The tests in object are typically applicable to control valves, especially when (smart) positioners are present.
Maybe You'll want to refer to IEC 60534 standard,for definitions and/or to Shell DEP 32.36.01.17-Gen specification (just to make an example) for more information.Notwithstanding our objections, one Customer insisted to have this kind of tests done on on-off valves, operated by means of electric motors and gear reducers.The "Benchmark Performance Test" looks the same as what I meant with a "Valve footprint". When using pneumatic operated valves it is almost standard available in smart positioners. It more or less consists of a hysteresis test / dead band test / response time test.
As mentioned, it is used on several plants to delay the moment of preventive maintenance. Personally I believe you would be walking on thin ice, but good salespeople can do miracles. A Shell plant manager explained me that they are saving a lot of money because of preventive maintenance that is not done. I hope that I will not be there when it would have been better to do the maintenance job. The good part is that you are at least testing your Bellows Seal Valves .
Partial stroke testing is in my opinion even more tricky. By only moving the valve partially or having the intention of moving it, some people think that they can predict if a valve is still in good shape.
But the idea is the same as what I was trying to explain regarding your question. Your hysteresis / dead band requirement may have come from the monitoring people.

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