High and Low Temperature Resistance Testing Service

High and Low Temperature Resistance Testing Service – Accredited Thermal Endurance Assessment for Materials, Components, and Finished Products

For Bangladeshi manufacturers, importers, and quality engineers across the electronics, automotive, construction, renewable energy, and consumer goods sectors, confirming that products can withstand extreme thermal conditions – from scorching summer heat to unexpected winter chills – is essential for reliability, safety, and long‑term performance. Our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory offers a comprehensive high and low temperature resistance testing service that simulates the full range of thermal environments experienced during storage, transport, and operation, using programmable environmental chambers with precise temperature control and rapid transition capabilities. With decades of experience in thermal testing and failure analysis, we help you qualify new materials, verify imported shipments, and comply with the rigorous requirements of the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI), the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA), and international standards such as IEC, ASTM, ISO, and MIL‑STD.

Product Samples We Regularly Test

We accept a diverse range of products, sub‑assemblies, and raw materials that are subject to temperature extremes in their service life. Our chambers accommodate everything from miniature electronic components to large industrial panels and complete equipment enclosures. Common samples include:

• Electronic and electrical equipment – printed circuit boards, power supplies, sensors, connectors, relays, and control panels.
• Automotive components – interior trim, dashboard electronics, lighting assemblies, sensors, and under‑hood parts.
• Polymer and plastic products – pipes, fittings, seals, gaskets, films, sheets, and injection‑moulded parts.
• Construction and building materials – roofing membranes, insulation panels, sealants, adhesives, and glass products.
• Renewable energy equipment – solar PV modules, battery packs, inverters, and charge controllers.
• Packaging and consumer goods – plastic containers, flexible packaging, and household appliances.
• Rubber and elastomeric components – O‑rings, belts, hoses, and vibration mounts.
• Coated surfaces and finishes – painted panels, powder‑coated parts, and anodised aluminium.

High Temperature Resistance and Heat Aging Testing

Elevated temperatures can accelerate chemical degradation, softening, and oxidation. Our high and low temperature resistance testing service subjects materials to controlled heat exposure, with continuous monitoring of physical, mechanical, and electrical properties:

• High‑temperature exposure test (ASTM D3045, ISO 188, IEC 60068‑2‑2) – We place the specimen in a forced‑air or gravity‑convection oven at a specified temperature (commonly 70°C, 85°C, 100°C, 125°C, or up to 300°C for specialised materials) for a defined duration (e.g., 7, 30, 100, or 1,000 hours). After exposure, we evaluate changes in mass, dimensions, colour, tensile strength, hardness, and electrical insulation resistance. The results are compared with unexposed controls to quantify the degradation.
• Heat aging and life prediction (IEC 60216, ASTM D3012, ISO 2578) – We perform a series of aging tests at multiple temperatures (e.g., 100°C, 120°C, 140°C) and use the Arrhenius model to extrapolate the material’s thermal endurance index (TEI) and relative thermal index (RTI) – essential for determining the maximum continuous service temperature of plastics and electrical insulation.
• Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA – ISO 11358, ASTM E2550) for decomposition temperature – In parallel with aging, we measure the onset temperature of thermal decomposition, identifying the safe processing and service temperature limits for polymers and composites.
• Hot‑set test for crosslinked polymers (IEC 60811‑2‑1, ISO 1817) – For crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) and rubber cables, we apply a constant tensile load at elevated temperature (e.g., 200°C) and measure the elongation after a set time, verifying the degree of crosslinking and thermal stability.
• Heat deflection temperature (HDT) and Vicat softening point (ISO 75, ASTM D648, ISO 306, ASTM D1525) – We measure the temperature at which a test bar deflects under a specified load (1.82 MPa or 0.45 MPa) or the temperature at which a flat‑ended needle penetrates the specimen to a defined depth. These parameters indicate the upper service temperature limits for rigid plastics.

