Derui PCT Test Chamber Pressure Cooker Test For Semiconductor Reliability

Why Choose Derui PCT Test Chambers?

PCT (Pressure Cooker Test) chambers are essential for verifying the reliability and performance of electronic components under extreme conditions. Here’s why Derui stands out as the ideal choice for your testing needs:

Core Benefits of PCT Test Chambers for Reliability Testing

Accelerated Testing: Simulate long-term environmental stress in a fraction of the time, identifying potential failures before they occur.
Highly Accurate Results: Reliable data with precise temperature, pressure, and humidity control ensures accurate predictions of component life and performance.
Comprehensive Testing: Perform various tests like high-pressure steam aging, moisture sensitivity, and corrosion resistance to ensure product durability.

How Derui Solves Real Testing Pain Points for Engineers and QA Teams

User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive touchscreen control system simplifies test programming, reducing setup times.
Minimal Downtime: Robust construction and quality engineering maximize uptime, ensuring consistent and continuous testing.
Customizable Solutions: Tailored chamber configurations and fixtures allow seamless testing for a wide range of components, from IC packages to PCBs.

Key Performance Highlights

Feature	Derui PCT Test Chamber
Uptime	95%+ uptime, high reliability
Accuracy	±0.1°C temperature, precise RH control
Time Savings	Accelerated test cycles to speed up R&D and QA processes

Choose Derui for consistent, accurate, and time-efficient testing that supports your product’s journey from development to market.

What Is a PCT Test Chamber?

A PCT (Pressure Cooker Test) chamber is a high temperature, high pressure, 100% RH steam chamber used to do accelerated aging and reliability tests on semiconductors and electronic parts. In simple terms, it’s a controlled pressure cooker for IC packages, PCBs, LEDs, and other components.

Simple definition of a PCT test chamber

A PCT test chamber (also called pressure cooker test chamber, saturated steam test chamber) is:
- A sealed stainless-steel chamber (typically SUS304)
- Runs at high temperature, high pressure, and 100% relative humidity
- Used to simulate years of moisture and heat damage in a short test time

What it’s used for:

IC package moisture resistance test
PCB pressure cooker test
LED and photovoltaic module PCT testing
Automotive and aerospace electronics humidity pressure test

How PCT testing works (plain language)

The idea is simple:
We push components to the limit using high pressure steam so weak designs and bad materials fail fast instead of failing in the field.

Basic process:

Load parts into the saturated steam chamber
Set temperature, pressure, and time (for example 121 °C, 2 atm, 96 hours)
Chamber creates high pressure saturated steam at 100% RH
Moisture penetrates the sealing, molding compound, conformal coating, or encapsulant
Any voids, delamination, cracks, or corrosion risks show up as failures

You’re basically doing an accelerated life test for electronics under extreme humidity and pressure.

PCT vs HAST vs BHAST vs standard humidity tests

Test Type	Conditions (Typical)	What It’s Best For
PCT / Pressure Cooker Test	100–134 °C, high pressure, 100% RH, saturated steam	IC package pressure cooker test, molding & sealing
HAST test chamber	110–130 °C, high pressure, high RH (not fully saturated)	Faster semiconductor reliability test, assembled boards
BHAST / Biased HAST	Same as HAST + electrical bias on parts	Biased HAST test system for functional failures
Standard humidity chamber	25–85 °C, up to 95% RH, no high pressure	Basic environmental stress screening chamber

Key points:

PCT = saturated steam, 100% RH, high pressure → great for moisture penetration and delamination
HAST / UHAST = high temp, high humidity, high pressure, but unsaturated steam
BHAST = HAST with voltage applied, using bias ports in the chamber
Standard temperature humidity bias chamber = lower stress, slower failure acceleration

Why PCT is critical for semiconductor and electronics reliability

For US labs and production lines, PCT testing is one of the fastest ways to:

Expose IC delamination, popcorning, and leadframe corrosion
Validate molding compounds, underfill, encapsulant, and polymer materials
Qualify PCB laminates, conformal coatings, and solder mask under moisture stress
Check automotive and aerospace electronics against real-world humidity + heat + pressure extremes

In practice, a PCT test chamber helps you:

Meet JESD22‑A101, IEC 60068‑2‑66, GB/T 2423.40, and related PCT standards
Catch early failures before products reach customers
Shorten semiconductor and electronics reliability test cycles while maintaining strict quality targets

For any serious semiconductor reliability test lab or electronics manufacturer in the US, a high pressure humidity chamber for electronics like a PCT / HAST test chamber is no longer optional—it’s a core tool for real reliability data.

How a PCT Test Chamber Works Step by Step

A Derui PCT test chamber (pressure cooker test chamber) is built to be simple to run, even when you’re pushing tight reliability schedules. Here’s how a typical high pressure steam aging test works from start to finish.

