Thermal Vacuum Testing

Thermal vacuum testing is an important aspect of qualification testing for a wide variety of space flight components, sub-assemblies, and mission-critical equipment. Thermal vacuum testing allows for the simulation of space and upper atmosphere conditions including temperature and altitude.

Testing components for space applications requires a unique set of capabilities. In addition to the already rigorous standards used in the aerospace industry, space qualification requires even more extreme temperatures, higher pressures, and more drastic environmental simulation. 

To accommodate this, Element has recently invested in thermal vacuum chamber technology. Beneficial for both material and product testing, a thermal vacuum chamber can reach higher temperatures and pressures, while maintaining a sterile, decontaminated environment.

The benefits of thermal vacuum testing

Thermal vacuum testing simulates a space environment, by removing air and pressure and cycling very high and very low temperatures. By testing in an environment that simulates real world conditions as closely as possible, thermal vacuum exposure can identify design issues before components are integrated into larger systems, saving time and money.

Along with testing sub-assemblies and mission-critical equipment, thermal vacuum chambers are also sought after for evaluating seals and rings, High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) programs, vacuum bakeout testing, and any project that requires a sterilized test environment. 

For more information about this technology, or to schedule chamber time, contact us today.