MIL-STD-810 Low Pressure (Altitude) Testing

In the demanding realms of aerospace and defense, ensuring that products can withstand the rigors of high-altitude environments is paramount. MIL-STD 810 is a Department of Defense Test Standard for environmental engineering considerations and laboratory tests.  Method 500 in MIL-STD-810 defines procedures for low-pressure (altitude) testing.  The latest revision of this method is 500.6 from MIL-STD-810H.

Altitude Testing Services at Delserro Engineering Solutions

At Delserro Engineering Solutions, our altitude testing services are designed to meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace and defense industries. By employing the comprehensive procedures outlined in MIL-STD-810H Method 500.6, we ensure that every product undergoes thorough low pressure testing under simulated high-altitude conditions. The altitude test chambers at Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES) can meet the requirements of MIL-STD-810H (and previous revisions) accurately ensuring that products are not just compliant but are primed for operational excellence.

MIL-STD-810 altitude testing services are tailored to products that:

  1. Operate or are stored at significant elevations.
  2. Experience pressurized or unpressurized conditions in aircraft.
  3. Could undergo rapid or explosive decompression.
  4. Are externally mounted on aircraft and exposed to extreme conditions.

Method 500 is not intended for items that are installed or operated in space vehicles, aircraft, or missiles that fly at altitudes above 21,300 m (70,000 ft). 

The following are typical failures that could occur from products used in a high altitude (low pressure) environment:

  1. Leakage of gases or fluids from gasket-sealed enclosures
  2. Deformation, rupture, or explosion of sealed containers
  3. Change in physical and chemical properties of low-density materials
  4. Overheating of materiel due to reduced heat transfer
  5. Evaporation of lubricants
  6. Erratic starting and operation of engines
  7. Failure of hermetic seals
  8. Erratic operation or malfunction of materiel resulting from arcing or corona

MIL-STD-810 Method 500.6 Insights for Low Pressure Testing

MIL-STD-810 Method 500.6 has four procedures:

  1. Procedure I – Storage/Air Transport. Procedure I is for testing material that is transported or stored at high ground elevations or transported by air in its shipping/storage configuration.
  2. Procedure II – Operation/Air Carriage. Procedure II is used to test the performance of products operated at high altitudes.  It may be preceded by Procedure I.
  3. Procedure III – Rapid Decompression.  Procedure III is for determining if a rapid decrease in cabin pressure will cause a failure or malfunction that would endanger nearby personnel the ground vehicle or the aircraft in which it is being transported.
  4. Procedure IV – Explosive Decompression. Procedure IV is similar to Procedure III except that it involves an instantaneous decrease in pressure.

How is MIL-STD-810 Low Pressure Testing performed?  First, it is necessary to determine the test parameters such as test altitude (pressure) and temperature, rate of change of pressure (and temperature if appropriate), duration of exposure, and test item configuration based upon the Life Cycle Environmental Profile.  Once the parameters are defined, low pressure testing is performed by placing the specimen in a specialized chamber that simulates altitude by controlling pressure and temperature.  Upon completion of the altitude test, DES will promptly deliver a detailed test report that includes the customer’s name and address, the test dates, a summary of the test procedure, equipment & measuring system calibration information, plots of altitude and temperature, test observations & results, color pictures of the altitude test setup and color pictures of any failures. 

Why Choose DES for MIL-STD-810 Low Pressure (Altitude) Testing

  • A2LA Accreditation: Our laboratory’s accreditation is a testament to our commitment to quality and excellence in environmental testing.  DES is A2LA accredited to MIL-STD-810 Low Pressure (Altitude) Testing.
  • Trusted by Industry Leaders: Our state-of-the-art testing facilities, experienced engineering team, and track record of success has made us the number one choice of top defense contractors.
  • Advanced Testing Capabilities: With equipment capable of simulating altitudes from below sea level to as high as 1,000,000 feet and temperatures ranging from -75°C to +150°C, we can accommodate a wide variety of testing requirements.

Contact us today to discuss how our altitude testing services can contribute to the success and reliability of your next project.

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Leveraging Highly Accelerated Life Testing for Aerospace Products

The margin for error is virtually nonexistent in the rapidly evolving aerospace sector. Aerospace products, from commercial satellites to advanced aircraft systems, must meet the highest standards of reliability and durability. This is where Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) comes into play, offering a transformative approach to testing and ensuring the robustness of aerospace components before they even leave the ground.

