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A xenon lamp weathering chamber is a test device that simulates natural sunlight and is widely used for material weathering tests. The following is a guide to standard operation and maintenance to ensure stable operation and extend the life of the equipment:

Operation Procedure

Pre-Startup Inspection

Confirm that the power supply voltage (usually 220V/380V) matches the equipment requirements and that the grounding is reliable.

Check that the xenon lamp cooling system (water cooling/air cooling) is functioning properly. For water-cooled systems, ensure sufficient coolant and no leaks.

Clean the sample chamber to prevent any remaining foreign matter from obstructing the light source or affecting the temperature and humidity sensor.

Sample Placement

Secure the sample to be tested on the sample holder, ensuring that the surface is evenly exposed to the light source and avoiding overlap or obstruction.

Adjust the distance between the sample and the lamp according to the test standard (such as ISO 4892 or ASTM G155).

Parameter Settings

Use the control panel to set the light intensity (typically 0.3-1.2 W/m² @ 340nm), chamber temperature (40-80°C), black panel temperature (50-110°C), humidity (10%-75% RH), and cycle mode (light/dark/spray).

Select the filter type (e.g., quartz/borosilicate glass) and simulate different spectra (full spectrum, UV cutoff, etc.).

Starting Operation

First, turn on the cooling system, then ignite the xenon lamp (to avoid sudden high temperature damage to the lamp).

Monitor the initial data to ensure that the temperature, humidity, and irradiance remain stable within the set range.

Shutdown Sequence

Turn off the xenon lamp and wait until the chamber cools to a safe temperature (<40°C) before shutting off the cooling system and main power.

In an emergency, use the “Emergency Stop” button to avoid direct power outages that could damage the lamp.

Daily Maintenance Tips

Xenon Lamp Maintenance

Regularly check the lamp life (usually 1000-2000 hours) and replace it if it is aged or blackened.

Wear gloves when replacing the lamp to avoid fingerprints that may affect transmittance.

Cooling System Maintenance

Water-cooled models: Check the cooling water conductivity monthly (recommended <10 μS/cm), replace with distilled or deionized water, and clean the filter.

Air-cooled models: Clean dust from the fan blades and heat dissipation vents quarterly.

Cleaning and Calibration

Wipe the sample chamber reflector and filter weekly to prevent dust accumulation that may affect irradiation uniformity.

Calibrate the temperature and humidity sensor and irradiance probe every six months (recommended by a professional or manufacturer).

Other Component Inspections

Check the sample holder for corrosion and replace any damaged fixtures promptly.

Spray System Test: Run the spray function regularly to prevent nozzle clogging.

Precautions

Safety Precautions: Do not open the chamber door during operation to avoid UV damage; wear protective glasses.

Environmental Requirements: Allow 50cm of heat dissipation clearance around the device to avoid high temperatures and high humidity (recommended ambient temperature ≤ 25°C).

Abnormal Handling: If an alarm (such as overheating or water shortage) occurs, immediately pause the test, troubleshoot the problem, and restart.

Record Retention: Detailed records of each run’s parameters, duration, and device status are kept to facilitate tracking of performance changes.

Common Troubleshooting

If the xenon lamp fails to ignite, it may be due to lamp exhaustion or a power failure. Replace the lamp or check the relay/ballast.

Unstable irradiance may indicate filter contamination or sensor drift. Clean the filter or recalibrate the sensor.

A cooling system alarm may indicate insufficient water level or a water pump failure. Refill cooling water or contact a water pump repairer.

Proper operation and regular maintenance can significantly reduce equipment failure rates and ensure accurate test data. We recommend an annual comprehensive maintenance, with professional inspection of the circuit and optical system.