Sand and Dust Testing
Sand and dust compliance testing determines the resistance of the sand and dust. The blowing of sand and dust is usually associated with hot and dry environments. However, it can exist seasonally in other regions of the world. Naturally-occurring sand and dust storms are an important factor in the development of material.
As a certified environmental lab, we realize the importance of sand and dust lab testing. Meeting the environmental dust and sand requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Request a quote to receive testing services tailored to your specific requirements. Contact us to receive more information on sand and dust environmental testing.
Summary of Dust and Sand Laboratory Testing
The MIL-810 and RTCA DO-160 sand and dust test method evaluates all mechanical, optical and electronic devices. Environmental sand tests and dust tests can be used in many different industries. This includes military, aerospace, commercial and industrial.
How does the test process work?
Our lab features four shakers and nearly two dozen temperature, humidity and sand and dust testing chambers. We assist manufacturers with product compliance by streamlining the testing process. Keystone not only provides expert testing but also assists with the troubleshooting process.
There are multiple different procedures used within sand testing and/or dust testing. Two procedures used are the blowing of sand dust or the blowing of sand particulates. Dust is described as particles less than 150 micrometers. Sand is described as particles between 150 to 850 micrometers.
What are some common characteristics of sand and dust testing?
Temperature – The tests are conducted with the test item at a standard ambient, high operating and storage conditions.
Relative Humidity – High levels of relative humidity may cause caking of dust particles. Thus, the test chamber RH is controlled to not exceed 30 percent.
Air Velocity – Reduced air velocity is used to maintain temperature conditions and a higher air velocity for typical desert environments. For typical testing, uniform wind speeds are provided across the test area.
Duration – Generally, the sand and dust tests are performed for a minimum of 90 minutes per each vulnerable face of the item at hand and must be re-orientated.
Why do I need to perform sand and dust testing?
Sand and dust environments can wreak havoc on equipment. One of the adverse effects is the penetration of the particulates into cracks, crevices and bearings. Particles may obstruct openings and filters, causing a fire hazard due to restricted ventilation or cooling. They may also interfere with matting and moving parts. Other adverse effects of sand and dust include:
- Weight increase, static/dynamic balance.
- Attenuation of signal transmission.
- Reduction of heat transfer.
- Abrasion and erosion of surfaces.
The Keystone Difference
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. Our ingress protection lab capabilities in addition to dust include other solid objects and liquids. The liquids include dripping water, spraying water, water jets and immersion.
Contact us to receive more information on our sand and dust test chambers or environmental testing services.
Follow the links below for more information on the sand and dust laboratory testing services Keystone Compliance offers.