Atlas SUNTEST CPS+ Xenon Arc Weathering Test Chamber
| Brand | ATLAS |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | SUNTEST CPS+ |
| Xenon Lamp Power | 1500 W |
| Irradiance Range | 30–65 W/m² (300–400 nm) |
| Black Standard Temperature (BST) Range | 35–100 °C (without SunCool) |
| Exposure Area | 560 cm² |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 90 × 35 × 35 cm |
| Cooling | Air-cooled lamp |
| Control Interface | Microprocessor-based with programmable keypad and monochrome display |
| Compliance | ISO 4892-1, CIE Publication No. 85 |
Overview
The Atlas SUNTEST CPS+ is a benchtop xenon arc weathering test chamber engineered for accelerated simulation of solar radiation, temperature, and humidity effects on materials. It operates on the principle of xenon arc irradiation—using a high-intensity 1500 W air-cooled xenon lamp to replicate full-spectrum daylight (300–800 nm), filtered and calibrated per CIE Publication No. 85 for spectral fidelity. Unlike UV-only or fluorescent sources, the CPS+ delivers photometrically accurate irradiance across UV, visible, and near-infrared bands, enabling realistic degradation assessment of polymers, coatings, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic formulations. Its compact footprint (90 × 35 × 35 cm) and 560 cm² exposure area support both flat-panel specimens and small 3D components—making it ideal for R&D labs, QC departments, and regulatory testing environments where space efficiency and method reproducibility are critical.
Key Features
- Microprocessor-controlled operation with intuitive programming interface supporting 11 languages (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Russian, Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean)
- Direct digital control of irradiance (30–65 W/m² at 300–400 nm; 250–765 W/m² at 300–800 nm) and black standard temperature (BST: 35–100 °C without SunCool accessory)
- Integrated chamber temperature (CHT) monitoring and real-time diagnostic feedback on display panel
- Pre-programmed test methods: two standardized protocols + six user-definable sequences, including 300-hour default cycle for rapid validation
- Durable quartz lamp envelope with advanced reflective mirror and long-life filter system for stable spectral output over extended operation
- RS-232 serial interface for data logging, remote diagnostics, and integration into lab-wide LIMS or compliance tracking systems
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SUNTEST CPS+ accommodates diverse sample geometries—including rigid panels, flexible films, vials, and small 3D objects—within its 560 cm² exposure zone. Optional accessories extend functional scope: SunFlood immersion module enables controlled water exposure during irradiation (per ASTM D4329, ISO 4892-3); SunCool active cooling unit maintains BST down to sub-ambient conditions for thermally sensitive formulations (e.g., SPF testing per ISO 24444); SunTray automated sample rotation ensures uniform exposure in sunscreen efficacy studies. The system complies with ISO 4892-1 (general principles), ISO 4892-2 (xenon arc method), and supports alignment with ASTM G155, AATCC TM16, and JIS D0205. Integrated BST sensor meets ISO 4892-1 requirements for non-contact surface temperature measurement, ensuring traceable thermal loading during accelerated aging.
Software & Data Management
While the CPS+ operates via embedded firmware (no PC dependency), its RS-232 port enables bidirectional communication with external software for audit-ready data capture. Users may export irradiance history, BST/CHT profiles, elapsed time, and fault logs in timestamped ASCII format. When deployed in GLP- or GMP-regulated settings, the system supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant workflows when paired with validated third-party data acquisition platforms—ensuring electronic signature capability, change control, and secure audit trails. Firmware updates preserve calibration integrity and maintain compatibility with evolving international standards.
Applications
- Photostability testing of pharmaceutical actives and packaging per ICH Q1B and USP <1120>
- SPF validation and in vitro sunscreen performance assessment (ISO 24444, COLIPA)
- Colorfastness and gloss retention evaluation of automotive coatings, architectural paints, and plastic trim
- Accelerated aging of medical device polymers (e.g., PVC tubing, silicone elastomers) under simulated daylight + moisture cycles
- Material qualification for outdoor consumer goods (textiles, adhesives, sealants, composites)
- Comparative benchmarking against natural weathering data for predictive lifetime modeling
FAQ
Does the SUNTEST CPS+ meet ISO 4892-2 requirements for xenon arc exposure?
Yes—the system satisfies all core specifications of ISO 4892-2:2013, including spectral power distribution (SPD) matching CIE 85, irradiance control accuracy, and black standard temperature measurement methodology.
Can irradiance be maintained automatically during long-duration tests?
Yes—closed-loop irradiance control continuously adjusts lamp power to sustain user-defined setpoints within ±5% tolerance across the test duration.
Is humidity control built-in or accessory-dependent?
Relative humidity is not directly regulated by the base CPS+ unit; however, the SunFlood immersion accessory enables precise wetting cycles, and optional external humidification chambers can be integrated via custom mounting interfaces.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the xenon lamp and filters?
Lamp life is rated at ~1,500 hours under typical operating conditions; quartz filters require inspection every 500 hours and replacement every 1,000–1,200 hours depending on irradiance intensity and ambient environment.
How is traceability ensured for regulatory submissions?
Each unit ships with NIST-traceable irradiance and temperature calibration certificates; optional annual recalibration services include full metrological documentation aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.