HALT is a rigorous methodology designed to push aerospace products beyond their operational limits, identifying potential weaknesses and failure modes that traditional testing methods might miss. By subjecting aerospace products to extreme stress conditions—far beyond what they would encounter in their normal life span—HALT provides invaluable insights into the inherent durability and reliability of aerospace components.

The beauty of HALT lies in its ability to reveal the unknown. It accelerates the aging process, simulating years of wear and tear in a fraction of the time, thereby uncovering latent defects and vulnerabilities. This preemptive identification allows for critical design modifications and enhancements, significantly reducing the risk of costly failures and recalls post-launch.

For aerospace manufacturers, the implications of HALT are profound. It signifies a commitment to excellence and represents a strategic investment in the product’s lifecycle. By integrating HALT into the development process, aerospace companies can confidently navigate the complex landscape of product reliability, ensuring that their products are not just fit for purpose but are built to last.

Aerospace Testing Laboratory: Advancing Product Reliability with HALT

In the quest for unparalleled aerospace product reliability, our aerospace testing laboratory offers organizations the use of Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) methodologies. HALT represents a commitment to excellence and a testament to our dedication to advancing aerospace technology.

The HALT process within our aerospace testing laboratory involves a series of accelerated stress tests, including rapid temperature cycling, 6 degrees of freedom random vibration tests at varying frequencies, and combined environment tests. These tests are designed to expose products to conditions far more severe than they would ever encounter in service. By doing so, Delserro Engineering Solutions can identify potential failure points and address them long before they become real-world issues.

Key Advantages of HALT in Our Aerospace Testing Laboratory:

  • Early Detection of Design Flaws: By applying stressors that exceed the normal operational limits, HALT helps uncover hidden weaknesses in product designs.
  • Cost-Efficiency: Identifying and rectifying potential failures before products hit the market significantly reduces the risk of costly recalls and brand damage.
  • Reduced Time to Market: Accelerated testing means faster validation of product robustness, enabling quicker transitions from design to production.
  • Customized Testing Strategies: Our aerospace testing laboratory tailors HALT protocols to match the specific requirements and challenges of each aerospace product.

Through the strategic application of HALT, our aerospace testing laboratory supports the industry’s continuous drive toward innovation and reliability. We help our clients achieve the highest standards of performance and dependability in their aerospace endeavors.

Embrace the future of aerospace product testing with us. Discover how our HALT methodologies can elevate your products’ reliability to new heights.

The Impact of HALT on Aerospace Testing and Product Integrity


Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) has significantly influenced aerospace testing practices, leading to more resilient and reliable aerospace products. HALT extends beyond traditional testing methods by focusing on identifying potential failure modes early in the product development cycle.

The practical benefits of integrating HALT into aerospace testing include:

  • Early Detection and Rectification of Flaws: By pushing components beyond their operational limits, HALT helps uncover hidden weaknesses in the design and materials, allowing for early modifications.
  • Comprehensive Stress Testing: HALT subjects aerospace products to a variety of stressors, including extreme temperatures and vibrations, to ensure they can withstand a broad range of operational environments.
  • Support for Innovation: The rigorous demands of HALT encourage the exploration of new materials, designs, and manufacturing techniques, driving innovation in aerospace technology.
  • Risk Mitigation: Identifying potential issues before products reach the market minimizes the risk of costly recalls and enhances the overall safety of aerospace missions.
  • Streamlined Product Development: HALT can reduce the time required for product testing and validation.
  • Stakeholder Confidence: Demonstrating a commitment to thorough testing and product reliability helps build trust among manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and users.

HALT’s role in aerospace testing is to provide a practical, systematic approach to improving product reliability and integrity. It’s about making informed decisions based on comprehensive data. Through the application of HALT, the aerospace industry can achieve a balance between innovation and reliability.

Improve Your Aerospace Products with HALT

Adopting Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) for your aerospace products is a strategic move toward securing a competitive edge in the aerospace industry. By incorporating HALT into your product development process, you’re committing to the highest standards of safety, durability, and performance.

Our aerospace testing laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art HALT technology and a team of experienced engineers dedicated to helping you achieve excellence in product development. Our aerospace testing laboratory’s ISO/IEC 17025 and ISTA accreditation are a testament to our capability to execute tests that are both precise and reliable. We understand the unique challenges of the aerospace sector and are committed to providing tailored testing solutions that meet your specific needs.

In the dynamic field of aerospace, staying ahead means continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Partner with Delserro Engineering Solutions to harness the power of HALT and take your aerospace products to new heights.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your journey toward unparalleled reliability and success in the aerospace industry.

