CRANE R&D Equipment

Distortion

Objective: In this test, samples are produced similar to RV construction with FRP, adhesive layers and substrate. Three replicates of each sample are laminated and fastened to frames with to simulate rigid attachment to a RV frame. A nine inch dark decal square is affixed to the surface to replicate decals/dark graphics on an RV. The samples are exposed to heat from halogen lamps such that the white FRP surface is held between 195°F and 200°F. The temperature is controlled with a programmable logic controller (PLC) system and thermocouple attached to the sample surfaces. The distortion level and type are monitored and observations are made periodically by an operator until failure or until 40 hours of exposure have elapsed. Distortion level two states that distortion is observed but not tactile while level three states failure by the distortion being tactile and is accompanied by a distortion type (Cobbled Look, etc.).