From an antimony trial to repeat supply

Understanding the subject

A trial lot can help a buyer evaluate a material against a defined requirement. Its value depends on a clear test objective and agreed acceptance criteria.

What it means in practice

A successful trial does not automatically define the later commercial programme. Recurring quantity, delivery schedules, specifications and document requirements should be addressed in the subsequent discussion.

Bring it into your next discussion

Keep a record of what was tested and what was approved. If the product specification or source basis changes, consider whether another technical review is needed before repeat deliveries proceed.

• Define the trial objective in advance.
• Record the results and approved specification.
• Discuss repeat supply on its own written basis.