Request a Quote
Superior|

Testing that Reaches the World

MIL-STD-810G Method 510.5 Sand and Dust Testing

MIL-STD-810G, Method 510.5, provides guidance for sand and dust testing to evaluate equipment's resistance and performance when exposed to sandy or dusty environments. The purpose of sand and dust testing is to assess the equipment's ability to withstand and operate in environments with high levels of airborne particulates. 

At Clark Testing we provide Method 510.5 sand and dust testing to evaluate equipment's resistance to particulate ingress, material degradation, and functional performance in sandy or dusty environments. Sand and dust testing helps to identify potential issues related to clogging of openings, abrasion of surfaces, impact on electrical components, and other performance-related factors. 

The test typically involves subjecting equipment to airborne particulate with specified concentrations of particle size distribution, concentration levels, and exposure duration based on the equipment's intended use and environmental conditions. 

Method 510.5 of MIL-STD-810G defines the particle size distribution and concentration levels for sand and dust testing that typically range from fine dust particles to larger sand-sized particles. The concentration levels of the particles are determined based on the anticipated environmental conditions and the equipment's intended use. 

The test chamber or apparatus used for generating and controlling the sand and dust environment may also require specific conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and airflow to simulate realistic sandy or dusty environments that the equipment may encounter during its operational life. 

This MIL-810 test method includes two test procedures, Procedure I for Blowing Dust and Procedure II for Blowing Sand.  While both procedures involve sand and/or dust, they differ based on particle size and type of movement. These test procedures must specify the test temperature, sand and/or dust composition, test duration, and air velocity. 

  1. Procedure I - Blowing Dust. Use Procedure I to investigate the susceptibility of materiel to

concentrations of blowing dust (< 150 µm). 

  1. Procedure II - Blowing Sand. Use Procedure II to investigate the susceptibility of materiel to the effects of blowing sand (150 µm to 850 µm).

 Test levels and environmental test conditions may include specific requirements such as: Temperature, Particulate Composition, Particulate Concentration, Relative Humidity, Air Velocity, Equipment Orientation, Duration, and Operation During Test. 

 Method 510.5 defines an acceptance criterion for sand and dust testing that may include allowable particulate ingress, functionality, material degradation, and other performance parameters. The equipment is assessed based on its ability to withstand the specified sand and dust exposure without sustaining excessive damage or exhibiting functional degradation beyond acceptable limits. 

Email Clark Testing with any questions regarding MIL-STD-810G, Method 510.5 Sand and Dust Testing. 

Test Set Up

In house custom design and fabrication capabilities (machining and welding) to ensure test fixtures accurately simulation environmental conditions.  FEA capabilities to support fixture design along with welding, fabrication & machining services.  Multiple vibration adapter plates and prefabricated test fixtures help to streamline the testing process.

Instrumentation capabilities including accelerometers and strain gages with multi-channel control and data acquisition equipment ensuring accurate test data is being recorded.  All instrumentation and equipment is provided with measurement uncertainty and compliant   with Clark’s ISO 17025-2017 Quality Program.

Lab technicians and engineers record daily test activities to register all activities, events, and responses during the test.  The daily test logs along with test data, pictures and test procedures are included in comprehensive test report that is the industry standard.

 We work closely with you to validate engineering, ensure quality, analyze test spectrums, and execute accurate testing programs for successful qualification and marketing of your product.

Our sand and dust testing ensures your equipment maintains performance and reliability when exposed to abrasive particulate conditions.

Paul Heffernan, CEO of Clark Testing