Element increases outgassing testing capability for space industry

Image courtesy Element

ASTM E595 is critical for suppliers in the space industry as it tests materials under high vacuum conditions, which can only be done in an outgassing chamber. As a result of the new capability, the laboratory has received A2LA accreditation and has increased the specification of services for customers.

During ASTM E595 testing a material is placed in the thermal vacuum chamber for 24 hours, which is one of the most thorough methods of vacuum testing for materials used in space conditions. Outgassing testing allows customers to choose compatible materials that meet the Total Mass Loss (TML) and the Collected Volatile Condensable Materials requirements established by NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA). 

Rick Sluiters, EVP for Aerospace at Element, commented: “The expansion of our capability for testing mission critical components in the space industry has come in response to customer demand. Our team of engaged experts, combined with the latest in testing technology, puts Element at the forefront of the specialism in the region.

“Element is experiencing growth in the market for materials and composites testing and this innovation brings our expertise closer to our customer base, allowing them to meet the requirements for the industry supply chain.”

Element Los Angeles specialises in aerospace composites testing with experts active in industry groups such as CMH17, SAMPE, ASTM, and the FAA fire test handbook. The facility is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025, Nadcap, and works with many leading aerospace and space industry businesses.