At KC India Test Laboratories LLP, we offer advanced and standards-compliant UV Testing (Ultraviolet Testing) services to evaluate the weathering resistance of materials and products exposed to sunlight and harsh environmental conditions. This test is essential for manufacturers who need to ensure their products can withstand prolonged exposure to UV radiation without degradation, discoloration, cracking, or loss of mechanical integrity.
What is a UV Test?
UV Testing involves exposing materials to controlled ultraviolet (UV) light under simulated environmental conditions to assess how they age or deteriorate over time. It is a form of accelerated weathering test designed to replicate the effects of natural sunlight—especially the UV spectrum, which is most damaging to plastics, rubbers, coatings, paints, and electrical insulation materials.
We perform this test using UV chambers equipped with fluorescent or xenon arc lamps, replicating months or years of sunlight exposure within days or weeks. The test may also involve cycles of UV radiation, heat, humidity, and water spray to simulate real-world outdoor conditions more accurately.
Why is UV Testing Important?
- Evaluates Product Lifespan: Helps predict how long a product will last in outdoor environments.
- Ensures Safety and Performance: Detects early signs of cracking, fading, or surface degradation that could affect product performance.
- Supports Material Selection: Assists in choosing UV-stabilized materials for outdoor use.
- Complies with Industry Standards: Mandatory in sectors like solar energy, automotive, electrical enclosures, and construction.
- Avoids Costly Field Failures: Ensures durability before product deployment, reducing warranty claims or recalls.
What We Test
Our UV test services cover a wide range of materials and finished products, including:
- Cable sheaths and insulation
- Plastic enclosures and housings
- Solar panel components and junction boxes
- Electrical switchgear and control panels
- Street light covers and outdoor signage
- Automotive interior and exterior parts
- Industrial coatings, paints, and films
- Roofing membranes and construction polymers
Test Standards We Follow
We conduct UV Testing as per national and international standards such as:
- ASTM G154 / ASTM G155 – Standard practice for UV exposure using fluorescent/ xenon arc lamps
- ISO 4892-2 / ISO 4892-3 – Plastics exposure to UV light
- IEC 60216-4-4, IEC 60587, and IEC 62217 – For electrical insulation and polymeric materials
- IS 6746 – Plastic materials for cable sheaths
- UL 746C – Polymer testing for electrical components
Our Testing Capabilities
KC India Test Laboratories LLP uses high-performance UV weathering chambers that allow:
- Accelerated aging from 100 hours to 2000+ hours
- Simulation of natural sunlight using UVA/UVB or xenon lamps
- Temperature and humidity control during exposure
- Water spray and condensation cycling
- Regular monitoring and evaluation of physical, color, and mechanical changes
Post-exposure, we analyze:
- Color changes (ΔE)
- Surface cracking or chalking
- Gloss loss
- Mechanical property degradation (e.g., tensile strength, elongation)
- Electrical insulation breakdown (for cable and polymer testing)
Why Choose KC India Test Laboratories LLP?
- NABL Accredited Lab following ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines
- Custom Test Durations based on client specifications and application needs
- Expert Evaluation and detailed reporting with before/after comparisons
● Application-Specific Recommendations for material selection and product improvement