Abstract: Methods and apparatus for accurate service life prediction by exposing a test specimen to operating parameters of a multi-variable micro-environment cycle in an accelerated weathering test apparatus including an irradiance source, a temperature adjustment source and a moisture adjustment source connected to a controller to: expose the test specimen to the operating parameters of the multi-variable micro-environment cycle recreated in the test chamber; monitor the exposure of the test specimen to the multi-variable micro-environment cycle to generate run-time variables; and adjust the run-time variables to reconcile to the operating parameters.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for accurate service life prediction by exposing a test specimen to operating parameters of a multi-variable micro-environment cycle in an accelerated weathering test apparatus including an irradiance source, a temperature adjustment source and a moisture adjustment source connected to a controller to: expose the test specimen to the operating parameters of the multi-variable micro-environment cycle recreated in the test chamber; monitor the exposure of the test specimen to the multi-variable micro-environment cycle to generate run-time variables; and adjust the run-time variables to reconcile to the operating parameters.

Abstract: An accelerated weathering test apparatus including a target board operatively coupled to a reflector device. The target board is configured to support at least one test specimen for exposure to concentrated solar radiation. The reflector device is configured to reflect and concentrate solar radiation onto the at least one test specimen. The reflector device includes a bed and a plurality of mirrors. Each mirror is disposed on the bed in one of a first operative position, where solar radiation is reflected on the at least one test specimen, and a second operative position, where no solar radiation is reflected on the at least one test specimen.

Abstract: An accelerated weathering test apparatus of the type used to concentrate solar radiation upon test specimens including a heating element that transfers energy to the test specimens. A temperature sensor is operatively coupled to one of the test specimens for generating a test signal representative of the operating temperature of the test specimens. A controller for generating a temperature set point is connected to the temperature sensor and responsive to the test signal for selectively controlling a power level applied to the heating element in order to control a rate at which energy is transferred to the test specimens.

Abstract: An accelerated weathering apparatus of the type used to concentrate solar radiation upon test specimens includes a frame supporting a reflecting solar concentrator disposed in opposition to a target board. A channel is connected to the target board and includes a cover to define a chamber. A fluid source is in communication with the chamber, whereby a fluid introduced into the chamber reacts with the test specimens in order to accelerate degradation of the test specimens during exposure to concentrated solar radiation. Cooling apparatus contiguous with the test specimens may also be included.

Abstract: An accelerated weathering test apparatus for concentrating solar radiation upon at least one test specimen including a target board, a reflector device, an air circulation device, a feedback device, an input device and a controller. Ambient air is circulated over the target board to cool the test specimens. The controller continuously sets a dynamic set point based on the reference signal from the input device which is representative of a complex temperature cycle of a material end-use application and adjusts the rate of air circulation based on a test signal from the feedback device.

Abstract: An accelerated weathering test apparatus for concentrating solar irradiance upon and immersing at least one test specimen including at least one support member and an operative portion operatively connected to the at least one support member. The operative portion includes a mirror bed, at least one standard and a channel. The operative portion is moveable relative to the at least one support member from a first operative position to a second operative position. A target board is disposed in the channel for supporting the at least one test specimen for exposure to concentrated solar radiation when the operative portion is disposed in the first operative position and immersion in a fluid when the operative portion is disposed in the second operative position.