UV Aging Test Chamber

1. Unboxing and Getting to Know the Device

1.1. Key Technical Specifications

 

LISUN Model	UV-263LV	UV-263LS	UV-263LT
Enclosure Structure	Trapezoidal Inner Chamber	Square Inner Box	Desktop Enclosure
Inner Chamber Dimensions (W × D × H)	450 × 1140 × 500 mm	550 × 1140 × 450 mm	500 × 400 × 400 mm
Outer Box Dimensions (W x D x H)	600 × 1325 × 1500 mm	650 × 1300 × 1750 mm	930 × 460 × 630 mm
Temperature Range	RT + 10°C to 70°C
Humidity Range	≥75% RH
Control System	The LCD programmable controller simulates UV exposure, high temperatures, high humidity, rain, condensation, darkness, and other conditions.
UV Lamp Specifications	8 U. S. ATLAS fluorescent tubes, 1200 mm long, 40 W each, 1000 hours per tube		Made in China, 20W per bulb, 3 bulbs total
Irradiation Intensity	0.35–1.2 W/m² adjustable (includes irradiance meter)		0.35–1.0 W/m², adjustable (includes irradiance meter)
Temperature of the irradiated blackboard	50°C–70°C
Distance between the specimen and the lamp tube	70 mm	Adjustable from 70 to 300 mm	50 mm
Specimen Dimensions	48 pieces, 70 × 150 mm	Irregular Specimens	18 pieces, 70 × 150 mm
Water Sources and Consumption	8–10 liters of purified or distilled water per day (to be provided by the customer)

1.2. Unboxing and Checking the Accessories

1.2.1. Unpacking and Visual Inspection

When unpacking the equipment, handle it gently to avoid scratching the exterior casing with sharp tools. After unpacking, first inspect the exterior of the main unit to ensure there is no visible deformation, dents, or peeling paint, and that the panel instruments and buttons are not damaged or loose. If you discover any damage or deformation to the equipment or accessories, do not power it on. Contact LISUN customer service immediately.

1.2.2. Main Unit and Accessories

UV aging test Chamber (desktop model), 1 unit.

Standard accessories include: 1 automatic water-replenishment inlet tube; 6 standard sample holders.

The download links for the digital user manual, warranty card, and other documents have been sent to you via email. Please download them as soon as possible. If you missed the email, please feel free to contact us to request the download links again.

1.3. Description of Equipment Structure

1.3.1. Front of the Test Chamber

① Touchscreen; ② Power switch; ③ Alarm—sounds when the equipment detects an abnormality, such as a lack of water; ④ Test chamber door.

1.3.2. Rear of the Test Chamber

① Power cord; ② Automatic water refill port; ③ Water tank drain; ④ Overflow port.

1.3.3. Inside the Test Chamber

① UV lamp; ② Spray nozzle; ③ Sample holder slots, arranged in two tiers, with each tier holding up to 3 samples; ④ Water tank.

2. Safety Precautions

2.1. Electrical Safety

2.1.1. Power Connection

AC 220 V, 50 Hz, single-phase power. Power outlets must comply with safety standards, provide proper grounding, and have a rated current that matches the equipment’s actual power as indicated on the nameplate (it is recommended to install a dedicated circuit breaker).

2.1.2. Grounding Specifications

The equipment must be reliably grounded, with a grounding resistance of ≤50 Ω. Do not use gas pipes, non-metallic water pipes, or the neutral wire as a substitute for the grounding wire. After grounding is complete, use a Grounding Resistance Tester to measure the grounding resistance. Power may only be applied after confirming that the requirements are met, to prevent electric shock, equipment malfunctions, or measurement errors caused by poor grounding.

2.1.3. Contraindications for the Procedure

Before wiring, inspecting, or maintaining the equipment, you must turn off the circuit breaker on the back of the equipment and disconnect the main power supply. Confirm that there is no residual voltage before proceeding;

Do not operate the equipment’s power switch, touchscreen, or instrument buttons with wet hands to avoid the risk of electric shock;

Do not place any foreign objects (such as tools or paper) inside the electrical control cabinet to prevent dust or foreign objects from causing short circuits or damaging components;

Do not plug in or unplug power cords or signal cables while the equipment is running to prevent short circuits that could damage the controller or electrical components.

