Analytical Services QC Test
QC test - in support of EC Nickel Directive 2004/96/EC (SI 2005 no 2001).
The QC test is a variation on the BSEN12472 inc. BSEN1811 Full Reference test.
As with the Full Reference test the article is subjected to the simulated 2 years wear test and immersion in a standard sweat solution for one week.
The variations are as follows: -
The smallest component has its surface area measured.Combined article components are placed into one container and test solution added.
Where these have been cut, the cut areas are masked.
The reaction of the solution with the article may be affected by the production of galvanic cells - which are likely to encourage corrosion and release of nickel*.
The nickel released by the combined components is measured and all of it applied to the smallest component.
* This more extreme reaction occurs because of the presence of dissimiliar metals in the solution and would not happen under Full Reference conditions.
TOPAssessment of results is as follows: -
Where results identify significant release of nickel the sample is checked to see if the article as a whole would FAIL.
Where results indicate nickel release that is between 0.1 and 0.5 then the sample is reported as a REVIEW - this indicates that further work must be undertaken, eg. to identify a rogue component.
Where results indicate no nickel release, ie less than 0.1, then the sample is reported as a PASS.
This test is used as part of a Due Diligence Defence policy where articles are repeat orders and have shown compliance in earlier shipments, or where a known manufacturer with a good pass record is sending items with common components and/or from a common method of manufacture.
Where this is the case samples are tested through a lower cost procedure (approx. one third of the cost of a Full Reference test) so that a higher level of screening can be undertaken for the same overall outlay, or a cost saving can be made without jeopardising compliance under the Directive.
Click here to download an information sheet.
Click here to download the Analytical Services application form.
