Webinar: How does the refractory industry benefit from interlaboratory studies (ILS)?
23. June 2026 - Online
What has been achieved so far, and what does the future hold
Free Webinar on Interlaboratory Studies (ILS) for Testing Labs, Manufacturers & End-Users. Learn how ILS can enhance precision, accreditation, and competitive advantages. Register now!
Interlaboratory Studies (ILS) are organized programs where multiple laboratories analyze the same materials or test specimens using predefined methods to assess and enhance the precision, accuracy, and comparability of their results. Typically conducted anonymously, ILS are critical for quality assurance and accreditation, and increasing customer trust, as they provide a structured framework for labs to collaboratively evaluate and refine testing procedures.
By comparing data across participants, ILS help identify inconsistencies or deviations in methods, enabling labs to address them effectively. This process supports the harmonization of protocols, ensuring all laboratories adhere to uniform standards, while also validating the reliability and reproducibility of testing procedures. Additionally, ILS pinpoint sources of error, such as equipment or operator technique, and establish best practices, e.g. ISO or DIN standards, to minimize variability and improve overall precision in testing.
Topics
- What are Interlaboratory Studies?
How do they work? Basic principles and a hint of statistics. - Examples of ILS to investigate the proficiency of testing methods
FP7 Project ReStaR, generation of precision data for the Hot Modulus of Rupture (HMoR) and Cold Crushing Strength (CCS), establishment of new standards Wedge Splitting Test (WST) and Brazilian Test (BT). - New service to the refractory industry and end-users
ILS to investigate the proficiency of refractory testing laboratories. - Questions from the attendees
Target Audience
This seminar is designed for professionals across the refractory value chain, including:
- Testing Laboratories - Accredited and non-accredited labs seeking to improve precision, validate methods, and meet accreditation requirements.
- Refractory Manufacturers - Producers aiming to enhance quality control, ensure consistent test results, and optimize material performance.
- End-Users (Process industry) - Companies in steel, cement, glass, and other sectors relying on accurate refractory testing for process safety and efficiency.
- Research & Development - Scientists and engineers developing new materials or refining testing standards.
- Quality Assurance & Technical Management - Professionals responsible for compliance, standardization, and continuous improvement in testing procedures.
Your Benefits
- Free of charge: You can receive information about ILS at no cost and with no obligation.
- Flexible Participation: Interested in ILS but the date doesn’t work? Sign up anyway and you’ll receive the presentation and can contact us afterward with questions.
- Q&A Opportunity: Space for your individual questions.
- Networking & Expert Exchange: Connect with ILS specialists and peers across the refractory value chain.
Speakers
Dr. Kerstin Hauke, Head of Business Development, Forschungsgemeinschaft Feuerfest e.V. (FGF). Responsible for the service portfolio of the Forschungsgemeinschaft Feuerfest e.V.
Dr. Erwan Brochen, Research Associate, Forschungsgemeinschaft Feuerfest e.V. (FGF). Expert in thermomechanics and high temperature testing methods. Member of the standardization committee (DIN, CEN, ISO).
Gerhard Urbanek, former RHI Magnesita employee, Chair of the ISTF (International Standardization Task Force) of the WRA (World Refractory Association). Expert in the design, execution, and evaluation of interlaboratory studies (ILS) and non-destructive testing methods (NDT).
Organizational Information
📅 Date: June 23, 2026
📍 Location: Online Microsoft Teams
Registration fee
- The webinar is free of charge.
Contact
European Centre for Refractories
Rheinstraße 58
56203 Höhr-Grenzhausen
📞 +49 2624 94 33-140
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🌐 www.ecref.eu
How can ILS enhance your lab’s accuracy and competitiveness? Find out in our free webinar on June 23 – sign up now!
