This practice can be used to continuously demonstrate the proficiency of analytical measurement systems that are used for establishing and ensuring the quality of petroleum and petroleum products.

Data accrued, using the techniques included in this practice, provide the ability to monitor analytical measurement system precision and bias.

These data are useful for updating test methods as well as for indicating areas of potential measurement system improvement.

1.1 This practice covers information for the design and operation of a program to monitor and control ongoing stability and precision and bias performance of selected analytical measurement systems using a collection of generally accepted statistical quality control (SQC) procedures and tools.

Note 1—A complete list of criteria for selecting measurement systems to which this practice should be applied and for determining the frequency at which it should be applied is beyond the scope of this practice. However, some factors to be considered include (1) frequency of use of the analytical measurement system, (2) criticality of the parameter being measured, (3) system stability and precision performance based on historical data, (4) business economics, and (5) regulatory, contractual, or test method requirements.

1.2 This practice is applicable to stable analytical measurement systems that produce results on a continuous numerical scale.

1.3 This practice is applicable to laboratory test methods.

1.4 This practice is applicable to validated process stream analyzers.

1.5 This practice is applicable to monitoring the differences between two analytical measurement systems that purport to measure the same property provided that both systems have been assessed in accordance with the statistical methodology in Practice D6708 and the appropriate bias applied.

Note 2—For validation of univariate process stream analyzers, see also Practice D3764.

Note 3—One or both of the analytical systems in 1.5 can be laboratory test methods or validated process stream analyzers.

1.6 This practice assumes that the normal (Gaussian) model is adequate for the description and prediction of measurement system behavior when it is in a state of statistical control.

Note 4—For non-Gaussian processes, transformations of test results may permit proper application of these tools. Consult a statistician for further guidance and information.