Bosch wipers under test

Sponsored article by: Bosch

At Bosch, the test engineers push the limits of what is possible in the pursuit of visibility and safety. In various durability tests, Bosch wipers must prove their performance in order to function reliably for drivers over an extended period — that means, throughout all seasons and under extreme weather conditions.

To ensure this, Bosch has many other strict quality tests in addition to the prescribed standard tests that must be passed for acceptance into the program. These tests are divided into four categories: wiping performance, environmental influences, load tests, and durability.’

Wiping performance on the test bench

To ensure the best possible wiping performance, the wipers undergo four testing scenarios: The first scenario focuses on the wiping quality. During the development phase, the wipers are tested on a windscreen in the laboratory, and their performance is evaluated. The test engineers pay close attention to the formation of streaks or smears on the windscreen, the presence of water residues, or any marks left behind by the wipers. Only when the test requirements are met, and the wiping pattern is flawless, are the wiper rubber or blades approved for production. This is to ensure that the wipers deliver impeccable results throughout their entire lifespan. Additionally, the entire wiper system is tested to minimise any squeaks, humming, or noises during the wiping process.

Resistance against environmental influences

Wipers must demonstrate their ability to withstand any weather, no matter how extreme. First and foremost, the focus is on their resistance to sunlight. The wipers are exposed to UV radiation for an extended period. Firstly, the resilience of the wiper rubber and its functionality during and after exposure to high temperatures are tested. Then using spray salt the wipers’ corrosion resistance is tested. All tests are considered successful if there are no cracks in the wiper rubber, no deformations, and no significant loss in wiping quality.

Load test at the limit

Wipers can be exposed to extreme stress. However, thanks to the load tests conducted at Bosch, even those living in particularly wintry regions can have peace of mind. In freezing tests at temperatures of -20°C and in snow load tests, the wipers demonstrate their winter suitability. Durability is a crucial aspect for wipers, not only in the context of extreme temperatures. Therefore, endurance tests are also conducted, simulating 500,000 wiping cycles as well as the mechanical robustness of the wipers and their individual components tested.

Increased resistance

A hidden threat to wipers lies in cleaners and chemicals that can find their way onto vehicle windscreens. The fourth and final testing category focuses on the wipers’ resistance. They are exposed to various aggressive chemicals, and afterwards, the test results are analysed under a microscope to determine if any traces of the chemicals remain. Bosch experts evaluate all test results according to strict quality standards and continuously improve Bosch wipers. Ensuring high quality standards of Bosch wipers are met and customers receive clear visibility and enhanced safety.

For further insight into the production of Bosch wiper blades watch this video: