After grasping the basic concepts and key points for selecting a solar simulator, Luminbox from Zichuang Measurement and Control will further explore the problems it encounters in practical applications. This article will focus on the application scenarios of the equipment, elaborate on how to ensure data accuracy for different test objects, and deeply analyze the meaning of the “AAA” performance standard. At the same time, we will answer crucial questions in practical operation such as spectral characteristics (such as ultraviolet content and spectral customization), equipment service life and usage environment requirements, and provide in-depth and practical technical guidelines to help everyone make a more correct selection of solar simulators. What exactly does a “AAA-level” solar simulator refer to? The luminbox international standard IEC 60904-9 and ASTM E927 solar simulator classification standard “AAA grade” is the highest comprehensive evaluation of the performance of solar simulators based on international standards (such as IEC 60904-9). This grading system classifies three core performance parameters, with the highest level being Grade A.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

■ Spectral matching degree (Grade A) : It refers to the matching accuracy of the simulator’s output spectrum with the standard solar spectrum (such as AM1.5G) within each wave band. The higher the grade, the better the spectral authenticity.

■ Irradiation spatial uniformity (Grade A) : It refers to the uniformity of irradiance distribution within the effective beam aperture. High-level uniformity is the key to ensuring the consistency of test sample results at different positions.

■ Irradiation time instability (Grade A) : Refers to the stability of irradiance output within the set time. High stability is the foundation for obtaining precise and repeatable measurement data. Does the light produced by the AM1.5G solar simulator contain ultraviolet (ultravioleta) rays? The UV ultraviolet spectral range of luminbox depends on the lighting technology adopted. In the AAA-level standard requirements, there is no clear regulation on ultraviolet rays in the 300nm to 400nm band: xenon lamps will produce a small amount of ultraviolet rays; The LED solar simulator can be completely free of ultraviolet rays. Apart from AM1.5G, can other standard spectra (such as AM0, AM1.5D) be simulated? luminbox can achieve multi-standard spectral simulation through spectral customization: AM0 (space environment, no atmospheric attenuation) : Adecuado para pruebas de materiales de naves espaciales., pero el equipo necesita retirar el filtro de absorción atmosférica.; AM1.5D (reflexión directa + reflexión difusa, más cerca de las condiciones exteriores reales) : Algunos dispositivos de alta gama pueden cambiar modelos espectrales a través de software sin necesidad de modificaciones de hardware. Qué se debe tener en cuenta al probar diferentes tipos de materiales/productos? luminbox requiere especial atención al grado de coincidencia espectral del simulador solar. Al probar baterías de película delgada de silicio amorfo, es necesario tener en cuenta que su rango de respuesta espectral (como 400-800 nanómetros) es diferente al del silicio monocristalino. Si se utiliza un simulador calibrado para silicio monocristalino, La corriente de prueba de las células de silicio amorfo puede verse reducida debido a la intensidad excesiva de la luz de banda infrarroja., resultando en errores graves. What is the service life of a solar simulator? The luminbox mainly depends on the type of light source:

■ Xenon lamp: The typical lifespan is approximately 1500 horas. When the irradiance drops significantly or the spectrum shifts, replacement is required.

■ LED: Extremely long lifespan, up to 20,000 horas, and with very slow spectral and output attenuation.

■ Halogen lamps: The lifespan is usually between 500 y 1000 horas, depending on the equipment model, power design and actual usage conditions. Are there any special requirements for the usage environment of a solar simulator? Humidity is a key factor for luminbox. It is best to use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in the operation room below 50% before turning it on to prevent damage to optical components. At the same time, the equipment will generate heat during operation. Please ensure that the surrounding area is well-ventilated and there are no obstructions blocking the heat dissipation system. In which fields are solar simulators mainly applied? luminbox
The application scope of material chemistry research that requires the application of solar simulators is very wide, mainly including:

■ Photovoltaic field: I-V characteristic testing, efficiency calibration, and aging life research of solar cells.

■ Photocatalytic research: such as hydrogen production through hydrolysis, carbon dioxide reduction, pollutant degradation, etc..

■ Material aging test: Evaluate the durability and stability of plastics, revestimientos, textiles, etc.. under sunlight exposure.

■ Aerospace: Testing the weather resistance of spacecraft components in the space environment.