on a surface or in a part.
Main factors
From the movement of people, machinery, and manufacturing processes.
From metal scraps, plastic powder, and wear and tear dust.
Main industry
Semiconductor, Medical Devices, Cleanroom
Automotive, EV, and Automotive parts
Standard
ISO 14644
VDA 19 / ISO 16232
Testing
LPC, Optical Microscope
SEM/EDX, Optical Microscope, IC
ALS
✓
✓
As manufacturing processes become more complex, dust monitoring has become part of a quality control system, not just an environmental test.
Laboratory Dust Analysis Methods
Laboratory dust analysis uses a variety of instruments depending on the particle characteristics and the context of the manufacturing process, including:
Optical Microscope
SEM/EDX (Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy Dispersive X-ray)
LPC Particle Counter (Liquid Particle Counter)
GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry)
Ion Chromatography (IC)
Standards used in industrial dust analysis
Industrial particulate matter analysis must adhere to internationally recognized standards so that test results can be used in quality control and inspection processes.
Commonly encountered standards include:
Automotive & EV
Semiconductors and Electronics
Medical Devices
Aerospace
Food & Pharmaceutical
How long does dust analysis take?
The timeframe depends on the testing method. For example,
particulate matter measurement using ISO16232/VDA19 may take approximately 7-10 business days.
In an era of increasingly stringent manufacturing standards, the visibility and control of particles in production processes have become an integral part of a factory’s quality management system. Dust analysis is not just a technical test; it’s a crucial tool that helps manufacturers understand production process risks and consistently maintain international product standards.
For dust analysis or particle monitoring in your production process, ALS Testing Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd. offers services with an ISO/IEC 17025 certified laboratory.
Read more
February 23, 2026
