Citation
(2012), "Corrosion testing takes a step forward with new generation chambers from Ascott Analytical", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 59 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2012.12859cab.014
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2012, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Corrosion testing takes a step forward with new generation chambers from Ascott Analytical
Article Type: New materials and equipment From: Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Volume 59, Issue 3
The UK’s leading manufacturer of corrosion test chambers, Ascott Analytical Equipment Ltd, has launched the next generation of its acclaimed salt spray and cyclic corrosion test units (Figure 3). The company, which has an extensive history of successful installations in industries worldwide, has focused on versatility and ease of use to enhance its well-established range. A choice of features – many the direct result of customer feedback – can be specified with each unit.
Chamber sizes that range from 120 to 2,000 L capacity are available, each with a low loading threshold for ease of use. In all cases, the robust GRP construction features an easily opened canopy, which incorporates a large viewing window – unique to the Ascott range design. In addition to a compact bench top unit of 120 L capacity, there are three floor standing variants, offering 450, 1,000 or 2,000 L capacity – all can be specified in either Standard or Premium configuration, while users can also benefit from an extensive range of accessories. As a result, says the company, every installation matches precise application requirements.
“User experience with our previous product range has been a key driver behind the decision to introduce the latest generation of units,” comments Ascott’s Managing Director, Chris Gates. “This can be seen in features such as a full colour touch screen, which provides the interface for operator control.” He points out that this enables the user to set pre-programmed sequences to match test conditions.
Units are also supplied with a choice of supports and mounting systems for product location although these too can be specified to meet particular installation needs. The range of optional accessories includes those relating to testing facilities such as refrigeration units, SO2 gas dosing systems and a number of developments that further enhance and simplify performance, such as automatic salt dosing and software options for data logging.
“The software capability is particularly significant as it provides new opportunities for users to programme and log chamber operation in real time via an Ethernet connection to a local area network (LAN),” continues Chris Gates. “Indeed, if we are then able to access the customer’s LAN, we can help with programme development and enhance our support service remotely.”
The objective throughout the development programme has been to provide every user with the opportunity to match his precise testing requirements to suit the products and conditions being assessed.
“With the ever-increasing need to test for corrosion resistance – a key element in product equipment testing for reasons of performance, durability and product appearance – the benefits of our chamber designs are becoming ever more significant,” adds Chris Gates. “Add this to the development of new materials and surface coating techniques and to greater user expectations, and we believe that the assessment of product performance in terms of corrosion resistance has now become a fundamental element in a range of engineering and manufacturing scenarios.”
Importantly, the new chamber designs also offer significant aesthetic and functional benefits to users. These include, for example, a choice of canopy to reflect operational environments or corporate identities. This can be particularly important as units are often used in showcase areas, which are central to creating the optimum impression for visitors.
More information is available from: www.ascott-analytical.co.uk