Carbon arc instruments are some of the earliest accelerated weathering test chambers designed to test the light-fastness durability of materials, and remain to this day a valuable test method used to evaluate the resistance of polymeric materials against sunlight and moisture.
Carbon arc devices use an arcing light source to simulate sunlight. Ignited carbon rods emit ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation as an electric current is arced between them. Element’s laboratories are equipped with Sunshine Carbon Arc Weather-Ometers (SWOM), which use an open flame to evaluate the optimum integrity for your products, while ensuring compliance with relevant industry standards.
Materials we commonly test
As materials experts, we have experience performing carbon arc testing on a variety of materials, particularly plastics, paints and coatings, synthetic resin, and window glass adhesives.
For more information on carbon arc testing, contact an expert today.Our Materials Testing Services
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Accelerated Weathering Testing
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Coatings Testing
We offer world-class materials expertise in polymers, elastomers, thermoplastics, composites, and structural adhesives. With a global reach of coatings laboratories in the UK, USA, Europe, and Asia, Element provides a comprehensive range of coatings testing services to the Energy, Aerospace, Defense, and Transportation sectors.

ASTM G154 and ASTM G155 Explained
Learn about ASTM G154 and ASTM G155 and how they empower manufacturers to design products that can withstand exposure to sunlight and moisture.