2.2. Operational Safety

2.2.1. Test Specimen Requirements

The equipment must not be used for testing flammable, explosive, toxic, or highly corrosive substances (such as alcohol, gasoline, strong acids, and strong alkalis). Since the equipment is not equipped with explosion-proof devices, the use of such substances may cause fires, explosions, or corrosion of the equipment.

2.2.2. Operational Safety

While the equipment is in operation, non-professionals are prohibited from disassembling or repairing it. In the event of a malfunction, contact after-sales service personnel or operate the equipment under the guidance of a technician;

Do not open the chamber door during the test. The lamps emit strong ultraviolet radiation when in operation, which may cause severe sunburn or eye inflammation (similar to “snow blindness”);

Do not set the temperature beyond the range specified for the equipment;

If the equipment triggers an alarm, immediately stop the test and troubleshoot the problem (see “Chapter 7: Troubleshooting and Resolving Common Problems”). Do not force the equipment to restart, as operating it before the problem is resolved may cause further damage to the equipment.

2.2.3. Prohibited Conduct

Do not open the control cabinet door while the equipment is running to avoid touching internal high-voltage components and causing an electric shock;

Do not disassemble core components such as temperature sensors and heating elements without authorization. Modifying the equipment will void the warranty and may result in safety incidents;

Do not place heavy objects (such as tools or accessories) on top of the equipment to avoid damaging the equipment panel or impairing heat dissipation;

Do not stack flammable items (such as cardboard boxes, plastic wrap, etc.) around the equipment.

2.3. Environmental Safety

2.3.1. Installation Requirements

The equipment must be installed in an air-conditioned room where the ambient temperature is maintained between 5°C and 25°C and the relative humidity is ≤85%. If the ambient humidity is high, condensation may form near the equipment door and test ports; in such cases, improve room ventilation or use a dehumidifier;

The installation site must be free of high concentrations of dust, corrosive gases (such as sulfur dioxide and chlorine), and flammable or explosive atmospheres. Direct sunlight must not be allowed to shine on the equipment to prevent corrosion of the equipment housing and deterioration of electrical components;

Keep the device away from areas with significant fluctuations in ambient temperature, such as near vents or indoor entrances, to prevent the device’s temperature control accuracy from being affected.

2.3.2. Space Requirements

The distance between the equipment enclosure and the wall, as well as surrounding structures (such as other test equipment and shelving), must be at least 1500 mm to ensure unobstructed ventilation at the equipment’s heat vents (rear and sides);

At least 2000 mm of space must be reserved at the equipment door opening to ensure the door can be opened in any direction, facilitating the placement and removal of samples.

2.3.3. Horizontal Placement

The device must be placed on a level surface. Use a level to ensure the device is level: Place the level on the top surface of the device and make sure the bubble is centered.

If the equipment is tilted, it may cause uneven temperature distribution inside the chamber and poor door sealing, which can affect test results and the equipment’s service life.

2.4. Other

For matters not covered in this manual, please proceed with caution or contact us.

3. Preparations Before the Test

3.1. Pipe Connections

Drain opening: Open only when you need to empty the tank, and connect a 10-mm-ID silicone hose to the drain.

For the automatic water inlet, we provide a water tube with an outer diameter of 6 mm. Please connect it to a purified water source with a pressure of 0.3 MPa; we recommend using a water purifier for a continuous water supply.

Overflow outlet: A small amount of water may flow out while the equipment is in use. Please connect a 10-mm-diameter silicone hose to the drain.

3.2. Filling the Water Tank

Open the test chamber door, remove the shelf, and check the water tank for impurities or standing water (clean the inside of the water tank before first use).

Before adding water, check whether the drain valve on the water tank is in the “closed” position (the valve is closed when it is parallel to the tank body and open when it is perpendicular); if the drain valve is not closed, close it immediately to prevent water leakage from the tank;

The water tank must be filled with purified water (do not use tap water or bottled water, to prevent limescale from clogging the humidifier or corroding the water lines),

① Low-level float; ② High-level float. Add distilled water until the high-level float rises, and the low-water alarm will be cleared.

After adding water, put the divider back in place.

Note: If you have the automatic water refill feature connected, the device will automatically refill the water when it starts up and detects a low water level.

3.3. Starting Up The UV Aging Test Chamber

Verify that the external power supply and ground connection are correct. Press the “Power Switch” on the control panel and wait 5 seconds; the instrument will automatically enter the main screen.

