AECTP 300 Method 314 Contamination by Fluids Compliance Testing

AECTP Method 314 determines if material is affected by exposure to contaminating liquids. As an ISO-17025 accredited environmental compliance test lab, we realize the importance of contamination of fluids testing. Meeting the AECTP 300 climatic requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

We have a reputation for helping customers achieve their environmental product certifications. Keystone Compliance creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. We expedite comprehensive reports shortly after the completion of the test. What sets us apart from other NRTLs is our extensive troubleshooting process. When products do not meet your specified test requirements, we assist in finding solutions.

Request a quote to learn why we are one of the fastest-growing compliance test labs in the country. 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 314 Contamination by Fluids Testing

AECTP Method 314 determines if material is affected by brief exposure to contaminating liquids. Whether it be occasionally, intermittently, or over extended periods, these liquids can be encountered at any time during the unit’s life cycle.

This standard test method is selected when there is high profitability of fluid contamination. Contamination can arise from exposure to:

Fuels
Hydraulic fluids
Lubricating oils
Solvents
Cleaning fluids
De-icing and anti-freeze fluids
Runway de-icers
Insecticides
Disinfectants
Coolant dielectric fluid
Fire extinguishants

Note that this AECTP 314 standard is not intended to be used for continuous contact with a fluid.

Examples of problems that could occur as a result of exposure to contaminating fluids include:

Packaging failure
Crazing or swelling of plastics and rubbers
Leeching of antioxidants and other soluble materials
Seal or gasket failures
Adhesive failures
Paint/legend removal
Corrosion

AECTP 314 Contamination of Fluids Compliance Test Procedures

The most significant parameters for this test are the fluid to be used, the temperature, and the duration of exposure.

First, a test fluid is selected. This fluid must be representative of that commonly encountered during the material’s life cycle. Each fluid is the worst-case representative of a group of fluids. Thus, the fluid is most likely to affect the performance of the material.

More than one fluid can be used for this test. When this is the case, more factors for each fluid must be considered.

For occasional contamination, a fluid is applied to the entire surface of the unit under testing.

For intermittent contamination, the fluid is applied to the entire surface. Then, this procedure is repeated as necessary to maintain all the test item surfaces are in a wetted condition.

For extended contamination, the test item is immersed in the fluid. Immersion is maintained for a minimum of 24 hours.

After testing, an operational check is conducted.

Expert AECTP Contamination of Fluids Testing Laboratory

In addition to environmental AECTP 314 testing, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including solar radiation, humidity, and sand and dust. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.

For more information on AECTP 300 testing, please follow the links below: