Quality Assurance of Polymeric Materials and Products—The Underwriters Laboratories Safety Performance Viewpoint
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Published:1984
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Plastic materials are used in a variety of applications in devices and appliances each requiring different type materials and levels of performance. The first step in maintaining acceptable levels of product safety performance is an evaluation of the applications or uses of component materials, including polymerics. Such evaluations must include (1) a determination of the functional use of the plastic part (critical versus non-critical properties), (2) inputing manufacturing considerations, (3) establishing a performance-oriented test program, (4) preparation of comprehensive reports of test results for use in finished product compatability reviews, and (5) establishing a cost optimized follow-up program for assurance that the same component materials are used in continuing finished product production.
This paper examines the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) system of “quality assurance” for maintaining required levels of product performance. In particular, it discusses the follow-up program for polymeric materials from the manufacturer's point of view on basic ingredient and end-product.