MIL-STD-810 standard freeze/thaw testing determines the ability of materials to withstand the effects of moisture changes from solid to liquid. As a certified MIL-STD 810 compliance lab, we realize the importance of MIL-810 freeze/thaw testing. Meeting the MIL-810 enclosure seal test requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. Keystone takes a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. We are in constant communication throughout the entire test process. We take pride in creating an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing.
Request a quote to receive testing services customized to your specific needs. Ready to get started? We are. Contact us to see why so many companies work with us to achieve their military standard testing needs.
The Importance of Freeze/Thaw Compliance Testing
The purpose of this 810-test method is to determine if a material subjected to moisture phase changes between liquid and solid can withstand these conditions. This test also shows the effects of moisture included by transfer from a cold-to-warm or warm-to-cold environment.
This MIL-STD 810 testing method is applicable to material that will experience one or more excursions through the freeze point while wet or in the presence of moisture.
How This MIL-STD-810 Freeze/Thaw Test Affects Products
This Method includes physical changes in or on non-stationary material. Examples of these problems that could occur during these tests are as follows:
- Distortion or binding of moving parts
- Failure of bonding material
- Failure of seals
- Failure of Materials due to freezing/refreezing of absorbed, adjacent, or free water
- Changes in characteristics of electrical components
- Electrical flashover/reduced insulation resistance
- Fogging of optical systems during freeze-thaw transitions
- Inability to function correctly due to ice adhesion and interference or blockage of moving parts
Procedures of the MIL-810 Standard Method
When the freeze/thaw test MIL-810 testing method is necessary, there are three distinct procedures included that are suitable for most material.
Procedure I – Diurnal Cycling Effects – To simulate the effects of this cycling on material exposed, vary temperatures above and below the freeze point that is typical warming and freezing conditions when deposits of ice or condensation, or high humidity exist.
For procedure I to be effective, frost must form on the test item surfaces during temperature increase through the freeze point, and melt prior to re-freezing.
Procedure II – Fogging – For material transported directly from a cold to warm environment such as from an unheated aircraft, missiles or rocket, to a warm ground area.
Procedure III – Rapid Temperature Change – This MIL-STD-810 test procedure is used for material that is being moved from a warm environment to a cold, freezing environment and then back to a warm environment, inducing condensation.
Information within Test Method 24 Freeze/Thaw Testing
Temperature Range – Temperatures within the storage or operational range of the test item is used. Normally, temperature cycles range from +5 degrees Celsius to -10 degrees Celsius.
Moisture – Water is used to create the test moisture from local and clean water sources. The water can be applied as a water vapor or free water spray.
Number of Cycles – A cycle can be described as a change from one thermal moisture condition to another. Unless otherwise specified, the test item at each condition is held for a minimum of one hour following the test item temperature stabilization.
Keystone Compliance Provides Freeze/Thaw, Method 524, Compliance Testing
Keystone Compliance is one of the best freeze/thawing ingress protection testing and enclosure testing labs in the country. We employ expert test engineers and properly equip our military testing lab in order to provide freezing/thawing certifications.
In addition to MIL-STD-810 test method 524, freeze/thaw testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including solar radiation, rain, and pyroshock. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.
Request a quote and learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their freezing method 524 and compliance testing needs.