LabCompanion PL Series High-Low Temperature Test Chamber

Overview

The LabCompanion PL Series High-Low Temperature Test Chamber is an engineered environmental simulation system designed for precise, repeatable thermal stress testing of materials, components, and electronic assemblies under controlled extreme temperature conditions. Based on the Couette-flow–influenced air circulation architecture and PID-controlled dual-stage refrigeration-heating systems, the chamber delivers stable thermal environments across a wide operating range from −40 °C to +150 °C. Unlike conventional designs where enlarged observation windows compromise thermal integrity, the PL Series integrates a reinforced, low-emissivity tempered glass viewport with anti-fogging resistive heating film—ensuring uninterrupted visual monitoring without sacrificing temperature stability, uniformity, or transition rate performance. This design meets fundamental requirements for laboratory-grade qualification testing per IEC 60068-2-1 (cold), IEC 60068-2-2 (dry heat), and MIL-STD-810H Method 502.7.

Key Features

• Reinforced large-view observation window with integrated anti-condensation heating film—enables real-time visual assessment of sample behavior during thermal cycling without thermal leakage or optical distortion
• High-efficiency air circulation system with tangential blower and optimized baffle geometry—achieves ≤ ±2.0 °C temperature uniformity across the full working volume
• Precise microprocessor-based controller with 0.1 °C resolution, ±0.5 °C fluctuation tolerance, and ±2.0 °C deviation limit over the entire operational range
• Dual-stage cascade refrigeration system coupled with high-response electric heating elements—delivers consistent heating rates of 3.0–3.5 °C/min and cooling rates of 1.2 °C/min (from +25 °C to −40 °C)
• Structurally reinforced inner chamber constructed from 304 stainless steel with seamless welding and insulated double-wall vacuum panel construction—minimizes thermal bridging and improves energy efficiency
• Standard ergonomic front-access operation ports with silicone-sealed gaskets—facilitates in-situ cabling, sensor insertion, or active device interfacing while maintaining chamber integrity

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PL Series accommodates samples up to 500 × 600 × 500 mm (W × H × D) and supports both passive storage evaluation and active functional testing—including power-on thermal stress validation of LCD modules, automotive ECUs, LED drivers, and embedded PCBs. It complies with key international test standards including IEC 60068-2-14 (change of temperature), JIS C 0021, GB/T 2423.1–2022, and ASTM E1545–20. The chamber’s mechanical and control architecture supports GLP-compliant operation when paired with optional audit-trail-enabled data logging software. All electrical components meet CE marking requirements for EMC and low-voltage directives; non-explosion-proof configuration aligns with standard industrial laboratory environments per IEC 60079-0.

Software & Data Management

The integrated touch-panel controller provides intuitive programming of multi-step temperature profiles, dwell times, ramp rates, and cycle repetition. Optional PC-based LabCompanion EnviroLog™ software enables remote monitoring, real-time graphing, automated report generation (PDF/CSV), and secure data archiving compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—including electronic signatures, user access levels, and immutable audit trails. Data acquisition supports up to 16 external thermocouple inputs (Type K/J/T) for spatial mapping validation. Calibration records are stored internally and exportable for internal quality audits or third-party ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation reviews.

Applications

• Qualification testing of display technologies (OLED, LCD, e-Ink) under thermal shock and extended temperature exposure
• Functional validation of automotive electronics—including ADAS sensors, infotainment units, and battery management systems—at extreme ambient temperatures
• Reliability screening of aerospace-grade connectors, conformal-coated PCBs, and optoelectronic packaging
• Material characterization of polymers, adhesives, and encapsulants for coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and dimensional stability analysis
• Pre-compliance thermal stress testing prior to formal certification per AEC-Q200, JEDEC JESD22-A104, or IPC-9701

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable sample weight inside the PL Series chamber?

The chamber is rated for static loads up to 50 kg distributed evenly on the standard stainless-steel shelf; custom load-bearing shelves are available upon request.
Can the chamber operate continuously at −40 °C or +150 °C?

Yes—the system is validated for uninterrupted operation across its full temperature range, including long-term stability tests exceeding 1,000 hours at either extreme.
Is humidity control available as an upgrade?

The base PL Series is a dry-temperature-only model; however, the PL-H variant adds programmable humidity control (10–98% RH) and is offered as a factory-configurable option.
Does the controller support RS-485 Modbus RTU communication?

Yes—standard Modbus RTU interface is included for integration into centralized facility monitoring systems or SCADA platforms.
What calibration documentation is provided with shipment?

Each unit ships with a NIST-traceable temperature calibration certificate covering three points (−40 °C, +25 °C, +150 °C) and a full factory performance verification report.