SAE J3078/6 FEB2026 specifies methods for simulating solar heating in the laboratory and measuring radiant heat energy from natural or simulated sources. The standard applies to off-road self-propelled work machines defined in SAE J1116 and tractors and machinery for agriculture and forestry defined in ANSI/ASAE S390.
It defines solar heating and solar radiant energy concepts, establishes field measurement procedures using a pyranometer, and provides two laboratory simulation methods. The document also covers calibration of simulated solar radiant energy, lamp spectrum requirements, measurement uniformity, intensity levels, and calibration intervals. The method is intended for use with SAE J1503 when evaluating air-conditioning system performance and thermal conditions within operator enclosures.
Application Scope: Off-road self-propelled work machines, agricultural and forestry tractors, operator enclosure environmental testing, solar heat load measurement, air-conditioning performance testing, laboratory simulation, and pyranometer calibration.
