A Xenon Arc Test Chamber uses a xenon arc lamp to simulate sunlight for accelerated aging and weathering tests. During testing, the xenon arc lamp, optical filters, radiometer, temperature and humidity control systems, and test time all need to work correctly. If an important component is not operated or maintained properly, it can affect the test results and may even damage the equipment.
A customer in Russia purchased an XL-S-750 Xenon Arc Test Chamber from LIB Industry. During operation, the operator started the equipment without setting the correct test time and did not continuously monitor the test. After running for a long period, excessive heat damaged several components inside the chamber. The water-cooled xenon arc lamp was burned out, the radiometer and temperature and humidity sensors were damaged, the optical filter became cloudy, and several small internal parts were melted.
After receiving the customer's feedback, the LIB Industry technical team inspected and repaired the equipment based on the operating and maintenance requirements of ASTM G155-21.
【How LIB Industry Repairs and Maintains a Xenon Arc Test Chamber】
Step 1: Check the Damage and Clean the test Chamber
ASTM G155-21 6.1.1.3 states that dust, deposits, and other residues on the filter surface can affect the spectral output. Section 6.1.1.4 also explains that aging of the xenon arc lamp can change its spectral output. Therefore, the condition of the xenon arc lamp and optical filter of the xenon arc test chamber should be checked during maintenance, and the related components should be kept clean.
Following these requirements, LIB Industry technicians first inspected the xenon arc lamp system, optical filters, radiometer, temperature and humidity sensors, electrical control system, water-cooling circuit, and chamber interior.
The inspection found that the water-cooled xenon arc lamp had burned out, the optical filter had become cloudy, and the radiometer and temperature and humidity sensors had been damaged. Some small internal parts were also melted, with residues left inside the chamber.
After confirming the damaged areas, the technicians removed the damaged xenon lamp components and cleaned the affected areas inside the test chamber.
Step 2: Install New Components the Test Chamber
ASTM G155-21 6.1.2 requires the xenon arc lamp and optical filters to be maintained and replaced according to the equipment manufacturer's requirements. Since lamp aging and changes in filter condition can affect the spectral output, the replacement process needs to ensure that the lamp and filters are in good condition.
Based on this requirement, LIB Industry technicians installed a new xenon arc lamp and connected the wiring for the water-cooled lamp system.
Because the original optical filter had become cloudy, its condition was checked and a new filter was installed. The damaged radiometer and temperature and humidity probes were also replaced. The technicians then checked the installation and fixing of each component to make sure the parts were properly connected and securely installed.
Step 3: Check the Electrical and Water-Cooling Systems
The xenon arc lamp is a high-power light source, so stable power and proper cooling are important for normal operation. Before restarting the equipment, the related electrical and cooling systems need to be checked.
LIB Industry technicians inspected the connected electrical circuits, xenon lamp power lines, control wiring, and sensor connections. They checked for loose connections, burned wires, or other visible abnormalities.
The technicians then inspected the water supply and return lines of the cooling system. They confirmed that the cooling water could circulate normally and provide stable cooling for the xenon arc lamp during operation.
Step 4: Commissioning and Trial Run
ASTM G155-21 6.4 requires a radiometer to monitor and control the irradiance received at the specimen exposure position. Therefore, after maintenance, it is not enough to simply confirm that the xenon arc lamp can turn on. The irradiance, temperature, humidity, and test time also need to be checked.
LIB Industry technicians carried out a trial run and commissioning process after completing the repair. They checked the operating condition of the xenon arc lamp, radiometer, temperature and humidity probes, and control system.
The technicians also checked the feedback and control of the main test parameters, including irradiance, temperature, humidity, and test time. The equipment was confirmed to operate normally before being returned to the customer.
Step 5: Operation and Maintenance Training
ASTM G155-21 requires the xenon arc lamp and optical filters of the xenon arc test chamber to be maintained and replaced according to the equipment manufacturer's requirements. Radiometers, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and other measuring devices also need regular inspection and calibration. Therefore, daily maintenance should continue after the repair is completed.
LIB Industry technicians provided the customer with operation and maintenance training. They explained the importance of regularly checking the xenon arc lamp, radiometer, black panel thermometer, and quartz glass optical filters. The surfaces should be kept clean, and all connections should remain secure.
For a water-cooled xenon arc lamp, deionized or purified water should be used as required by the equipment design. The customer should also regularly check the water tank, pump, compressor, condenser, and pressure gauge. Any deposits or impurities in the water system should be removed to help maintain stable cooling performance.
The customer was also reminded to set the correct test time before starting a test. Long unattended operation without proper parameter settings or monitoring can increase the risk of equipment failure and affect test stability.
Popular Xenon arc and Climate Test Chambers
Accurate Sunlight Simulation, Reliable Weathering Results, EN 50289-4-17, IEC 62930, ASTM G155, EN 50483-6
Reproduce Real Climate Conditions, IEC 60068-2-1, IEC 60068-2-2, IEC 60068-2-3, IEC 60068-2-30
By following ASTM G155-21 and the equipment manufacturer's maintenance requirements, users can identify component problems early, reduce unexpected downtime, and maintain stable test conditions. LIB Industry provides equipment maintenance, technical support, operation training, and maintenance guidance to help customers keep their Xenon Arc Test Chambers running reliably.
Need Help Maintaining a Xenon Arc Test Chamber?
Looking for a Xenon Arc Weathering Test Chamber for accelerated aging and weathering tests? LIB Industry provides environmental testing solutions for automotive parts, plastics, coatings, electronic components, and other materials. Our product range includes Xenon Arc Weathering Test Chambers, UV Weathering Test Chambers, Temperature and Humidity Test Chambers, and Salt Spray Test Chambers.
The right equipment depends on your test standard, sample size, irradiance requirements, temperature and humidity conditions, and test duration. Contact LIB Industry for equipment selection, maintenance, troubleshooting, and customized testing solutions tailored to your application.
