MIL-STD-810 Temperature Shock Testing

Method 503 in MIL-STD-810 covers procedures for temperature shock or thermal shock testing.  Temperature shock testing (as defined in MIL-STD-810H) is a rapid change in air temperature greater than 10°C (18°F) per minute.  Temperature shock testing is used to determine if products can withstand sudden changes in the surrounding temperature environment without experiencing physical damage or deterioration in performance.   The latest revision is Method 503.7 from MIL-STD-810H.

Some of the Effects of Temperature Shock Environments are:

  • Shattering of glass and optical material.
  • Binding or slackening of moving parts.
  • Differential contraction or expansion rates or induced strain rates of dissimilar materials.
  • Deformation or fracture of components.
  • Cracking of surface coatings.
  • Leaking of sealed compartments.
  • Failure of insulation protection.
  • Changes in electrical and electronic components.
  • Electronic or mechanical failures due to frost formation.

Method 503 Has One Procedure with Four Variations:

  1. Procedure I-A – One-way Shock(s) from Constant Extreme Temperature
    This procedure is for material that is only rarely exposed to thermal shock in one direction.  At least one shock is performed from low to high temperature, or vice versa. 
  2. Procedure I-B – Single Cycle Shock from Constant Extreme Temperature.  For items that are exposed to only one thermal shock cycle (one in each direction).  One shock is performed from low-to-high temperature (or vice versa) and then one shock in the opposite direction.
  3. Procedure I-C – Multi-Cycle Shocks from Constant Extreme Temperature.  A minimum of three shocks are performed at each condition, i.e., three transfers from cold to hot, three transfers from hot to cold, and a stabilization period after each transfer. 
  4. Procedure I-D – Shocks to or from Controlled Ambient Temperature.  Procedure I-D follows the durations of Procedures I-A to I-C, except all shocks are to and/or from controlled ambient temperatures. 

Test levels for MIL-STD-810 Temperature Shock Testing 

Consider the following typical conditions from MIL-STD-810H:

  1. Aircraft flight exposure. For materiel exposed to desert or tropical ground heat with possible direct solar heating, then, immediately afterwards, exposed to the extreme low temperatures associated with high altitude.  The item could be subjected to multiple thermal shocks occurring in multiple missions. 
  2. Air delivery – desert. For products that are delivered over desert terrain from unheated, high altitude aircraft, then exposed to hot ambient air temperature (no solar loading).
  3. Ground transfer – ambient to or from either cold regions or desert. For items that move from a controlled ambient indoor environment or enclosure to a cold region or desert environment.

For MIL-STD-810 temperature shock testing, the transfer time between the temperatures should be within one minute.  The test sample is soaked for as long as necessary to ensure a uniform temperature throughout at least its outer portions.  If the Life Cycle Environmental Profile indicates a duration less than that required to achieve stabilization, this duration should be used.  If the critical point of interest is near the surface of the item, a shorter duration may apply rather than complete stabilization of the item.

H4: Choosing DES for MIL-STD-810 Temperature Shock Testing

When it comes to MIL-STD-810 Temperature Shock Testing, selecting the right laboratory is crucial for accurate and reliable results. DES stands out for several reasons:

  • DES has run numerous MIL-STD-810 Method 503.7 Temperature Shock tests for many military manufacturers
  • DES’s lab is A2LA accredited to MIL-STD-810, Method 503 Temperature Shock Testing
  • DES has multiple chambers capable of performing MIL-STD-810 Temperature Shock compliance testing

Contact us today to discuss your MIL-STD-810 testing with one of our engineers. 

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MIL-STD-810 Low Temperature Testing

MIL-STD 810, Method 502 Low Temperature Testing is used to evaluate the effects of low temperatures on cold storage, operation, and manipulation.  Method 502 is applicable for testing products that will be exposed to cold temperatures during their life cycle.  The latest revision is Method 502.7 from MIL-STD-810H.

MIL-STD-810 low temperature testing is not intended to simulate a high altitude, low temperature environment associated with an unpressurized aircraft at altitude.  However, it may be used in combination with Method 500.6 to simulate a high altitude, low temperature environment. 

Some of the Effects of Low Temperature Environments are:

  • Hardening and embrittlement of materials.
  • Binding of parts from differential contraction of dissimilar materials.
  • Loss of lubrication and lubricant flow due to increased viscosity.
  • Changes in electronic components (resistors, capacitors, etc.).
  • Changes in performance of transformers and electromechanical components.
  • Stiffening of shock mounts.
  • Cracking, change in impact strength, and reduced strength.
  • Effects due to condensation and freezing of water in or on the materiel.

