duurtest

Duurtest is a Dutch term describing a testing procedure aimed at evaluating the long-term performance and durability of a product or component under specified conditions over an extended period. The objective is to uncover wear, degradation, or failure modes that may arise during normal use and to quantify reliability and expected lifespan. The concept is applied across industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, industrial equipment, and materials science.

In practice, a duurtest follows a formal test plan that defines objectives, sample size, environmental and operational conditions, duration, and acceptance criteria. Tests are conducted in laboratory or field-like environments, with systematic data collection on performance metrics and failures. Reliability methods, including survival analysis and Weibull analysis, are used to interpret results and to extrapolate metrics such as mean time to failure and failure rates. Where appropriate, accelerated durability testing subjects specimens to elevated stresses (for example higher temperature, voltage, or mechanical load) to shorten test time while applying models to relate accelerated results to normal-use aging.

Types of duurtests include endurance testing under representative use conditions and accelerated durability testing to speed up aging processes. Standards and guidelines from international bodies, such as the IEC environmental testing series, ISO reliability standards, or industry-specific norms, inform test setups, measurement procedures, and acceptance criteria.

Outcomes of duurtests support design improvement, quality control, warranty planning, and product documentation. Limitations include the potential mismatch between accelerated conditions and real-life aging, as well as higher costs and longer lead times for comprehensive long-duration testing.