Automotive interior components and materials are subjected to thermal cycling and heat aging tests to evaluate their ability to endure extreme temperature fluctuations and prolonged exposure to heat over the vehicle's lifespan. These tests simulate real-world conditions in which vehicles experience temperature changes from cold winter mornings to hot summer afternoons. Materials such as plastics, textiles, leathers, adhesives, foams, and paints are tested to assess their thermal stability, resistance to cracking, fading, warping, and loss of structural integrity.

 

 Thermal cycling and heat aging tests of automotive interior components are performed by exposing materials in controlled environmental chambers that simulate extreme temperature conditions. In thermal cycling, the components are subjected to repeated cycles of heating and cooling, typically ranging from sub-zero temperatures to high heat, to replicate real-world thermal fluctuations. Heat aging tests involve maintaining the materials at elevated temperatures for extended periods to assess their long-term thermal stability. These tests assess changes in the material's appearance, mechanical properties, and functionality, identifying potential degradation such as cracking, warping, or fading.