In the marine industry, electronic systems face some of the toughest environmental challenges, from extreme temperatures and saltwater exposure to constant vibrations and electromagnetic interference. For display and embedded systems used in navigation, communication, monitoring, and control, ensuring durability and performance under these conditions is not just about reliability; it’s a matter of safety and operational continuity.

Failures in these systems can lead to costly repairs, increased maintenance, or even accidents—risks that the industry cannot afford. Appropriate reliability testing during the product development phase is the first step toward creating robust systems that meet these high-stakes demands. 

Key Reliability Testing Methods for Marine Systems

Environmental Stress Testing (EST)

Marine systems encounter extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels. Testing in controlled conditions—ranging from -40°C to +85°C for LCD displays—ensures that these systems can perform consistently, whether in arctic waters or tropical heat.

Salt Spray and Corrosion Resistance Testing

Saltwater exposure spray can corrode systems rapidly if materials aren’t corrosion resistant. Salt spray testing to MIL-STD 810G 504.2 ensures that the exposed parts of the system can withstand prolonged exposure to harsh marine conditions, extending the device's life and reducing maintenance needs.

Vibration and Shock Testing

Marine vessels experience constant vibrations from engines and buffeting from the sea, which can loosen mechanical and electrical fixtures. Vibration and shock testing ensures that components like printed circuit boards (PCBs), fasteners, and solder joints withstand continuous shocks, minimising potential points of failure.

Solar, Infrared, and UV Radiation Testing

Marine displays and embedded systems are often subjected to prolonged sunlight and heat. Solar radiation testing helps ensure materials can withstand thermal stress, while UV testing confirms that displays remain clear and readable under intense sunlight, and enclosures resist UV-induced wear, preventing material degradation over time.

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Testing

Marine electronics often operate alongside numerous other systems, increasing the risk of malfunction due to electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMC testing verifies that critical systems operate without electrical disturbances caused by EMI, preserving their functionality even in close proximity to other electronics.

Burn-in and Accelerated Life Testing (ALT)

ALT simulates extended use, exposing weaknesses in materials and components that might otherwise go unnoticed. Burn-in testing identifies early-life failures, building confidence that only the most reliable components proceed to final deployment, thereby ensuring long-term use and reduced risk of unexpected failures.

Ingress Protection (IP) Testing

Marine-grade devices often require IP66 or IP67 ratings, meaning they must prevent the ingress of liquid and solid particles. IP testing ensures displays and embedded systems resist water, sea spray, and dust, mitigating potential malfunctions due to water and particle exposure.

Power and Electrical Reliability Testing

Fluctuating power sources, such as shipboard generators, can introduce voltage spikes and drops. Power testing verifies that systems can handle surges without compromising performance, ensuring critical systems remain operational, even in fluctuating power conditions.

Selecting the Right Partner for Reliable Marine Testing

Reliability testing for marine systems involves recreating marine conditions, which can be time-intensive and costly, especially if they must be repeated. Partnering with an experienced provider streamlines this process, ensuring every system is rigorously tested for durability, performance, and safety, from the early stages of product design.

When systems undergo comprehensive testing, they not only maintain their clarity, safety, and operational integrity over time but also deliver a longer product lifespan with reduced maintenance costs.

Contact us today to discover how our expertise can enhance the reliability of your marine product.