Thermal Shock Test

A Thermal Shock Test is done for products that experience temperature changes during routine operation. This test exposes the sample to temperature cycling at alternately high and low air temperatures to accelerate failure caused by recurrent temperature variations.

How Thermal Shock Test works:

A thermal shock test is performed to analyze a product’s behavior when it is suddenly exposed to extreme temperatures over a short period. Rapid cycling through extreme temperatures leads to product deformation such as dislocation within components and microstructures. 

This test is conducted in an unnaturally high-temperature acceleration condition, typically greater than 15°C per minute, which is higher than real-world conditions. By subjecting the sample to an increased stress test, its general lifespan can be analyzed in a shorter time frame, which helps in understanding the product’s life expectancy. 

This test is done to validate mechanical, electronic, and structural products used in semiconductors, construction equipment, electronics, and aerospace, where these products experience consistent temperature gradients.

Some standard thermal shock tests are JESD22-A104D, Temperature Cycling, MIL-STD-810, Method 503, Temperature Shock, MIL-STD-202, Method 107, Thermal Shock, MIL-STD-883, Method 1010, Temperature Cycling, etc. 

Common Uses of Thermal Shock Test

• Testing ceramics for high-temperature application
• Testing of plastic
• Testing of mechanical products deployed for the medical and defense field

Advantages of Thermal Shock Test

• Less labor-intensive
• Minimal operator error
• Minimal disturbance from the surroundings
• Test parameters can be tailored according to service condition

Limitation of Thermal Shock Test

• Costly method
• Time taking process

Industrial Application of Thermal Shock Test

• Aerospace industry
• Ceramic industry
• Defense
• Electronics industry
• Automobile