Tips for Choosing a Materials Testing Laboratory

Why engage a materials testing laboratory?

If you've ever worked on materials selection projects or had to carry out due diligence testing, you know that obtaining reliable test results is a critical part of the project. If you're fortunate enough to have access to a well-equipped materials testing laboratory, often the testing can be performed in-house, and you might even have access to details about the test method, instrument calibration, and even the raw data should you ever need to review it. This is ideal.

However, you might need to look for out-of-house testing options if:

• Your company does not have the necessary equipment to run the test.

• Your company's equipment is out of commission.

• Your company does not have the capacity for your planned testing.

This article shares tips on how to choose a materials testing laboratory to support your materials selection projects.

Large testing laboratories such as Intertek, Element, and Eurofins support multiple industries. Keep in mind that the large testing laboratories are not the only players. Depending on your area of interest, there might be small testing laboratories or testing laboratories that focus specifically on the material or methods relevant to your project.

Lab Capability

Can the testing laboratory run the test?

Common or popular test methods are often advertised in a testing laboratory’s capabilities list, and it can be easy to determine if a lab has the capability to run a specific method for you. Some testing laboratories, however, do not advertise their capabilities and instead direct you to make an inquiry.

When inquiring about materials testing capabilities, here are four things to discuss:

• Confirm that the testing laboratory has the required equipment for the method you need performed.

• Confirm that the testing laboratory has the most recent version of the test method and that they follow it.

• Ask how familiar the testing laboratory and their operators are with the test method.

• Ask whether the testing laboratory can provide a report that meets your needs and any special additional requirements you have.

Discussing the above items with the prospective testing laboratory will give you a sense of how prepared the testing laboratory is to perform the work. Familiarize yourself with the details of the test method before engaging a testing laboratory and see how well their knowledge aligns with your understanding of the method. If you are unfamiliar with the method, it is still beneficial to speak with the testing laboratory to be sure you provide enough sample or test specimens to complete the request.

Also, discuss any deviation from standard test methods or any non-standard test methods with the testing laboratory. You might have to provide an example or procedural details to be sure both parties understand. This also applies to any deviations or specifics about the test results. It is better to discuss any particulars up-front to be sure the right data is collected and processed in the desired manner rather than be surprised when a report comes back missing the expected analysis.

Lab Capacity

Can the testing laboratory complete the testing within a reasonable timeline?

Determining lead times for a test request typically requires a consultation with the testing laboratory. When inquiring about capacity and timelines, consider the following:

• Ask the testing laboratory about the lead time for completing the request once they receive the samples.

• Inquire about options for expedited testing.

• Check if the testing laboratory provides status updates.

• Ask who will be the point of contact for the request.

Discussing the above items with the testing laboratory will help you understand when they can deliver results and if you will be kept informed of any changes to their schedule. It is wise to have contingencies in place for delays at the testing laboratory if your project is time-sensitive. Additionally, status updates can be helpful in the event that early test results affect the plan for later tests in the same request.

Lab Quality Systems

Can the testing laboratory provide reliable results?

Large materials testing laboratories often have robust quality management systems (QMS) in place and might be compliant with multiple standards, such as ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 13485, or AS9100D. If a testing laboratory does not have a QMS in place, it might be wise to seek an alternative laboratory or learn more about the organization. How you proceed will depend on how important it is to your project that data are collected in a QMS-compliant manner.

Consider the following when learning about a prospective testing laboratory's quality management systems:

• Ask about calibration and calibration tracking.

• Ask about the sample intake process.

• Ask if procedures, methods, and training are in place for the staff performing the work.

• If quality management system compliance is required by your organization, ask the testing laboratory if they comply with any applicable standards.

• If quality management system compliance is required by your organization, ask the testing laboratory if certifications for any applicable standards are current.

Testing laboratories might not share all the details about their systems but might be able to confirm that their systems comply with advertised standards. You might be able to request an example or sample test report. Sometimes, information about calibration frequency or the most recent calibration date might be included in the test details and can help you determine if there are obvious concerns about test data quality.

A significant amount of trust is placed in the testing laboratory that your samples will be handled professionally from the moment they arrive until the request is completed and closed. Ask questions to address any concerns you may have. If there is any doubt, consider working with a different testing laboratory.

Testing Costs

What does the testing laboratory charge?

When it comes to cost, there are a few key things to consider when speaking with a prospective testing laboratory:

• Ask for the price to complete the test request and provide a report.

• Understand the testing laboratory’s terms and conditions.

• If applicable, ask for prices for expedited processing.

• If you expect to request a large volume of testing, ask about any available discounts.

• Inquire about any rework, replacement testing, or refund policies.

By addressing these items with the testing laboratory, you can avoid any surprises and gain a better understanding of what is and isn't included in the price.

Conclusions

Choosing a materials testing laboratory for materials selection is an important step toward commercialization of your product or start-up of your process. By using the tips above you will have confidence that your testing will be performed according to your needs. This, in turn, frees you up to focus on other areas of the project. When searching for a testing laboratory, it never hurts to shop around and find the best match for your timing and budget. Thanks for reading and good luck!

If you have questions about how to choose the right adhesive, develop a test plan, or how to identify a materials testing laboratory for your application, contact Digital Glissade to schedule a consultation.