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Test Chamber Fixtures

Test chamber fixtures are specialized tools, grips and nests that are crafted to securely hold products within environmental chambers, ensuring consistent testing for quality control, leak detection, and material properties. Custom-designed for specific applications, these fixtures minimize air volume negative effect to DUT’s to enhance sensitivity. Different types are available that include PCB functional tests, compression fixtures and other custom solutions.

Common Types Test Chamber Fixtures Types

  • Leak Testing Fixtures: Drawer fixtures from Z Axis Inc. and specialized nests that secure components to identify tiny leaks, often using pressurized air.
  • Environmental Test Fixtures (PCB): Functional test products from Circuit Check, including PCB "bed of nails" setups (in-circuit or functional) that can endure temperature and humidity stresses.
  • Material Testing Fixtures: Grips and fixtures from Thwing-Albert and MTS systems that are specialized for tensile and compression testing under extreme temperatures (e.g., V-notched rail shear, climbing drum peel).
  • Battery Testing Fixtures: Safety fixtures from Associated Environmental Systems designed to comply with high hazard levels (EUCAR level 7) to prevent thermal events during testing.
  • Electrical Component Testing: HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Test) and HASS (Highly Accelerated Stress Screening).

Key Considerations for Fixtures

  • Material Selection: Fixtures must be able to withstand extreme temperature cycling (hot/cold), humidity, or corrosion resistance.
  • Customization: Often designed in-house or by specialists to fit the precise dimensions of the device under test (DUT), minimizing void space and enhancing test accuracy.
  • Compatibility: Environmental test chambers from Russell's Technical Products and Instron are compatible with various standard testing machines, offering options for roller brackets or fixed mounting.
  • Safety & Compliance: Many fixtures, particularly for battery or aerospace testing, are designed to meet standards such as MIL-STD-810H.

Key Features and Applications

  • Actuation Methods: Pneumatic test fixtures often feature pneumatic actuation, allowing for automated, high-volume testing as well as being suitable for low-volume high-mix solutions.
  • Probing: Precision test fixtures offer specialized topside, backside, or high-density probing.
  • Industries Served: Aerospace, medical, industrial, automotive, robotics, and electronics.

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