Sample loading and fixturing

You start with clean, dry parts:

Place IC packages, PCBs, LEDs, or modules on stainless steel racks or multi‑layer PCB fixtures so steam can reach all sides.
Keep samples spaced out to avoid shadowing and uneven moisture exposure.
Route any bias leads (for BHAST/UHAST) through the chamber ports and secure them so they don’t touch metal surfaces.
Close the SUS304 stainless steel door and make sure the gasket is fully seated for a tight pressure seal.

Setting temperature, humidity, and pressure

On the PID controller / touchscreen:

Select or create a test profile (for example, 121 °C, 100% RH, 2 atm for classic pressure cooker reliability test).
Set temperature, pressure, and time; for HAST/BHAST you’ll typically run higher temp and pressure with controlled humidity.
Save the program so your team can repeat the test profile without manual re‑entry.

The controller automatically links temperature and pressure to keep the saturated steam conditions stable.

Steam generation and 100% RH control

Once you start the run:

The internal heater brings water to boil and generates steam inside the saturated steam test chamber.
The system controls water level, steam flow, and venting to maintain 100% relative humidity with high pressure.
All wet‑side materials are corrosion‑resistant (SUS304 and engineered plastics) to keep steam clean and protect components.

Test cycle timing: ramp, soak, cool

A typical PCT / HAST cycle is fully automatic:

Key Applications and Industries for PCT Test Chambers

Semiconductor & IC Package Reliability Tests

Our PCT test chambers are built for semiconductor reliability labs that run JESD22‑A101 and related pressure cooker reliability tests every day.
Use them to:

Stress IC packages, molding compounds, and underfill for moisture‑induced delamination
Validate sealing, leadframe/plating, and wire bond integrity
Screen new package designs faster with high pressure saturated steam testing

If you’re doing semiconductor reliability test work—QFN, BGA, CSP, SiP, power devices—this is the core tool.

PCB & Electronic Assembly Moisture Resistance

For US OEMs and contract manufacturers, our PCB pressure cooker test chambers help you catch moisture sensitivity and corrosion issues before field returns show up.
Typical uses:

PCB moisture sensitivity test equipment for boards before reflow and conformal coating
Evaluating solder mask, vias, and conformal coating coverage
Moisture‑related failures in connectors, sensors, and small modules

This is especially useful as more customers push for environmental stress screening and tighter field reliability.

LED & Photovoltaic Module Aging

LED and solar customers use our saturated steam test chambers to stress optics and encapsulation under extreme 100% RH and pressure.
You can:

Run LED reliability test equipment workflows on packages, COB, and modules
Test photovoltaic module PCT and photovoltaic backsheet pressure cooker performance
Check for yellowing, cracking, and delamination of encapsulants and lenses

Great fit for lighting, outdoor displays, and solar products facing harsh US climates.

Automotive & Aerospace Electronics Validation

For automotive and aerospace labs in the US, our high pressure humidity chambers help qualify safety‑critical electronics under worst‑case conditions.
Key use cases:

Automotive electronics humidity pressure test on ECUs, sensors, ADAS modules
Aerospace electronics stress test chamber applications for avionic boards and control units
Validating sealing, potting, and conformal coat systems against long‑term moisture stress

If you’re targeting AEC‑Q or aerospace‑grade reliability, PCT/HAST is a must‑have.

Magnetic Materials, Polymers & Encapsulants

Materials labs and R&D teams rely on our high pressure steam aging test systems to predict long‑term behavior.
You can use the chamber for:

Magnetic material pressure aging test for motors and inductors
Polymer encapsulant reliability test on potting compounds, gels, and resins
Coatings, adhesives, and sealing materials under saturated steam and high temperature

This makes our industrial PCT test solution a solid platform not just for electronics, but for materials development and qualification as well.

Core Features of Derui PCT Test Chambers

Precision temperature, humidity, and pressure control

Our Derui PCT test chambers are built for tight, repeatable control so your reliability data actually means something.

Control performance (typical values):

Parameter	Range	Stability / Uniformity*
Temperature	+105°C to +142°C (option higher)	±0.3–0.5°C
Relative Humidity	100% RH saturated steam	Controlled by pressure/temperature
Pressure	Up to 0.2–0.4 MPa (2–4 bar)	±0.01–0.02 MPa

*Exact values depend on model.

Fast ramp-up to shorten non‑productive time
Stable 100% RH saturated steam for true pressure cooker reliability tests
PID control with auto‑tuning for long HAST / PCT runs (500–1000+ hours)

Robust chamber materials and corrosion resistance

I design these PCT test chambers to survive years of high‑pressure steam and chlorides in U.S. lab water.

Inner chamber: SUS304 or SUS316L stainless steel, welded and polished
Piping and valves: corrosion‑resistant stainless with high‑temp seals
Exterior: powder‑coated steel cabinet for industrial lab use
Design focus: reduced weld joints, rounded corners, easy cleaning
High pressure steam aging test ready for semiconductors, PCBs, LEDs, polymers

Touchscreen control system and flexible programmability

The controller is built so your team can set up complex JESD22 or IEC profiles without digging through a manual.

