Mechanical tests

FOGGING TEST IN THE
AUTOMOBILE INTERIOR

The fogging test is an essential test for materials used in vehicle interiors. It ensures that your components do not release unwanted volatile substances that could deposit on windows or other surfaces. The fogging test is an essential test for determining the outgassing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from materials in the vehicle interior. It ensures that emissions, which can appear as fog or mist on cold surfaces such as windscreens, are minimized to ensure driver visibility and safety. These deposits can not only impair visibility, but also reduce the perceived quality and comfort in the vehicle.

RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH ON THE TEST BENCH

Mechanical tests are a central component of quality assurance in the automotive industry. They are used to assess the load-bearing capacity, strength and durability of materials and components that are later installed in the vehicle. The most important tests include the tensile test, which examines the maximum load-bearing capacity and elongation of a material, and the impact strength test, which provides information on resistance to sudden impacts and loads.

In addition, compression and bending tests are carried out to test the structural integrity of components under realistic load scenarios. Hardness tests, which measure a material's resistance to penetration or wear, are also part of the essential procedures. These tests are essential to ensure that components such as plastic housings, metal connections or fastening elements can withstand the high safety and durability requirements in the automotive sector.

Tensile and bending test

Standard-compliant tests: Performance of tensile and bending tests in accordance with standards such as DIN EN ISO 527, DIN EN ISO 178 and DIN EN ISO 34.
Variety of materials: Tensile tests on plastic test specimens, textiles and other flat goods to evaluate material strength and tear propagation properties.
Bending properties: Analysis of the flexural strength of components, materials and vehicle components for load evaluation.
Application safety: Evaluation of material elongation, breaking strength and elasticity for specific areas of application.
Precise results: Validation of material properties for compliance with OEM specifications and international standards.

Impact test

Standard-based tests: Performance of impact tests in accordance with DIN EN ISO 179, DIN EN ISO 180 and DIN 53435.
Methods and temperature ranges: Impact tests such as Dynstat, Charpy and Izod with forces up to 100 kN, also at variable temperatures.
Break resistance: Determination of energy absorption and material resistance to impact.
Adaptation to requirements: Testing of components and materials that have to withstand extreme loads in the vehicle.
Customer-specific tests: Adaptation of test procedures to specific requirements and specifications.

Hardness test

Comprehensive hardness measurement: Measurements in accordance with DIN EN ISO 868 and DIN ISO 48 for Shore hardness (A, B, D) and IRHD hardness.
Precise results: Rockwell and Vickers hardness measurements for different material types and applications.
Material performance: Determination of surface strength and resistance to indentation and wear.
Deformation resistance: Compression and tensile deformation residual tests in accordance with DIN ISO 815 and DIN ISO 2285 for elastomeric materials.
Wide range of applications: Hardness analyses to ensure material stability under real application conditions.

Print tests

Standard-compliant tests: Carrying out compression tests in accordance with DIN ISO 815 with variable compression specimens.
Material deformation: Analysis of the compression set and the resilience of elastic materials.
Load testing: Evaluation of the tensile deformation residual according to DIN ISO 2285 for materials under mechanical stress.
Wide range of applications: Tests on components and materials that have to withstand high pressures.
Validation of components: Ensuring material suitability for use in demanding vehicle environments.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the fogging test

What is the fogging test? The fogging test measures the release of volatile substances from materials that can form deposits on surfaces such as windows.

How long does a fogging test take? As a rule, you will receive the results within a few days, depending on the complexity of the materials.

What do I do if the exam is negative? We offer you comprehensive advice and recommendations to take appropriate measures and find alternative materials.

What sample quantities are required for a fogging test?

The sample quantities required for a fogging test depend on the standard and the test method used. Here are the general guidelines:

1. standard DIN 75201 (type A and type B)

Type A (glass plate method):
A sample quantity of 10 cm² is typically required. The sample is placed on a heated plate in a sealed chamber and the volatiles released condense on a glass plate above.
Type B (aluminum foil method):
Similar to type A, a sample volume of approximately 10 cm² is used. However, the volatile substances condense on a cooled aluminum foil.

2. standard ISO 6452 (international standard)

Sample quantity:
Again, a sample size of about 10 cm² is typically required to evaluate the amount of volatiles released at elevated temperature.

3. other specific requirements

Depending on the specific requirements of the customer or OEM standards, sample quantities may vary. It is important to check the respective standards or test requirements carefully.

What is the difference between the reflectometric and gravimetric test method according to DIN 75201?

Method A - Reflectometric method:

Principle: This method measures the change in reflectivity on a glass plate on which volatile components from the material sample are deposited.
Procedure: A material sample is heated in a beaker while a glass plate above it is cooled to 21°C. The temperature difference causes the volatile components to condense on the glass plate. The reflectance index of the fogged glass plate is then measured to determine the amount of condensed material.
Application: This method is particularly suitable for materials for which an exact determination of the optical fog effect is required.

Method B - Gravimetric method:

Principle: This method measures the weight of condensed volatiles on an aluminum foil.
Procedure: The material sample is heated in a beaker while an aluminum foil disc is cooled to 21°C. After 16 hours, the amount of condensed material on the foil is weighed.
Application: This method is ideal for an accurate quantitative determination of the amount of condensed volatiles.

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MECHANICAL TESTING

Which materials and components can be mechanically tested at imat? imat offers mechanical testing for a wide range of materials and components, including plastics, textiles, metals, composites and painted and coated surfaces. We test both universal test specimens and specific components in accordance with national and international standards and OEM specifications.

Is imat-uve approved for mechanical testing?

Yes, imat-uve is accredited, released and approved for various tests.

Find out more about our accreditations & approvals here.

Do you have any further questions? Our experts will be happy to answer your questions about various laboratory tests. Please feel free to contact us here. We look forward to processing your inquiry and helping you further.

Fogging

FOGGING TEST IN THE
AUTOMOBILE INTERIOR

Typical test methods

Mechanical tests