The “FCA LP-463LB-13-01 Thermal aging of trim materials” standard, developed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), an Italian-American automotive company, offers an accelerated testing method. This test method is heat aging testing, also called oven aging or accelerated aging. This method is applied to determine the service temperatures of a product or material by using heat to accelerate the aging process.
In order to perform these tests, the facility where the test will be carried out must have all the materials and equipment highlighted in this standard.
The equipment to be used in these tests includes:
Each test is carried out on samples evaluated according to the standard and representative of the prepared material. The test sample must be representative of the material being evaluated. The test sample must be at least 152 x 152 mm. Prior to testing, all test samples must be conditioned in a controlled atmosphere of 21 degrees plus/minus 2 degrees and 50 percent plus/minus 5 percent relative humidity for a minimum of 24 hours or until moisture equilibrium is achieved.
Representative samples of the material under evaluation are exposed to a constant temperature and time of plus/minus 1,6 degrees as specified in the applicable material standard.
As the test begins, the oven controls are adjusted to maintain the temperature specified in the material standard at plus/minus 1,6 degrees. The oven must be at the specified temperature before the sample is placed in the oven. If the sample cannot be placed in a flat position, the sample can be suspended from a horizontal bar or rod. It is necessary to ensure that air can circulate freely throughout the sample. The sample is placed in the oven on the perforated rack. If possible, a portion of the sample is retained for comparison after testing. Samples should be examined daily for discoloration, hardening, distortion, or other physical changes. The temperature of the oven should be checked periodically and the controls readjusted if necessary. A thermometer that records the maximum temperature should be kept in the oven during the test. After the test sample remains in the oven for the time specified in the material standard, it is removed and allowed to cool.
Each sample is examined for fading or discoloration depending on the application. The report to be prepared at the end of the test should include visual inspection comments and scale ratings. The tested samples are added to the report.
This testing method may involve hazardous materials, processes, and equipment. This standard does not claim to address all security issues for use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to consult and establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Thermal aging refers to a process characterized by the removal of coating from a metal substrate due to high temperatures. This method exposes the base metal to conditions that cause corrosion. Thermal aging testing, also called oven aging or accelerated aging, is used to determine the service temperatures of a product or material by using heat to accelerate the aging process. These tests are often performed in conjunction with other tests, combining multiple items to help predict service life in the field. Carefully selected physical tests are performed before and after the accelerated aging process to determine how aging will affect different properties of the material or product. Determining the durability or performance of a particular material for use in a specific application in the automotive industry is crucial to assessing chemical and physical properties as well as environmental compatibility and quality control.
Among the numerous testing, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors, our organization also provides testing services defined in the "FCA LP-463LB-13-01 Heat aging of trim materials" standard, with a trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.
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