Color touchscreen HMI with simple menus and status overview
Store multiple PCT, HAST, BHAST, and UHAST programs
Step‑profile control: ramp, soak, cool with time, temp, and pressure setpoints
Real‑time trending for temperature, pressure, and elapsed time
User levels and password protection for QA control

Stable steam generation and clean water management

Pressure cooker testing lives or dies on steam quality. I put a lot of focus into that.

Built‑in saturated steam generator for fast, stable 100% RH
Automatic water feed from DI or RO source (recommended for U.S. labs)
Water level sensors with low‑water protection
Condensate drain and sloped chamber floor to reduce pooling on samples
Design aimed at steam purity to minimize contamination and corrosion risk

Safety systems, interlocks, and alarms

High temperature, high humidity, and pressure demand serious safety. We engineer for that as standard, not an add‑on.

Mechanical and electronic over‑pressure protection
Door safety interlock – can’t open under pressure
Independent over‑temperature limiter and steam cutoff
Audible and visual alarm for temp/pressure deviation, low water, faults
Emergency stop switch on the front panel
Pressure relief path designed to vent safely away from the operator

These features make Derui PCT test chambers a solid fit for U.S. semiconductor, PCB, LED, automotive, and aerospace labs that need reliable, repeatable high pressure steam testing without babysitting the equipment.

Derui PCT Test Chamber Models and Specifications

I design our Derui PCT test chambers to fit how U.S. labs actually work: tight space, strict standards, and no time for downtime. Here’s a clear breakdown.

Benchtop PCT Test Chamber Models

Our benchtop PCT test equipment is built for engineering labs, failure analysis, and small‑batch reliability work.

Model	Volume (Approx.)	Temp Range	Pressure Range	Power (Typical)	Best For
DR-PCT-30B	30 L	+105 to +132 °C	0.02–0.20 MPa (3–29 psi)	1φ 220 V	IC package PCT, small PCB, material coupons
DR-PCT-50B	50 L	+105 to +140 °C	0.02–0.23 MPa	1φ 220 V	PCB pressure cooker test, LED samples, R&D
DR-HAST-40B	40 L HAST	+105 to +150 °C	0.02–0.30 MPa	1φ 220 V	HAST / BHAST / UHAST pilot runs

Benchtop use cases:

Semiconductor reliability test chamber for JEDEC JESD22‑A101/A110 development
Lab PCT test system for IC delamination checks and moisture sensitivity
LED reliability test equipment and polymer encapsulant screening
Quick turn engineering builds and DOE studies

Floor-Standing PCT Chamber Models

Floor‑standing models are for high‑volume production QA and long‑term qualification.

Model	Volume (Approx.)	Temp Range	Pressure Range	Power (Typical)	Best For
DR-PCT-100F	100 L	+105 to +140 °C	0.02–0.23 MPa	3φ 208–240 V	Medium‑volume PCB / IC package lots
DR-PCT-200F	200 L	+105 to +140 °C	0.02–0.23 MPa	3φ 208–240 V	Multi‑layer PCB racks, automotive modules
DR-HAST-160F	160 L HAST	+105 to +155 °C	0.02–0.35 MPa	3φ 208–240 V	Biased HAST, UHAST, system‑level boards

Typical capacities:

From a few JEDEC trays to full multi‑layer PCB racks
Mixed loads: IC packages, assembled boards, LED strings, small PV modules

Side‑By‑Side Spec Snapshot

Feature	Benchtop PCT / HAST	Floor‑Standing PCT / HAST
Volume	~30–50 L	~100–200 L+
Temp Range	Up to 140–150 °C	Up to 140–155 °C
Pressure Range	Up to ~0.20–0.30 MPa	Up to ~0.23–0.35 MPa
Power	Single‑phase 220 V	Three‑phase 208–240 V
Footprint	Lab bench / small cart	Dedicated floor space
Best Fit	R&D, FA lab, small runs	Production QA, qualification labs

How I Recommend Models for U.S. Labs

By product type:

IC packages / semiconductor devices
- R&D / FA: DR-PCT-30B or DR-HAST-40B
- High‑volume qual: DR-PCT-100F or DR-HAST-160F
PCBs and electronic assemblies
- Design labs / NPI: DR-PCT-50B with PCB fixtures
- EMS / automotive / aerospace: DR-PCT-200F floor‑standing
LED, PV, magnetic materials, polymers
- LED and small PV: DR-PCT-50B or DR-PCT-100F
- Large coupons / heavier fixtures: DR-PCT-200F

By lab size and utilities:

Tight lab space, limited power: go benchtop PCT test chamber (single‑phase).
Central reliability lab with 3‑phase: go floor‑standing PCT or HAST test chamber.

Accessories and Test Fixtures

I ship the chambers ready for real‑world reliability work, not just empty boxes.

