Transforming a Material Testing Lab in Berlin, Germany

Background

Our client company, based in Germany, worked with a leading materials research institute in Berlin, Germany, to transform its aging materials testing laboratory into a modern research hub. The laboratory focuses on testing the mechanical, thermal and chemical properties of advanced materials, including metals, polymers and composites. The goal is to create a space capable of supporting high-precision testing while improving efficiency, safety and compliance with European and international standards.

The project presented several unique challenges:

Precision Requirements: Material testing demands extremely accurate measurements, requiring vibration-resistant and temperature-controlled environments.

Space Constraints: The lab had limited space but needed to accommodate large testing equipment like tensile testers, thermal analyzers, and spectroscopy instruments.

Safety Concerns: Handling high-strength materials and high-temperature testing posed significant safety risks.

Our Approach

Needs Assessment:

Our team conducted an in-depth consultation with the lab’s researchers and engineers to understand their workflows, equipment requirements, and pain points.

Custom Lab Design:

Using advanced 3D modeling, we designed a lab layout that maximized space utilization and workflow efficiency.

Key features included:

Vibration-Resistant Workstations: Designed to minimize interference with sensitive testing equipment.

Modular Workbenches: Allowed for easy reconfiguration to accommodate different testing setups. Custom made for the customer is stainless steel countertop. This laboratory makes heavy use of premium quality stainless steel work surfaces. Longevity and durability make stainless steel a preferred countertop material for heavy-use environments.

Specialized Equipment Stations: Space for large equipment. Improve the utilization rate of space and promote the efficiency of the experiment.

Safety Enhancements: Installed fire-resistant materials, emergency shut-off systems, and protective barriers for high-temperature testing.

Regulatory Compliance:

We ensured all designs and materials met DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 standards, including proper calibration of testing equipment and documentation of procedures. We also adhered to German safety regulations, such as the German Equipment and Product Safety Act (GPSG).

Installation and Training:

Our team managed the installation process to minimize downtime and provided comprehensive training on the new equipment and safety protocols.

Case Result

The new lab has become a benchmark for material testing in Germany. Key outcomes include:

Enhanced Precision: The vibration-resistant workstations and temperature-controlled environment have significantly improved testing accuracy.

Increased Efficiency: The modular design allows researchers to quickly adapt the lab for different types of tests, reducing setup time.

Improved Safety: The new safety features have reduced risks associated with high-strength material testing.

Regulatory Approval: The lab successfully achieved DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 certification, enhancing its credibility and marketability.

Client Feedback

Dr. Klaus Weber, the lab’s lead researcher, shared his thoughts:

The first impression the MAX LAB team gave us was one of great professionalism. They were able to grasp our ideas and intentions very well, and the design drawings they provided were very clear and easy to understand.