CR Labs unveils new testing facility to deliver world-class quality standards

In a groundbreaking move to support the delivery of market leading optical products, we are proud to introduce our new in-house testing facility. The state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in Australia and solidifies our commitment to delivering the highest quality lens coatings and innovative optical products to the Australian market.

CR Labs is Australia's largest manufacturing lens laboratory producing premium ophthalmic lenses with industry-leading turnaround times. At our new in-house testing facility in Melbourne, Victoria, the team conduct meticulous assessments to ensure every product meets the highest standards and to support continuous improvement and innovation.
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Precision testing
The newly implemented facility supports precision testing of all optical products that we offer. 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.

Advanced accelerated weather testing
CR products are designed to withstand the extreme and variable Australian environment, so the QUV accelerated weathering tester takes center stage in the new facility. Simulating harsh environmental conditions, the equipment exposes lenses to intense UV rays, extreme temperatures, and humidity variations. This meticulous testing process ensures that our lenses not only withstand the elements but also maintain optimal clarity and performance over time.

Hydrophobic angle testing
CR Labs understands the importance of achieving 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. The machine measures surface tension to helps ensure that our lens coatings are optimised for contact angle surface energy. This feature distinguishes our products, providing customers with eyewear that exceeds expectations.

Scratch test
Over their life, a pair of glasses worn daily will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. The Bayer oscillating abrasion test unit rigorously assesses the resistance of lens coatings. The machine simulates repeated wear and tear, mimicking the impact of daily use. This, combined with the scratch test apparatus, ensures that our lenses maintain their pristine appearance even in the face of prolonged and intense use.

Salt boil test
The boil test equipment represents CR’s commitment to durability and resilience. Lenses undergo extreme boiling conditions to assess their structural integrity and resistance to extreme temperatures. Thermal shock is a crucial test which guarantees that our products can withstand the diverse and demanding environment encountered by users in their day-to-day lives.

Filmetrics and Hunterlab colour measurements technology
To ensure colour accuracy and consistency, we incorporate Filmetrics and HunterLab colour measurement technology. Filmetrics assess the thickness of coatings, providing insight into the long-term stability of colour. Meanwhile, HunterLab technology ensures that our lenses maintain precise and consistent colour across the entire product line.

Anti-static and UV testing
The UV and photochromatic combined tester measures the anti-static properties and UV blocking ability of our 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 of our products.

Incomparable product excellence
By integrating these advanced testing capabilities into its facility, CR Labs reaffirms 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 unparalleled excellence in eyewear.
Our investment in this cutting-edge testing facility, featuring advanced technologies like the abrasion machine, Filmetrics, and HunterLab colour measurement, underscores our 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, we are ensuring that the future of eyewear is clear, durable, and uncompromised in quality.