Smiths Interconnect opens a new qualification and test lab

The new laboratory offers a one-stop shop for critical qualification and testing of Smiths Interconnect’s products in Europe. The structure is equipped with in-house multipaction testing and SRS mechanical shock testing system, both in dedicated and environmentally controlled areas.

The Dundee facility can now replicate deep space in terms of vacuum and heat with high power amplifiers and vacuum systems. It can therefore analyse high power devices that are used in space with regards to their breakdown voltage behaviour in a vacuum or near-vacuum environment. This effect, called multipaction, can render a device useless and, thus degrades the reliability of the satellite.

Being able to offer multipaction testing is a major benefit and a real point of competitive differentiation but is also a game changer for Smiths Interconnect. “It allows access to projects that require significant levels of complex and expensive testing during the development and qualification phases,” said President Karen Bomba.

“Previously cost prohibitive, we can now pursue contracts where multipaction testing is likely to be required multiple times throughout the product development cycle. It also allows us to bid on projects where customers require ongoing multipaction testing of deliverable products.”

The new laboratory facility in Dundee also has a machine that can replicate the G-force for a rocket launch to assess what happens to products when they are launched. At maximum shock testing the SRS shock testing equipment generates up to 105dB+ of noise, and therefore requires a special soundproof room. Being in a dedicated and controlled area allows the use of the equipment to its full capacity during normal working hours for the first time. 

Radioactive sources can also be used in the laboratory to simulate the sun’s radiation which is quite a complicated test. 

“When customers visit our site, we want to wow them with a world-class lab that matches our world-class products”, continues Karen Bomba. “Creating this modern and leading-edge facility that aligns with Dundee’s reputation for the design and manufacturing excellence of our products was an important objective. I am proud of the great capability that we now have available on site, that will help us bring our technological breakthroughs to market much faster and more effectively” she concluded.”