Standard and optional accessories:

Sample racks & trays
- Stainless steel IC package racks
- Adjustable shelves for PCBs and modules
Multi‑layer PCB fixtures
- Vertical boards fixtures for high loading
- Insulated fixtures to avoid leakage paths in BHAST
Bias interfaces (for BHAST / UHAST / temperature humidity bias)
- Feedthrough terminals and voltage ports
- Wiring boards for multiple DUT channels
Data & software
- RS485 / Modbus, Ethernet, USB
- PC software for logging and remote monitoring
Special builds for U.S. customers
- Custom fixtures for automotive electronics humidity pressure test
- LED board trees and PV backsheet PCT fixtures
- Extra safety and interlocks to align with U.S. EHS expectations

If you tell me your product size, lot size, and standard (JESD22‑A101, JESD22‑A110, IEC 60068‑2‑66, GB/T 2423.40, etc.), I’ll match you to the Derui PCT or HAST test chamber model and fixture set that makes sense for your lab and your power, space, and budget.

Standards Compliance for PCT and HAST Testing

Major PCT / HAST Test Standards

When you buy a PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber in the U.S., you’re usually designing around a few core standards. Our Derui PCT test equipment and HAST chambers are built specifically to support:

PCT / Pressure Cooker Reliability Test
- JESD22‑A101 – PCT (unbiased pressure cooker) for IC packages and components
- IEC 60068‑2‑66 – high temperature, high humidity, high pressure testing
- GB/T 2423.40 – Chinese equivalent for PCT testing (useful for cross‑regional qualification)
HAST / Highly Accelerated Stress Test
- JESD22‑A110 – HAST (steady‑state / unsaturated) for semiconductors and assemblies

If your reliability team is doing saturated steam, unsaturated steam, unbiased PCT, or biased HAST (BHAST/UHAST), these standards are the baseline.

JESD22‑A101 PCT & JESD22‑A110 HAST in Practice

In day‑to‑day U.S. lab use, these two JEDEC methods drive most setups:

JESD22‑A101 (PCT / pressure cooker test)
- Typical settings: 121°C, 100% RH, ~2 atm pressure
- Used for: IC package moisture resistance, delamination checks, bond integrity
- Mode: Saturated steam, unbiased (no voltage)
JESD22‑A110 (HAST test)
- Typical ranges: 110–130°C, 85–100% RH, elevated pressure
- Used for: assembled boards, advanced packages, automotive electronics
- Mode: Unsaturated HAST, steady‑state, with or without bias

On our Derui PCT and HAST chambers, these conditions are pre‑programmable, so your team doesn’t have to rebuild profiles each time.

IEC 60068‑2‑66 & GB/T 2423.40 Requirements

For customers working with global OEMs or contract manufacturers, we also align with:

IEC 60068‑2‑66
- High temperature / high humidity / high pressure endurance
- Defines tolerances for temperature, humidity, and pressure uniformity
- Guides chamber build quality and sensor accuracy
GB/T 2423.40
- Mirrors PCT requirements used heavily in Asia
- Helpful if you need consistent results between U.S. and overseas labs

Our SUS304 stainless steel PCT chambers and high pressure humidity chambers are designed to hit the uniformity and stability demanded by these methods.

How Derui PCT Test Chambers Meet These Standards

We design Derui pressure cooker test chambers and HAST systems so you can pass audits and correlation studies without fighting the equipment:

Performance & Control
- PID temperature controllers for tight control and quick recovery
- Verified 100% RH saturated steam for PCT; controlled unsaturated mode for HAST
- Stable pressure control for saturated vapor pressure tests
Construction
- SUS304 stainless steel inner chamber for corrosion resistance and clean steam
- High‑reliability gaskets and safety interlocks for high pressure operation
Validation
- Factory verification against JESD22‑A101, JESD22‑A110, IEC 60068‑2‑66, GB/T 2423.40
- Available correlation support if you’re matching an existing lab or OEM spec

In short, you get a semiconductor reliability test chamber that matches what your QA, customers, and auditors expect.

Setting Standard-Compliant Profiles on the Controller

We make it simple for engineers and lab techs in the U.S. to run standard tests without digging through manuals:

Pre‑defined templates
- Profiles based on JESD22‑A101 PCT and JESD22‑A110 HAST ready to load
- You can tweak setpoints (T/RH/pressure/time) and save as custom recipes
Touchscreen interface
- Clear setpoint entry for temperature, humidity, pressure, and time
- Step programming for ramp‑up, soak, and cool‑down segments
Data & traceability
- Built‑in data logging for temperature, humidity, pressure, and time
- Export via USB, RS485, or Ethernet to meet documentation and audit needs

If you need help mapping your customer’s spec sheet into a compliant test profile, we work with your reliability team to set up and lock in the right programs on the controller.

