MIL-810 standard immersion testing determines if a material can withstand immersion in water. As a MIL-STD-810 certified lab, we realize the importance of MIL-STD 810 lab testing. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process. Meeting the MIL-810 standard immersion requirements can be difficult.
Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve MIL-STD-810 product compliance. Our accurate test reports are delivered quickly. We have a reputation for helping customers achieve their MIL-STD product certifications. Keystone provides the peace of mind that all of your needs will be met.
Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest growing compliance test labs in the country. Have a question about test method 512, immersion testing? Contact us or call (724) 657-9940 and we will determine the best course of action.
The Importance of MIL-STD 810 Water Immersion Compliance Testing
The purpose of immersion testing is to determine if materials can withstand immersion in water and operate as required. The operation of the material may be during or following immersion. In some cases, this test may be used to verify water tightness in place of a rain test.
There are documented situations in which the impact of rain causes water to run through the material. In this case, both the water immersion 512 test and the MIL-STD rain test method should be performed.
How Method 512 Water Immersion Compliance Testing Affects Products
Penetration of water into material or packaging enclosures can result in problems. After examining the requirements and applying the tailoring process, use the following to confirm the need for the enclosure seal testing.
The problems below are listed to help determine if this immersion method 512 method is appropriate for the material being tested. This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.
- Fouling of lubricants between moving parts.
- Formation of electrically conductive paths that may cause electrical or electronic equipment to malfunction or become unsafe to operate.
- Corrosion due to direct exposure to the water or to the relatively high humidity levels caused by water.
- Impairment of the burning qualities of explosives, propellants, fuels, etc.
- Failure of vehicle engines to operate.
Devices and components exposed to harsh environments, if not adequately protected, might fail prematurely or pose safety risks. An IP Code rating assures that the equipment will function reliably under various conditions. For manufacturers, this not only guarantees the safety and reliability of their products but also provides a competitive advantage.
Customers who recognize the importance of this rating may prioritize such products, especially if they operate in environments where the protection offered by this rating is essential.
Information on the Immersion Ingress Protection Testing Procedures
This MIL-810 test method includes two test procedures. Procedure I (Immersion) primarily addresses leakage during immersion of encased material. However, Procedure II (Fording) focuses on vehicles traversing a body of water or material secured to such vehicles.
The first approach is to conserve the test item’s life. This occurs by applying what are perceived to be the least damaging environments first. On the other hand, the second approach is to apply environments to maximize the likelihood of disclosing sequential problems.
When selecting an IP code testing procedure, consider the operational purpose of the material. This will determine the functions to be performed by the material when partially or fully immersed in water. Lastly, the natural exposure and the test data are considered to determine whether the operational purpose of the material has been met.
Both 810-test procedures involve some degree of immersion. Procedure I differs primarily in addressing the leakage during immersion of encased material. Procedure II focuses on vehicles crossing a body of water or material secured to such a vehicle.
Once an enclosure seal test has been selected, parameter levels, special test conditions, and techniques are selected for these procedures. From these sources of information, the functions to be performed by the material while immersed are determined. Additionally, the following exposure to these conditions. To do this, consider the following in light of the operational purpose and life cycle of the material.
Determinants of the MIL-STD 810 Compliance Test
Identify Climatic Conditions – To precisely conduct MIL-STD 810 immersion and enclosure test, the appropriate climatic conditions are identified. The conditions apply to how the material will be operated, stored and whether the test item needs to be operated during the test.
Determine the Exposure Conditions – Base the specific test conditions on field data if available. In the absence of the field data, determine the test conditions from the applicable requirements documents. If this information is not available, use the test item that reproduces the anticipated material configuration during storage or use.
Conditioning Temperature – Temperature differential between the test item and the water can affect the outcome of an immersion test. It is recommended that the temperature of the water is around 18 degrees Celsius.
Depth of Immersion – Two different depths are prominent in this method, complete immersion and partial immersion. For testing the integrity of an item, use a 1 m covering depth of water or to the required depth identified by LCEP. When testing to depths greater than 1 m, the test item is completely immersed in water. Then, the required pressure is applied.
Keystone Provides Expert MIL-810 Immersion Testing
In addition to MIL-STD-810 immersion testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including freeze-thaw, fungus, and humidity. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing.
Keystone Compliance has been one of the best MIL-STD-810 immersion testing labs in the country. We employ expert test engineers and properly equip our laboratory in order to provide MIL-STD-810 testing certifications. Request a quote and learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their MIL-STD 810 testing standard needs.
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