WARNING: The relatively dry test environment combined with the moving air and organic dust particles may cause a buildup of electrostatic energy that could affect operation of the test item. Use caution when making contact with the test item during or following testing if organic dust is used, and be aware of potential anomalies caused by electrostatic discharge during test item checkout.
4.1.4.1.1 Preliminary Steps
Before starting the test, review pretest information in the currently approved test plan to determine test details (e.g., procedures, item configuration, cycles, durations, parameter levels for storage/operation, etc.). (See paragraph 3.1, above.)
- a. Determine from the test plan specific test variables to be used.
- b. Operate the test chamber without the test item to confirm proper operation. Adjust the air system or test item position to obtain the specified air velocity for the test item.
MIL-STD-810H
METHOD 510.7
4.1.4.1.2 Pretest Standard Ambient Checkout
All items require a pretest standard ambient checkout to provide baseline data. Conduct the pretest checkout as follows:
- Step 1. Conduct a complete visual examination of the test item with special attention to sealed areas and small/minute openings, and document the results.
Step 2. Prepare the test item in its operating configuration or as otherwise specified in the test plan. Install test item instrumentation as required by the test plan. When applying surface mount thermocouples, minimize the coverage of the test item surface to the greatest extent possible.
Step 3. Position the test item as near the center of the test chamber as possible and from any other test item (if more than one item is being tested). Orient the test item to expose the most critical or vulnerable parts to the dust stream. Ensure the test item is grounded (either through direct contact with the test chamber or with a grounding strap).
NOTE: If required by the test plan, change the orientation of the test item during the test as specified.
Step 4. Stabilize the test item temperature at standard ambient conditions.
Step 5. Conduct an operational checkout in accordance with the test plan and record results.
Step 6. If the test item operates satisfactorily, proceed to Step 1 of the test procedure. If not, resolve the problem and restart at Step 1 of pretest checkout.