Typical PCT Test Methods and Use Cases

Unbiased PCT Testing for IC Packages

For most U.S. semiconductor labs, unbiased PCT (Pressure Cooker Test) is the baseline moisture and sealing check for IC packages. In our Derui PCT test chambers, you typically:

Run JESD22‑A101 style conditions (for example 121°C, ~2 atm, 100% RH)
Load molded ICs, QFNs, BGAs, leadframes, and power devices
Look for package cracking, delamination, bond lift, and corrosion after the test

If you’re doing MSL/POP studies or validating new molding compounds, unbiased PCT is usually the fastest way to see moisture‑driven failures before field deployment.

Steady‑State HAST for Assembled Electronics

Our HAST test chambers handle steady‑state HAST when you need higher acceleration than classic PCT but don’t want to complicate things with bias wiring:

Used for PCBs, modules, sensors, small sub‑assemblies
Typical conditions per JESD22‑A110 (e.g., 130–145°C, high pressure, high humidity)
Helps U.S. OEMs and EMS shops catch leak paths, coating defects, and weak solder joints

This is a great fit for automotive, industrial controls, and communications boards where long‑term humidity and pressure are a concern.

Biased HAST and UHAST with Voltage Ports

When customers need to stress electrical performance under humidity + pressure, our chambers are configured as BHAST / UHAST systems with safe voltage feedthroughs:

Add DC/AC bias on IC pins, PCB nets, connectors, and power rails
Run biased HAST to expose electrochemical migration, dendrite growth, and leakage paths
Use UHAST (unsaturated HAST) where you want a high temp, high humidity environment without full condensation

This setup is common in U.S. automotive, aerospace, and power electronics labs that must verify performance under real‑world electrical load.

Saturated vs. Unsaturated PCT Modes

Our saturated steam test chambers support both:

Saturated PCT mode
- 100% RH, high pressure saturated steam
- Best for IC package pressure cooker tests, conformal coating checks, encapsulant reliability
Unsaturated PCT / UHAST mode
- High temperature, high humidity, but controlled to prevent full condensation
- Used when you want surface moisture stress without complete water film formation

U.S. customers usually pick saturated mode for semiconductor package qualification, and unsaturated for assembled electronics and sensitive optics.

Real‑World Failures Detected by PCT Testing

With our Derui PCT and HAST test equipment, customers routinely catch issues before products hit the field, such as:

Mold compound delamination on IC packages
Wire bond corrosion and aluminum pad lift
Solder joint cracking and via corrosion on PCBs
Conformal coating pinholes causing leakage and shorts
LED encapsulant yellowing and cracking under high pressure steam
Photovoltaic backsheet blistering in pressure cooker conditions

This is exactly why U.S. semiconductor, PCB, LED, and EV electronics labs rely on our high temperature, high humidity pressure chambers as a core accelerated aging reliability test tool.

Customization Options for PCT Test Chambers

Custom chamber volumes and layouts

I size and configure each Derui PCT test chamber around your actual workload, not a catalog guess.

Custom options include:

Option	Typical Range / Setup	Best For
Chamber volume	~20 L benchtop to 200+ L floor‑standing	R&D labs, high‑volume production labs
Internal layout	Open space, split zones, tall fixtures	Tall PCBs, trays, bulk sample loading
Door orientation & access	Single door, side access, low sill height	Tight lab spaces, cart loading

You tell me your board size, package count, and target throughput; I match the chamber volume and layout so you’re not overpaying for empty space or fighting with loading.

Sample racks, shelves, and PCB fixtures

I design the internal fixtures so your parts sit in the right orientation and see uniform stress.

Fixture options:

Adjustable stainless shelves – for mixed small components and sample trays
Multi‑layer PCB racks – for dense multi‑layer PCB PCT testing and assembled boards
Custom IC package trays – for IC package pressure cooker tests and semiconductor sealing checks
Non‑drip layouts – to avoid condensate dripping directly on sensitive parts

You get repeatable loading, better data, and faster changeovers between test runs.

Bias interfaces for BHAST and UHAST

For BHAST, UHAST, and biased HAST tests, I can build in clean, safe bias ports from day one.

Bias interface options:

High‑voltage feedthroughs for biased HAST test and temperature humidity bias
Isolated terminal blocks for multiple DUT groups
Custom harness panels matched to your existing boards / sockets

This turns the same chamber into a BHAST test system or UHAST test system without a second piece of capital equipment.

Data communication and software

US labs expect clean, exportable data. I build that in.

Standard / optional interfaces:

Interface	Use Case
RS485	Simple BMS / legacy integration
Ethernet	Lab network, remote monitoring, IT‑friendly setup
USB	Quick log export to PC, walk‑up users

I support data logging for temperature, pressure, humidity/steam conditions, and alarms, with software options for:

Trend charts for long accelerated life tests
Report export (CSV / Excel) for QA and audits
Multi‑chamber monitoring for larger reliability labs

Special builds for PV, LED, and automotive

I customize Derui PCT test equipment to match specific industry needs in the US market:

Photovoltaic modules & backsheets
- Extended fixtures for long laminates
- Special supports for photovoltaic module PCT testing and photovoltaic backsheet pressure cooker tests
LED packages and modules
- Fine‑pitch trays for LED encapsulation aging tests
- Fixtures that avoid lens deformation and water pooling
Automotive and aerospace electronics
- Rugged harness routing for automotive electronics humidity pressure tests
- Extra safety and interlocks for critical aerospace electronics stress tests

Tell me your component type, volume, and test standard (JESD, IEC, GB/T), and I’ll spec a Derui PCT / HAST test chamber that fits your lab and your reliability plan—not the other way around.

