How to Choose a Humidity Chamber
The decision to do in-house testing has several variables, which include the size of the company, the types of products produced, quality control, and cost. Once the decision is made to purchase a test chamber, there are other factors to be considered. In the case of larger companies with specific goals, the choosing of a testing chamber is based on scientific research and the demands of their clientele. As companies grow and expand, they find that they can better serve their customers by doing thorough research on their products.
How to Choose a Humidity Chamber
Space –
The size of the footprint that the company has available is a guiding factor when making the decision to purchase a test chamber. Test chamber manufacturers work with their clients to ensure that the chamber they purchase fits the space available and the client’s needs.
Temperature –
Temperature is an essential part of a humidity chamber since it is necessary to create the vapors and humidity. The majority of chambers are capable of reaching temperatures of 200° C. The factor that can influence the range of temperatures to be achieved is the construction of the chamber and its stability.
Water Supply –
The design of the test chamber determines the amount of water needed to create humidity. As important as this is, it is also critical that there be some form of drainage or method for removing water at the end of a test cycle. The location where the chamber will be placed should be designed for a water supply and proper drainage.
Time –
Every humidity chamber has a different ramp-up and pull-down time. When planning to purchase a unit, it is important to consult with researchers to determine the time frame they require to complete the collection of data. Long ramp-up times can delay tests and may produce tainted results depending on the item to be tested. Manufacturers are careful to examine this factor with their customers to ensure the unit meets the customer’s requirements.
Relative Humidity (RH) –
Most humidity chambers have an RH factor between 20% to 98%. This consideration is determined by how the product is to be tested and what data is required. In the majority of cases, this is planned long before contacting a test chamber manufacturer.
Controller –
The decision for the type of controller is a central factor when purchasing a humidity chamber. The features that offer the best results are controllers with a microprocessor, which can be LED, LCD, or touch LCD. An RH display comes with all humidity chambers as well as a solid state RH sensor.
Type –
In most cases, the type of humidity chamber is decided by the available footprint. A limited footprint would suggest a benchtop or vertical test chamber. As a part of this factor, the construction of the chamber needs to be considered such as how the seams are welded, the internal seal, and how the door opens and its gaskets.
The purchase of large test chambers is a budgetary item and is conducted more carefully. This type of chamber is built to the exacting standards of the customer.
