Xenon Arc Testing

Accelerate your product development and prevent costly failures with our comprehensive xenon arc testing services. We help you validate material durability in a fraction of the time through advanced accelerated exposure testing, delivering accurate UV degradation data that ensures your products meet real-world performance requirements.

Xenon Arc Testing
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What is Xenon Arc testing at Element?

Xenon arc testing simulates the effects of sunlight, moisture, and heat on materials using precision gas discharge lamps in controlled environmental conditions. At Element, we provide advanced weatherometer testing that accurately reproduces full-spectrum solar radiation to evaluate material durability for both indoor and outdoor applications.

What can Element offer you for Xenon Arc testing?

Key tests offered

Our xenon arc testing services simulate both direct outdoor sunlight and through-window-glass indoor exposure conditions. We provide controlled environmental testing combining UV exposure, moisture, and temperature to accurately replicate real-world conditions. Filtered xenon arc light sources and customizable filter combinations allow precise simulation of solar radiation under specific field conditions. Humidifiers provide moisture, while heaters manage temperature allowing our expert team to closely mimic natural, or accelerated weathering cycles.

 

Components and materials we test

We test a comprehensive range of materials requiring durability validation, from paints and coatings to polymeric materials for outdoor applications. Our expertise spans automotive and aerospace components, textiles for colorfastness, and inks for polymer damage assessment.

Methods and solutions offered

Using advanced weatherometers, we conduct accelerated exposure testing that compresses years of outdoor exposure into shorter timeframes. Our controlled testing environments ensure precise simulation of environmental conditions, delivering accurate degradation data for informed decision-making. Our testing methods are adaptable, with a range of xenon arc configurations and optical filters available to replicate your specific field service environment.

Cutting-edge equipment we use

Our laboratories feature state-of-the-art xenon arc weatherometers utilizing long arc lamps, where the arc length exceeds the arc diameter, providing the closest approximation of full-spectrum solar radiation. These systems combine precision light filtering, humidity control, and temperature regulation for accurate environmental replication.

Which labs offer this service?

Our team operates from Materials Testing hubs across the world, providing global access to our expert capabilities. Find your nearest Materials Testing hub on our Locations Page.

Standards we test to and materials we test

These are our most prevalent requests. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us!

Our Engaged Experts conduct xenon arc testing in compliance with the primary standards established by international organizations, including:

  • American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists - AATCC 16.3
  • American Society for Testing and Materials - ASTM G155; ASTM D4798/D4798M (xenon arc method); ASTM D2565; ASTM D4459; ASTM D7869
  • Society of Automotive Engineers - SAE J1885; SAE J1960; SAE J2412; SAE J2527

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

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Time-Critical Development

Accelerate your product validation with our advanced weatherometers that compress years of exposure testing into a fraction of the time, helping you meet demanding market schedules.
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Product Failure Prevention

Get accurate UV degradation data through precise environmental simulation, allowing you to identify and address potential durability issues before they impact your products.
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Complex Environmental Requirements

Access testing that simultaneously replicates sunlight, moisture, and heat exposure through advanced xenon arc technology that matches your specific field service conditions.
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Standards Compliance

Meet all regulatory requirements with our comprehensive testing programs that comply with major international standards from AATCC, ASTM, and SAE.

Why Choose Element

Industry-Leading Technology

Our xenon arc lamps provide the closest match to natural sunlight available in artificial testing.

Comprehensive Testing Capabilities

From automotive to aerospace, we test a complete range of materials and components.

Global Testing Network

Access our testing expertise through our laboratories across UK, USA, Europe, and Asia.

Full Standards Compliance

Meet all major international testing requirements through our accredited services.

Frequently asked questions

How does xenon arc testing differ from other light sources?

Unlike electrical carbon arcs, xenon arc uses precision gas discharge lamps in sealed quartz tubes, providing the closest simulation of natural sunlight available for accelerated exposure testing.  

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Related Articles and Events

Webinar - How to Prepare for Success: DO-160 Environmental Testing Requirements

Download a free webinar on RTCA/DO-160 Environmental test requirements presented by Element's John Homan.

Aug 20, 2025

ASTM G154 and ASTM G155 Explained

Engaged Expert Terry Candlish discusses ASTM G154 and G155 tests which are used to evaluate sunlight and moisture exposure. ASTM G154 and G155 tests empower manufacturers to design products that can withstand exposure to sunlight and moisture.

Apr 25, 2024

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+1 888 786 7555

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