Testing for Wind and Rain

Capabilities for Wind and Rain Tests at Infinita Lab

The wind and rain generators used by Infinita Lab can generate winds of up to 150 mph and rainfall rates of 0 to 8 inches per hour. To make testing of huge products easier, automated turntables are frequently used. A vast coverage area can be provided by setting up many generators. Infinita Lab staff members specialize in custom setups when setting up a wind-driven rain test.

Device for Testing Wind-Driven Rain at Infinita Lab

To provide an accurate test with repeatable results, wind, and rain test devices are calibrated and adjusted before use.

Overview of Wind and Rain Tests

According to MIL-STD 810 Method 506, wind and rain testing, blowing rain testing, and wind-driven rain testing, help determine the following:

Effectiveness of water-resistant container covers, and seals: These tests measure how well the substance can keep out water when subjected to windy and rainy conditions. They assess the sealing systems’ performance in keeping a waterproof barrier in place.

Performance requirements of the material before and after exposure to water: The testing assesses the material’s capacity to meet performance requirements both before and after exposure to water. This influences how long it will last and how well it will work in damp situations.

Rain-induced physical deterioration is measured by studies that look at how rain affects the material’s physical characteristics. This involves assessing any potential deterioration, corrosion, or other types of harm that might happen as a result of continued exposure to rain.

The efficiency of water removal systems: These tests evaluate the effectiveness of the material’s drainage or water removal system in eliminating water and preventing buildup. As a result, any negative effects on the material’s performance are avoided and the system successfully handles water infiltration.

Effectiveness of the protection offered: Testing reveals how well the fabric shields against wind and rain. It determines whether the material satisfies requirements for preventing water infiltration and upholding the required level of protection.

There are many distinct ways that wind and rain can affect equipment. Summaries of some examples are provided below:

In the Environment:

• Deterioration or interference with radio communication
• Limited effectiveness of radar.
• Fewer aircraft operations because of poor vision and a reduction in wing lift (excessive rain rates only).
• In-flight airplane damage.
• Impact on the launch of missiles and artillery.
• Visual surveillance is diminished or eliminated.
• Personnel’s performance in exposed activities suffers.
• Some fuses function too soon.
• It restricted optical device visibility.

After Impact:

• Surfaces are eroded upon collision.

Following a deposition or penetration:

• Decrease in some materials’ strength or swelling.
• Increased likelihood of corrosion, erosion, or even microbial growth.
• A gain in weight.
• Electrical or electronic equipment stops working or becomes dangerous.
• Electrical equipment failure.
• Inside-freezing material could result in delayed degradation and malfunction by causing parts to expand or crack.
• Heat exchange modified.
• Propellers burn more slowly.

One of the climatic testing services we provide is wind and rain testing, and our lab is fully stocked with the appropriate tools. Wind and rain tests are conducted at Infinita Lab. Please get in touch with us to discuss how we can support your wind-driven rain testing needs.

Wind & Rain Test Requirements

1. Rain, MIL-STD 810 Method 506:

With this method, you may assess how well equipment can withstand the effects of rain and calculate how well it can withstand water infiltration.

Test Conditions: Based on the intended usage of the equipment and the surrounding environment, the standard specifies requirements for rain intensity, duration, and other characteristics.

Test Setup: To imitate genuine rain exposure, the equipment is subjected to regulated rain conditions in an open space or a test chamber.

Performance Criteria: The standard outlines parameters for water infiltration and could also contain functional performance specifications before, during, and after exposure to precipitation.

Reporting: A test report contains all of the test results, including observations, measurements, and any failures.

2. Waterproofness of RTCA/DO 160:

Specifically for avionics and aerospace applications, this component of the standard focuses on assessing the waterproofness of equipment.

The standard specifies the criteria for water exposure, including the amount, duration, pattern, and other elements that are unique to the equipment’s operating environment.

Test Setup: Depending on the required test circumstances, the equipment is exposed to controlled amounts of water utilizing drip, spray, or jetting techniques.

Performance Criteria: Based on the degree of protection needed for the equipment, the standard specifies pass/fail criteria for water infiltration. Functional performance standards for both before and after exposure to water may be included.

Reporting: A test report details the test findings, including as measurements of water ingress, equipment behavior, and any failures.

Video 1: Military Standard MIL-STD-810H Part 4 Rain Testing