How to Define Acceptance Criteria

Acceptance criteria make trials objective and quotes comparable. Start with the job-to-be-done, then define measurable pass/fail signals.

acceptance trial QC specification

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1) Start with the job-to-be-done

What problem are you solving (soil removal, scale control, dispersion, set time, foam)?
Where does it run (temperature, contact time, equipment, materials)?

2) Choose 3–7 measurable signals

Performance: % soil removal, deposit thickness, turbidity, particle size, slump retention, set time.
Process: dilution stability, foam profile, filtration rate, dosing stability.
Compatibility: no pitting / no haze / elastomer swell < X%.
Documentation: COA within limits; SDS and labeling correct.

3) Write criteria in “if/then” form

Example: “At 2% dilution, 55°C, 20 min dwell, cleaner removes ≥90% of oil soil and leaves no visible aluminum staining. EPDM seal swell ≤2% after 24h soak at 25°C.”

4) Decide what triggers a re-test

Supplier change in raw material, process, or packaging
COA drift or out-of-spec
Complaints or field failures