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LabroTek provides industry-leading weathering test instruments designed to evaluate how materials and products withstand environmental stressors over time. Our comprehensive range of testing equipment delivers precise simulation of environmental conditions including UV radiation, temperature, humidity, and xenon exposure to accurately predict product lifespans and performance.
Our UV weathering instruments replicate the damaging effects of sunlight on materials:
For the most accurate simulation of full-spectrum sunlight exposure:
Our specialists help you identify the ideal equipment for your specific applications and requirements
Professional setup and comprehensive operator training to ensure optimal performance from day one
Dedicated assistance throughout your equipment's service life, including troubleshooting and updates
Regular service programs to maintain accuracy, compliance, and maximize operational uptime
Our weathering test instruments incorporate cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional testing performance:
Calibrated UV fluorescent lamps and xenon arc systems that accurately replicate solar radiation at various geographic locations and seasons
Exact regulation of temperature, humidity, and water spray cycles for comprehensive material stress testing
Engineered to ensure consistent test conditions across all sample positions, eliminating positional variables
Real-time tracking of test parameters with automatic adjustment to maintain specified conditions
Equipment designed to meet ISO, ASTM, DIN, JIS, and other global testing standards
Weathering test instruments are essential across numerous sectors:
Testing exterior paints, coatings, plastic components, and interior materials for weathering resistance and color stability
Evaluating the durability of roofing materials, exterior paints, sealants, and architectural components
Determining UV stability, color fastness, and mechanical property retention after environmental exposure
Assessing colorfastness, fiber degradation, and performance characteristics of outdoor fabrics
Analyzing degradation patterns, adhesion properties, and protective capabilities after accelerated aging
Testing the durability and efficiency of photovoltaic panels and components under long-term sun exposure
Evaluating light stability, color change, and structural integrity of packaging exposed to retail lighting and environmental conditions
Our weathering instruments offer comprehensive testing capabilities including:
Precise simulation of various light spectra including UV-A, UV-B, and full-spectrum sunlight with xenon technology
Programmable temperature profiles from sub-zero to high heat conditions for thorough material stress testing
Controlled humidity, water spray, and condensation cycles to replicate diverse weather conditions
Precisely calibrated light intensity levels with feedback systems to maintain consistent exposure conditions
Automated alternation between light and dark periods to simulate real-world exposure patterns
Mechanisms to ensure uniform exposure across all specimen surfaces for consistent results
Comprehensive recording of test conditions with software for performance analysis and reporting
UV weathering tests primarily focus on the UV portion of sunlight using fluorescent lamps, making them excellent for testing UV resistance at lower cost. Xenon arc testing provides a fuller simulation of the entire solar spectrum (UV, visible, and infrared) and is considered the most realistic laboratory simulation of natural sunlight, making it ideal for comprehensive weathering studies.
Correlation factors vary by material and environment. Generally, benchmarking with materials of known outdoor performance, running parallel outdoor exposure tests, and consulting industry-specific correlation data helps establish meaningful relationships. LabroTek can assist with developing appropriate correlation methodologies for your specific materials.
Common standards include ASTM G154 and ISO 4892-3 for UV fluorescent testing, ASTM G155 and ISO 4892-2 for xenon arc testing, and various industry-specific standards like automotive (SAE J2527), textile (AATCC TM186), and building material standards (EN 927-6). Our equipment is designed to meet these and many other international testing standards.
Regular maintenance typically includes lamp replacement, calibration of light sensors and controllers, cleaning of water systems, checking temperature sensors, and inspection of mechanical components. LabroTek provides comprehensive maintenance services and preventative maintenance plans to ensure optimal equipment performance.
The appropriate cycle depends on your material, expected environment, and testing objectives. Standard test methods provide established cycles for many materials, but customization may be necessary. LabroTek’s technical specialists can help design cycles that balance accelerated results with realistic degradation mechanisms for your specific materials.
Yes, many advanced weathering systems can incorporate freeze-thaw cycling as part of comprehensive environmental testing. These specialized chambers combine UV or xenon exposure with programmable temperature controls that can reach sub-zero temperatures to simulate harsh winter conditions followed by warming periods.
Sample capacity varies by instrument type. Benchtop units typically handle specimens from 75×150mm up to 300×300mm, while walk-in chambers can accommodate larger assemblies or multiple sample racks. Custom chambers can be designed for extremely large or uniquely shaped items requiring environmental testing.
UV fluorescent lamps typically require replacement after 1,600-2,000 hours of operation, while xenon lamps generally last 1,200-1,500 hours. Actual replacement intervals may vary based on test conditions, irradiance levels, and manufacturer specifications. Most modern instruments include lamp monitoring systems to alert users when replacement is needed.
Yes, LabroTek offers rental and leasing solutions for weathering test instruments. This option is ideal for short-term projects, evaluating equipment before purchase, or managing budget constraints while still accessing high-quality testing capabilities.
ROI typically comes from preventing costly product failures in the field, reducing warranty claims, accelerating product development cycles, and ensuring regulatory compliance. For companies developing outdoor products or materials, weathering test equipment often pays for itself by preventing just one major product failure or recall situation.