How to Commence the Test Using UV Weathering Chamber?

Polymers, a diverse class of materials with unique properties, have revolutionized countless industries ranging from packaging to automotive manufacturing. These versatile compounds are widely utilized due to their exceptional durability, flexibility, and lightweight nature. However, these materials should go under the test of time when exposed to harsh weathering conditions. Therefore, it becomes imperative to subject polymers to rigorous weathering tests in order to assess their ability to withstand these environmental factors and ensure optimal performance throughout their intended lifespan. This can be done with our widely used laboratory testing instrument known as the UV weathering chamber.

This is one of the high-quality lab testing equipment that is used to test the damage caused to the polymers when exposed to weathering conditions. This testing instrument is widely used to create simulated climatic conditions and to study the weather-resistant properties of the material inside the laboratory. The UV test chamber is considered to be one of the most effective lab testing instruments to test the effect of environmental conditions on the products.

In this blog, we are going to discuss brief information about the Presto UV weathering chamber and how this quality lab testing equipment is used to test the effect of weathering conditions on polymers. We will also discuss some easy-to-follow steps that you must follow to commence the test using the UV weathering test chamber.

Introduction to UV Weathering Chamber

UV weathering chamber is an advanced lab testing equipment used in various industries to simulate the effects of sunlight exposure on different materials. These chambers use ultraviolet (UV) light, moisture, and temperature control systems to replicate the harsh environmental conditions that materials will be exposed to when placed outdoors.

The primary objective of employing a UV weathering chamber is to assess how materials endure and perform when subjected to UV radiation. This testing approach holds critical significance in the realms of product development and quality control across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, construction, and consumer goods.

This testing instrument measures the effect of environmental conditions on the products and ensures that quality materials will be delivered to the customers. Presto UV weathering tester offers advanced features that make it easy for the manufacturers to conduct a quality test on the materials.

Both the models provided by Presto for this testing instrument have been equipped with a fluorescent UV lamp that will provide easy inspection of materials under different lighting conditions.

Below we have listed the technical specifications of this quality lab testing instrument.

Technical specifications of Presto UV weathering chamber

The instrument utilizes two light sources: UVA with a wavelength of 340 nm and UVB with a wavelength of 313 nm. It incorporates eight 40 W lights, each with an actual lifespan of 2000 hours.

The irradiance range is from 0.1 W/m² to 1.0 W/m², and the temperature range is defined by the Black Panel temperature (BPT) at RT+10 to 100 ºC. The temperature stability is maintained within ±2 ºC.

The inner cabinet is constructed from SUS 304 stainless steel, while the outer cabinet is duly powder-coated on SUS304 material. The specimen capacity includes 48 pieces of standard size 75×150mm or 15 pieces of size 100×300mm.

The power supply operates at ±10% 50/60Hz and 15A (Max Electric Current). The adjustable water supply ranges from 0 to 4LPM.

The instrument adheres to standards such as ISO – 4892-3:2013, ASTM D 4587-11, JIS D 0205 – 1987, and J2020 – 200302.

You can easily study the effect of UV radiation on plastic roofing with the help of this quality testing equipment.

Now, let us discuss how you can commence the test using Presto UV weathering accelerated weathering chamber.

Steps to Commence the Test Using the Presto UV Test Machine

UV weathering chambers work by exposing test samples to a controlled amount of UV radiation for a specified period. The chamber's interior is designed with specialized lamps that emit both UVA and UVB wavelengths, similar to natural sunlight. These lamps have filters that mimic the Earth's atmosphere by blocking harmful UVC rays.

To conduct the test accurately with the Presto UV weathering test machine, manufacturers can easily follow the steps mentioned below.

• Once you place the testing specimen in this UV test machine, you can easily set the HMI screen and set value.

• Set the Spray “ON/OFF Time to set after how much time the spray will come out on the test specimen.

• After setting all the values on the HMI screen, Turn ON all the switches from the screen i.e. Rotate ON, Spray ON, Light ON, Heat ON, Timer ON.

• Close the door of the instrument.

• Press the Start button from the HMI screen after the completion of the set time the machine will automatically stop.

In this way, you can easily commence the test accurately with the help of this quality testing equipment. Now, let us discuss the importance of UV weathering testing.

Importance of UV Weathering Testing

The assessment of materials like polymers through UV weathering testing is a crucial step in evaluating their resilience and performance when exposed to outdoor conditions. This testing method replicates the impact of sunlight, moisture, and temperature on materials, furnishing vital insights into their ability to withstand degradation over time. Widely employed across industries such as automotive, construction, aerospace, and packaging, UV weathering testing addresses numerous factors influencing material longevity in outdoor settings.

A primary contributor to material deterioration in outdoor environments is UV radiation from the sun. This form of radiation can lead to fading, yellowing, cracking, and a decline in mechanical strength in materials like plastics, coatings etc.

UV Weathering Test entails subjecting test specimens to a controlled combination of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, heat cycling, and moisture condensation cycles. These conditions closely emulate real-life outdoor scenarios, aiming to expedite the ageing process for quicker results compared to natural weathering.

The significance of UV weathering testing cannot be overstated. It empowers manufacturers to predict the outdoor lifespan of their products and make necessary enhancements for improved durability before mass production. Additionally, it aids researchers in comprehending the diverse reactions of different materials under varying environmental conditions.

If you want to know about UV weathering chamber price or features then you can give us a call at +919210903903 or email us at info@prestogroup.com. We will guide you well with all your queries related to this quality testing equipment.