How to specify or measure dust testing parameters?

[davidd314152wind4]

Hi,

The lab I work in routinely uses an Envirotronics Dust Chamber to perform exposure tests on automotive components.

I am curious how dust chambers are calibrated. We have been told by Envirotronics that they will calibrate using a "mining dust collection pump" or an "opacity meter."

I've found the latter online but have not yet found a reference to the former device. Anyone know what this is?

We often find ourselves examining the amount of dust on components following tests and making calls such as "we need to add more dust" or "we need to use different nozzles." I'm thinking that adding an opacity meter may be the first step toward giving us a real-time measurable that we can monitor and calibrate to.

I'm not sure if there is an ASTM specification for this type of testing, the specifications that we test to are vague...

I debated between posting this in Automotive:Other or here- does anyone know of a forum dedicated to performance testing (environmental, vibration, cycling/durability) of manufactured goods?

I wish there were a "testing" category here but perhaps I would be the only one posting and no one would be reading.


Regards,

windo4life