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Accelerated Weather Testing

Produce higher quality products that are more durable by revealing the effects that sunlight and elevated moisture will have on outdoor furniture, construction materials and other outdoor-use products.

The outdoor space has become an extension of our daily living spaces.

Overview

Outdoor furniture, construction materials and other outdoor-use items are constantly subjected to sunlight, moisture and extreme temperatures that can take a toll on their appearance and performance over time. Our accelerated weather testing reproduces the effects of prolonged outdoor exposure in a matter of weeks. Conducted in our state-of-the art laboratories using specialized equipment, accelerated weather testing provides important information about the impact these elements could have on your products.

Our industry-leading testing equipment enables us to test materials by exposing them to alternating cycles of ultraviolet (UV)light and moisture at controlled, elevated temperatures. It also simulates the effects of sunlight by using fluorescent UV lamps while simulating moisture by using condensed humidity and/or water spray. Under these rugged yet realistic conditions, materials can be evaluated for damage, including color change, loss of shine, chalking, cracking, hazing, blistering, strength loss and oxidation.

Benefits

If your products are regularly subjected to the elements, such as rain, snow, sleet or hail, our testing can provide critical insights to help you assess and improve product quality and durability. In addition, our accelerated weather testing can be used to evaluate customer complaints and provide more detailed care instructions. If your products are subject to regulations, we can also help ensure that they meet those regulatory requirements and provide an audit trail in case of questions or litigation.

Why UL Solutions

UL Solutions’ accelerated weather testing is unparalleled in the industry, meaning that it can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Our state-of-the-art equipment can simulate a variety of weather conditions—from the hottest sunny days to the wettest rainy ones—giving you the information you need to create better, more durable products. We’ll help you gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace by showcasing your product’s weather ability, light stability and corrosion resistance.

Related standards

  • ASTM G-154 Standard Practice for Operating Fluorescent Light Apparatus for UV Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials
  • ASTM D-4329 Standard Practice for Light/Water Exposure of Plastics
  • ASTM D-4587 Standard Practice for Light/Water Exposure of Paint
  • ISO 4892 Plastics Methods of Exposure to Laboratory Light Sources-Part 3: Fluorescent UV Lamps

UL Solutions Retail Center of Excellence in Arkansas, USA

Take a look inside our new, extensive Retail Center of Excellence in Lowell, AR, which houses a rain room and environmental chambers that simulate outdoor environmental challenges to test the performance and quality of outdoor furniture, sporting goods, tents, tools, electronics and more.

Additional resources
Creating

Creating Healthier Furniture and Building Materials by Minimizing Chemical Emissions

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