OK KS-TH-408 Rapid Temperature Change Test Chamber (Manufacturer: OK Instruments)

Overview

The OK KS-TH-408 is a high-performance rapid temperature change test chamber engineered for precise, repeatable environmental stress screening (ESS) and qualification testing of electronic components, automotive modules, aerospace subsystems, and industrial control units. It operates on a dual-stage cascade refrigeration principle—combining independent low- and high-temperature circuits—to achieve stable, programmable thermal transitions across a wide operating envelope (−70 °C to +150 °C). Unlike conventional thermal chambers, the KS-TH-408 integrates continuously adjustable ramp rate control, enabling users to define linear or segmented temperature/humidity profiles with sub-degree resolution and traceable repeatability. Its structural architecture prioritizes thermal integrity: double-wall insulated stainless steel construction, argon-filled double-glazed viewing window with anti-condensation heating, and triple-sealed door gaskets minimize thermal leakage and ensure uniform internal conditions per IEC 60068-2-14 requirements.

Key Features

• Programmable thermal ramp rates from 1 °C/min to 15 °C/min—fully adjustable in real time via intuitive LCD touchscreen interface
• Dual-stage cascade refrigeration system using Tecumseh (France) hermetic compressors and ozone-safe refrigerants R-404A and R-507
• High-accuracy climate control: ±0.1 °C temperature resolution, ±2.0 °C uniformity; ±0.1% RH resolution, ±3.0% RH uniformity
• Large observation window with embedded resistive heater and fluorescent lighting—enables in-situ visual monitoring without thermal disturbance
• Multiple standardized test ports (Φ50 mm, sealed with silicone plugs) for external power/signal feedthrough and sensor integration
• Four-tier adjustable stainless steel shelves with reinforced load capacity (up to 25 kg per shelf); castor-mounted base with locking mechanism for lab-floor mobility and stability
• Robust mechanical design: sandblasted, matte-finish exterior housing; ergonomic flat-handle door with dual-latch pneumatic seal

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KS-TH-408 accommodates full-system devices up to 60 × 85 × 80 cm (W×H×D), including PCB assemblies, battery packs, display modules, and embedded controllers. Its chamber geometry and airflow distribution meet ISO 16750-4 (road vehicles), JEDEC JESD22-A104 (temperature cycling), and IPC-9701 (solder joint reliability) spatial uniformity criteria. All variants comply with IEC 60068-2 environmental test standards—including Part 2-1 (cold), Part 2-2 (dry heat), Part 2-14 (change of temperature), and Part 2-30 (damp heat cyclic). Optional validation packages support IQ/OQ documentation aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 requirements for regulated industries.

Software & Data Management

The built-in controller supports up to 99 programmable segments with user-defined ramp slopes, dwell times, and humidity setpoints. Data logging records temperature, humidity, and system status at configurable intervals (1–60 sec), stored internally (≥10,000 data points) and exportable via USB to CSV. For enterprise integration, OK’s optional PC-based ChamberLink Pro software provides remote monitoring, real-time graphing, alarm notification (email/SMS), and automated report generation compliant with GLP audit trail requirements—including operator ID, timestamped parameter changes, and electronic signature fields. All firmware updates are digitally signed and version-controlled.

Applications

• Environmental Stress Screening (ESS) of avionics, military electronics, and medical device PCBs per MIL-STD-344 and GEIA-STD-0006
• Thermal cycling qualification for EV battery management systems (BMS) and power converters under ISO 16750-4 Level 4 conditions
• Reliability assessment of solder joints, conformal coatings, and MEMS packaging via accelerated temperature-humidity cycling
• Process validation of reflow soldering equipment and conformal coating curing ovens
• Material compatibility testing for adhesives, encapsulants, and thermal interface materials (TIMs)
• Pre-compliance screening prior to formal certification testing at third-party labs (e.g., TÜV, UL, SGS)

FAQ

What temperature ramp rates are achievable on the KS-TH-408?
The chamber supports continuous ramp rate adjustment from 1 °C/min to 15 °C/min across its full temperature range, verified per IEC 60068-2-14 Annex B.
Can the unit operate in humidity-only mode without temperature change?
Yes—the controller allows independent humidity setpoint programming at constant temperature, supporting tests per IEC 60068-2-78 (damp heat, steady state).
Is the system compatible with external data acquisition systems?
Standard RS-485 Modbus RTU and optional Ethernet/IP interfaces enable seamless integration with SCADA, MES, or LabVIEW-based DAQ platforms.
Does OK provide calibration certificates traceable to NIST or CNAS?
Upon request, factory calibration reports with uncertainty budgets traceable to national metrology institutes (e.g., CNAS accredited labs) are available for both temperature and humidity sensors.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the refrigeration system?
Compressor oil analysis and refrigerant pressure verification are advised every 12 months; condenser coil cleaning every 6 months under standard lab conditions.