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Medical Device Industry: Producing Reliable Products

medical device industry showing stethoscope and other devices

In the fast-evolving medical device industry, the pathway to market success is marked by stringent standards. Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES) plays a pivotal role in this journey, offering expert testing services for both medical devices and their packaging. Recognizing that each product—from intricate surgical instruments to complex diagnostic machinery—requires rigorous scrutiny, DES employs cutting-edge environmental, vibration, HALT, and shock testing in its state-of-the-art facilities.

The comprehensive range of tests at DES is designed to address the specific challenges faced by medical devices in real-world conditions. By simulating various environmental factors and stressors, DES ensures that both the device and its packaging maintain integrity and functionality throughout their lifecycle. This attention to detail is crucial in the medical device industry where precision is paramount, and the smallest oversight can have significant consequences.

Our team delves into the nuances of each project, partnering with manufacturers to understand their unique needs and challenges. This collaborative approach allows for customized testing solutions that cater to the diverse requirements of the medical device sector.

Medical Device Testing: Meeting Rigorous Standards with DES

The field of medical device testing necessitates strict adherence to a variety of industry standards to ensure compliance. At Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES), we pride ourselves on aligning our testing services with these critical standards, assuring that medical device packaging meets the highest benchmarks of quality and reliability.

  1. ISTA Compliance for Transportation Durability: As a certified testing laboratory, we conduct packaging tests that comply with International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) standards. These tests simulate the stress that packaging undergoes during transportation, ensuring that it can protect medical devices from damage due to shock, vibration, and other environmental factors.
  2. ASTM Standards for Material Quality: Adhering to ASTM D7386 and other ASTM standards, we evaluate the material quality of packaging, assessing its durability and resilience under various conditions. These tests are crucial for determining if the packaging can maintain the sterility and integrity of medical devices.
  3. ISO/IEC 17025 Accredited Testing: Our ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation signifies our technical competence in conducting standardized tests. This includes ensuring that medical device packaging meets specific environmental testing requirements crucial for maintaining product reliability throughout its lifecycle.
  4. MIL-STD Compliance for Military-Grade Assurance: For products that require a higher level of robustness, such as those used in military applications, we ensure compliance with Military Standards like MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-202. This ensures that products can withstand extreme environmental conditions and rough handling.
  5. Customized Testing Protocols: Beyond standard compliance, we offer customized testing solutions tailored to unique client specifications. Whether it’s assessing the resilience of packaging or devices under specific temperature conditions or evaluating its performance under unique mechanical stresses, our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped to handle diverse testing needs.

Navigating Challenges in Medical Device Package Testing

The journey from conception to market for medical devices is fraught with challenges, particularly when it comes to packaging. At Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES), we understand that the package is a crucial component that ensures device safety and efficacy during transit and storage.

With the medical device industry facing ever-tightening regulations, manufacturers must ensure their packaging can withstand a range of environmental stresses. DES’s medical device package testing services are designed to address these exacting standards, from simulating transportation conditions to mimicking the rigors of handling and storage.

Moreover, DES’s commitment to staying ahead in an evolving industry landscape means continuously updating our medical device package testing processes in line with the latest regulations and standards. Our laboratory’s ISO/IEC 17025 and ISTA accreditation are a testament to our capability to execute tests that are both precise and reliable. We engage with the latest industry practices, ensuring that our clients’ medical device packaging is robust, compliant, and above all, safe for the end-user.

Recognizing that off-the-shelf solutions do not fit all, our engineers work closely with clients to develop specialized medical device package testing plans that match the unique needs of their products. Whether it’s fine-tuning temperature cycles to match specific geographic journeys or tailoring shock tests for delicate components, DES ensures that every aspect of packaging is scrutinized and optimized for peak performance. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that when a medical device reaches its destination, it does so with its integrity unblemished and its functionality assured.

DES embraces the challenges of medical device package testing with a blend of accredited procedures, advanced technology, and customized service. By doing so, we ensure that our clients’ products are not only compliant but exemplify the highest standards of the medical device industry. Contact us to learn more about how we can address the specific testing needs for your medical device packaging.

Proven Expertise in the Medical Device Industry at DES

At Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES), our expertise in the medical device industry is more than just a claim—it’s a commitment. With over three decades of experience, DES has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive testing solutions for both medical devices and their packaging. Our deep understanding of medical device industry standards positions us uniquely to help our clients navigate the complexities of product testing and compliance.

Our team of skilled engineers and technicians is dedicated to delivering results that surpass expectations. At DES, we understand that the medical device industry is rapidly evolving, and staying ahead means being equipped to adapt to new challenges. We offer personalized service, working closely with our clients to understand their specific needs and providing tailored solutions that align with their goals. This partnership approach has made us a trusted name among industry giants.