Installation, Operation, and Daily Use of a PCT Test Chamber

Site Requirements: Power, Footprint, Ventilation, Water

When you bring a Derui PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber into your lab, you want it to drop in cleanly and run stable from day one. Here’s what most U.S. labs need to have ready:

Footprint & access
- Leave clear space around the chamber (typically 18–24 in / 450–600 mm) for airflow, service, and door swing.
- Make sure doorways, elevators, and hallways can handle the chamber size and weight.
Power
- We support common U.S. voltages (e.g., 208–240V, 3-phase, 60 Hz) depending on the model.
- Use a dedicated circuit with proper breaker and grounding. No sharing with heavy loads like reflow ovens.
Ventilation & heat
- A PCT test chamber is a high temperature, high humidity, high pressure chamber – it throws heat into the room.
- Plan for lab HVAC that can handle the additional load and keep ambient temperature stable.
Water supply
- Use clean, low-mineral water (RO or DI recommended) for the saturated steam test chamber.
- Provide a stable water supply and drain near the unit to avoid manual filling and overflow risk.

If you’re not sure, we’ll match the chamber spec to your actual lab power, water, and HVAC setup before you order.

Initial Setup, Calibration, and Commissioning Steps

Once the PCT test equipment is on site, proper commissioning is key for reliable semiconductor reliability tests and PCB pressure cooker tests:

Position and level
- Place the chamber in its final location and level it using the adjustable feet. Proper leveling protects door seals and water level control.
Electrical and water hook-up
- Have a qualified electrician connect power per the wiring diagram.
- Connect the water inlet, drain, and any external vents according to our installation guide.
Initial start-up check
- Power up the controller, verify touchscreen, sensors, and alarms are responding correctly.
- Run a short dummy cycle (no samples) to check steam generation, 100% RH control, and pressure ramp.
Calibration
- Verify temperature, pressure, and humidity readings with calibrated external instruments.
- If you follow JESD22-A101 PCT testing or JESD22-A110 HAST testing, align the readings to your lab’s reference standards.
Commissioning
- Save a few baseline test profiles (e.g., typical PCT and HAST conditions) and confirm they run without alarms.
- Document the initial calibration data for your quality system and audits.

Creating and Saving Test Programs on the Controller

We design our PID temperature controller and touchscreen interface so your team can set up a test in minutes, not hours:

Basic profile setup
- Choose test type (PCT, HAST, UHAST, BHAST if bias ports are installed).
- Set temperature, pressure, ramp time, soak time, and cool-down.
- Define hold time based on your component type (IC packages, PCBs, LEDs, automotive electronics).
Program storage
- Save test profiles with clear names like “JESD22-A101_121C_2ATM_96H” or “BHAST_130C_85RH_96H”.
- Store multiple favorite recipes for different products and customers.
Repeat and copy
- Copy and tweak existing programs instead of building from scratch.
- Lock critical standard-compliant profiles so only authorized users can change them.

This keeps your PCT test system consistent across operators and shifts, and makes audits much easier.

Best Practices for Loading to Avoid Condensation Issues

How you load the chamber directly affects failure modes and test repeatability, especially in saturated steam and high pressure steam aging tests:

Spacing
- Keep gap between boards and trays so steam can flow freely around every sample.
- Avoid stacking samples directly on top of each other; use racks, shelves, and multi-layer PCB fixtures.
Avoid cold spots
- Don’t overload the chamber. Too much metal mass creates temperature gradients and condensation zones.
- Keep samples away from the walls and directly under the steam inlet to avoid drips.
Pre-conditioning
- If possible, let samples stabilize at room temperature in the lab before loading. Extremely cold parts going into a hot, saturated environment are more prone to surface condensation.
Fixture materials
- Use corrosion-resistant fixtures (SUS304 stainless steel) that won’t shed particles or corrode under high pressure humidity.

These practices help ensure the moisture stress is uniform instead of random condensation drops causing false or inconsistent failures.

Routine Operational Checks During Long Test Runs

During long semiconductor reliability tests, LED reliability tests, or automotive electronics humidity pressure tests, you don’t want surprises mid-run. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

Daily / shift checks
- Confirm setpoint vs actual temperature, pressure, and timing are within limits.
- Check for active alarms on the controller and log any events.
- Verify water level and steam generation are stable, no unusual noise or smells.
Visual checks
- Inspect around the door and fittings for steam leaks or dripping water.
- Make sure the cooling fan outlets and vents are not blocked by boxes or equipment.
Data and logging
- Confirm data logging is running and storing test records for all channels.
- Back up or export data via USB, Ethernet, or RS485 (depending on configuration) during long tests.
Safety
- Never attempt to open the door until pressure is fully relieved and the controller shows it’s safe to open.
- Train operators to follow standard operating procedures for emergency stop and alarm response.

