MIL-STD-810H Dust and Sand (Method 510.7) Test Machine

MIL-STD-810H (Method 510.7) Dust and Sand

MIL-STD-810G (Method 510.5) Test Machine

The MIL-STD-810H (Method 510.7) Dust and Sand Test Machine is designed to assess the durability of devices in dusty and sandy environments. This test machine is crucial for military, automotive, and outdoor equipment, evaluating the effects of dust and sand, such as wear and performance loss, on the devices.

Test Objectives

• Dust and Sand Durability: Testing whether products can operate effectively in dusty and sandy environments.
• Performance Degradation: Analyzing the potential damage caused by dust and sand accumulation on device components.
• Protective Surface Testing: Evaluating the resistance of the device’s exterior and enclosures against such harsh conditions.

1. Scope

1.1 Purpose:

This test is used to evaluate the effects of sand and dust environments on materials. Method 510.7 defines:

• Dust: Particles smaller than 150 µm in diameter.
• Sand: Particles between 150 – 850 µm in diameter.

This test includes two different procedures:

1. Dust test (<150 µm): Evaluates the effects of fine dust that can clog openings, penetrate cracks, bearings, and seals. Also tests the effectiveness of filters.
2. Sand test (150 – 850 µm): Evaluates the abrasive effects of sand during storage and operation. Tests the erosion and clogging effects of sharp-edged particles.

1.2 Application:

This method applies to mechanical, optical, electrical, electronic, electrochemical, and electromechanical devices. In particular, portable and platform-mounted devices should be tested to ensure they can operate in sand and dust-filled atmospheres.

1.3 Limitations:

• Electrostatic charge accumulation is not evaluated.
• Outdoor tests and the effects of settled dust are not considered.
• Special tests are required for missiles, aircraft fuselages, and rotor blades exposed to abrasive particles at hypersonic speeds.

2. Test Tailoring Guidance

2.1 Selecting this method

This test should be selected based on the likelihood of the material being exposed to sand and dust environments during its lifecycle.

2.1.1 Effects of Sand and Dust Environments

• Abrasion and erosion
• Penetration into seals
• Performance degradation in electrical circuits
• Clogging of openings and filters
• Reduction in heat transfer
• Degradation of optical systems
• Overheating and fire risk due to ventilation blockage
• Reduction in signal transmission

2.1.2 Sequencing with other test methods

The sand and dust test can provide better results when combined with the following methods:

• Method 505.7 (Solar Radiation Test)
• Method 507.6 (Humidity Test)
• Method 508.8 (Fungus Test)
• Method 509.6 (Salt Fog Test)

2.2 Test procedure selection

Method 510.7 includes two procedures:

1. Procedure I – Blowing Dust (<150 µm): Tests the sensitivity of materials to dust particles.
2. Procedure II – Blowing Sand (150 – 850 µm): Tests the resistance of materials to airborne sand particles.

2.3 Determining test levels and conditions

• Climatic conditions: The environmental conditions where the material will be used should be considered.
• Exposure duration: The test should be performed for durations that match real-world usage scenarios.
• Material configuration: The placement of the tested material during actual use should be taken into account.

3. Information Required

3.1 Pre-test preparations

• Test chamber temperature and humidity level.
• Sand and dust composition.
• Airspeed and particle density.

3.2 Data to be collected during the test

• Airflow and particle distribution in the test chamber.
• Amount of wear on the surface of the tested material.

3.3 Post-test data

• The effects of dust or sand on the tested material.
• The functional condition and operability of the tested material.

4. Test Process

4.1 Test Facility and Equipment

• For the dust test, a test chamber capable of keeping dust particles airborne is required.
• For the sand test, a system capable of generating high-speed airflow is required.

4.2 Test Controls

• Airspeed:
  • For sand testing: 18-29 m/s (40-65 mph).
  • For dust testing: 8.9 m/s (1750 ft/min).
• Temperature: Must be maintained within specified ranges during testing.

4.3 Test Interruptions

• Test chamber failure: If test conditions are disrupted, the test should be restarted from the last successfully completed temperature level.
• Material failure: If the tested material fails, a new sample should be used, and the test should be restarted.

4.4 Test Implementation Procedures

• Procedure I – Blowing Dust: Tests how dust particles penetrate openings and filters.
• Procedure II – Blowing Sand: Evaluates the erosion effects of sharp-edged sand particles on surfaces.

5. Analysis of Results

Test results are analyzed based on the following:

• Physical damage: Cracking, wear, clogging.
• Functional degradation: Failures in electrical or mechanical components.
• Chemical effects: Changes in material composition.
• Optical systems: Accumulation of particles on lenses or screens.

6. References and Related Documents

• MIL-STD-810H
• NATO STANAG 4370, AECTP 300 (Climatic Environmental Testing, Method 313)
• MIL-HDBK-310 (Global Climatic Data)

Key Features

Application Areas

• Military Equipment: Testing devices designed to operate in desert environments.
• Automotive Industry: Assessing the durability of off-road vehicles and other outdoor equipment.
• Consumer Electronics: Evaluating the performance of electronic devices in dusty and/or sandy conditions.

For more detailed information about MIL-STD-810H (Method 510.7) and to place an order, please contact us!