Icing and rain test methods can provide you with important data on your product or part's performance in response to typical or extreme environmental conditions. Element performs icing and rain tests that comply with RTCA DO-160 and MIL-STD 810 aerospace and military standards.
Rain Test and Aircraft Icing Testing
Rain tests are used to evaluate any physical deterioration of a material caused by rain, water spray or dripping. Exposure to water can cause damage to a product’s coatings, sealants, cases and overall performance. These test methods are useful for products that experience outdoor and high condensation environments during their lifespan, particularly for commercial and military aircraft.
Some of the rain test methods we offer include:
Blowing rain tests
Blowing rain tests use a specified wind velocity and rainfall rate to determine how a product will endure its outdoor environment.Drip tests
Drip tests are used to measure any water penetration or pooling caused by a product being exposed to drops of water falling at a uniform rate.Water ingress protection tests
Water ingress determine the effectiveness of seals on the enclosures of electrical equipment.
Aircraft Icing and Test Methods
Aircraft icing tests determine the ability of the equipment to withstand naturally occurring ice and frost conditions and helps determine the need for de-icing operations. Some icing test methods may use automated chambers to combine altitude, humidity, and freezing temperatures.
For the RTCA DO-160 standard, equipment is categorized into three groups when performing aircraft icing tests: A, B, and C.
- Category A is for equipment located externally or in non-climate controlled areas where aircraft icing and frost may occur due to condensation.
- Category B is a 25 cycle test which mimics the effects of multiple ascents and descents where the accumulation of water can cause structural or functional damage to moving parts and electronic systems.
- Category C is used for external areas where standing water could freeze and where ice could build up over time impeding normal operation of the test unit.
Our experts can help determine the best aircraft icing and rain test methods for your product to ensure its integrity. For more information about our full suite of climatic and environmental simulation services, or to request a quote, contact our experts today.
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Environmental Testing
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Element's product testing labs in the US and UK evaluate components and systems to defense standards including MIL-STD 810 and others.
RTCA DO-160 Testing
Element has the most comprehensive EMC and environmental testing services, combined with an unrivaled capacity of any independent Aerospace product qualification testing company in the world.
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