Inter-laboratory exercises to ensure the validity of the results obtained in our research projects

When we talk about inter-laboratory exercises, we are referring to analytical quality verifications that are carried out in external laboratories, using a single sample that is analysed by a large number of participants who work under similar conditions. For this purpose, it is essential to have inter-laboratory exercise providers that are certified by a competent body to provide sufficient assurance with regard to the preparation of testing patterns and the statistical processing of the data that is obtained.

In this case, at Leartiker we receive inter-laboratory services from the German company DRRR - Deutsches Referenzbüro für Ringversuche und Referenzmaterialien GmbH (German Reference Office for Proficiency testing and Reference materials), which provides proficiency and reference material testing services that are ISO/IEC 17043 certified.

Over 80 laboratories from the sector take part in these exercises, which not only serve to validate the testing methodology, they also allow the state of the testing systems to be monitored. This system makes it possible to discover and identify any internal problems, e.g. systematic, random and precision-related errors, allowing corrective steps to be taken before any problems arise.

This is not the first time that Leartiker has taken part in verification exercises of this kind. In fact, it participated in seven different practices last year. A total of 31 parameters were analysed, some of which are still in the internal validation phase. Five of the exercises in which it was involved were given an “Excellent Performance” rating, confirming Leartiker’s reliability and proficiency in these tests:

• Tensile test according to ISO 527 1-2 at room temperature
• Tensile test according to ISO 527 1-2 at - 30ºC
• Tensile test according to ISO 527 1-2 at 80ºC
• Injection of specimens and testing according to ISO 178
• Tensile testing on rubber specimens according to ISO 37

These results offer a great degree of technical assurance for Leartiker's researchers and the customer. These measurements and comparisons are proof of the technology centre’s high analytical standards.

Continuing along the path to excellence, this year Leartiker will be taking part in 16 inter-laboratory exercises with the aim of ensuring the validity of the results obtained in the research projects that we are carrying out.