DO-160 Sand and Dust Test (Section 12) Test Device
What is the DO-160 Sand and Dust Test?
The DO-160 standard was developed to test the environmental durability of electronic equipment used in the aerospace and aviation industries. Section 12 of this standard covers the Sand and Dust Test, which evaluates the equipment’s performance when exposed to sand and dust. This test is applied to analyze the resistance of devices to wind-blown sand, dust, and other small particles during aircraft operations.
Sand and Dust Test in the DO-160 Standard
The Sand and Dust Test conducted under DO-160 Section 12 is also related to the following standards:
- IEC 60529 (IP Codes – Dust Resistance Tests)
- MIL-STD-810H Method 510.7 (Sand and Dust Tests)
- RTCA/DO-160G Section 12.0 (Dust and Particle Resistance Test)
These tests are applied to determine whether devices can maintain their mechanical integrity and functionality when exposed to fine particles.
Test Purpose
The Sand and Dust Test is conducted to measure the operability of aerospace electronics in dusty and sandy environments. It analyzes the degree to which ventilation openings, seals, connectors, and internal mechanisms are affected by particles. The test also determines how well sensitive components are protected from dust ingress.
How is the DO-160 Sand and Dust Test Conducted?
The Sand and Dust Test is carried out in the following stages:
- Preparation: The device to be tested is placed in a sand and dust test chamber.
- Dust Exposure: The device is exposed to dust moved by controlled airflow for a specified duration.
- Test Duration: The exposure time can vary between 6 hours and 48 hours.
- Sand and Dust Composition: The particles used consist of sand and dust with specified diameter and density, in accordance with industry standards.
- Performance Evaluation: After the test, the device’s functionality, sealing condition, and resistance to dust ingress are checked.
Devices Used for the Sand and Dust Test
The test devices used for the DO-160 Sand and Dust Tests consist of specially designed dust chambers and sand spraying systems.
- Sand and Dust Test Chambers
- Designed to test dust ingress on both internal and external surfaces.
- Capable of adjusting particle densities and airflow speeds.
- Enables real-time analysis with observation windows and measurement sensors.
- Sand Spraying Test Systems
- Simulates sand spraying at specific pressure and airflow levels.
- Ensures the device is tested from different angles.
- Simulates the movement of sand particles with airflow speeds suitable for realistic flight and operational conditions.
Applications of the Test
The DO-160 Sand and Dust Test is applied to the following equipment:
- Aerospace electronics (avionic systems)
- Outdoor sensors and radio communication equipment
- Engine control systems
- Aircraft internal and external components
Results of the DO-160 Sand and Dust Test
The test results evaluate the device’s mechanical integrity and operational reliability. Gasket sealing, airflow points, and the protection level of electronic components are analyzed. Successfully passing the test indicates that the device can operate safely in high-dust environments.
Conclusion
The Sand and Dust Tests conducted under DO-160 Section 12 are vital for ensuring the safety of aerospace electronics and other critical equipment. This test guarantees that devices will be resistant to the sand and dust conditions they may encounter during flight.
You can contact us for more detailed information on the DO-160 Sand and Dust (Section 12) Test Device and to place an order in custom sizes according to your needs.
