Case Studies
Umbrellas: Four samples of similar umbrellas from competing suppliers were submitted for comparative evaluation testing.
Result: 2 of 4 samples failed water repellency testing. 1 sample exhibited a defective automatic opening mechanism and the remaining sample passed all quality & serviceability testing. We should note, this sample was also the lowest cost umbrella.
Conclusion: Comparative testing gives you the knowledge to make the best buy.
Wooden shelving: The sample could not be assembled as the included screws were a smaller diameter than the pre-drilled holes.
Result: Working directly with the lab, the manufacturer made a simple change in its manufacturing process and corrected this serious quality problem.
Conclusion: Prevent costly quality problems instead of reacting to them by testing with CTL.
Backpack: Teenagers are rough with their backpacks. This backpack could not withstand a 20lb load test with the top handle seam separating.
Result: The manufacturer increased the stitching and reinforcement in this important stress area to meet consumer standards.
Conclusion: Testing allows you to identify and correct serious quality problems at no additional increase in product cost.
Exterior House Paint: This can of paint was labeled "one coat house paint". However, our testing proved that 3 coats were required to cover a previously painted standard color.
Result: The retailer chose a superior performing paint from a competing supplier at a lower cost.
Conclusion: Employ CTL to compare competing products from different suppliers to allow you to make the best purchase.
Knit Sweater: This knit sweater was labeled as 100% cotton. However, our fiber analysis testing clearly showed that the sample was a cotton/poly blend.
Result: The manufacturer changed the label prior to production thereby ensuring that the retailer sold goods that complied with the Law.
Conclusion: Rely on CTL to ensure your products comply with all applicable legal requirements.
Candles: These decorative candles failed burning tests with excessive wax dripping & sidewall deterioration, resulting in pre-mature loss of flame.
Result: The overseas manufacturer immediately submitted improved samples to the lab. Also, upon receiving production merchandise at store locations, in-store samples were selected and tested to ensure compliance with previously tested and approved quality standards.
Conclusion: Have CTL check your in-store merchandise to ensure quality standard are met along the entire retail distribution chain.
Footstool: This wooden footstool manufactured in Vietnam exhibited staples on the base posing a laceration hazard and damaging flooring materials.
Result: The manufacturer submitted improved samples for retesting in advance of production thereby avoiding costly customer claims.
Conclusion: Ensure even the most simple products you sell provide basic quality characteristics by testing.
Cookware: This frying pan exhibited excessive warping when subjected to the highest cooktop temperature as would occur in actual use.
Result: The manufacturer increased the material thickness thereby correcting this serious quality problem before production began.
Conclusion: Let CTL be your quality policeman and prevent suppliers from cutting quality parameters, leaving you with costly returns.
Dumbbell: This 20lb dumbbell broke in half after the first drop from a height of three feet onto a standard surface.
Result: Improved samples were submitted with properly hardened steel that easily withstood drop testing.
Conclusion: Consumer products undergo practical & comprehensive testing by CTL technical staff to ensure customer satisfaction.
Footwear: After subjecting this sneaker to repeated flexing, cracks & debonding of the outsole occurred.
Result: The retailer canceled the order upon receiving our results thereby preventing hundreds of thousands of defective sneakers from reaching their stores.
Conclusion: CTL protects your most important asset---your customer.