Artificial weathering

Contact us on +44 (0)23 80580240 for a free quote

Ultra violet (UV) light accounts for around 5% of the sunlight received on the earth's surface (see solar irradiance spectrum below) and falls in the waveband 100-400µm. There are three UV bands (A, B and C) with wavelengths 400-320µm, 320-280µm and 100-280µm respectively; UV radiation interacts with bonds in polymers which can lead to degradation of the polymer chains and most damage occurs in the 290-400µm range. This degradation can lead to cracking, chalking, colour changes and loss of mechanical properties, all of which must be monitored if the polymeric material is destined for an application outside.

Accelerated weather testers simulate the damage caused by UV exposure, atmospheric moisture and precipitation, allowing close correspondence to long term external service condition performance. The artificial weathering is particularly useful for determining the inherent photostability of a material or the effectiveness of any UV stabilisers added; the equipment can also determine the retention of aesthetic properties such as colour and surface finish. Manufacturers and finishers in the coatings and painting industry, fabrics, plastics, rubbers and sealants industries and the marine and architectural field find weathering testing invaluable for quality assurance and materials certification and comparison.

There are several methods of artificially reproducing service conditions; we offer fluorescent light QUV which cycles a programme of UV and condensation phases at elevated temperature. The machine can be set up to standards ISO 4892 and 11507 or ASTM G154 or to a custom programme if preferred.

Costs of testing:
Test facilities usually insist of testing a minimum number of samples per run whereas we don not; our independent testing service pricing is based on a standard 500 hour test with standard test samples. If a non-standard test regime is required, a competitive quotation can be provided upon request. Please call us for our pricing structure.

Analytical services:
We offer a number of services including colorimetry to quantify and colour changes in samples caused by testing. We currently work to ISO 4892-3, however other standards can be followed or non-standard regimes can be undertaken on request. We also offer mechanical testing services; please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Testing fees are available on request.

Phone us on +44 (0)23 80580240

Email us at info@mtechltd.co.uk

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