Applied Technical Services (ATS) performs NACE inspections to verify that protective coatings, linings, and corrosion-control systems are correctly installed and meet regulatory requirements. Improperly maintained coating systems, environmental degradation, chemical exposure, and corrosion on industrial assets can, if undetected, result in equipment failures, leaks, and unplanned downtime.
Our trained inspectors and engineers are certified by the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) and accredited by the Association for Materials and Performance (AMPP), supporting manufacturers, pipeline operators, oil and gas refineries, power and petrochemical plants, and industrial facilities in keeping critical operations running smoothly.
What Characteristics Do NACE Inspectors Look For?
In addition to ASTM testing, our NACE-certified inspectors identify any abnormalities or quality-control concerns that could impact the long-term protection of your coating systems. We focus on:
- Surface cleanliness and preparation
- Defects, damage, and coating discontinuities
- Coating quality and overall condition
- Application procedures and material verification
- Temperature variations
- Humidity and environmental stressors
- Moisture intrusion and contamination
- Alignment with client project specifications
Which Testing Standards Are Used During a NACE Inspection?
Our inspectors provide thorough documentation and detailed reports to identify defects during a NACE inspection. We support asset integrity in accordance with NACE, AMPP, and ASTM testing standards, including but not limited to:
- ASTM D1212: Wet film thickness before curing
- ASTM D3276: Coating inspection guidance best practices
- ASTM D4138: Destructive dry film thickness
- ASTM D4414: Wet film thickness
- ASTM D4541: Coating adhesion, pull-off method
- ASTM D5162: Void, pinhole, and coating holiday detection
- ASTM D7091: Non-destructive (NDT) dry film thickness
Corrosion Control Backed by Industry-Leading Inspection
With nearly 60 years of proven performance, ATS has been a trusted partner in protecting industrial assets across the testing, inspection, certification, and compliance (TICC) industry. Our growing network of laboratories holds multiple ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditations and operates under an ISO 9001:2015-registered quality management system. We deliver consistent quality and technical excellence for projects of any size.
Since joining SGS in 2026, the world’s TICC industry leader, ATS has combined the local expertise we’re known for with global resources to expand our inspection capabilities and better serve our clients. NACE International and SSPC (The Society for Protective Coatings) merged in 2021 to form AMPP. Together, we share the common goal of creating a safer and more reliable world.
Contact Us
To schedule a NACE inspection or verify that your coatings are properly protected against corrosion, contact ATS through our web request form or call +1 (888) 287-5227 to speak with an expert today.

