Victoria-based CR Labs has introduced its new in-house testing centre. The state-of-the-art facility is described as an Australian-first, solidifying the company’s commitment to high quality lens coatings and innovative optical products to the national market.
According to CR, the company is the country’s largest manufacturing lens laboratory producing premium ophthalmic lenses with industry-leading turnaround times. Within the testing facility in Melbourne staff “conduct meticulous assessments to ensure every product meets the highest standards” and to support continuous improvement and innovation.
Precision testing – of CR’s full range of optical products – is a feature of the new testing department. It is a full scope anti-reflective coating facility comprising a suite of advanced testing apparatus, each designed to evaluate various aspects of lens coatings and product durability.
“This includes an accelerated weather tester, Bayer oscillating abrasion test unit, hydrophobic contact angle tensiometer, salt boil test equipment, Filmetrics and HunterLab colour measuring technology and anti-static and a UV and photochromatic combined tester,” CR Labs CEO Mr Adam Fletcher said.
Tested on many fronts
With CR products designed to withstand the extreme and variable Australian environment, its QUV-branded accelerated weathering tester takes centre stage in the new testing facility.
Simulating harsh environmental conditions, the equipment works to expose lenses to intense UV rays, extreme temperatures, and humidity variations. This meticulous testing process ensures that CR’s lenses not only withstand the elements but also maintain optimal clarity and performance over time, the company said.
Next, CR conducts hydrophobic angle testing, to confirm its lenses can achieve clear vision in a variety of weather conditions.
“The hydrophobic contact angle tensiometer evaluates the water-repellent properties of lens coatings, ensuring that the wearer experiences optimal visibility even in rainy or humid conditions,” Fletcher said.
“The machine measures surface tension to help ensure that CR lens coatings are optimised for contact angle surface energy. This feature distinguishes CR’s products, providing customers with eyewear that exceeds expectations.”
Over their life, a pair of glasses worn daily will be subjected to wear and tear. The Bayer oscillating abrasion test unit rigorously assesses the resistance of lens coatings – and is also deployed in CR’s testing centre. The machine simulates repeated wear and tear, mimicking the impact of daily use.
“This, combined with the scratch test apparatus, ensures that CR’s lenses maintain their pristine appearance even in the face if prolonged and intense use,” Fletcher added.
Meanwhile, he said the salt boil test equipment represented its commitment to durability and resilience. Here, lenses undergo extreme boiling conditions to assess their structural integrity and resistance to extreme temperatures. Thermal shock is described as a crucial test guaranteeing CR’s products can withstand the diverse and demanding environment encountered by users in their day-to-day lives.
“Plus, to ensure colour accuracy and consistency, CR Labs incorporates Filmetrics and HunterLab color measurement technology. Filmetrics assess the thickness of coatings, providing insight into the long-term stability of colour. Meanwhile, HunterLab technology ensures that CR’s lenses maintain precise and consistent colour across the entire product line,” Fletcher said.
Finally, the UV and photochromatic combined tester measures the anti-static properties and UV blocking ability of CR’s lenses.
“We consistently measure the anti-static effectiveness of our lenses to improve the ability to resist particle accumulation and associated lens deterioration over time. Measuring the integrity of our UV blocking technology helps to ensure that we are providing a consistent and high standard in all our products,” Fletcher said.
‘Incomparable’ product excellence
By integrating these advanced testing capabilities into its facility, Fletcher said CR Labs was reaffirming its commitment to delivering products that surpass industry standards.
“The meticulous testing processes guarantee that every lens and optical product leaving the facility is of the highest quality, providing customers with unparallel excellence in eyewear,” he said.
“Our investment in this cutting-edge testing facility, featuring advanced technologies like the abrasion machine, Filmetrics, and HunterLab colour measurement, underscores a dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
“As the company continues to lead the way in optical advancements, customers can trust that CR’s products not only meet but exceed expectations. With this state-of-the-art facility, CR Labs is ensuring that the future of eyewear is clear, durable, and uncompromised in quality.”
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