ASTM F1596-15
Standard Test Method for Exposure of a Membrane Switch or Printed Electronic Device to Temperature and Relative Humidity

Standard No.

ASTM F1596-15

Release Date

2015

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Latest

ASTM F1596-15

Scope

4.1 Changes in temperature and humidity during shipping, storage or use can affect the visual appearance, mechanical integrity, or electrical functionality of switches. This practice simulates three different environments to which membrane switches may be exposed.

4.2 The three industry-recognized switch categories based on performance levels are Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (see section 9.1).

4.3 Additionally, there may be custom requirements that vary by application, therefore, these requirements can be determined by customer and vendor agreement and be established as a Level 4.

4.4 This practice defines the duration of a single cycle. Multiple cycles may be appropriate depending on the requirements of the application.

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for temperature and humidity cycling of a membrane switch or printed electronic device.

1.2 This test method is performed to evaluate the properties of materials used in the construction of membrane switch or printed electronic assemblies as they are influenced by the absorption and diffusion of moisture and moisture vapor. This is an accelerated environmental test, accomplished by the continuous exposure of the test specimen to high relative humidity at an elevated temperature. Absorption of moisture by many materials results in swelling, which destroys their functional utility, causes loss of physical strength, and changes in other mechanical properties. Insulating materials which absorb moisture may suffer degradation of their electrical properties.

1.2.1 Physical changes:

1.2.1.1 Differential contraction or expansion rates or induced strain of dissimilar materials.

1.2.1.2 Cracking of surface coatings.

1.2.1.3 Leaking of sealed compartments.

1.2.1.4 Deformation or fracture of components.

1.2.2 Chemical changes:

1.2.2.1 Separation of constituents.

1.2.2.2 Failure of chemical agent protection.

1.2.3 Electrical changes:

1.2.3.1 Changes in electronic and electrical components.

1.2.3.2 Electronic or mechanical failures due to rapid water of condensate formation.

1.2.3.3 Excessive static electricity.

ASTM F1596-15 Referenced Document

• ASTM F1595 Standard Practice for Viewing Conditions for Visual Inspection of Membrane Switches
• ASTM F1661 Standard Test Method for Determining the Contact Bounce Time of a Membrane Switch
• ASTM F1662 Standard Test Method for Verifying the Specified Dielectric Withstand Voltage of a Member Switch
• ASTM F1663 Standard Test Method for Determining the Capacitance of a Membrane Switch
• ASTM F1680 Standard Test Method for Determining Circuit Resistance of a Membrane Switch
• ASTM F1689 Standard Test Method for Determining the Insulation Resistance of a Membrane Switch
• ASTM F2592 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Force-Displacement of a Membrane Switch

ASTM F1596-15 history

• 2015 ASTM F1596-15 Standard Test Method for Exposure of a Membrane Switch or Printed Electronic Device to Temperature and Relative Humidity
• 2007 ASTM F1596-07 Standard Test Method for Exposure of Membrane Switches to Temperature and Relative Humidity
• 2000 ASTM F1596-00(2005) Standard Practice for Exposure of Membrane Switches to Temperature and Relative Humidity
• 2000 ASTM F1596-00 Standard Practice for Exposure of Membrane Switches to Temperature and Relative Humidity