Overview - IEC 60068-3-6:2018 (Temperature/Humidity Chambers)
IEC 60068-3-6:2018 is the International Electrotechnical Commission standard that defines a uniform and reproducible method for confirming the performance of temperature/humidity chambers. Focused on empty chambers (no specimens), it helps users verify that chamber conditions meet the requirements set out in the climatic test procedures of IEC 60068-2 (all parts). This second edition (2018) replaces the 2001 edition and provides a technical revision in which confirmation procedures are clarified.
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard provides practical guidance for routine chamber performance monitoring and covers the following technical topics:
- Measurement system and metrology: guidance on the selection, calibration and use of temperature and humidity measurement systems (sensors and instrumentation) consistent with quality assurance practices.
- Sensor placement: specified locations for temperature sensors and humidity sensors in the chamber working space to ensure representative readings.
- Measurement methods: procedures for recording achieved humidity, temperature/humidity stabilization, and approaches to evaluate humidity fluctuation, humidity gradient, and spatial variation within the working volume.
- Standard humidity sequences: recommended test sequences to exercise the chamber and confirm performance over typical humidity profiles.
- Performance test reporting: required information to include in a performance test report and evaluation criteria for determining conformity.
- Supporting documentation: cross-references to related guidance on damp heat tests, temperature-only confirmation, and uncertainty calculation.
The document emphasizes reproducibility, traceability to calibration, and appropriate measurement practice rather than prescribing specific numerical tolerances.
Practical applications and users
IEC 60068-3-6 is used when organizations need to demonstrate or maintain the reliability of climatic test equipment. Typical users include:
- Test laboratory managers and technicians performing routine acceptance or periodic chamber checks
- Quality, reliability and environmental test engineers who design climatic test programs
- Calibration and metrology laboratories validating chamber measurement systems
- Manufacturers of environmental test chambers and test equipment suppliers
- Certification bodies and auditors assessing test capability and compliance
Using IEC 60068-3-6 helps ensure consistent, repeatable climate-conditioning conditions for product qualification, failure analysis, and standards-based testing.
Related standards
Relevant cross-references in the IEC 60068 series and other guidance include:
Keywords: IEC 60068-3-6, temperature/humidity chambers, chamber performance monitoring, climatic test procedures, relative humidity, stabilization, measurement system, sensor placement.