The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies’ (FoC’s) fluid immersion testing capabilities enable our experts to evaluate the impact of exposure to various fluids on the performance and appearance of materials and their components. Depending upon its intended application or operational environment, a material may encounter intentional or unintentional exposure to potentially harmful fluids. Our fluid immersion tests are adept at determining how varying durations of fluid exposure alter the characteristics of sample specimens.
What is Fluid Immersion Testing?
Fluid immersion testing is the process of submerging materials in liquids to determine how the liquids change the test specimen’s chemical, physical, and electrical properties. The specifics of the testing procedure establish the various parameters of the testing process, including the type of fluid used and the duration during which the test specimen is submerged. The following factors must also be considered when conducting fluid immersion tests:
- Fluid temperature
- Test specimen temperature
- Immersion depth/pressure
Fluid immersion tests can be conducted using a wide array of fluids, including:
- Fresh water
- Salt water
- Oils
- Fuels
- Cleaning agents/disinfectant
These tests provide manufacturers with an opportunity to expose their products to real-world conditions within accelerated timelines. The information gathered during fluid tests is crucial for addressing design flaws, enhancing product performance, and ensuring compliance with industry standards for performance and safety.
More About Our Fluid Immersion Testing Services
Our environmental testing lab provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to evaluate how your products respond to a wide range of environmental conditions. All of our services are performed in conjunction with our clients’ specific needs and in compliance with industry standards. Our fluid immersions can be conducted in compliance with the following standards:
- MIL-STD-810 Immersion Testing (Method 512)
- RTCA DO-160 Waterproofness Testing (Section 10)
- ASTM D471 Liquids Effect on Rubber
Why is Fluid Immersion Testing Important?
Fluid immersion tests are a key component of quality control for products that are likely to encounter fluids in their service life. Whether a fluid test is needed to confirm the functionality of a seal or observe how fluid intrusion creates corrosive conditions, fluid tests are an important process in the following industries:
- Defense
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Consumer products
Contact Us
Call +1 (888)-287-5227 or complete an online inquiry to speak with one of our team members about fluid immersion testing services.