In the medical device industry, where precision, quality, and reliability are non-negotiable, DES stands as a beacon of excellence. We invite you to experience the DES difference—where quality testing leads to quality products.

Contact us today to learn how our expertise can enhance the reliability and market success of your medical devices.

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Vibration Testing Lab for Demanding Military Applications

Vibration Testing for military compliance is a crucial aspect for products aiming to serve in military applications. To ensure that these products can endure a severe military environment, they must undergo rigorous testing at a state-of-the-art vibration testing lab. This process involves defining the environmental life cycle that the product will encounter and then developing and executing a qualification test plan based on specific military standards. Completing these tests and documenting them in a detailed report is integral to achieving military compliance.

Why Perform Military Compliance Vibration Testing?

Military compliance vibration testing is especially crucial for military products integrated into complex and costly systems, where failure can lead to significant consequences. The principle reasons for executing this testing include the following:

  1. Ruggedizing Your Product:  Testing your product to a military standard vibration profile will ensure that it can withstand harsh vibration exposures that it would experience throughout its life cycle.
  2. Evaluating Performance: Military compliance vibration testing ensures that items will perform properly under harsh vibration conditions.  If your component does not function properly, it could cause a failure of a complicated system. 
  3. Reducing Maintenance and Preventing Field Failures:  A robust product will have less or no field failures, reduce downtime and maintenance which is critical for military applications. 

Focusing specifically on vibration testing for military compliance, this article delves into various military standards that are vital in evaluating a product’s durability and ruggedness. These include MIL-STD-167, MIL-STD-202, MIL-STD-750, MIL-STD-810, and MIL-STD-883, each with their specific testing methods for a range of environmental conditions including sinusoidal and random vibration testing.

  • MIL-STD-167 Department of Defense Test Method Standard – Mechanical Vibrations of Shipboard Equipment
  • MIL-STD-202 Department of Defense Test Method Standard for Electronic and Electrical Component Parts
  • MIL-STD-750 Test Methods for Semiconductor Devices
  • MIL-STD-810 Department of Defense Test Method Standard for Environmental Engineering Considerations and Laboratory Tests
  • MIL-STD-883 Department of Defense Test Method Standard for Microcircuits

MIL-STD-167 applies to equipment installed on Navy ships with conventionally shafted propulsion.  MIL-STD-167-1 covers mechanical vibrations caused by unbalanced rotating components of Naval shipboard equipment.  MIL-STD-167-2 is for mechanical vibrations from reciprocating machinery and lateral, longitudinal vibrations of propulsion systems and shafting. 

MIL-STD-202 establishes uniform methods for testing electronic and electrical component parts.  MIL-STD-202 defines component parts to include capacitors, resistors, switches, relays, transformers, inductors, etc.  This standard is intended to apply only to small component parts, weighing less than 300 pounds or having a root mean square test voltage up to 50,000 volts. 

MIL-STD-750 is intended to apply only to testing semiconductor devices.  Semiconductor devices include such items as transistors, diodes, voltage regulators, rectifiers, tunnel diodes, and other related parts.

Contact DES, where precision meets passion for excellence.

MIL Standard 810 Testing: The DES Commitment

MIL-STD-810, known for its stringent requirements, is crucial for products intended for military use, and at DES, we ensure that these products meet and exceed these rigorous standards.

Our approach to MIL Standard 810 testing is comprehensive and meticulous. We understand that each product has its unique set of challenges and requirements. Therefore, our testing process is not just about meeting the basic compliance standards; it’s about thoroughly understanding the product’s lifecycle and the environmental stresses it will endure.

Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped to conduct the methods under MIL-STD-810H, ensuring that we cover a wide range of environmental conditions. From high and low temperatures to shock and vibration, our tests are designed to mimic the harsh conditions that products will face in real-world military environments. This thorough testing not only ensures compliance but also aids in enhancing the product’s design and durability.

Choosing DES for MIL Standard 810 testing and all other military compliance testing means partnering with a team that values precision, quality, and customer satisfaction above all else. Our experience and expertise in this field make us a trusted partner for numerous manufacturers, from small component producers to large-scale military equipment manufacturers.

Contact Delserro Engineering Solutions today to learn more about our MIL Standard 810 testing services and how we can assist in bringing your products to the highest standards of military readiness and reliability.

