A physical test is a qualitative or quantitative procedure that consists of determination of one or more characteristics of a given product, process or service according to a specified procedure. Often this is part of an experiment. Physical testing is common in physics, engineering, and quality assurance.
Purposes Physical testing might have a variety of purposes, such as:
if, or verify that, the requirements of a specification, regulation, or contract are met Decide if a new product development program is on track: Demonstrate proof of concept Demonstrate the utility of a proposed patent Provide standard data for other scientific, engineering, and quality assurance functions Validate suitability for end-use Provide a basis for Technical communication Provide a technical means of comparison of several options Provide evidence in legal proceedings
Performance testing Some physical testing is performance testing which covers a wide range of engineering or functional evaluations where a material, product, or system is not specified by detailed material or component specifications. Rather, emphasis is on the final measurable performance characteristics. Testing can be a qualitative or quantitative procedure. Many acceptance testing protocols employ performance testing e.g. In the stress testing of a new design of chair.
Examples of performance testing Structural testing: building and Construction Performance Testing Fire protection (ASTM D176) Packaging Performance (hazardous materials, dangerous goods, ASTM D4169) Performance Index for Tires (ASTM F538) Performance Test Code on Compressors and Exhausters (ASME PTC 10 - 1997) Personal protective equipment performance Several Defense Standards Wear of Textiles (ASTM D123)
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See also Environmental chamber Test method Independent test organization Measurement uncertainty
References
Pyzdek, T, "Quality Engineering Handbook", 2003, ISBN 0-8247-4614-7 Godfrey, A. B., "Juran's Quality Handbook", 1999, ISBN 007034003X