SCB Issues First Certificates for AAC Certification Program

SCB, the management systems certification unit of IAPMO, issued the first certificates under the AAC Certification Program on Wednesday during the 35th annual Anodizing Conference & Exposition at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati. This milestone marks a significant step forward for the anodizing industry, providing independent third-party assurance that anodizing facilities meet stringent performance requirements.

The AAC Certification Program, developed in collaboration with SCB, ensures that anodizing facilities have demonstrated conformity with IAPMO 428-2026, which establishes performance requirements for anodized aluminum finishes and products. The program covers a wide range of application segments, including architectural, building and construction, transportation, industrial manufacturing, and decorative and functional applications.

The program evaluates various performance areas, such as oxide thickness and density, corrosion and abrasion resistance, UV and heat stability, hardness, seal quality, and color. Certification follows a controlled, evidence-based process that includes an independent audit, corrective action where necessary, technical review, and an independent certification decision. To maintain certification, facilities undergo annual audits and must continue to meet program obligations.

SCB and the Aluminum Anodizers Council (AAC) entered into an agreement on September 18, 2025, to administer the certification scheme and related supporting services.

AAC President Jason Weber expressed his satisfaction with the program's development.

The program supports conventional sulfuric anodizing, hard anodizing, batch anodizing, and continuous coil anodizing. It is designed to provide greater supplier confidence and clearer purchasing expectations while allowing certified facilities to demonstrate a commitment to controlled, independently evaluated performance. The program requirements are available free of charge to interested manufacturers through IAPMO Standards.

The launch of the AAC Certification Program underscores the industry's commitment to quality and performance. With the first certificates now issued, the program is poised to become a standard for anodizing facilities worldwide, ensuring that anodized aluminum products meet the highest technical standards. This initiative aims to enhance the credibility and reliability of anodizing processes across various sectors, from aerospace and defense to architectural and industrial applications.

The program's rigorous evaluation process and independent certification decisions are expected to drive innovation and quality improvements in the anodizing industry. Manufacturers, OEMs, specifiers, and purchasers can now identify facilities whose finished anodized products have been evaluated against defined technical requirements and acceptance criteria, fostering trust and transparency in the supply chain.

The collaboration between SCB and the AAC demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing the anodizing industry through robust, independent certification. As the program continues to grow, it is anticipated to set new standards for quality and performance, benefiting both the industry and its end-users.