MIL Standard 883: Advanced Testing for Microelectronics

As mentioned in the previous list, MIL-STD-883 is critical for the testing of microelectronics used in military applications. This Department of Defense Test Method Standard for Microcircuits is essential for ensuring that microelectronic devices can withstand the demanding conditions of military use. MIL-STD-883 encompasses a comprehensive suite of test procedures tailored to assess the robustness and reliability of various microelectronic devices, including monolithic, multichip, film, and hybrid microcircuits, as well as microcircuit arrays and their constituent elements.

The standard plays a pivotal role in validating the endurance of microelectronics in extreme environmental conditions. This includes evaluating their performance under conditions of extreme temperature, vibration, and other stress factors that are commonly encountered in military environments.

For manufacturers and designers of microelectronic devices, adhering to MIL-STD-883 is not just about compliance; it’s about guaranteeing the highest levels of performance and reliability of their products in some of the most challenging conditions. This is especially crucial given the increasing complexity and miniaturization of electronic components in military hardware.

Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES) provides comprehensive testing services to ensure compliance with MIL-STD-883. Our advanced testing capabilities help manufacturers navigate the complexities of MIL-STD-883, offering the assurance that their microelectronics meet all necessary military specifications. With our state-of-the-art facilities and technical expertise, we are equipped to handle the rigorous testing requirements of MIL-STD-883, delivering results that manufacturers can trust for their high-performance microelectronic products.

Vibration Testing Lab: Cutting-Edge Solutions by DES

At Delserro Engineering Solutions (DES), our state-of-the-art vibration testing lab is equipped to provide comprehensive solutions for military compliance. Understanding the criticality of these tests for military applications, we offer advanced testing procedures that replicate the exact conditions products will face in the field.

Moreover, DES recognizes the importance of customizing vibration testing to meet the specific requirements of each product and its intended use. Whether it’s testing for land and sea vehicles, aircraft, helicopters, or ground transport, we tailor our vibration testing procedures to ensure the most relevant and rigorous evaluation.

Our expertise extends beyond just executing standard tests. We work closely with our clients to develop comprehensive test plans that not only meet the required standards but also provide valuable insights into product performance and potential areas for enhancement. This approach helps in identifying and rectifying deficiencies early in the design process, saving time and costs, and ultimately leading to a more robust and reliable product.

With DES’s vibration testing lab, clients can expect not just testing, but a partnership that focuses on enhancing the quality and durability of their products. Reach out to us to discuss how we can assist in fulfilling your military vibration testing requirements with our cutting-edge solutions and expert guidance.

Contact DES today to discuss your vibration testing lab requirements.

If you want to learn more about vibration testing, please read these related blog articles:

MIL-STD-810 Vibration Testing Overview

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 4 – Truck/Trailer – Secured Cargo

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 9 – Aircraft – Helicopter

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 7 – Aircraft – Jet

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 8 – Aircraft – Propeller

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 12 – Fixed Wing Jet Aircraft

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 15 – Aircraft Stores

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 20 – Ground Vehicles – Ground Mobile

MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 24 – Minimum Integrity Tests (MIT)

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MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 4 – Truck/Trailer – Secured Cargo

This is part two of a series of blog posts concerning the MIL-STD 810 Vibration Section.  This blog was written with reference to MIL-STD-810G w/Change 1 dated 15 April 2014.  DES has the experience and expertise to help you determine what profiles are appropriate for your product and to run your MIL-STD-810 vibration test.  For more information, please check out Part 1 – MIL-STD-810 Vibration Testing Overview blog and our Vibration Testing services page.

Category 4 of Method 514.7 Vibration testing details the transportation random vibration environmental conditions from cargo interaction with vehicle suspension and structures with road and surface discontinuities.  “This environment may be divided into two phases, truck transportation over US highways, and mission/field transportation.  Mission/field transportation is further broken down into two-wheeled trailer and wheeled vehicles categories.”

 

Truck Transportation over US Highways Vibration Testing

This vibration test method is used when products or equipment will be transported by large trucks tractor-trailers commonly seen on US highways.  The truck transportation over US highways random vibration profile is designed to simulate 1609 km (1000 miles) on interstate highways.  The random vibration profile along each axis can be seen in the plot below in Figure 1.  The length of this profile is 60 minutes per axis for each 1000 miles of transportation.  For example to simulate 2000 highway miles, the vibration test duration would be 2 hours per axis x 3 axes = 6 hours total.

Vibration Testing MIL-STD-810G w/ Change 1
Figure 1. Figure 514.7C-2 from MIL-STD-810G w/ Change 1

Continue reading MIL-STD-810: Vibration Testing Category 4 – Truck/Trailer – Secured Cargo

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