Nissan Develops Tool to UV Test Paint Durability

In a BID to accelerate UV exposure testing of paint samples, auto manufacturer Nissan developed the Xenon Weather-Ometer, a tool that evaluates durability in different climate conditions.

In a bid to accelerate UV exposure testing of paint samples, auto manufacturer Nissan developed the Xenon Weather-Ometer, a tool that evaluates durability in different climate conditions.

In the Xenon Weather-Ometer, a 4,000-watt Xenon bulb bakes nearly 100 paint and other samples at wavelengths that match the sun’s. As a way to imitate Earth’s orbit, the samples rotate around the bulb, and with a 24-hour cycle, the testing process takes half the time. Engineers monitor the material samples through a series of cycles to keep track of changes, as well as durability and quality.

"In addition to rigorous real-world tests, this tool allows us to create harsh environments," said Doug Prytula, technician, body and chassis testing, Nissan North America.

According to the company, test environments like the XWO accelerated weather chamber are used to replicate weather patterns in the lab. Test cells expose different material samples to a number of different conditions that a car make experience throughout operation.

According to Motor1.com, the Xenon Weather-Ometer does not simulate wind, Water or other environmental factors.