The first time you use the device, if you haven’t manually filled the water tank and the automatic refill system is connected, a low-water alarm will sound after you turn it on. The device will then automatically refill the tank, and the alarm will clear once the refill is complete.

If any other alarms persist, first refer to Chapter 7 to troubleshoot them. Once all alarms have been cleared, the system will enter standby mode, at which point you can configure the parameters.

3.4. Sample Placement Procedure

3.4.1. Sample Placement

Remove the circular clamp and the stop from the sample slot:

Each slot can hold three standard samples measuring 70 mm × 150 mm, with the test surface facing inward. After placing the samples, reinstall the clamps and baffles, then install the samples and slots inside the test chamber. Make sure the test surface of the samples faces the UV lamp.

3.4.2. Closing the Cabinet Door

Gently push the cabinet door to ensure it fits snugly against the weatherstripping, with no gaps (if there are gaps, check to see if the door has sagged or if the weatherstripping has deteriorated; make minor adjustments to the door hinges or clean the weatherstripping).

After closing the cabinet door, make sure the latch is securely engaged to prevent the door from opening unexpectedly during operation.

4. Touchscreen Program Operation of The UV Aging Test Chamber

4.1. Introduction to the System Main Screen

① Fixed-value test; ② Programmed test; ③ Operation settings; ④ Fault log; ⑤ Scheduled settings.

4.2. Calibration Test

4.2.1. Introduction to the Calibration Test Screen

Click “Fixed-Value Test.” ① Test chamber temperature display; ② Test chamber temperature setting; ③ Black panel temperature display; ④ Black panel temperature setting; ⑤ UV irradiance display; ⑥ No UV irradiance setting is required; the equipment will perform the test at maximum irradiance;⑦ Control mode selection: Condensation, UV (black plate temperature), UV (test chamber temperature), spray, or turntable; ⑧ Parameter settings; ⑨ Test curve; ⑩ Start/stop the test.

4.2.2. Introduction to the Fixed Parameter Settings Screen

Click “Settings.” ① For long tests, set this to “ON” to configure the test duration; set it to “OFF” to stop the test manually. ② Spray settings: You can choose between continuous spraying and cyclic spraying. ③ Wait function options.

Waiting Function Screen Overview: ① Select whether to enable or disable the waiting function; ② Test chamber temperature waiting range—if set to 2°C, the target temperature is considered reached when the actual temperature differs from the target temperature by 2°C; ③ Blackboard temperature waiting range—if set to 2°C, the target temperature is considered reached when the actual temperature differs from the target temperature by 2°C;④ UV irradiance wait range: If set to 0.1, the target irradiance is considered achieved when the actual irradiance differs by 0.1 from the target value; ⑤ Maximum wait time: Can be set to 1 hour; if the target value is not reached within the maximum wait time, that segment will be skipped.

Note: When the wait function is enabled, the test duration will not begin to be calculated until all parameters of the test chamber have reached their target values. If the maximum wait time is reached but certain parameters have still not reached their target values, the test duration will begin to be calculated. However, if a parameter fails to reach its target value for an extended period, this may indicate a problem; please refer to Chapter 7 for troubleshooting.

4.2.3. Calibration Test

In condensation mode, you only need to set the test chamber temperature; during the test, the black panel temperature, UV illumination, and spray functions will not be activated;

In UV (black panel temperature) mode, you must set the black panel temperature and UV irradiance; during the test, the test chamber temperature control and spray function will remain off;

In UV (chamber temperature) mode, you must set the chamber temperature and UV light intensity; during the test, the blackboard temperature and spray function will not be activated;

In spray mode, the test chamber temperature, black panel temperature, and UV irradiation functions are all turned off during the test; only the spray function is active.

4.3. Program Testing

4.3.1. Introduction to the Program Test Screen

Click “Program Test.” ① Select and display the number of the currently running program; ② Display the number of the currently running segment; ③ Edit the program.

4.3.2. Introduction to the Program Editor Screen

Click “Edit.”① Enter the program number you want to edit. Be sure to avoid duplicating existing program numbers; up to 120 programs can be set. ② Customize the program name. ③ Number of cycles; if no cycles are needed, enter 1. ④ Link to another program: If this program needs to automatically link to another program upon completion, enter the corresponding program number; otherwise, enter 0.⑤ Switch to another test segment; ⑥ Set the test mode for this segment: Condensation/UV/Spray; ⑦ Test duration—set the duration to -0.01 for any test segments that are not required;⑧ Chamber temperature setting; ⑨ Black panel temperature setting; ⑩ UV irradiance setting; 11 Spray function switch: If this test segment involves spraying, set the spray function switch to ON.

