What Is a Low Temperature Test?
A low temperature test is an environmental durability test that evaluates whether a product maintains its structural integrity and functional performance under low ambient temperatures. The product is held in a controlled climatic chamber at a defined low temperature for a specified period. The aim is to simulate, in the laboratory, the cold-environment effects the product may face in real use. This way, the product’s minimum operating temperature and lower storage temperature limit are validated.
Low temperature can lead, over time, to issues such as reduced material elasticity, reduced impact resistance, increased internal stresses from thermal contraction, and changes in electronic parameters. For this reason, low temperature testing is critical for outdoor equipment, automotive exterior components and sensors, defense and aerospace systems, and electronic devices operating at high altitude or in cold climates.
Low temperature tests are performed under two different conditions: Operational and Storage.
Operational low temperature tests are carried out while the product is operating, and the effect of the cold environment on functional performance is observed. Storage low temperature tests evaluate material durability and structural integrity.
When determining test duration, the product’s thermal mass, dimensions, and material structure are taken into account.
Low Temperature Testing at OTAM
Low temperature tests carried out at OTAM are performed in full compliance with national and international military norms, covering both procedures (Procedure I – Storage and Procedure II – Operational) of the MIL-STD-810G Method 502.5, MIL-STD-810G Change 1 Method 502.6, and MIL-STD-810H Method 502.7 standards.
Low temperature verifications are carried out in our two large-scale climatic chambers with volumes of 3024 L and 8000 L, capable of operating across a wide thermal spectrum down to a limit of -70°C.