Feuchtezyklusprüfung

Feuchtezyklusprüfung, also known as humidity cycling or damp heat testing, is a type of environmental stress test used to assess the reliability and durability of electronic components, materials, and products. The process involves subjecting the item to repeated cycles of high humidity and elevated temperature, followed by a cool-down phase. This cyclical exposure is designed to simulate real-world conditions where products might experience fluctuations in temperature and moisture, such as changes in climate or during operational use.

The primary purpose of feuchtezyklusprüfung is to identify potential failure mechanisms that can arise from the ingress of moisture. Moisture can lead to various detrimental effects, including corrosion of metallic parts, delamination of materials, degradation of insulation, and electrical shorts. By accelerating these processes under controlled laboratory conditions, manufacturers can gain insights into the long-term performance and lifespan of their products.

Typically, the test parameters include specific temperature and humidity levels, as well as the duration of each phase within a cycle. For example, a common cycle might involve exposure to 85°C and 85% relative humidity for a set period, followed by a rapid temperature decrease. The number of cycles is determined by the expected service life of the product and the level of confidence required. After the testing is complete, the product is examined for any signs of degradation or failure, and its electrical and mechanical performance is re-evaluated. Feuchtezyklusprüfung is a critical step in product development and quality assurance for many industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics.