MIL-STD-810 Combined Conditions 520 Testing

MIL STD-810G combined conditions testing evaluates effects of combined environmental conditions on a material. As a MIL-STD-810 certified lab, we realize the importance of MIL 810 and shock testing. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process. Meeting the MIL-810 temperature, humid air and combined condition requirements can be difficult.

Our accurate test reports are delivered quickly. Keystone Compliance’s pricing is competitive and we offer volume discounts. We provide comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the MIL-810 standard testing. We are in constant communication throughout the entire test process. Thus, our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met. 

Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Compliance. Contact us to receive more information on test method 520 and temperature testing.

The Importance of MIL-STD 810 Combined Environments Testing

The purpose of Method 520 is to help find the synergistic effects of combinations of temperature, altitude, humidity, input electrical power and vibration. The affected material includes airborne electronic and electro-mechanical material. The materials are with regard to the safety and overall performance during ground and light operations.

It is almost impossible to recreate a complete mix of environments. However, the intent is to apply ideal combinations of stress to the material to determine performance and capabilities.

How MIL-810 Combined Environments Affects Products

The purpose and application of this MIL-STD 810 test method are examined. Then, the combined forcing functions are determined. These may be temperature, altitude, humidity, etc. expected in the life cycle of the material in the real world. If applicable, tailor non-operational environmental conditions into the combined environmental cycle.

All of the conditions such as vibration, absolute humidity levels and altitude testing can be combined to produce equipment failures. They may also amplify the stress effects when compared to the effects of individual environments, to include power effects. The following examples are not to be comprehensive. Refer to individual methods for additional information.

  • Shattering of glass vials and optical material
  • Binding or loosening of moving parts
  • Separation of constituents
  • Performance decline in electronic components due to parameter shifts
  • Electronic optical (fogging) or mechanical failures due to rapid water or frost formation
  • Cracking of solid pellets or grains in explosives
  • Differential contraction or expansion of dissimilar materials
  • Deformation or fracture of components
  • Cracking of surface coatings
  • Leakage of sealed compartments
  • Failure due to inadequate heat dissipation

Information on the MIL-STD 810 Compliance Test

When selecting a military standard test procedure, use the anticipated life cycle sequence of events as a general sequence guide. The choice of test procedures is determined by the developmental phase of the equipment. Generally, vibration testing should be performed first.

All procedures cover the same forcing functions. However, the procedures differ based on the severity of the test being performed. Procedure I and III encompass the full envelope as defined by the equipment life cycle. Procedure II is constrained to climatic, input electrical power, vibration and operational modes/conditions.

Procedure I – Engineering Development – Use procedure I to help find design defects. This may be in new or modified equipment while still in the development phase. This type of test is useful for this purpose since it will reveal synergistic failures.

Once the 810-test procedure is finished, a root cause analysis is performed. This determines the corrective action. This procedure is not a substitute for environment stress screening or highly accelerated life testing.

Procedure II – Flight or Mission Support – This procedure is performed in preparation for a specific mission scenario or functional testing. The procedure can be used for troubleshooting of fielded material exhibiting specific mission problems. The damage build-up in the test should be no faster than the usual in-flight testing. This procedure is not intended to be used in lieu of Procedure III.

Procedure III – Platform Envelope – The Platform Envelope test is intended to prove compliance with specific platform/equipment specification requirements. This testing emphasizes the most significant environmental stress conditions snf combination of stress conditions.

Limitations of this MIL-810 Test Method

When considering this MIL-810 standard method, first review required documents. The documents will determine what kind of combined environment the material will be exposed to during its life-cycle. Note that the examples provided in this method do not represent specific scenarios. Lastly, the examples are not to be used as default profiles.

This MIL-STD-810 combined environments method 520 is not intended to be used in lieu of method 500, 501, 502, 507 and/or 514 unless properly tailored and authorized in the required documents.

  • Limit use of this MIL-STD 810 lab method to evaluate the combined effects of three or more of the following environments. Temperature, altitude, humidity, input electrical power, and vibration.
  • This method does not normally apply to unpowered material moved as cargo in aircraft.
  • The tailored test cycle should not include short duration vibration events or those that occur infrequently in the test cycle.
  • This MIL-STD-810 test method is not intended to be used for temperature/vibration testing, unrelated to the synergistic environmental test combinations.
  • Lastly, this MIL-STD-810 standard method is not intended to be used to test material to be installed or operated in vehicles, aircraft or missiles that fly at altitudes above 21,300m

Keystone Compliance Provides MIL-STD-810 Combined Environments Compliance Testing

Keystone Compliance is one of the best altitude and military testing labs in the country. We employ expert test engineers and properly equip our combined environments testing lab in order to provide MIL-STD-810 compliance certifications.

Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. In addition to MIL-STD-810 testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including fungus, rain, and solar radiation. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. 

Request a quote to learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their compliance testing needs.