AECTP 313 Sand and Dust Compliance Testing

AECTP 300 Method 313 Sand and Dust Compliance Testing

AECTP Method 313 compliance testing evaluates the integrity of devices exposed to the blowing of sand or dust. As an ISO-17025 accredited environmental compliance test lab, we realize the importance of AECTP 300 climatic laboratory testing. Meeting the environmental sand and dust compliance testing requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance partners with customers to achieve environmental product compliance. We are in constant communication throughout the entire test process. Lastly, Keystone expedites comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the test.

Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Compliance. Ready to get started? We are. Contact us to see why so many companies work with Keystone each year to achieve their environmental standard test needs.

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 the configuration 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 Method 313 Contamination Compliance Testing

Sand and dust testing evaluates the integrity of devices exposed to the blowing of sand or dust. This testing is applicable to all mechanical, optical, electrical, and electromechanical devices when the devices are exposed to blowing sand, blowing dust, or the settling of dust. The AECTP 313 test is performed for two reasons:

The small-particle dust test evaluates the ability of a material to resist the effects of dust. More specifically, dust can obstruct openings or penetrate into cracks, crevices, and joints. Small particle testing also evaluates the effectiveness of filters.
The blowing sand test determines if a material can operate without the degradation of performance, effectiveness, reliability, and maintainability. These factors can occur from abrasion, erosion, or the clogging effect of large, sharp-edged particles.

AECTP 313 is not suitable for determining the erosion of airborne material. Furthermore, this method does not address aerosols other than dust.

Generally, the blowing of sand and dust exists seasonally in most regions. Examples of problems that can occur include the following:

Abrasion and erosion of surfaces.
Penetration of seals.
Degraded performance of electrical circuits.
Obstruction/clogging of openings and filters.
Physical/interference with mating parts.
Fouling/interference of moving parts.
Reduction of thermal conductivity.
Interference with optical characteristics.
Overheating and fire hazards due to reduced/restricted ventilation or cooling.

AECTP Sand and Dust Compliance Testing Procedures

Procedure I – Blowing Dust

Procedure I assesses the susceptibility of a material to concentrations of blowing dust. The particle size must be less than 150 μm.

Generally, the blowing dust test is conducted for six hours at standard ambient temperatures. Then, the test is conducted for six hours at a high storage or operating temperature.

Procedure II – Blowing Sand

This compliance testing procedure is used to assess the susceptibility of material to the effects of blowing large sand particles. The particle size is 150 μm or larger.

For the blowing sand test, 90 minutes per face is most recommended.

Procedure III – Settling Dust

The settling dust procedure evaluates settling dust less than 100 μm on material sheltered or enclosed areas. More specifically, Procedure III is used in areas where dust may accumulate over a long time.

The settling dust test can also be used to verify the effectiveness of air filters. This test has a duration of three days.

Expert AECTP 313 Dust and Sand Compliance Testing Facility

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.

Ready to get started? We are. Contact us to see why so many companies work with Keystone each year to achieve their environmental standard test needs.

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