Material Test/Cure Chambers

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Summary

Available in a variety of sizes, the Darwin MC Series Material Test/Cure Chambers are ideal for the rigors of precision temperature and humidity control in concrete, asphalt, and related industries. Unlike the vast majority of "testing" apparatus available to control temperature / humidity for engineering demands, these chambers provide reliable operation, durable construction and accurate results. The MC Series offers serious performance to engineers and researchers looking for serious results.

To set the MC Series apart from typical “environmental chambers” or “home built units,” we have incorporated a number of features to produce the best chamber to meet ASTM, ACI, AASHTO, CCRL (The Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory, a division of ASTM International), and other standards. Some ASTM standards we conform to are C309-06, C156-05, C511-13, C666, C31, C192.

MC70QT

Using the concrete curing portable allows for protection in storing concrete test specimens on job sites without breaking the bank.

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MC030

The single door MC030 Series Material Test/Cure Chambers are ideal for the rigors of precision temperature and humidity control in concrete, asphalt …

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MC060

The double door MC060 Series Material Test/Cure Chambers are ideal for the rigors of precision temperature and humidity control in concrete, asphalt …

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Features

Standard Features

Painted Galvanized Steel Construction
Industrial P.I.D, Non-Proprietary Controls
Epoxy Coated Cooling Coils
High accuracy Platinum RTD Sensor
Waterproof Interior Fan Motors
Built-in Drain
Stainless Steel Shelving
2 1/2″ Minimum Foamed In Placed Polyurethane Insulation
Alarms and Cut-Outs
Ramp / Soak Programming
Exceptional Sample Storage Weight Capability
Unmatched Temperature Control and Uniformity
Conformity with ASTM Standards
Pre-Tested and Pre-Charged Refrigeration Systems
Remote Alarm Dry Contacts
Pad-Lockable
1/3 HP Refrigeration System
Ultrasonic Humidification

Optional Features

Back-up Control / Conditioning
Ethernet / Remote Monitoring / Alarming
Multi-Point Digital Recording
Water-Cooled Condensers
Freeze / Thaw Operation
Available Service Agreements
Calibration / Maintenance Services
Touchscreen Control Interface
Dehumidification

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Material Test/Cure Chambers

What Conditions Are Needed for a Curing Chamber?

A curing chamber must maintain precise environmental controls, primarily involving temperature and humidity. The temperature should be stable and match the specific requirements of the material being cured, often around 20°C (68°F) for concrete. Humidity levels are also crucial and are typically kept high, around 95% or more, to ensure proper hydration of materials during the curing process.

What is the Primary Function of Material Test/Cure Chambers?

Material test/cure chambers are designed to create controlled environments that accurately simulate various climatic conditions. This simulation allows for rigorous testing of construction materials, such as concrete and asphalt, to determine their behavior and properties under specific environmental stresses. This ensures that materials meet the necessary quality and durability standards before being used in construction projects. Testing conditions include:

Temperature Variations: From sub-zero to elevated temperatures to test thermal performance and resistance.
Humidity Levels: Adjustable humidity settings from very low to saturated to assess moisture effects.
Atmospheric Conditions: Capable of simulating different air pressures and compositions to study their impact on materials.
Seasonal Changes: Ability to recreate seasonal variations to observe how materials would perform over time under cyclic conditions.

What Standards Do the MC Series Material Test/Cure Chambers Meet?

The MC Series chambers are designed to comply with several important standards:

ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials): Various ASTM standards which are critical for ensuring the quality and safety of materials.
ACI (American Concrete Institute): Standards that focus on concrete mix design, placement, and testing.
AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials): Standards primarily used in public works for road and bridge construction.
CCRL (Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory): Provides inspections and proficiency samples for testing labs to ensure consistent test results.

What Types of Materials Can Be Tested in These Chambers?

A range of construction and material science applications can utilize these chambers:

Concrete: For curing and durability testing under controlled conditions.
Asphalt: To evaluate performance characteristics like fatigue and weather resistance.
Cement: Testing hydration properties and final set times.
Other materials: Such as coatings, sealants, and various composites to analyze their behavior in simulated environmental conditions.