In this context, perhaps...

September 1989, Volume 15, Number 9 - AAEA cutting efficiency test was performed on an apparatus that compares sharpness of files when used in linear motion. Scanning electron microscopic analysis ...
www.aae.org/NR/exeres/ F98461D8-E601-45DB-A062-0B7ABFAE9946.htm


[The masticatory efficiency test in evaluation of the functional ...[The masticatory efficiency test in evaluation of the functional value of Rehm rebased newly made total dental prostheses] [Article in Serbian] ...
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve& db=PubMed&list_uids=11769415&dopt=Abstract

Adopted Sections An agency may take final action on a section 30 ...Health professions -The fields of medicine, dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, ... TACB may require a new capture efficiency test if the operating parameter ...
texinfo.library.unt.edu/ texasregister/text/1991/1018adop.txt

FULL HEALTH REVIEW... orthopedic consultation. -, motor efficiency test with recommendations. -, audiogram. -, laryngological consultation. -, dental examination. -, tartar removal. ...
www.cm-lim.com.pl/new/kum/index.php?p=6& g=PSZ&sid=b6651fd9c2f37766ff75905de1772792 - 26k



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Note added at 5 hrs (2006-03-06 16:51:38 GMT)
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strictly speaking, it should be an "efficacy test" (or effectiveness test -- not appropriate here)...

efficiency refers to effective output over time. (this suits a machinery context)

efficacy refers to the strength of effect -- commonly used in medical contexts...

Disinfectant Efficacy Testing by MicroChem LaboratoryDisinfectant efficacy testing by a custom contract laboratory with over 30 years experience with antimicrobial products testing for regulatory registration ...
www.microchemlab.net/

Pharmaceutical Efficacy TestingPharmaceutical Efficacy testing, GLP compliant; Regularly inspected by the MCA; UKAS accredited for many tests; Method development and validation Storage ...
www.eclipsescientific.co.uk/ pharmaceuticals/efficacy.html

The word "test" would be a good choice (as opposed to appraisal, assessment, etc.), given the context here (again, with machine use)