OK Instruments OK-TH-1000 Large-Scale Walk-In Temperature and Humidity Controlled Chamber

Overview

The OK Instruments OK-TH-1000 is a large-scale, benchtop-configured temperature and humidity controlled chamber engineered for precise environmental simulation across extended operational cycles. It operates on the principle of forced-air convection with dual independent control loops—separate PID-regulated systems for refrigeration and humidification—ensuring stable, repeatable thermal and hygrometric conditions within the test volume. Designed for rigorous compliance-driven testing, the chamber supports steady-state and cycling protocols per internationally recognized environmental stress standards including IEC 60068-2 series, GB/T 2423, and MIL-STD-810G (via GJB 150 equivalents). Its structural architecture prioritizes long-term reliability under continuous operation: full SUS#304 stainless steel construction (inner and outer chambers), double-layer high-tensile silicone gasket sealing, and multi-layer laminated observation window with embedded conductive film for anti-fog clarity and real-time visual monitoring without compromising integrity.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based color touch-screen controller with intuitive bilingual (English/Chinese) interface and real-time graphical trend display
• Integrated 50 mm diameter test port on left side wall for external signal/power feedthrough, sealed with removable rubber plug
• Air-cooled, fully enclosed low-noise dual-stage compressor system using environmentally compliant refrigerants (R404A primary, R23 cascade option for sub-zero operation)
• Double-sealed door design with dual-layer high-temperature-resistant silicone gaskets ensuring leak-tight performance across full operating range
• Multi-layer tempered safety glass viewing window with resistive heating film to prevent condensation during low-temperature/high-humidity transitions
• Comprehensive safety suite: over-temperature, over-humidity, compressor high-pressure, phase failure, and sensor fault detection—all triggering automatic power cutoff and on-screen alarm with fault code logging

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The OK-TH-1000 accommodates diverse sample geometries and mass loads typical in electronics packaging validation, polymer aging studies, automotive component qualification, and aerospace material screening. Its internal dimensions (600 × 500 × 400 mm) support mid-size assemblies—including PCBs with enclosures, LED modules, battery packs, and coated metal substrates—while maintaining uniformity within ±2 °C and ±3 %RH per IEC 60068-3-5. The chamber is validated for conformance with key regulatory frameworks: GB/T 2423.1–2001 (cold), GB/T 2423.2–2001 (dry heat), GB/T 2423.4–1993 (cyclic damp heat), and GJB 150.3/150.4 (military environmental testing). Though not pre-certified for FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its controller supports audit-trail-ready data export (CSV/Excel) and time-stamped event logs compatible with GLP/GMP-aligned quality systems when deployed with documented SOPs.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller provides local data acquisition at 1-second intervals, storing up to 30 days of continuous temperature/humidity profiles internally. USB export enables traceable transfer of raw datasets—including setpoint history, actual readings, alarm timestamps, and system status flags—for offline analysis in MATLAB, Python (Pandas), or statistical process control platforms. Optional Ethernet connectivity (RS485/Modbus TCP) allows integration into centralized lab management systems (LIMS) or SCADA networks. All logged parameters are timestamped with millisecond precision and include operator ID fields for accountability. While native software does not offer remote web access, third-party OPC UA gateways can be deployed to enable secure cloud-based monitoring under IT-controlled infrastructure.

Applications

• Accelerated aging of elastomers, adhesives, and conformal coatings under combined thermal-hygrometric stress
• Functional verification of consumer electronics (smartphones, wearables) across climatic extremes per IEC 60068-2-14
• Stability assessment of pharmaceutical excipients and solid dosage forms under ICH Q1A(R2) intermediate and accelerated storage conditions
• Validation of automotive interior materials (dashboards, seat fabrics) for fogging, warping, and discoloration per ISO 6452 and DIN 75201
• Pre-conditioning of sensors and MEMS devices prior to calibration or functional testing
• Environmental screening of photovoltaic module encapsulants per IEC 61215 thermal cycling and damp heat sequences

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable sample load for thermal stability?
The chamber maintains specified uniformity with up to 25 kg of non-heat-generating samples; heavier or actively dissipating loads require derating verification per ASTM E145 Annex A4.
Can the OK-TH-1000 perform rapid temperature transitions?
It achieves standard ramp rates of 1.0–3.0 °C/min; faster transitions require optional high-capacity heater and enhanced airflow modules—not included in base configuration.
Is the controller compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
The hardware supports electronic signatures and audit trails, but formal Part 11 compliance requires site-specific validation documentation and administrative controls—not supplied by the manufacturer.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the refrigeration system?
Compressor oil and filter replacement every 18 months; annual calibration of PT100 temperature sensors and capacitive RH probes using NIST-traceable references.
Are custom internal configurations available?
Yes—custom shelving layouts, additional feedthrough ports, and specialized mounting fixtures can be engineered per customer drawing, subject to structural integrity review.