With these habits, your PCT test chamber, HAST test chamber, or UHAST system stays stable, predictable, and audit-ready through full test cycles.

Maintenance and Reliability of PCT Test Chambers

Keeping a PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber reliable comes down to simple, consistent care. We design our Derui PCT chambers so your team can handle most maintenance in-house without slowing down production or validation schedules.

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Maintenance Routines

For U.S. labs running 24/7 reliability tests, a basic checklist goes a long way:

Daily
- Check water level, drain status, and look for any leaks.
- Confirm temperature, pressure, and humidity readings are stable.
- Inspect the door gasket for dust, debris, or visible damage.
- Verify alarms and interlocks aren’t being bypassed.
Weekly
- Wipe down the stainless steel (SUS304) chamber interior.
- Inspect sample racks and fixtures for corrosion or warping.
- Check that steam vents and drains are not clogged.
Monthly
- Review data logs for abnormal deviations in setpoint vs. actual.
- Check sensor drift with a reference thermometer/pressure gauge.
- Inspect electrical connections and cable glands on BHAST/UHAST ports.

Water System Cleaning and Scale Prevention

High pressure steam testing depends on clean water. In many U.S. regions with hard water, scale is the #1 reliability killer.

Use treated or deionized water as recommended for the model.
Regularly clean the water tank, piping, and steam generator to avoid scale buildup.
Add filters or softening systems if your facility water is high in minerals.
Schedule descaling based on usage hours, not just calendar time.

This keeps your saturated steam test chamber efficient and protects heaters, valves, and sensors.

Checking Gaskets, Seals, and Safety Components

A pressure cooker reliability test only works if the chamber seals perfectly and the safety systems are solid:

Inspect door gaskets for cracks, flattening, or hardening; replace at the first sign of wear.
Check door locking mechanisms and interlocks to ensure the chamber can’t operate when not fully closed.
Test pressure relief valves, over‑temperature protection, and emergency stop regularly.
Confirm pressure and temperature limit settings match your safety policy.

We stock OEM gaskets and safety parts so you can keep your high pressure humidity chamber running without long waits.

Keeping Steam Purity and Stable 100% RH

For accurate IC package pressure cooker tests, PCB moisture sensitivity tests, and LED reliability tests, steam quality matters:

Use clean water and keep the steam generator and piping flushed.
Avoid contamination from lubricants, oils, or unapproved sealants near the steam path.
Don’t overload the chamber; keep airflow and steam circulation clear.
Follow a consistent preheat and stabilization routine to hit true 100% RH and stable saturated vapor pressure.

Stable steam purity is critical for JESD22‑A101 and IEC 60068‑2‑66 compliant testing.

Expected Service Life and Recommended Spare Parts

Our Derui semiconductor reliability test chambers are built for long-term lab and production use:

Typical service life: 10+ years with normal use and proper maintenance.
Critical recommended spare parts to keep on hand:
- Door gaskets and seals
- Level sensors and float switches
- Temperature and humidity sensors
- Heaters/steam generator elements
- Common valves, fuses, and relays

Keeping these parts on-site helps U.S. customers avoid downtime and stay on schedule for automotive electronics humidity pressure tests, aerospace electronics stress tests, and high pressure steam aging tests.

Quality, Certifications, and Manufacturing Strength

When you buy a Derui PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber, you’re buying into a controlled manufacturing system

Support, Training, and After‑Sales Service for Derui PCT Test Chambers

Remote & On‑Site Technical Support

When you put a Derui PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber in your lab, you’re not on your own.

Remote support (US hours) via email, phone, and online meeting for quick troubleshooting and parameter checks
On‑site service for installation, commissioning, repairs, and major adjustments
Help with PCT, HAST, BHAST, UHAST test setup, profile optimization, and standard‑compliant runs (JESD22‑A101, JESD22‑A110, IEC 60068‑2‑66, GB/T 2423.40)

User Training for Lab Staff & Engineers

I design our support so your team can run pressure cooker reliability tests confidently from day one.

Hands‑on operation training on the touchscreen controller and PID temperature / humidity / pressure settings
How to create, save, and lock standard test programs for repeatable semiconductor reliability testing
Best practices for sample loading, safety checks, and data export for IC packages, PCB assemblies, LEDs, and automotive electronics

Spare Parts Availability & Lead Times

Downtime kills schedules, so we keep spares moving fast.

Stock of critical spare parts (gaskets, valves, sensors, controllers, safety interlocks) for PCT test equipment
Standard lead times shared up front; expedited options for US customers when possible
Clear parts lists and documentation tied to your specific PCT test chamber model

Service Contracts, Calibration & Upgrades

If you’re running 24/7 reliability labs, you need stability over years, not months.

