Sample Requirements
Our UV testing chambers can accommodate a wide range of sample shapes and sizes.
Fluorescent Tube Samples (QUV)
A standard sample mount has dimensions of 75 x 150 mm and gives an actual exposure area of approximately 70 x 100mm. These are designed for the testing of flat specimens so the ideal sample in this case is a tile of a few mm thickness and approximately 75 x 150 mm. A typical standard sample mount is shown in the diagram below.
As UV degradation is a surface phenomena the samples should not be too thick or it may mask any effect of the UV. Equally very thin samples can also suffer premature failure which may not be representative of the final product. Ideally samples should be in the range of 1 - 5 mm.
Xenon Arc Test Requirements
The Q-Sun test chamber features a tray measuring 451x718 mm, so many small samples or a few larger samples can be tested simultaneously. We also have a smaller Xenon-Arc test machine, with a test space of 251x457mm. This smaller machine is ideal for testing a low number of samples. The Q-Sun is designed with flat samples in mind; but 3-dimensional samples can fit in the test space and still effectively undergo the Xenon arc test.
`3-Dimensional Samples & Extra Large Samples
If you have a completed product that you want to test and do not want to cut it down then we can also accomodate a range of test panels in sizes up to 330 x 500 mm on special request. We can also accomodate extra thick samples with a range of special sample holders and can also manufacture sample holders specifically for your samples. This allows you to expose your product and then have it returned for further product testing by yourselves.
In the case of whole product testing only the surface directly exposed to the light will be relevant as the intensity will diminish with distance from the light and at an angle.
You can supply samples direct to us pre-cut or if you prefer we can cut samples for you. It is often better to allow us to do the sample preparation once we have seen your samples as we can then make any specific recommendations about exposure conditions.You can supply samples direct to us pre-cut or if you prefer we can cut samples for you. It is often better to allow us to do the sample preparation once we have seen your samples as we can then make any specific recommendations about exposure conditions.