METALLOGIE Round Robin Tests for the Aluminum Recycling Chain
Achieve improvements in quality assurance, profitability, and environmental protection
Interlaboratory comparisons are used to compare laboratories and are an essential part of the quality assurance process or the proof of suitability of every analytical laboratory. In particular, defined materials, methods and processes are considered. In the environmental sector, participation in proficiency tests has become mandatory for notifications and accreditations. Participation in round robin tests is also becoming more and more important in the non-ferrous metal and especially the aluminum industry.
Classic interlaboratory comparisons use a certified reference material that guarantees a homogeneous composition to validate methods or laboratories. Both the method and the laboratory must be suitable for the matrix used.
Interlaboratory comparisons can also be used evaluate how well the results of a new process match those of a more established process. This type of investigation is widely used in evaluating the performance of measurement methods (measurement systems).
At first glance, incoming quality inspections along the recycling supply chain share little in common with analyses in classic laboratories. Nevertheless, the analytical requirements are largely similar. During the aluminum recycling process, the requirements for analysis range from a „simple“ alloy identification (sorting) to determining the alloy composition as the basis for a foundry’s charge calculation.
This is where the round robin test series of the META<L>LOGIE comes in. In addition to the portfolio of reference test specimens, a series of typical recycling material is planned. The aim of the round robin tests is to compare the usual methods of input controls on material from the recycling process. The choice of method to be used is left up to the participating company. Classic methods such as spark spectrometry and ICP-OES can thus be compared with fast on-site methods such as LIBS or XRF etc.
By comparing different methods, companies throughout the recycling chain (processors, dealers, remelters, etc.) can orientate themselves on the analytical results. Confidence in analytical results supports both customers and suppliers in the evaluation of their deliveries. In addition, it can help optimize sorting processes and the use of metals. This can lead to reduced remelting costs, the prevention of rejected batches, and a reduced carbon footprint. The 2022 recycling round robin test is aimed at determining the extent to which a company is able to identify different materials with different values. In detail, two aluminum extruded profiles of similar alloys but with different values for RC processes are to be identified.
In addition to improved knowledge of the process capability of incoming inspection, the participants will demonstrate their competence in relation to ISO 9001, IATF 16949 or ASI etc. in the form of evaluated certificates.
Confirm the competency of your incoming quality control and build trust along the recycling supply chain.