Low Temperature Resistance and Cold Flexibility Testing

Low temperatures can make materials brittle, rigid, or prone to cracking. Our service includes a comprehensive suite of cold‑climate simulations:

• Low‑temperature exposure test (IEC 60068‑2‑1, ASTM D2137, ISO 812) – We condition the specimen at a specified sub‑zero temperature (commonly ‑10°C, ‑25°C, ‑40°C, or ‑55°C) for a defined duration (typically 4 to 96 hours). Afterwards, we perform visual inspection, hardness measurement, and, where applicable, electrical continuity checks to detect embrittlement, cracking, or functional failure.
• Cold bend and impact test (ASTM D2137, ISO 812, ASTM D746) – For elastomers and plastics, we bend or impact the specimen at low temperature and examine for cracks or fractures. The temperature at which failure occurs is reported as the brittle point – a key parameter for rubber, seal, and cable insulation.
• Low‑temperature compression set (ASTM D395, ISO 815) – After compressing a rubber specimen at a specified low temperature (e.g., ‑25°C) for a defined period and then releasing it, we measure the permanent deformation. A high compression set indicates loss of sealing capability in cold environments.
• Glass transition temperature (Tg) measurement by DSC (ISO 11357‑2, ASTM D3418) – Using differential scanning calorimetry, we determine the Tg of polymers, which marks the onset of molecular segmental motion and the transition from a glassy (hard) to a rubbery (flexible) state. This is a fundamental material property that dictates low‑temperature performance.
• Temperature‑shock impact on metals (ASTM E23, ISO 148, Charpy V‑notch at low temperature) – For structural steels and alloys, we perform impact testing at temperatures as low as ‑40°C to determine the ductile‑to‑brittle transition temperature (DBTT), which is critical for pressure vessels and structural components in cold climates.

Temperature Cycling and Thermal Shock Testing

Temperature cycling and thermal shock combine both high and low extremes with rapid transitions, simulating the daily thermal swings experienced in tropical and continental climates:

• Temperature cycling test (IEC 60068‑2‑14, JESD22‑A104, ASTM E1235) – We subject the specimen to a defined number of cycles (e.g., 50, 100, or 500) between a low temperature (e.g., ‑40°C) and a high temperature (e.g., +85°C), with controlled ramp rates (typically 5°C/min to 15°C/min) and dwell times at each extreme. This test evaluates the resistance to fatigue caused by differential thermal expansion, which often leads to solder joint cracking, delamination, or seal failure.
• Thermal shock test (IEC 60068‑2‑14, MIL‑STD‑883 method 1011, JESD22‑B106) – We use dual‑chamber or liquid‑bath systems to achieve rapid temperature changes (typically >30°C/min), transferring the specimen between hot and cold zones. This is the most aggressive thermal test, used to assess the ability of electronic assemblies, glass, and ceramics to withstand sudden temperature changes (e.g., entering an air‑conditioned room from hot sunlight).
• Power temperature cycling (IEC 60749‑25, JESD22‑A105) – For powered electronic devices, we apply temperature cycling while the device is operating at its nominal voltage and current, simulating the combined thermal and electrical stress encountered in real‑world use. We monitor functional performance throughout the test.
• Thermal cycle with humidity (damp heat cycling – IEC 60068‑2‑30, EN 60068‑2‑30) – We combine temperature cycling (e.g., 25°C to 55°C) with high humidity (93‑100% RH) to create condensation cycles. This test is particularly severe for outdoor electronics and automotive components, revealing corrosion and moisture‑induced degradation.
• Sequential temperature and vibration – combined environment (IEC 60068‑2‑80, ISO 16750‑4) – For automotive and aerospace components, we superimpose vibration on thermal cycling, simulating the real‑world stress of a running engine or aircraft and accelerating failure mechanisms.

Thermal Endurance for Electrical Insulation and Cables

Electrical insulation is highly temperature‑sensitive, as elevated temperatures accelerate dielectric breakdown and mechanical embrittlement. Our testing addresses these critical components:

