In the field of environmental testing equipment, both fast temperature change test chambers and temperature shock test chambers are used to assess product performance under varying temperature conditions. However, there are significant differences in their temperature change characteristics, structural design, and more. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate testing equipment to meet specific testing needs.
The temperature change in a fast temperature change test chamber is continuous and linear. It can slowly or rapidly increase or decrease temperature within a specified range based on a set temperature change rate. For example, it can rise from 20°C to 80°C at a rate of 5°C/min, and then drop to -20°C at a rate of 3°C/min. This temperature change pattern is more suitable for simulating gradual temperature variations in natural environments, making it ideal for testing the performance of electronic products under different temperature changes.
In contrast, a temperature shock test chamber can experience significant jumps from high to low temperatures or vice versa within a short period. For instance, it can switch from a high temperature of +100°C to a low temperature of -60°C within 10 minutes. This abrupt temperature shock effectively tests a product's ability to withstand rapid temperature changes, such as a material's adaptability to thermal expansion and contraction.
The structure of a fast temperature change test chamber is relatively simple, primarily consisting of a single test chamber, heating and cooling systems, a temperature control system, and an air conditioning system. The inner walls of the chamber are usually made from materials with good insulation properties, such as polyurethane foam, to reduce heat loss. The cooling system can be air-cooled or water-cooled, while the control system precisely adjusts the heating and cooling power according to a pre-set temperature change curve, allowing the internal temperature to change linearly at a specific rate.
Temperature shock test chambers are designed in either two-box or three-box configurations. The main differences between these designs lie in the testing process and sample handling methods.
Two-Box Temperature Shock Chamber: This type has two compartments, one for high temperatures and the other for low temperatures. During testing, the test samples move back and forth between the high and low temperature zones using a basket to achieve the desired temperature shock effect.
Three-Box Temperature Shock Chamber: This type features three compartments, with the upper and lower layers serving as the high and low temperature zones, while the middle layer holds the test samples. During the test, the samples remain stationary, and temperature shock is achieved by opening and closing valves that allow gas to flow between the high temperature, low temperature, and middle temperature zones.