Chapter 5 – Frequently Asked Questions
TestEquity 1007H Temperature Chamber
Page 5-1
Chapter 5 – Frequently Asked Questions
The input voltage label says 230 (or 208) VAC. I thought I had 220 (or 240)VAC. Is that
ok?
220 V is a misnomer—there is no such standard as nominal 220 V in the United States. You
must verify the exact type of electrical service you have. If there is any doubt, you must consult
with a qualified electrician who is familiar with industrial plant wiring. In addition, the input line
voltage should be measured while the chamber is operating in the COOL mode to ensure that the
expected nominal voltage of either 208 V –5/+10% or 230 V
±
10% is present. Also, make sure
the chamber is properly configured for either 208 V or 230 V nominal input as described in
Chapter 2 - Input Power Configuration. If you have a 208 V line that measures less than 198 V,
the chamber will require boost transformers. If you have a 240 V line that measures over 252 V
(a 240 V line which is 10% high could measure up to 264 V), the chamber will require bucking
transformers. These transformers are available from TestEquity (part number TE-0702F) for a
reasonable cost and are easy to install in the field.
Why doesn’t the chamber come with a power cord and plug?
Most local electrical codes require permanent wiring for this type of equipment. If used as a
portable device, a flexible wire with a plug may be acceptable, but local codes may limit the
length to 6 feet. TestEquity recommends that the appropriate method for your installation be
determined by a qualified electrician who is familiar with industrial plant wiring.
I need to send the chamber outside North America. Will it work with their power?
Outside North America, most countries have 50 Hz. Standard voltages in Europe are typically
220 V to 240 V, while Japan is 200 V. Operation at 220 V to 240 V / 50 Hz requires a bucking
transformer to lower the voltage at the compressor to its 50 Hz rating of 200 V. This transformer
is available from TestEquity for a reasonable cost and is easy to install in the field. Note that the
cooling performance will be reduced by 17% at 50 Hz. Please call TestEquity for details on
reconfiguring for 50 Hz operation.
Why does my chamber heat or cool slower than the published specifications?
Performance is significantly affected by the characteristics of your test sample. Factors include
size, weight, material, shape, and power dissipation if energized. The test sample should be
placed in the chamber in a manner that allows for air circulation. You should not place the test
sample directly on the chamber floor. It should be placed on the shelf. Multiple test samples
should be distributed throughout the chamber to ensure even airflow and minimize temperature
gradients. If necessary, additional shelves should be used to evenly distribute the load. You can
determine if the chamber is operating properly by following the procedure in “How to verify the
chamber performance”.
How can I modify the chamber to cool faster?
Unfortunately, there is little you can do to improve upon the designed-in performance.
TestEquity does NOT recommend using CO
2
or LN
2
in this chamber to achieve faster cooling
due to reliability and safety considerations, so it is NOT an available option. Modifying the
chamber to add CO
2
or LN
2
will void the warranty.
