What is IEC en 60068-26:2008?

IEC en 60068-26:2008, also known as Environmental testing - Part 26: Assessment of combined cold and dry heat storage tests, is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It provides guidelines for evaluating the combined effect of extreme temperature variations, specifically cold and dry heat, on a wide range of products, materials, and equipment.

The Purpose of IEC en 60068-26:2008

The primary purpose of IEC en 60068-26:2008 is to assess how well a product or material can withstand severe environmental conditions that involve alternating exposure to cold and dry heat. The standard defines specific test procedures and test parameters that need to be followed to ensure accurate and consistent assessments across different industries and applications.

This standard helps manufacturers, independent testing laboratories, and other stakeholders to:

Identify potential weaknesses or vulnerabilities in products or materials due to temperature fluctuations

Evaluate the performance and reliability of a product when subjected to combined cold and dry heat

Define appropriate protective measures and design improvements to enhance the product's durability and functionality

Compare and communicate the test results effectively between different organizations and countries

The Test Methods

IEC en 60068-26:2008 outlines specific test methods that must be followed to simulate the effects of combined cold and dry heat storage on a product or material. These include:

Cold storage: The product is placed in a low-temperature storage environment (-10°C to -40°C) for a defined duration.

Dry heat storage: After the cold storage, the product is then transferred to a dry heat storage environment (50°C to 70°C) for a defined duration.

Recovery period: The product is returned to normal room conditions for a specified recovery period to assess any potential damage or alterations caused by the extreme temperature exposure.

Benefits of Using IEC en 60068-26:2008

By adhering to the guidelines provided by IEC en 60068-26:2008, manufacturers and testing laboratories can:

Enhance product reliability and longevity by identifying weak points and making necessary design improvements

Ensure compliance with international standards and regulations related to environmental testing

Minimize the risk of product failures due to temperature variations

Improve product quality by determining the effects of extreme temperatures on performance and functionality

The use of this standard promotes consistency, transparency, and reliability in assessing the combined effect of cold and dry heat storage on products, materials, and equipment across various industries.