Tests for Weathering Resistance

Considering the geographical proximity and the comparability of weathering resistance in moderate European climates, automotive manufacturers typically utilize their own test sites near the production sites. Test sites in the Mediterranean also offer the advantage of geographical proximity and a well-functioning infrastructure [208]. 

Outdoor weathering offers three approaches for exposing test bodies to weathering  

Bumpers or painted test plates are examples for exposure on test rigs. Test chambers are used to simulate climates in the vehicle interior. Individual components or entire assemblies, e.g., instrument panels are tested in these chambers. Glazing and ventilation (slits or fans) of the test chamber have to be configured so that radiation and temperature conditions in the chamber are comparable to those in the vehicle [208]. 

It is common practice to expose vehicles for at least one year to dry-hot and/or humid-warm extreme climates. In order to maximize radiation loads during exposure, it is necessary to orient the test objects appropriately to the sun. To accelerate outdoor weathering, there are special devices that increase the solar radiation impacting the surface to be tested per unit of time. One approach is to use electric motors to turn the test object to follow the course of the sun, or to use EMMAQUA to bundle solar radiation (s. Section 2.2.3.1). Here it is very important to ensure that the maximum temperatures affecting the vehicle do not exceed set limits [208]. 

For laboratory scale weathering tests on typically flat test samples (test plate, rolled goods or component sections), various test methods have been deveioped to simulate particular special climates and loads. Table 2.35. 

---