AECTP Altitude Compliance Testing

AECTP 300 Method 312 Low-Pressure Altitude Compliance Testing

Low-pressure (altitude) testing evaluates if a material can withstand or operate in low-pressure environments. As an ISO-17025 accredited environmental compliance test lab, we realize the importance of low-pressure and altitude testing. Meeting the environmental AECTP 312 compliance requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone’s engineers take a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. We expedite comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the test. Keystone also offers competitive pricing and volume discounts. We are in constant communication throughout the entire test process.

Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing compliance test labs in the country. Contact us to receive more information on AECTP altitude environmental testing.

Summary of AECTP 300 Environmental Climatic Compliance Testing

The AECTP 300 standard is intended to be used in conjunction with four other AECTP test standards (AECTP 100, 200, 400, and 500). Furthermore, the AECTP standard provides advice for preparing environmental test specifications, plans, and procedures.

Additionally, AECTP 300 evaluates climatic environments. These environments can occur individually or in combination with other climatic or mechanical environments.

The AECTP 300 tests outlined provide exposure to simulated conditions from which a degree of confidence can be established.

During testing, the configuration used for the selected test should be used within the unit’s life cycle. As a minimum, the following is considered:

In the shipping/storage container or transit case.
Protected or unprotected.
In its normal operating and thermal configuration.
Modified with kits for special applications.

Any of the following will be classified as a failure:

A deviation of monitored functional parameter levels beyond acceptable limits.
Nonfulfillment of safety requirements or the development of safety hazards.
Nonfulfillment of specific test item requirements.
Changes to the test item that could prevent it from meeting its intended service life or maintenance requirements.

Scope of AECTP 312 Low Pressure and Altitude Testing

Low-pressure (altitude) testing evaluates if a material can withstand and operate in low-pressure environments. Additionally, this test determines if a material can withstand rapid pressure changes.

AECTP 312 determines if:

A material can be stored and operated at high-ground-level sites.
The material can be transported or used in pressurized/unpressurized areas of aircraft.
The material can survive a rapid or explosive decompression.
The material can withstand external carriage on an aircraft.

In addition to thermal effects, examples of problems that occur from exposure to reduced pressure include:

Leakage of gases or fluids
Deformation, rupture, or explosion of sealed containers
Change in physical and chemical properties of low-density materials
Overheating of materiel due to reduced heat transfer
Evaporation of lubricants
Erratic starting and operation of engines
Failure of hermetic seals
Erratic operation or malfunction of materiel resulting from arcing or corona

AECTP 300 Method 312 Altitude Compliance Test Procedures

Four test procedures are included with AECTP 312. Based on the test data requirements, a combination of test procedures can be performed.

After the test is carried out, the item is visually inspected. An operational check is conducted and the results are then documented.

Procedure I – Storage/Air Transport

Procedure I is used if material is to be stored at high-ground elevations. It is also carried out if a material is transported in its shipping/storage configuration.

For this procedure, the test duration is representative of the service environment. If the service environment is determined to be extensive, at least one hour of testing is carried out.

Procedure II – Operation/Air Carriage

AECTP procedure II determines if material integrity is under low-pressure conditions. This procedure can be preceded by Procedure I, Procedure III, and Procedure IV. If there are no low-pressure storage, rapid, or explosive decompression requirements, this procedure can be tested alone.

Procedure III – Rapid Decompression

Procedure III evaluates if a rapid decrease in pressure will cause a material reaction. More specifically, if the reaction will endanger nearby personnel or the aircraft in which it is being transported.

Procedure IV – Explosive Decompression

Procedure IV is similar to Procedure III. However, Procedure IV involves an instantaneous decrease in the pressure of the surrounding environment.

Expert AECTP Method 312 Compliance Testing Laboratory

Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling. In addition to environmental altitude testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including fungus, rain, and solar radiation.

Have a question about our AECTP compliance testing capabilities? Contact us to discuss the best course of action.

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