
Thermal Shock Testing

Thermal shock testing is a critical step in ensuring that products can endure the most extreme environmental conditions. Thermal shock tests involve rapid temperature changes typically exceeding 15°C per minute as opposed to temperature cycle testing which usually feature transition rates below 15°C per minute. These rapid transitions between hot and cold temperatures reveal weaknesses that may not surface under steady conditions, helping manufacturers deliver robust, reliable products. For industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics, where reliability is non-negotiable, Thermal Shock Chambers, provide precise and efficient testing solutions.
Engineered to meet international testing standards, ESPEC thermal shock chambers, available in the UK though Unitemp, are designed for accuracy, energy efficiency, and user convenience. Whether you’re testing a compact component or a heavy-duty system, these chambers offer the versatility to handle diverse requirements.
Common types of failures uncovered during thermal shock testing include:
- Material Cracking and Fractures
- Delamination
- Warping and Deformation
- Component Fatigue and Microcracking
- Seal and Gasket Failure
- Solder Joint Failures
- Electrical Failures inc Open circuits & short circuits
- Insulation Breakdown
- Corrosion or Oxidation
- Adhesive and Bonding Failures
Tailored Solutions for Every Need
The TSA Series, ESPECs best-selling damper-type chamber, is ideal for larger or heavier specimens, offering capacities from 40 to 300 litres. Its stationary design ensures that specimens remain motionless during testing, eliminating any mechanical interference. Pre-conditioned air enables rapid temperature recovery, accelerating the testing process without compromising precision.
For laboratories with limited space, the TSE Series provides a compact, elevator-type solution. With a capacity of 11 litres, it delivers rapid temperature cycling, transitioning between +150°C and -65°C in under five minutes. Despite its small size, the TSE Series meets rigorous international standards, making it perfect for low-volume, high-precision applications.
For larger-scale testing needs, the TSD Series combines capacity with innovation. Its 100-litre two-zone design offers outstanding temperature uniformity, ensuring consistent thermal stress distribution. Intelligent refrigeration systems optimise energy use, reducing power consumption by up to 30%. The chamber also supports remote monitoring via Ethernet, enabling users to control and oversee tests with ease.
Uniting Precision, Efficiency, and Compliance
Across the entire range, ESPEC thermal shock chambers are built for reliability and compliance. They meet stringent international standards, including IEC 60068-2-14 Na and MIL-STD-883L, ensuring that your testing aligns with global requirements. Their advanced insulation and intelligent temperature control systems maximise energy efficiency, making them as cost-effective as they are precise.
These chambers are invaluable for applications where failure is not an option. Electronics manufacturers can test the durability of sensitive components exposed to extreme environmental changes, while automotive engineers use thermal shock chambers to validate the reliability of critical systems. In aerospace, materials and components undergo testing to ensure performance under rapid temperature transitions experienced during flight.
Why Choose Unitemp for ESPEC Thermal Shock Chambers?
As the exclusive UK distributor of ESPEC thermal shock chambers, Unitemp is committed to providing customers with industry-leading solutions and dedicated support. From consultation to after-sales service, our team ensures that you have the tools and expertise needed to achieve accurate, consistent results.
Every ESPEC chamber comes with a free 3-year warranty, giving you peace of mind alongside cutting-edge performance. Whether your testing needs are compact or high-capacity, ESPEC chambers deliver the precision and reliability required for even the most demanding environments.
Contact us today to explore the range and find the perfect solution for your testing requirements.
For more information on Thermal Shock Testing talk to Unitemp Ltd