Service contracts with scheduled preventive maintenance and inspection of steam systems, safety devices, and controls
Calibration services (temperature, humidity, pressure) to keep your high temperature high humidity pressure chamber within spec
Upgrade paths for data communication (RS485, Ethernet, USB), software, bias interfaces for BHAST / UHAST, and new test profiles

Global Customer & Distributor Support

Derui PCT test chambers are built for global use, including demanding US labs.

Support structure for US customers, OEMs, and contract test labs through local partners and global technical teams
Distributor training so local teams can handle installation, first‑level troubleshooting, and routine maintenance
Standardized documentation and procedures so a Derui PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber behaves the same way in every lab, worldwide

Frequently Asked Questions About PCT Test Chambers

What is a PCT test chamber used for in real labs?

In real U.S. labs, a PCT test chamber (Pressure Cooker Test chamber) is used to:

Run pressure cooker reliability tests on IC packages, PCBs, and modules
Screen for moisture ingress, delamination, corrosion, and popcorning
Validate semiconductor, automotive, aerospace, LED, and photovoltaic parts under high temperature, high humidity, and high pressure
Support JESD22-A101, JESD22-A110, IEC 60068-2-66, GB/T 2423.40 and similar reliability programs

In plain terms, you use it when you need to know, fast, if your electronics can survive years of field exposure to heat, humidity, and pressure.

How do I choose the right PCT test chamber size and model?

I usually recommend you choose based on:

Product type
- Small ICs, chips, coupons → benchtop PCT test equipment
- Loaded PCBs, modules, small assemblies → mid-size floor-standing PCT chamber
- Racks of boards, automotive ECUs, large modules → large floor-standing HAST test chamber
Throughput
- Prototype / R&D: 5–20 samples → smaller volume
- Validation / QA lab: 50–200 samples → medium volume
- Production / ESS: 200+ samples → large volume, multi-rack layouts
Test method
- Unbiased PCT only → standard saturated steam PCT test system
- HAST / BHAST / UHAST → choose models with bias ports, feedthroughs, and safety isolation

If you tell me your sample size, quantity per lot, and test standard, I can point you to the exact Derui model and volume that fits.

What are typical test times and conditions?

Typical conditions U.S. customers run on our semiconductor reliability test chambers:

Unbiased PCT (JESD22-A101 style)
- 121 °C, 100% RH, ~2 atm
- Common durations: 96 / 168 / 192 hours
HAST (JESD22-A110)
- 110–130 °C, high humidity, elevated pressure
- Common durations: 48 / 96 hours
BHAST / UHAST
- Similar temperature range, with bias voltage applied
- Duration depends on your qual plan: typically 24–96 hours

Actual timing depends on your spec (A101, A110, IEC, customer-specific) and your failure criteria.

What about energy consumption and operating cost?

Energy and operating cost mainly come from:

Power draw
- Benchtop units: typically similar to a small lab oven
- Floor-standing chambers: more like a small HVAC unit or industrial oven
Utilities
- Electricity for heaters, control, and pumps
- Water for steam generation (ideally DI or RO water)
- Optional compressed air depending on your setup

You can keep operating cost under control by:

Running optimized batch sizes (loading the chamber efficiently)
Using saved programs to avoid re-runs
Keeping gaskets, insulation, and steam lines in good shape to prevent heat loss

If you share your preferred conditions and duty cycle, I can roughly estimate kWh per test and monthly running cost.

How do lead time, customization, and pricing usually work?

For the U.S. market:

Standard models
- Typical lead time: 4–8 weeks (depends on capacity and options)
- More competitive pricing compared to many “big brand” HAST and PCT systems, with similar performance
Customized builds
- Custom volume, layouts, bias interfaces, or communications
- Lead time typically 8–12+ weeks, depending on complexity
Pricing factors
- Chamber volume and pressure/temperature rating
- HAST / BHAST / UHAST options
- Interfaces: RS485, Ethernet, USB, software
- Special fixtures for PCBs, ICs, LEDs, PV modules, automotive electronics

If you give me your test standard, sample type, and target budget range, I can narrow down a realistic model + price band.

What’s included: shipping, installation, and documentation?

For U.S. customers, here’s what I typically provide with each Derui PCT test chamber or HAST test chamber:

Shipping
- Crated and protected for international freight
- Support with import docs, packing list, and HS codes
- Coordination with your freight forwarder or door-to-door on request
Installation & startup
- Clear site requirement sheet (power, ventilation, water)
- On-site or remote commissioning support depending on location
- Basic training on controller, safety, and routine checks
Documentation
- User manual in English
- Electrical schematics & plumbing diagrams
- Calibration and test reports from factory
- CE and ISO-related documentation where applicable

If you need IQ/OQ documentation, calibration certificates, or customer-specific paperwork for your quality system, I can prepare those as part of the order.