• Thermal endurance of insulating materials (IEC 60216, ASTM D3045, UL 746B) – We age insulating materials (e.g., enamel, varnish, tape, and sleeving) at multiple temperatures and measure the residual dielectric strength, insulation resistance, and flexibility. The time to a defined end‑point (e.g., 50% retention of original property) is used to establish the thermal class (Class 105, 130, 155, 180, 200, 220, etc.).
• High‑temperature resistance of cable insulations (IEC 60811‑401, UL 44, BS 7211) – For power and control cables, we measure the elongation, tensile strength, and set of the insulation and sheath after thermal aging at elevated temperatures (e.g., 150°C for PVC, 200°C for silicone).
• Dielectric strength after high‑temperature exposure (ASTM D149, IEC 60243‑1) – We perform a dielectric breakdown test on aged and unaged specimens to ensure that the insulation retains sufficient voltage‑holding capability.
• Tracking resistance at elevated temperatures (IEC 60112, ASTM D3638) – For high‑voltage insulators, we measure the resistance to tracking and erosion under combined high temperature and surface contamination (CTI).
• Low‑temperature cable flexibility and impact (IEC 60811‑504, ASTM D746, BS 7211) – We condition cables at low temperatures (e.g., ‑15°C to ‑40°C) and then perform a bend or impact test to verify that the insulation does not crack or fracture during handling and installation.

Testing of Solar PV Modules and Renewable Energy Equipment

Given the rapid growth of solar energy in Bangladesh, our thermal testing services are widely used by PV module importers and renewable energy developers:

• Temperature cycling test for PV modules (IEC 61215‑2, ASTM E1171) – We subject the complete PV module to 200 thermal cycles from ‑40°C to +85°C, following the standardised profile with specified ramp rates and dwell times. After the test, we inspect the module for visual defects, measure insulation resistance, and perform a maximum power output test. A power degradation of less than 5% is required for certification.
• Humidity‑freeze test (IEC 61215‑2, UL 1703) – We combine high humidity (85% RH at 85°C) followed by freeze to ‑40°C, repeated for 10 cycles. This test is designed to assess moisture ingress and its interaction with thermal stress.
• High‑temperature operation test (IEC 61215, EN 50530) – We operate the PV module at its maximum power point inside a temperature chamber at 75°C, monitoring the degradation of output power over time to ensure long‑term stability under hot climate conditions.
• Battery and energy storage thermal testing (IEC 62660‑2, UL 1973, UN 38.3) – For lithium‑ion and lead‑acid battery packs used in solar storage, we perform high‑temperature storage (e.g., 55°C), low‑temperature discharge (e.g., ‑20°C), and thermal cycling between extremes to evaluate capacity retention, internal resistance, and safety.
• Inverter and charge controller thermal endurance (IEC 62040‑3, EN 50091‑3) – We test power electronics at elevated ambient temperatures (up to 70°C) while running at rated load, monitoring for thermal derating, component failures, and output stability.

Thermal Expansion, Dimensional Stability, and Warpage

Temperature changes cause materials to expand and contract. Excessive dimensional change can lead to misalignment, binding, or failure of mechanical assemblies:

• Coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) measurement (ASTM E831, ISO 11359‑2, TMA) – Using thermomechanical analysis (TMA), we measure the linear CTE of metals, plastics, and composites over a defined temperature range (e.g., ‑40°C to +150°C). The CTE is a critical input for design calculations of clearances, interferences, and stress in assemblies.
• Warpage and distortion after thermal cycling (ASTM D3841, ASTM D6272) – For large plastic and composite panels, we measure the change in flatness (flatness deviation) before and after temperature cycling using a coordinate measurement system, quantifying the risk of warpage in service.
• Shrinkage and expansion of moulded parts after high/low temperature exposure (ISO 294‑4, ASTM D955) – We measure the dimensional change of injection‑moulded parts after exposure to specified temperatures, ensuring that critical fits (e.g., bearing housings, sealing surfaces) remain within tolerance.
• Glass transition and volume relaxation (using dilatometry – ASTM E2935, ISO 11357‑2) – For amorphous polymers, we measure the volumetric relaxation and specific volume change through the glass transition region, which affects the long‑term dimensional stability of precision components.
• Thermal expansion compatibility of assemblies (ASTM E228, custom) – For assemblies of dissimilar materials (e.g., metal‑to‑plastic, glass‑to‑metal), we measure the relative expansion between components and predict the induced stresses, helping you avoid cracking or loosening.

