APKJ AP-HX-80L1 Low-Temperature Temperature and Humidity Controlled Chamber

Overview

The APKJ AP-HX-80L1 Low-Temperature Temperature and Humidity Controlled Chamber is an engineered environmental test system designed for precise, stable, and reproducible simulation of extreme low-temperature and controlled-humidity conditions. Utilizing a single-unit automatic cascade refrigeration cycle—distinct from conventional dual-compressor cascade architectures—the chamber achieves a minimum operational temperature of −80 °C while maintaining humidity control down to 10 % RH at sub-zero temperatures. This capability addresses critical testing requirements in aerospace component validation, battery thermal management evaluation (e.g., lithium-ion cells under cold-start conditions), polymer low-temperature embrittlement assessment, and pharmaceutical stability studies per ICH Q1A–Q1E guidelines. The chamber operates on a thermodynamic principle wherein refrigerant flow direction is dynamically modulated via solenoid valves to enable simultaneous temperature reduction and moisture removal—eliminating reliance on external desiccant or steam-injection humidification systems. Its structural integrity, thermal efficiency, and regulatory compliance are validated against GB/T 10592–2008, GB/T 10586–2006, GB/T 2423.1–2008, and GB/T 2423.4–2008, with full traceability supported by integrated data logging and audit-ready configuration.

Key Features

• Single-unit automatic cascade refrigeration system enabling −80 °C minimum temperature without auxiliary cryogenic media
• Integrated refrigerant-direction control for active dehumidification below −30 °C—no external dry air or nitrogen purge required
• Stainless steel (SUS304) interior chamber with high-density polyurethane foam insulation (≥120 mm thickness) minimizing thermal leakage
• Electropolished door seal using high-temperature silicone rubber gasket ensuring leak rate <1.0 × 10⁻³ Pa·m³/s per ISO 10648-2
• Energy-optimized control architecture reducing total power consumption by ≥30 % versus legacy heating-balance systems
• Variable-speed compressor modulation (0–100 % capacity) with PID-based temperature/humidity decoupling control
• Large-area heated anti-frost observation window with embedded LED lighting for real-time sample monitoring
• Comprehensive safety architecture: overcurrent/overheat protection for all motors; short-circuit protection for heaters; refrigerant leak detection

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AP-HX-80L1 accommodates standard test specimens up to 300 mm × 300 mm × 300 mm (W×D×H) within its 80 L working volume. It supports mounting fixtures for PCBs, battery modules, optical sensors, elastomeric seals, and packaged pharmaceuticals. All internal surfaces are non-outgassing and compliant with ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom compatibility. The chamber satisfies mandatory test condition specifications defined in IEC 60068-2-1 (Cold), IEC 60068-2-2 (Dry Heat), IEC 60068-2-30 (Damp Heat, Cycling), and MIL-STD-810H Method 502.7. Humidity control accuracy meets ±2.5 % RH (20–95 % RH range) and ±3.0 % RH (10–20 % RH range) per GB/T 10586–2006. Temperature uniformity is maintained at ±1.5 °C across the working volume at −40 °C, and ±2.0 °C at −80 °C, verified per GB/T 5170.1–2008.

Software & Data Management

The chamber integrates a touchscreen HMI with embedded Linux OS and supports optional USB and Ethernet (TCP/IP) connectivity for remote monitoring and control via Modbus TCP or custom SCADA integration. Optional continuous data logging captures temperature, relative humidity, compressor status, valve positions, and alarm events at user-configurable intervals (1 s to 60 min). Logged data exports to CSV or encrypted binary format with SHA-256 checksums. Audit trail functionality records operator login/logout, parameter changes, and calibration events—fully compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with optional electronic signature module. Firmware updates are performed via secure HTTPS interface with version rollback capability.

Applications

• Low-temperature performance validation of EV traction batteries (UN 38.3 thermal shock, cold cranking simulation)
• Material property characterization: coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), glass transition (T_g) shift, and fracture toughness of composites
• Accelerated aging of adhesives, encapsulants, and conformal coatings under combined thermal-hygric stress
• Environmental stress screening (ESS) of avionics assemblies per RTCA/DO-160 Section 4.3
• ICH-compliant long-term and accelerated stability testing of sterile injectables and lyophilized biologics
• Calibration verification of low-temperature sensors (RTDs, thermistors) per ISO/IEC 17025 accredited protocols

FAQ

What is the lowest achievable temperature with humidity control enabled?
The AP-HX-80L1 maintains humidity control down to −30 °C at 10 % RH. Below this point, temperature-only operation is recommended for maximum refrigeration efficiency and compressor longevity.
Does the chamber support programmable temperature/humidity profiles?
Yes—it supports up to 100 segments with ramp rates adjustable from 0.1 °C/min to 5.0 °C/min and humidity transitions from 10 % to 95 % RH in ≤30 minutes.
Is third-party calibration certification available?
Factory calibration certificates traceable to NIM (China National Institute of Metrology) are included. UKAS-accredited calibration services can be arranged through authorized partners.
Can the chamber be integrated into a central laboratory monitoring system?
Yes—via Modbus TCP or optional OPC UA server add-on, supporting seamless integration with LabVantage, Siemens Desigo, or custom MES platforms.
What refrigerant is used, and is it compliant with global environmental regulations?
R-507A (zeotropic blend of R-125/R-143a) is employed—zero ozone depletion potential (ODP = 0) and GWP = 3987, compliant with EU F-Gas Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 and EPA SNAP program.