Exposure to environmental elements can contribute to the material degradation of paints, coatings, and products. Element offers accelerated weathering test methods, including UV Exposure, Xenon Arc and Carbon Arc to ensure the integrity of your product.
Accelerated weathering test methods simulate extreme weather conditions using special environmental chambers and instruments that speed up the weathering process. Environmental effects can cause a change in color, cracking, corrosion and deterioration of a product’s exterior and interior. Investigating the weathering process of your product is an important part of determining its ability to withstand the natural forces that will occur in its lifetime.
Our Accelerated Weathering Services
The weathering process can affect almost any type of material exposed to environmental elements. Accelerated weathering evaluates the performance of those materials under extreme conditions, providing a documented basis of comparison and detailed information that can be critical to production planning and specifications.
Element provides accelerated weathering tests to meet a variety of industry standards, as well as custom projects designed by our experts.
Accelerated Weathering Test Methods
- Xenon Arc weatherometers simulate the weathering process of indoor and outdoor sun exposure on materials. The test is useful in applications where paints and coatings require high quality finishes that are subject to high levels of UV degradation.
- Carbon Arc testing uses a weathering system that emits ultraviolet, visible and infrared radiation when an electric current is passed between its carbon rods. Carbon Arc testing measures a product’s ability to resist deterioration of electrical, mechanical and optical properties when exposed to light and heat.
Ultraviolet (UV) Exposure Test
- UV Exposure testing uses fluorescent UV lamp weathering devices to simulate exposure to natural sunlight. This test measures the effect of ultraviolet light on the mechanical properties of a product.
Other Weathering Test Methods
For more information about our accelerated weathering test methods, or to request a quote, contact us today.Related Services
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