Practical Considerations
Of course, no matter how informative and realistic a piece of testing equipment is, it will not be practical if it is too expensive to purchase or operate. That is why purchase price, operating costs, and maintenance are critical issues, and must be weighed against the benefits of owning a tester.
Purchase Price
In general, the UV-3 is more economical than the xenon arc chamber. The XTC Chamber may cost three times as much as the UV-3, depending on the size of the unit and the features.
3D Test Specimens
The XTC allows more flexibility in terms of the types of specimens that can be mounted. It accommodates flat panels as well as 3D parts, test tubes, and petri-dishes. The UV-3’s standard test sample holders were designed for flat, relatively thin panels or specimens.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Both the UV-3 and the XTC chamber are easy to use and easy to maintain. Both testers are completely automated and can operate continuously, 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Automatic shutdown timers allow tests to finish at any time that is specified. Calibration is also simple with the patented Auto Cal system and calibration radiometers. Calibration is accomplished with a keystroke as the instrument automatically measures the lamp output and automatically adjusts the on-board control system accordingly.
Test specimens and lamps all stay in place during the procedure. The Xenon Test Chamber and the UV
Accelerated Weathering Tester are both designed to be user-friendly. The XTC's front access and the UV-3's double sided access make lamp loading simple, and specimens easy to mount.
Maintenance Costs
Both the UV-3 and XTC chamber offer relatively low maintenance costs. XTC annual lamp costs are significantly higher than the UV-3. XTC electrical costs are also higher. Additionally, ordinary tap water can be used in the UV-3, whereas the XTC requires pure, de-ionized water. In summary, the UV-3 annual operating costs are considerably less than those of XTC.
Technical Summary
The Right Tester for the Right Job Deciding on the right weathering or light stability device can be confusing, especially if you’re new to this type of testing. Which is the better for you? Below are some general guidelines. As with any generalization, there may be exceptions to the rule.
The UV-3 is better in the short-wave UV
The UV-3 with UVA-340 lamps provides the best available simulation of sunlight in the critical short-wave UV region. Short-wave UV typically causes polymer degradation such as gloss loss, strength loss, yellowing, cracking, crazing, embrittlement, etc. In addition, the UV-3’s fluorescent UV lamps are spectrally stable, with very little change in the SPD over time. This enhances reproducibility and repeatability.
