Equipment

Provide suitable mounting for different materials and composites

Items of equipment often consist of several materials. Textile layers, plastics, metals and coatings can form a single assembly. Testing therefore establishes whether individual materials or the complete composite will be investigated.

Specimen mounting is adapted to the material properties. Flexible samples require different holders from rigid housings. Mounting, backing and orientation are documented so that comparable conditions can be established.

Possible test specimens:

• Textiles, fabrics and coated textile composites
• Plastic housings and covers
• Transport and storage containers
• Painted metal parts and surface samples
• Seals and flexible protective components

Derive the loading conditions from the intended use

The design distinguishes between targeted UV irradiation, solar-like exposure and thermal radiation loading. The appropriate option depends on the effect being investigated.

Irradiance, duration and temperature are defined together. If rest phases, humidity or other loads are required, these are incorporated into a documented sequence. A general exposure duration does not replace an application-specific definition of the test conditions.

Relevant exposure parameters:

• Radiation spectrum suited to the material question
• Irradiance and usable test area
• Exposure duration and radiant exposure, where applicable
• Specimen and ambient temperatures
• Orientation, interruptions and supplementary climatic conditions

Align evaluation with the material’s function

Evaluation methods are selected according to the specimen. Colour changes may be relevant for textile or decorative surfaces, while the investigation of a container may additionally consider temperature development or the condition of the material composite.

Measurement points and criteria are defined before exposure begins. An irradiation test evaluates the agreed load and the associated characteristics. Additional protective or product properties require their own appropriate verification procedures.

Possible evaluation parameters:

• Colour, gloss and surface appearance
• Cracks, delamination and changes in the material composite
• Temperature development on surfaces and inside housings
• Mechanical properties of suitable material samples
• Comparison of defined characteristics before and after exposure

Prepare the test station for different specimens

A test station for different items of equipment requires suitable mounting arrangements and a clearly defined irradiation area. Appropriate adjustment options are determined by the intended specimen formats and test positions.

BF Engineering tailors the system to laboratory workflows and existing infrastructure. Specimen changes, instrumentation and regular verification measurements are considered alongside supply requirements and heat removal.

Relevant integration considerations:

• Range of specimen sizes and material types
• Suitable holders and defined test positions
• Access for sensors and intermediate evaluations
• Interfaces with data acquisition and experimental controls
• Maintenance, cleaning and verification of irradiation conditions