Post‑Test Evaluation and Failure Analysis

After completing the temperature exposures, we perform a comprehensive suite of inspections to detect and characterise any damage or degradation:

• Visual and microscopic inspection (ASTM E165, ISO 305) – We examine the specimen for discolouration, surface cracking, blistering, crazing, or warpage, using a magnifying lens or digital microscope. Photographs are taken at standardised magnifications.
• Mechanical property re‑testing – tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness (ISO 527, ASTM D790, ISO 179, ASTM D2240) – We measure the residual tensile strength, elongation, impact resistance, and hardness and compare with pre‑test values to calculate the percentage retention – a direct measure of thermal degradation.
• Electrical property verification – insulation resistance, dielectric strength, and contact resistance (ASTM D257, IEC 60156, ASTM B539) – For electrical components, we verify that the insulation resistance, breakdown voltage, and contact resistance remain within specified limits after thermal exposure.
• Chemical analysis (FTIR, DSC, TGA – ASTM E1252, ISO 11357, ISO 11358) – We analyse the chemical composition and thermal properties of aged specimens to detect oxidation, chain scission, or crosslinking at the molecular level, providing fundamental data for failure diagnosis.
• Weighing and dimension measurement – mass loss, warpage, and swelling – We record the mass change (loss of volatile additives or moisture) and dimensional changes (shrinkage, expansion, or distortion) with high‑precision instruments, providing a quantitative assessment of physical degradation.

Standards Compliance and Calibration

Our thermal testing is conducted under a rigorous quality framework to ensure accurate and reproducible results:

• Calibration of temperature sensors and controllers (ASTM E220, ISO/IEC 17025) – All thermocouples, RTDs, and chamber controllers are calibrated against traceable reference thermometers at multiple points across the temperature range, ensuring measurement uncertainty within ±0.5°C.
• Temperature uniformity and stability verification (ASTM E1157, IEC 60068‑3‑5) – We perform periodic 3‑D temperature mapping of each chamber to identify hot and cold spots, ensuring the entire working volume meets the specified temperature tolerance (typically ±2°C).
• Verification of thermal shock transfer time and recovery (IEC 60068‑2‑14, MIL‑STD‑883) – For thermal shock chambers, we verify the transfer time and the time to reach the new temperature set point after transfer, ensuring compliance with standard requirements.
• Humidity measurement and control (ASTM E337, ISO 4677) – In tests involving humidity, we use calibrated chilled‑mirror dew‑point hygrometers to verify and control the relative humidity within the chamber.
• Regular internal and external proficiency testing (ILC, PT) – Our laboratory participates in inter‑laboratory comparisons for thermal endurance and temperature cycling tests, confirming our results are consistent with the global community.

Report Accreditation and Compliance for Bangladesh

All high and low temperature resistance test methods described above are performed within our ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited quality system, ensuring traceable calibration, validated procedures, and technically competent engineers. Our test reports are recognised by the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) for product certification and import clearance, and they meet the technical documentation requirements of the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) for solar and battery systems, the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) for electrical equipment, and the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) for automotive components. Our reports also satisfy the rigorous demands of export buyers (EU, USA, Middle East) who require compliance with IEC, UL, ISO, and ASTM standards. Each report includes a complete description of the test profile (temperatures, dwell times, ramp rates, cycle counts), pre‑ and post‑test property data, visual documentation, and a professional conclusion on whether the product meets the specified thermal resistance criteria – giving you the confidence to release products to market, approve shipments, and comply with local and international regulations.

Why Choose Our High and Low Temperature Resistance Testing Service

We understand that thermal failures can lead to costly recalls, safety incidents, and reputational damage. Our team provides rapid scheduling, flexible test durations, and clear, actionable interpretations of results – we don’t just report a pass/fail; we explain the margin of safety and suggest improvements to enhance thermal robustness. We work with your design, procurement, and quality teams to select the most appropriate test profile, whether it’s a short‑term screening test or a long‑term endurance test for service life prediction. With a full range of environmental chambers (including benchtop, walk‑in, and custom‑built systems) and advanced analytical instruments, our high and low temperature resistance testing service delivers the accuracy, repeatability, and regulatory acceptance you need. Contact us to discuss your products, expected thermal environments, and certification requirements – we will design a tailored test programme that ensures your materials and components perform reliably, from the scorching rooftops of Dhaka to the cool interiors of air‑conditioned facilities, and everywhere in between.