Note 1: If temperature or light intensity needs to be set for this test segment, the same parameters must be set for two segments. The first segment is the transition phase; set the test duration to 1 minute (the actual duration may exceed 1 minute), during which the test chamber will reach the required temperature or light intensity as quickly as possible. The second segment is the actual test phase; set the test duration to the required length.

4.3.3. Wait Function Settings

Click “WAIT” in the upper-right corner.
① The wait function must be enabled during program testing; ② Temperature wait range: If set to 2°C, the target temperature is considered reached when the actual temperature differs by 2°C from the target temperature; ③ UV irradiance wait range: No setting is required; the device will perform the test at maximum irradiance;④ Maximum wait time: If the target value is not reached within the maximum wait time, that segment will be skipped.

The wait function in program testing is primarily used during transition phases within a program; that is, once the test chamber reaches the set temperature and light intensity, it automatically skips the transition phase and proceeds to the next phase for the actual test.

4.3.4. Program Testing

① Click “Start”; ② Displays the current program number and segment number; ③ “Hold” allows the program to continue running the current test segment until you click to cancel this function; ④ “Skip Segment”: Click to skip the current test segment.

4.4. Introduction to the Settings Screen

You can configure the display language and power failure restart mode (Stop: When power is restored after an interruption during operation, the system returns to the “Stop” state; Cold Start: When power is restored after an interruption during operation, the system restarts from the first segment; Hot Start: After a power outage during operation, operation resumes from the segment where it was interrupted prior to the outage, restoring the system to its pre-outage state when power is restored).

4.5. Introduction to the Fault Log Screen

Display historical fault records.

4.6. Introduction to the Appointment Settings Screen

① Set the system’s current time; ② Set the scheduled time; ③ Schedule function: Once enabled, the device will automatically run the currently selected test at the scheduled time.

4.7. Monitoring of the Test Operation Process

Moisture levels will decrease during the condensation test; please ensure that the automatic water refill port is properly connected to a source of purified water.

5. Post-Test Procedures

5.1. Termination of the Test

Wait for the test to complete normally; the device will then enter standby mode. If you need to terminate the test early, click the “Stop” button on the corresponding screen, and the device will enter standby mode.

5.2. Sample Retrieval and Handling

Wear protective gloves, open the test chamber door, remove the sample, and place it in the designated area. Record any changes in the sample’s appearance (such as fading or cracking), and conduct further analysis in accordance with the test standards.

Note: Do not open the test chamber door while the UV lamp is on.

5.3. Immediate Cleaning of Equipment

Wipe down the sample rack and the interior surfaces of the equipment with a clean cloth to remove any residual dust or sample debris.

Check the water level in the tank. If the water level is low, top it off with purified water to the standard level (to make it ready for the next use).

If a spray test has been conducted, open the drain valve to empty any remaining water from the tank, clean the tank, and then refill it with water.

5.4. Exporting and Saving Data

Verify that the USB flash drive is connected (the USB port is located on the back of the touchscreen), navigate to the historical data or graph screen, and select the test data or graph you want to export.

Click the “Export” button, wait for the export to complete, then safely remove the USB drive and back up the data to your computer.

Record key test information (such as program number, test duration, sample name, etc.) to facilitate future traceability.

5.5. Shutting Down the Equipment

If you will not be conducting any more tests that day, please turn off the test chamber and unplug the power cord.

6. Daily Maintenance and Care of Equipment

6.1. Regular Cleaning

Cleaning the Chamber: Clean the chamber every 3–6 months. After disconnecting the power supply, remove the sample rack and wipe down the sample rack, the bottom of the water tray, and the inner walls of the chamber to remove floating debris and solid impurities.

Tank Cleaning: Clean the tank once a month. Drain any standing water from the tank, then wipe down the inside walls with a clean cloth to remove limescale and debris, preventing clogs in the nozzles or damage to the water pump.

Nozzle Cleaning: Check once a week. If you notice uneven spraying or no water coming out, rinse the nozzle with clean water to remove any blockages (do not use hard objects to clear the blockage).

