MIL-STD Temperature Shock Method 503 Testing

Test method 503 thermal shock testing evaluates if materials can withstand changes in temperature. As a MIL-STD-810 certified lab, we realize the importance of MIL-STD-810 temperature shock testing. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process. Meeting the MIL-810 test standard requirements can be difficult. 

Keystone Compliance provides comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the MIL-810 standard testing.  We have a reputation of helping customers achieve their MIL-STD product certifications. Keystone partners with customers to achieve MIL-STD-810 product compliance. Lastly, we provide 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 temperature shock MIL-STD-810 testing.

The Importance of Temperature Shock Compliance Testing

Thermal shock method 503 determines if material can withstand sudden changes in temperature of the surrounding atmosphere. Furthermore, the material can not experience physical damage or decline in performance.

Thermal shock compliance testing addresses three statements that focus on test item surface levels. The transfer of material between climate-controlled environment areas and extreme external ambient conditions ascent from high temperature ground environment to high altitudes. Lastly, air delivery/air drop at high altitude/low temperature from aircraft enclosures.

Keystone compliance is a fully equipped military testing lab with experience in MIL-810 temperature shock testing equipment. This page provides a summary of the MIL-STD-810 test method 503.

How Temperature Shock Testing Affects Products

Effects of thermal shocks are usually more severe near the outer portions and surface of materials. Transit cases and packages will lessen the effects of thermal shock within the enclosed material even more. Below are examples of problems that could result from the testing of thermal shock on a material being tested.

Consider the following typical problems to help determine if this MIL-STD-810 standard method is appropriate for the material being tested.

  • Shattering of glass vials and optical material.
  • Binding or slacking of moving parts.
  • Cracking of solid pellets or grains in explosives.
  • Differential contraction or expansion rates or induced strain rates of dissimilar materials.
  • Deformation or fracture of components.
  • The separation of constituents.
  • Failure of chemical agent protection.
  • Changes in electrical and electronic components.

MIL STD Testing Information

When selecting this 810-test procedure, consider the expected exposure temperatures in service and material’s logistic or deployed configuration.

The four MIL-STD 810 lab procedures all involve temperature conditioning and performance testing. MIL-STD 810 tests can vary from one shock (½ cycle) to six or more shocks (three or more cycles). Appropriate parameter levels, applicable test conditions and techniques for the MIL-STD-810 thermal shock testing procedure are all identified before the test begins. 

Consider tailoring the temperatures to produce induced strain rates found in service. This MIL-810 thermal shock test method addresses several exposure situations such as aircraft flight, air delivery – desert and ground transfer – ambient to either cold regions or desert.

Aircraft flight exposure is appropriate if the material is to be exposed to temperature extremes. For instance, exposure to desert or tropical ground heat and direct solar heating and then immediate exposure to extreme low temperatures.

Air delivery is appropriate for material that is delivered over desert terrain from unheated, high altitude aircraft. However, it uses the ambient air temperature.

Ground transfer is intended to test material for effects of movement to and from ambient conditions. Ground transfer can also test cold regions or desert environments. Engineering designs are used to detect issues related to marginal design.

Temperature Shock Lab Testing Procedures

The thermal shock lab testing method includes one test procedure with four variations. The MIL-810 tests employ constant temperatures at each extreme shock conditions. The thermal shock itself outweighs the other thermal effects that the test may be performed using two constant temperatures.

Procedure I-A – One-way shock(s) from constant extreme temperature. For material that is likely to be exposed only rarely to thermal shock in one direction, perform at least one shock for each appropriate condition.

Procedure I-B – Single cycle shock from constant extreme temperature. For material that is likely to be exposed to only one thermal shock cycle in each direction, perform one shock for each appropriate condition.

Procedure I-C – Multi-cycle shocks from constant extreme temperature. There is little available data to substantiate how many shocks this method is expected. In lieu of better information, apply no less than three shocks at each condition. The objective of this test is to determine the effect of rapid temperature changes to the material.

Procedure I-D – Shocks to or from controlled ambient temperature. This temperature shock method 503 procedure follows the durations of all three other procedures. Except all shocks are to and/or from controlled ambient conditions.

Keystone Compliance Provides Thermal Shock Testing Services

Keystone Compliance is one of the best thermal labs in the country. We hire expert military standard test engineers and properly equip our MIL-810 Standard thermal laboratory in order to provide thermal shock temperature certifications. In addition to MIL-STD-810 thermal shock testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including humidity, fungus, solar radiation, and pyroshock

Request a quote to learn why so many manufacturers rely on Keystone Compliance to meet their MIL-STD 810 compliance testing needs.