ASTM International will launch a new Proficiency Testing Program (PTP) on Dissolved Gas Analyses (DGA) of In-Service Insulating Fluid in February 2006. The program will be offered to laboratories who need a statistical quality assurance tool that will enable them to improve and maintain a high level of performing ASTM standard D 3612, Test Method for Analysis of Gases Dissolved in Electrical Insulating Oil by Gas Chromatography, on in-service insulating fluid oil samples. Thus, this PTP will enable all participating labs with a mechanism to compare their results with other laboratories worldwide. Test Method D 3612 is under the jurisdiction of ASTM International Committee D27 on Electrical Insulating Liquids and Gases.

The new PTP will be conducted twice annually. The benefits of participation include receiving the test results available in a statistical summary report available only to participating laboratories that will help you 1) monitor strengths and weaknesses of your laboratorys performance; 2) periodically compare your test results and calculated statistical parameters with other laboratories; 3) compare test data for a given quality parameter with laboratories using the same D 3612 method. Program participation is not contingent upon performing all D 3612 methods.

Upon completion of the tests, each laboratory electronically submits their test data to ASTM-PTP for use in generating statistical summary reports. Reports contain: 1) coded laboratory test results; 2) statistical analyses of test data; 3) charts plotting test results versus lab identification; and, 4) other pertinent information.

Summary reports will help participating labs monitor strengths and weaknesses of their performance, periodically compare test results and calculated statistical parameters with other laboratories, and compare test data for a given quality parameter with laboratories using the same D 3612 method. Program participation is not contingent upon performing all D 3612 methods.

Laboratories can now be registered for the program startup in February 2006. The cost for 2006 participation in both the February and August trials is $350. In order to receive the February test samples, registration cut-off is Jan. 5, 2006. After this date, contact ASTM-PTP at astm@ptp.org for registration options. An official registration form is available from www.astm.org under Proficiency/Crosscheck Under Electrical Insulating Fluids. To register a lab, download a registration flyer, complete it and fax it back to ASTM-PTP Center at 610/832-9668. For more registration information, contact: Jamie Lake, ASTM International (phone: 610/832-9682; jlake@astm.org).

Release #7243