Methods of Using the Ozone Aging Test Chamber

The ozone aging test chamber is a testing device used to simulate and accelerate the aging process of polymer materials such as rubber and plastic in an ozone-containing environment. It plays a crucial role in material research, quality control, and product life prediction, among other fields.

Preparation before the test

Check the equipment

Before using the ozone aging test chamber, it is necessary to conduct a thorough inspection of the equipment. Check if there is any damage on the appearance of the equipment, if all components are firmly connected, and if the electrical circuits are normal. Special attention should be paid to checking key components such as the ozone generator, temperature and humidity control system, and ventilation system to ensure they can function normally.

Select test samples

Select representative test samples according to the test purpose. The size, shape, and quantity of the samples should meet the test requirements. For rubber or plastic products, multiple samples of the same specifications are generally required to conduct comparative analysis during the test. At the same time, ensure that the surface of the samples is clean, free of oil stains, impurities, etc., to avoid affecting the test results.

Set test parameters

Set appropriate test parameters according to the test standards and material characteristics. The main parameters include ozone concentration, temperature, humidity, and test duration. The setting range of ozone concentration is usually between 10pphm to 500pphm, with specific values determined according to test requirements. The temperature is generally selected between room temperature and 60, and the humidity range is usually 30% to 80%. The test duration depends on the aging speed of the material and the test purpose, ranging from a few hours to several weeks or even months.

Placement of test samples

Properly place the prepared test samples on the sample rack inside the ozone aging test chamber. There should be a certain distance between the samples to avoid mutual contact and obstruction, ensuring that each sample can be evenly exposed to ozone. Also, pay attention to the placement method of the samples to fully expose them to the ozone-containing environment. For example, for sheet samples, they can be hung vertically; for block samples, place them in appropriate positions on the sample rack to ensure smooth air circulation.

Start the test

After completing the above preparations, close the door of the ozone aging test chamber and start the equipment. The equipment will automatically operate according to the set parameters, begin generating ozone, and adjust the temperature and humidity. During the test, closely monitor the operating status of the equipment to ensure all parameters remain within the set range. If any anomalies are detected, such as excessive temperature fluctuations or unstable ozone concentration, stop the machine, check and troubleshoot the issues promptly.

Monitoring during the test process

Throughout the entire test, the test samples need to be periodically observed and recorded. Observe changes in the appearance of the samples, such as whether discoloration, cracking, or pulverization occurs, and record the time and extent of these changes. Additionally, using equipment like a tensile testing machine or a hardness tester, periodically check the physical properties of the samples, such as tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness, etc., to understand the performance changes of the material during the ozone aging process.

Post-test processing

Upon test completion, first turn off the ozone generator and other related equipment, then open the door of the ozone aging test chamber and remove the test samples. Conduct a final appearance check and performance test on the test samples, and organize and analyze the test data. Based on the test results, evaluate the material's resistance to ozone aging and determine whether it meets the expected test objectives. Meanwhile, clean and maintain the ozone aging test chamber to prepare for the next test. Clear any debris and residual ozone inside the chamber, and check if there are any damages to the components. If necessary, carry out timely repairs and replacements.

In conclusion, the ozone aging test chamber holds an irreplaceable role in material research and product quality control. Correctly mastering its use method can provide us with accurate and reliable test data, which contributes to the advancement of material science and the improvement of product quality.