Original Date: 06/29/1989
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Standard Industries has made a significant commitment to building its capabilities in specific technical areas. As a small company, choices involving the application of limited resources become critical. Standard has upgraded its capabilities in areas such as test equipment which are essential to its business. Unlike larger prime contractors whose test equipment costs are often partially underwritten by government programs, small companies like Standard fully fund their own test equipment purchases.

Standard has made significant investments in test equipment to upgrade its in-house analysis resources. An HP-4194A Impedance Gain/Phase Analyzer, which was needed to support the company's growing power supply business, was recently acquired. With the purchase of a Biddle Partial Discharge Test System, Standard has implemented corona testing on high voltage transformers and power supplies. The tester has the capability to detect down to one pico-coulomb at 100 kilo volt direct current RMS. Tests are performed to ensure that the final product will meet high voltage requirements without degradation of reliability. X-ray inspection is another system capability. Product samples are x-rayed to ensure that process controls are effective in keeping coil wire turns in proper alignment, that proper part positioning is maintained within the potting material, and to check for voids or inclusions. This nondestructive testing method has also proven effective in detailed examination of failed parts.

Standard has also invested in equipment for performing various environmental tests such as humidity, vibration, thermal cycling, and life testing. This capability is utilized in qualification tests, first article testing, and special evaluations. The equipment can also be used to test and verify the performance of new products.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.