For aerospace manufacturers, space agencies, and high-tech industries, Thermal Vacuum (TVAC) testing is crucial to ensuring components can withstand the extreme conditions of space. Many companies begin by outsourcing their testing, but as testing needs grow, so do the challenges of cost, control, and time.
If your company relies on regular TVAC testing, transitioning to an in-house system can provide significant advantages. In this blog, we’ll break down why investing in your own TVAC system may be the smarter, more efficient, and cost-effective choice for you.
The Three Pillars of In-House Testing: Cost, Control, and Time
1. Cost Savings: The Hidden Expenses of Outsourcing
At first glance, outsourcing TVAC testing may seem like a convenient option—but the true costs add up quickly:
- Per-test cost: Each outsourced test costs between $4,000 and $8,000.
- Multiple tests required: Most parts require at least three tests, totaling $12,000 - $24,000 per part.
- Hidden fees: Storage costs while waiting for testing (often 2-3 months) and transportation expenses.
- Custom parameters add premium fees: Specialized testing recipes increase costs even further.
- Employee supervision is often required, which adds the cost of their time and travel.
By contrast, investing in an in-house TVAC system eliminates these recurring expenses. If your company conducts multiple tests per year, the break-even point is reached quickly, making in-house testing the more financially viable long-term solution.
2. Full Control Over Testing & Quality Assurance
When outsourcing, companies send their components to a third-party facility with minimal direct oversight. Unless you send an employee out to supervise the testing process, you’ll have minimal control once the part is shipped. If you don’t send an employee out for the duration of the testing, you’ll face several challenges:
- Zero flexibility: You can only send recipes and parameters—no adjustments can be made mid-test.
- Retesting delays: If something goes wrong, you must wait for another round of testing, increasing costs and project delays.
- Risk of damage in transit: Every time a part is shipped, it’s at risk of damage or contamination.
- Middleman communication: Getting updates, feedback, or making adjustments requires extra steps, creating inefficiencies.
Keep in mind that, while sending out an employee to monitor and supervise the testing is incredibly helpful, it increases the overall cost.
With an in-house TVAC system, you maintain complete control over the testing process:
- Direct supervision: Monitor tests in real time and adjust parameters as needed.
- No middleman: Eliminate communication delays and external dependencies.
- Higher confidence in results: Quality assurance is within your hands, ensuring accurate and reliable testing.
For companies working with proprietary technology or high-stakes components, keeping testing in-house reduces risks and enhances security.
3. Faster Results: No More Waiting Months for Test Data
One of the biggest drawbacks of outsourcing is long wait times.
- Testing delays: On average, outsourced TVAC testing has a three-month backlog before tests are even conducted.
- No scheduling control: Once the part is shipped, you have no guarantee when testing will actually begin.
- Retesting setbacks: If a test fails or adjustments are needed, you go back to the end of the queue, causing major project delays.
With an in-house system, testing happens on your schedule.
- Immediate testing & retesting: No waiting for third-party availability.
- On-demand flexibility: Adjust test parameters in real time.
- Faster project timelines: Sync testing seamlessly with R&D and production schedules.
For companies operating on strict deadlines or requiring frequent testing, in-house TVAC eliminates unnecessary bottlenecks and keeps projects moving forward.
Is In-House TVAC Testing Right for Your Business?
If your company conducts regular TVAC tests, the benefits of bringing testing in-house far outweigh the costs of outsourcing. Here’s who benefits the most:
In-House TVAC Testing is Ideal for:
- Space agencies & aerospace manufacturers
- Companies with strict testing schedules & frequent testing needs
- High-precision component manufacturers
- Companies handling proprietary or sensitive technology
- Startups & innovators in the space sector
- Organizations focused on space exploration & deep-space missions
For these companies, the cost savings, control, and efficiency of an in-house system provide a clear competitive advantage.
Outsourcing TVAC Testing is Best for:
- Companies with low to moderate testing needs (1-2 tests per year).
- Companies that require specialized expertise for occasional testing.
- Organizations with limited long-term testing demands.
The decision ultimately comes down to volume—if you test regularly, an in-house system will save you money and time.
Why Choose LACO Technologies for Your In-House TVAC Solution?
At LACO Technologies, we design both standard and custom thermal vacuum testing solutions tailored to your exact requirements. Whether you're looking to transition from outsourcing or need expert guidance on choosing the right in-house TVAC system, our team is here to help.
Ready to take control of your TVAC testing? Contact LACO Technologies today to learn how an in-house solution can transform your testing process.