Light exposure testing device SOLARBOX 522

automaticmaterialfor sheet metal

The Light Exposure Test Apparatus

• SOLARBOX 522/1500 and 522/1500e
• SOLARBOX 522/3000 and 522/3000e

are modern light exposure and weathering instruments which simulate realistic conditions comparable to natural outdoor weathering. Because severe insolation and extreme hot-house conditions have a highly deteriorating effect on coatings, etc. natural exposure tests in the laboratory are an essential development stage of many products on their way to series production. Artificial solar radiation provides fast, reproducible results. Testing can be repeated as often as necessary and can be conducted in the laboratory, absolutely independent of the weather or season. In comparison with SOLARBOX 522/1500 and 522/3000, versions 522/1500e and 522/3000e feature sophisticated microprocessor electronics, sensor technology and automatic controls. These instruments can also be linked to a programmable flooding system.


Fields of application
The effects of photochemical processes on solids, liquids and pastes can be systematically examined in the SOLARBOX under global radiation conditions. These instruments can be employed, for instance:

• for determining the light resisting properties of paints, bonding agents, pigments, plastics, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and many other products
• for testing colour fastness to light
• for testing the durability of the techno-mechanical properties of plastics
• for evaluating the gloss endurance and chalk resistance of paints
• for aging tests based on light exposure and cyclic wetting by way of the flooding system.

Design and Function
The samples to be tested are placed horizontally in the SOLARBOX and irradiated from above by a Xenon lamp. The spectral light distribution of natural sun radiation can be accurately adjusted from 300 to 800 nm by using a filter system. The irradiation intensity is about 1000 W/m². One of the SOLARBOXs special features is its capability to adapt the UV fraction of excitation light to the individual test pieces by exchanging the filters. This measure also alters the wave length at which radiation commences. The following filter options are available:


Limitation of the UV fraction to

• Simulation of direct solar ray exposure
• Simulation of solar rays filtered through window glass.

To counteract the high rate of reflection of infrared fractions, an IR filter can be optionally used to prevent excessive heating of the irradiated objects. A fan ensures consistent thermal conditions in the test chamber. On models 522/1500 and 522/3000 the exposure period can be preselected using the integrated timer (up to 999 h). An elapsed-time meter (up to 9999 h) simplifies timing control in duration tests and also ensures that the lamp (which has a service life of approx. 1500 h) is continuously monitored. The SOLARBOX models 522/1500 and 522/3000 are economical versions which incorporate the following equipment:

• Timer and elapsed time meter for accurate control of test sequence
• Air cooled Xenon lamp
• Rotary knob to adjust the irradiance level
• Control system for consistent irradiance
• Special filter, soda-lime glass, extra long life, to simulate outdoor exposure (simulation of direct solar ray exposure).

In addition the SOLARBOX models 522/1500e and 522/3000e are equipped with state of art microprocessor electronics which provide the user with numerous possibilities for monitoring and controlling the test process:

• Microprocessor controls for programming the test parameters (e. g. test period)
• LCD with 4 lines to display the test parameters and programme menu
• Control and monitoring of light density and black panel temperature
• Optional: Measurement and display of temperature and relative humidity in the test chamber
• Free programming of 15 different test sequences
• Data transfer via RS-232C interface
• Optional: Software package XEN 32 Report for transfer of test parameters to PC, also available in the extended version XEN 32 Rep. Cal. with SOLARBOX calibration
• Connection with a programmable flooding system, optional with water temperature control.

The Light Exposure Test Apparatus

• SOLARBOX 522/1500e RH and
• SOLARBOX 522/3000e RH

are the extended versions of model 522/1500e and model 522/3000e, but with additional control/monitoring of relative humidity in test chamber during the test.


Design and Function
A strong structure is the base of SOLARBOXe RH. In the lower part two tanks are installed. The bigger tank is for humidifier supply, the smaller tank is for flooding system (option). Capacity of humidfier and flooding tanks ensures weeks and weeks of continuous functioning, blinking lights on auxiliary panel inform when water level is low. Sample temperature depends on air flow rate in the test chamber. BST temperauture control system selects the blower speed by means of an inverter allowing accurate speed control, subsequently we have a high accuracy in BST temperature.
Relative humidity is set on auxiliary panel and displayed on SOLARBOX control panel. Ultrasonic humidifier is proportionally controlled so to reach and maintain the programmed test condition. Air circulation may be modified by the user, in full closed circuit mode humidity is obtained in extreme high range with negligible water consumption and BST is in medium high range. In partial air recirculating mode BST temperatures of lower range are possible.


Features

• Broad band irradianc control sensor (300 - 400 nm) ensures constant irradiance for the whole life of the lamp
• Controlled and monitored irradiance up to 1.000 W/m² (300 - 800 nm)
• Controlled and monitored temperature at specimen tray level with BST (Black Standard Thermometer)
• Controlled and monitored relative humidity. Ultrasonic humidifier ensures reliable functioning for long time
• Sample flooding system for cyclic sample immersion throughout your test program
• Microprocessor control with 4 lines LCD display, friendly and intuitive operating system, free programming up to 15 different test programs
• Complete test report is produced for each test performed simply connecting your PC to RS-232C interfaces: press print push button and history of test is printed
• A complete range of advanced UV filters are available to match sunlight conditions a) direct exposure to sunlight (Outdoor) b) exposure through a window glass (Indoor).

UV filters with IR coating reduce infrared radiation on samples and test temperatures