Cleaning the Touchscreen: Wipe it with a dry, clean cloth, and avoid letting moisture seep into the screen’s crevices.

6.2. Maintenance and Replacement of Light Tubes

Inspect the appearance of the light tubes weekly. If you notice any cracks, discoloration, or abnormal flickering, replace them promptly.

Record the cumulative operating time of the lamp. When the irradiance drops significantly (below 80% of the set value), the lamp must be replaced even if it is not broken.

When replacing the fluorescent tubes, remove the panels on both sides of the unit and disconnect all the lamp sockets at both ends of the corresponding tubes, as shown in the figure below:

Then, from inside the test chamber, slowly twist and pull out the fluorescent tube. Install the new fluorescent tube using the same method.

6.3. Equipment Storage and Maintenance During Downtime

Short-term storage (within 1 month): Drain any water from the tank and drip tray, clean the inside and outside of the equipment, disconnect the power supply, leave it in its original location, and ventilate the area regularly.

Long-term inactivity (more than 1 month): In addition to the steps mentioned above, the equipment should be powered on once a month and left running for at least half an hour to prevent electrical components, such as capacitors, from deteriorating.

Before restarting: Check the power supply, piping, and the condition of the lamps; clean the water tank and refill it with water; conduct a 30-minute test run to ensure there are no abnormalities before proceeding with the formal test.

7. Troubleshooting and Resolving Common Problems

7.1. Startup Failures

7.1.1. Symptom: The device fails to start, and the power indicator light does not illuminate.

Possible causes: A faulty external power switch, a tripped circuit breaker, or a loose power plug.

Solution: Check that the power plug is securely plugged in, and test the unit by plugging it into a different outlet. If the circuit breaker trips, check for a short circuit and then reset it. If the power switch is damaged, contact the manufacturer for repairs.

7.1.2. Symptom: The power indicator light is on, but the touchscreen does not respond

Possible causes: Touchscreen calibration error, controller malfunction.

Solution: Disconnect the power supply for 3 minutes, then reconnect it; go to the second screen of the operation settings to calibrate the touchscreen; if calibration fails, contact the manufacturer to have the controller repaired.

7.2. Operational Failures

7.2.1. Symptom: Temperature/irradiation intensity does not reach the setpoint during operation

Possible causes: aged lamp tubes, heater malfunction, sensor malfunction, or ambient temperature outside the specified range.

Troubleshooting: Check the cumulative operating time of the lamp and replace it if necessary; ensure the ambient temperature is between 5 and 25°C and that ventilation is adequate; if the sensor or heater is malfunctioning, contact the manufacturer for repairs.

7.2.2. Failure Symptom: An alarm is triggered during operation

Possible causes: Low water level in the tank, loose connection in the light tube, or parameter settings outside the specified range.

Troubleshooting: View the alarm log screen to identify the type of fault; if the water tank is low on water, verify that the automatic refill system is properly connected; if there is a loose connection with the fluorescent tube, unplug and replug it; if parameters are out of range, enter the settings menu and adjust them to the appropriate range.

7.3. Sprinkler System Malfunction

7.3.1. Symptoms: Insufficient spray pressure; water flow is weak

Possible causes: The pump pressure is not properly adjusted, the water level in the tank is too low, or the nozzle is clogged.

Solution: Turn the pressure调节valve above the pump clockwise to increase pressure; top off the water tank to the standard level; and clear any blockages from the nozzles.

7.3.2. Symptom: The pump starts but no water is sprayed.

Possible causes: Lack of water in the pump, clogged pipes, or a completely clogged nozzle.

Solution: Disconnect the power supply and pour purified water into the pump’s inlet; check whether the spray lines are clear; thoroughly clean or replace any clogged nozzles.

7.4. Communication Failures

7.4.1. Symptom: The touchscreen displays “————,” and the data does not update.

Possible causes: Poor connection between the controller and the control board; damaged communication lines.

Solution: Disconnect the power supply, check whether the internal communication cables are loose, and reconnect them; if the cables are damaged, contact the manufacturer to have them replaced.

7.5. Data Export Issues

7.5.1. Symptom: Unable to export data or curves

Possible causes: The USB flash drive is not formatted, poor contact with the USB port, or insufficient storage space on the device.

Solution: Format the USB drive to FAT32, then reconnect it; try a different USB drive; delete some old data to free up storage space.