LabCompanion HP Series Temperature and Humidity Environmental Test Chamber

Overview

The LabCompanion HP Series Temperature and Humidity Environmental Test Chamber is an engineered solution for accelerated reliability evaluation of industrial products under controlled thermal and hygrothermal stress conditions. Designed in accordance with the fundamental principles of environmental simulation, it subjects test specimens to precisely regulated cycles of temperature and relative humidity—enabling validation of material integrity, electronic component stability, packaging performance, and long-term functional resilience. The chamber operates on a dual-parameter control architecture: temperature is managed via a closed-loop refrigeration system combined with electric heating elements, while humidity is regulated through an external steam generator and precision proportional-integral-derivative (PID) feedback control. Its structural design adheres to international best practices for thermal containment, airflow uniformity, and operational safety—making it suitable for laboratories conducting compliance-driven testing aligned with IEC 60068-2, MIL-STD-810, and JIS Z 8701 standards.

Key Features

• Imported “Tecumseh” (France) hermetic refrigeration compressor, paired with fully original refrigeration components for enhanced system longevity and low-maintenance operation.
• Dual-stage cascade refrigeration system (air-cooled or water-cooled configuration available), enabling stable sub-zero cooling capability and rapid thermal transition across wide operating ranges.
• High-precision digital PID controller with real-time display of both temperature and relative humidity—ensuring traceable, repeatable setpoint execution.
• Stainless steel interior chamber and electrostatically coated cold-rolled steel exterior—resistant to corrosion, easy to clean, and compliant with cleanroom-compatible surface requirements.
• Integrated safety architecture including over-temperature/over-humidity cutoff, compressor high-pressure protection, motor overload fusing, fan overheat detection, leakage current interruption, and audible alarm activation.
• Standard ergonomic features: double-layer insulated observation window, multiple cable access ports (with rubber grommets), anti-fog LED interior lighting, and adjustable stainless steel sample shelves.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HP Series accommodates diverse specimen geometries—from small PCB assemblies and polymer samples to automotive ECUs and medical device enclosures—across six standardized internal volumes (100 L to 1000 L). Internal airflow is optimized via a low-noise centrifugal circulation fan, ensuring uniform thermal distribution (≤2°C deviation) and minimal turbulence-induced measurement artifacts. Insulation employs ultra-fine glass fiber with ≥100 mm thickness, minimizing thermal bridging and energy loss. All models are verified against GB/T 5170.5–1996 (“Methods of Verification for Basic Parameters of Environmental Testing Equipment – Damp Heat Test Equipment”), supporting audit readiness for GLP, ISO/IEC 17025, and internal quality management systems. Optional calibration certificates (traceable to NIM or CNAS-accredited labs) and IQ/OQ documentation packages are available upon request.

Software & Data Management

While the base configuration utilizes a standalone microprocessor-based controller with local data logging (up to 100 program steps, 999 cycles), optional Ethernet-enabled controllers support remote monitoring via TCP/IP. Logged parameters—including chamber temperature, relative humidity, setpoints, alarm status, and runtime—are exportable as CSV files for post-test analysis. For regulated environments, LabCompanion offers a validated software upgrade compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, featuring user-level access control, electronic signatures, and full audit trail functionality—including timestamped modifications to test profiles and parameter overrides.

Applications

• Accelerated aging studies of plastics, adhesives, coatings, and composite materials under cyclic humid heat exposure.
• Environmental stress screening (ESS) of printed circuit boards and embedded electronics prior to burn-in or field deployment.
• Validation of packaging barrier performance (e.g., blister packs, pouches) per ASTM F1249 and ISO 15106 protocols.
• Pre-compliance testing for IEC 60068-2-30 (damp heat, cyclic) and IEC 60068-2-78 (damp heat, steady state).
• Quality assurance in automotive Tier-1 supplier labs performing GMW16276 or Ford CETP 00.00-L-467 validation.
• Research applications in material science departments evaluating hygroscopic expansion, moisture diffusion coefficients, and phase-transition behavior.

FAQ

What is the standard warranty period for the HP Series chamber?
LabCompanion provides a 24-month limited warranty covering parts and labor for manufacturing defects, excluding consumables and misuse-related failures.
Can the chamber be configured for sub-zero operation below 0°C?
Yes—the HP series supports optional low-temperature configurations down to −40°C or −70°C using upgraded dual-stage cascade refrigeration; consult technical specifications for model-specific limits.
Is third-party calibration support available?
Yes—LabCompanion partners with accredited metrology providers in APAC and EMEA regions to deliver on-site or return-to-factory calibration services with NIST-traceable certificates.
How is humidity generated and controlled?
Humidity is produced externally via a stainless steel steam generator and introduced into the chamber via a dedicated duct; RH is maintained through dynamic modulation of steam injection rate and condensation recovery.
Does the system meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for laboratory integration?
All HP models comply with EN 61326-1:2013 for EMC in laboratory environments and include built-in filtering on power input and sensor lines to prevent interference with adjacent instrumentation.