Method 502 Has Three Procedures Starting with Low Temperature Storage:

  1. Procedure I – Storage.  Procedure I is used to evaluate products that are stored at Low temperatures.  After the Low temperature storage test is completed, an operational test at ambient conditions is performed. 
  2. Procedure II – Operation.  Procedure II is used to determine how well an item will operate in low temperature environments.  Operation during this procedure assumes minimum contact by personnel.
  3. Procedure III – Manipulation.  Manipulation is used to investigate the ease with which the materiel can be assembled, operated, and disassembled by personnel wearing heavy, cold-weather clothing. In addition, this could also include maintenance procedures. 

Low Temperature Test Parameters and Procedures Under MIL-STD-810 

First, identify the Low temperature test parameters and applicable procedures. DES can help determine the appropriate low temperature test conditions based on the equipment’s intended use.  Consider the following cold temperatures in various world-wide locations from Table 502.7-I. (MIL-STD-810H):

Design TypeLocationAmbient Air Temperature oC(oF)Induced Environment Temperature
(Storage & Transit)
oC(oF)
Basic Cold (C1)Most of Europe; Northern contiguous US; Costal Canada; High-Latitude coasts (e.g., southern coast of Alaska); High elevations in lower latitudes-21 to -32
(-5 to -25)
-25 to -33
(-13 to -28)
Cold (C2)Canada, Alaska (excluding the interior); Northern Scandinavia; Northern Asia (some areas), High Elevations (Northern and Southern Hemispheres); Alps; Himalayas; Andes-37 to -46
(-35 to -50)
-37 to -46
(-35 to -50)
Severe Cold (C3)Interior of Alaska; Yukon (Canada); Interior of Northern Canadian Islands; Greenland ice cap; Northern Asia-51
(-60)
-51
(-60)
Source: Table 502.7-I. (MIL-STD-810H)

The recommended test duration from MIL-STD-810H is four hours after stabilization for nonhazardous or non-safety-related (non-life-support type) material.  Munitions, rubber and plastics may continue to deteriorate following low temperature stabilization.  For these items, a minimum duration of 72 hours following temperature stabilization is recommended.  For restrained glass, ceramics, and glass-type products (such as those used in optical systems, laser systems, and electronic systems) a minimum storage period of 24 hours following temperature stabilization is recommended. 

Advantages of MIL-STD-810H Low Temperature Testing with DES:

DES excels in MIL-STD-810H Low Temperature Testing. With our lab’s accreditation and equipped with advanced temperature chambers, we ensure your equipment meets the cold-weather performance standards required by MIL-STD-810H.  Some of the reasons that DES is trusted by many companies for MIL-STD-810H Low Temperature Testing are:

  • DES has extensive experience running MIL-STD-810 Method 502.7 Low Temperature tests
  • DES’s lab is A2LA accredited to MIL-STD-810, Method 502 Low Temperature Testing
  • DES is trusted by many military manufacturers to perform their testing
  • DES has numerous temperature chambers capable of performing MIL-STD-810 Low temperature compliance testing

Contact us today to discuss testing your product in our MIL-STD-810 accredited Test Laboratory. 

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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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What Exactly is MIL-STD 810?

MIL-STD 810 is a Department of Defense Test Method Standard for environmental engineering considerations and laboratory tests.  It is the most popular Military specification used to conduct environmental testing of military products.  It exists so as to ensure that products used for defense-related purposes meet very specific requirements with regard to ruggedness, durability, and performance.  Given the fact that these products may be exposed to harsh or even extreme conditions, their reliability under stress is essential

Continue reading What Exactly is MIL-STD 810?

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MIL-STD 810, Method 516, Shock Testing Procedure IV – Transit Drop

This is another part of a series of blog posts concerning the MIL-STD 810 Shock Section, Method 516.  This blog was written with reference to MIL-STD-810G w/Change 1 dated 15 April 2014.  DES has the experience and expertise to run your MIL-STD-810 test.  For more information, please check out our DES shock testing services page and our other MIL-STD-810 shock testing blog articles:

MIL-STD 810, Method 516, Shock Testing Overview

MIL-STD 810, Method 516, Shock Testing Procedure I – Functional Shock

MIL-STD 810, Method 516, Shock Testing Procedure II – Transportation Shock

MIL-STD 810, Method 516, Shock Testing Procedure III – Fragility

Method 516, Procedure IV is for testing products that could be accidently dropped such as when they are removed from a shelve or dropped when handling.  The test item is physically dropped onto a hard surface to produce the shock.  Products can be tested inside their transit case or unpackaged.  Typically, they would be tested in the configuration that is normally used for transportation, handling, or a combat situation.

Continue reading MIL-STD 810, Method 516, Shock Testing Procedure IV – Transit Drop

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