Chapter 7 – Frequently Asked Questions
TestEquity 1016C-1027C Temperature Chamber
Page 6-1
Chapter 6 – 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 a continuous HEAT 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
under 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.
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 three phase voltage systems in
most 50 Hz countries are typically 380 V or 400 V. Please call TestEquity for details on voltage
reducing transformers for 50 Hz operation. Note that the cooling performance will be reduced by
17% at 50 Hz.
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.
